"At The Wedding" by Matt Dunn is an interesting 48-hour romp on Barcelona, with friends and family gathering for the ambush wedding of an unsuspecting groom and father-to-be.
The story delves not only into the relationship of the bride and her long-time boyfriend, but the guests who were sworn to secrecy and converge on Barcelona with their own personal baggage on display. Each of the guests, whether they be friend, family, or plus-one are at a differing stage of emotional life when it comes to marriage. One is done, maybe for good; another despaired of ever reaching that pinnacle, and another grasping on to new hope.
I enjoyed each of these stories and how they were interwoven through this strange set-piece of an ambush wedding. I was ultimately surprised at the central ending for our couple, especially in light of its author being a man himself. The emotional journey was not one I expected for our groom. I found myself sympathizing with his personal demons, but surprised in how he came out with them. I'm still wondering if I should feel a bit sorry for him or believe he's got life sorted out. Such is where the end of this event leaves the reader, but that's not a bad place to be - still wondering.
