Viola Davis And James Patterson Team Up To Write A Gripping New Novel Together

viola davis james patterson novelviola davis james patterson novel

Nothing makes me smile more than a Cheschire cat like knowing Viola Davis and James Patterson are writing a novel together! It makes sense because James knows what it takes to create enigmatic characters while Viola is masterful at giving them depth and emotion. They're a match made in book-writing heaven, IMO!

Want to know when you can pick up Davis and Patterson's new book? Here's everything you should know about what's sure to be a thrilling new novel!

viola davis james patterson novel

Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Literacy Partners

The novel chronicles the mounting tension Judge Mary Stone faces in light of a monumental decision that will have a huge trickle down effect. She finds herself torn between the career she's successful at and her values — two things that leave her life on a precarious line.

Viola Davis exclusively told Little, Brown and Company that she's soaking up the excitement of working with James Patterson.

"I am beyond excited to partner with the legendary James Patterson on our novel. James's ability to weave compelling narratives with depth and suspense is unparalleled, and I am honored to work alongside him," she said.

She's also looking forward to helping flesh out Judge Mary Stone's story. She said, "Writing about a character as compelling as Judge Mary Stone has been an extraordinary experience, and I believe readers will be deeply moved by her journey."

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

James Patterson echoed Viola Davis' sentiments. He said, "It is an honor to work with Viola Davis. I’ve long admired Viola as an actress, producer, and writer. Her memoir, Finding Me, was among the most insightful and uplifting I’ve ever read."

He continued praised her by saying, "Her gift of storytelling in film and beyond, as well as her generous spirit, is without peer. And there has rarely been a more important time to spotlight the subjects raised inthis novel. I could not have asked for a better partner than Viola.”

Meanwhile, publishers also shared nothing but glowing remarks about Viola Davis and James Patterson's partnership!

David Shelley, CEO of Hachette Book Group (the parent company of Little, Brown and Company), said, "It's a real honor to be able to publish this unique collaboration between two remarkable creative forces. This is a story that I think will touch millions of readers around the world, and we have huge plans to get it into their hands."

Sally Kim, the Little, Brown and Company's Publisher, said, "At the heart of any unforgettable narrative is a story you haven’t heard before, with characters you root for and ideas that challenge you and leave you forever changed. James Patterson and Viola Davis are two artists and storytellers at the absolute height of their game who do this with every work they engage in. This collaboration is a thrilling gift for everyone who values story.”

When will Viola Davis and James Patterson's book be published? 

The novel doesn't have a publish date yet, but readers can expect to get their hands on it in 2025 or 2026. What I can share is that Little, Brown and company announced the novel "...will be published in association with Ms. Davis’s company JVL Media."

Based on its synopsis and the excitement surrounding it, this novel will be well worth the wait!

What books have Viola Davis and James Patterson written before?

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James Patterson is an award-winning author who's responsible for some of the most popular characters and series out there. He's the mastermind behind the Alex Cross series and the Women's Murder Club series, not to mention he's penned powerful stories about public figures like the Kennedys.

Viola Davis wrote her endearing and award-winning NYT Bestselling memoir, Finding Mewhich solidified her EGOT status.

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Lead image via Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Literacy Partners and Mike Coppola/Getty Images

The Twisters storyline is said to continue with a sequel! A second iteration of the 2024 remake is “reportedly in the works,” according to entertainment writer and insider, Daniel Richtman. That could potentially mean more Daisy Edgar-Jones, and, of course, more Glen Powell!

Here’s everything we know about Twisters 2.

Who will star in 'Twisters 2'?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

Though we don’t have an official casting for the film quite yet, fans are speculating that Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell would return for a Twisters sequel.

“There's no doubt in my mind that Powell and Edgar-Jones are game to reprise their lead roles,” Jordan Ruimy writes for World of Reel.

“I don’t think it needs a sequel but if they can write a compelling story with halfway decent character development and maintain the chemistry in the cast, I’d definitely go see it,” one Twisters fan wrote on Reddit.

What will 'Twisters 2' be about?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

There’s no word on the plot of a Twisters sequel, either. Some fans of the film were definitely quick to share some theories for it:

“Tyler faces the moral dilemma about click bait vs accurate information. Kate gets upset about him profiting off of people’s fears. Then Tyler adjusts some way. Still can get tornadoes in there easily,” one person wrote. “Or they could continue down the experiment route and having to get and keep funding looking for better ways to stop a tornado. Or the fall out of the sodium ruining the farm land.”

“Another film to continue the chemistry between Kate and Tyler would be sick,” another user said.

While a potential Twisters 2 sounds appealing to some fans, others are hesitant to greenlight it, preferring a separate storyline instead.

“I'm open to the idea of a Twisters sequel, but I'd prefer they'd leave it as a standalone film,” one more person weighed in.

When does 'Twisters 2' come out?

Melinda Sue Gordon for Universal Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures / Amblin Entertainment

Twisters hit theaters last year in the summertime, so we predict any potential Twisters 2 would come out the summer of 2026. It’s a tad bit too early to say for sure, though, since murmurings of the movie are still fairly new.

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To no one’s surprise, Trader Joe’s is keeping all the good stuff coming this season. As Easter approaches and everyone’s dreaming about summer vibes (definitely us), TJ’s has been placing only the coolest finds on their shelves to embrace the season! From irresistible sweets to stunning charcuterie board additions, these are the 8 best new items from Trader Joe’s any and every TJ’s fan needs to try in April!

Scroll on to discover the most exciting Trader Joe’s finds you can’t miss in April!

Trader Joe's

1. Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches

These ice cream sammies (limited-time item!) basically combine the two best desserts into one: macarons and ice cream! They're stacked with chocolate on chocolate, so any sweet tooth with an affinity for cocoa will go crazy for 'em. You can snag a box of 2 for $5 at a Trader Joe's near you.

Trader Joe's

2. Easter Joe-Joe's

Ah, yes! All the Easter goodies at TJ's are so cute and tasty. These new Easter-themed Joe-Joe's (Trader Joe's version of Oreos) are generously coated in milk chocolate and white chocolate before they're decorated with festive sprinkles. They're downright perfect for adding to any Easter basket or even topping Easter cakes or cupcakes! The box of 4 cookies goes for $4 – but it's a limited-time item, so make sure you grab it sooner than later.

Trader Joe's

3. Lemon Poppy Seed Buns

Lemon + poppy seed = a match made in heaven! These limited-time Danish pastry buns are sure to fly off Trader Joe's shelves, thanks to not only the tender baked bun, but the fact that it's filled with a delightfully lemony filling and topped with a crunchy mix of sugar and poppy seeds. The box of 2 pastries is on sale at TJ's right now for $4.

Trader Joe's

4. Chocolate Chip Energy Bar

All the walks, hikes, road trips, and picnics you're about to embark on this spring and summer are gonna get a whole lot tastier, thanks to this new energy bar from Trader Joe's! Made with a minimal ingredient list (oats, soy protein, brown rice and tapioca syrups, and chocolate chips), each $1 bar – yes, $1! – delivers 10 grams of protein and 260 calories to keep you fueled up for hours. Anyone that's constantly on the go will adore this convenient new TJ's item.

Trader Joe's

5. Blood Orange Mochi

These ice cream-filled mochi bites may have hit shelves earlier this month, but they're definitely still getting tons of love from Trader Joe's fans – us included! Boasting a unique, citrusy flavor profile derived from real blood oranges, these bite-size desserts are filled with refreshing springtime energy. Plus, they just look stunning once you take 'em out of the package. A set of 6 mochi bites is $5 for a limited time!

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6. Tom Yum Seasoned Snack Mix

Spotted by a Trader Joe's fanatic on Reddit, this brand-new savory snack mix is inspired by the insanely flavorful Thai dish known as Tom Yum soup, which is typically spicy, lemongrass-y, a little bit creamy, and sour-ish. So good! This snackin' medley is filled with cashews, fava beans, sticky rice bits, and peas for a nice bite. The product isn't yet listed on Trader Joe's site, so we can't verify its exact price.

Trader Joe's

7. Spanish Inspired Charcutería

Charcuterie fans, rise up! Trader joe's just dropped this yummy charcutería that contains three different kinds of cured meat to, well, cure your charcuterie cravings. In this new $6 product, you'll find thinly-sliced serrano ham, salchichon, and uncured chorizo, all of which bring on the salty, spicy, peppery, and smoky flavors needed to complement the other components of your snack spread, like cheeses and crackers.

Trader Joe's

8. Seville Orange Marmalade Fruit Spread

Ooh, how summery! This new $3 Trader Joe's marmalade (limited-time item!) embraces the spirit of summertime by employing Seville oranges, which bring a "sweet, citric, and properly proportioned" flavor to the forefront. They're naturally a bit more bitter than your average orange, but TJ's has totally perfected the ratio of fruit:sugar in this jar. Use it for toasts, bagels, yogurts, cakes, and more!

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Mothers and daughters have a truly special bond that's built on love, understanding, and shared experiences from a young age. So, as your little girl grows into a woman, books offer the power to strengthen that connection by sharing books and stories that reflect the joys, challenges, and complexities of mother-daughter relationships.

Whether you're searching for a timeless classic or a contemporary tale, here are some moving books that mothers and daughters can enjoy together.

Scroll to see all the moving books mothers & daughters should totally read together this year!

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1. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery is an enduring tale of resilience, imagination, and the power of found family.

When an orphan named Anne Shirley arrives at Green Gables, she's not what siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert expected, but she's exactly what they needed. Her boundless curiosity and mischievous ways initially clash with Marilla's stern demeanor, but over time, the two form a deep mother-daughter-like bond that goes beyond blood ties.

2. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

Ann Patchett's Tom Lake is a literary fiction novel that explores memory, love, and the evolving relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in 2020 at a Michigan cherry orchard, the story follows Lara, who captivates her three daughters, Emily, Maisie, and Nell, as she shares the tale of her youthful romance with famous actor Peter Duke.

As past and present intertwine, Tom Lake reflects on the choices we make, the lives we leave behind, and the connections that shape us. It's a poignant read that will spark conversations between mothers and daughters.

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3. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott has captivated readers ever since it was published in 1868, depicting themes of family, love, personal growth, and independence.

The story of the four March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, continues to resonate with readers of all ages, as each sister represents different aspects of womanhood and the complex choices that shape their lives. At the heart of the novel is their beloved mother, Marmie, whose wisdom and strength guide her daughters.

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4. One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

This women's fiction book by Rebecca Serle takes readers on a journey that blends grief with self-discovery. After Katy's mother, Carol, dies just before their planned trip to Positano, Italy, Katy decides to go alone in an effort to escape the turmoil in her life.

Once there, she unexpectedly meets a young version of her mother and gets to experience Carol's past in a way she never could before. As Katy unravels the layers of her mother's hidden history, One Italian Summer explores the meaningful ways our loved ones shape us.

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5. Sandwichby Catherine Newman

Catherine Newman's Sandwich is a witty and insightful exploration of the challenges that come with middle age. The protagonist, Rocky, finds herself spending the summer in a "sandwiched" experience. More specifically, she's caught between her aging parents and her young adult kids at a family Cape Cod cottage.

She navigates the emotional and physical changes of menopause, reflects on her life milestones, and grapples with her identity as a mother, daughter, and woman. Sandwich is packed with humor and sure to serve as a perfect conversation starter for mothers and daughters.

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6. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty is a captivating coming-of-age story that deals with the complexities of love, growing up, and changing relationships between moms and daughters. Published in 2009, it centers on Belly, a teenage girl who experiences her first love alongside shifting family dynamics during a summer at a beach house.

While this book is considered a contemporary YA novel, it captures the emotional depth of both teenage and adult experiences, tackling themes of love, loss, and identity that resonate with readers of all ages.

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7. The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan

J. Courtney Sullivan's The Cliffs is a gripping gothic mystery that intertwines a haunted house with the complex and often tumultuous relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in a purple Victorian home on a cliffside in Maine, the novel follows Jane, an archivist whose obsession with the house's dark past leads her to uncover unsettling truths about the past and the women who lived there.

The Cliffs examines expectations, loss, and the ways in which our perceptions of motherhood shape who we become.

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8. Crying in H Martby Michelle Zauner

Finally, Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, the lead singer of Japanese Breakfast, is a moving memoir that dissects identity, grief, and mother-daughter bonds.

Michelle reflects on her experience growing up half-Korean in Oregon. She often felt disconnected from her heritage and struggled under her mother's expectations. Still, the pair came together over the food Michelle's mother prepared.

Later, as she returns home at 25 years old to care for her mother during her cancer battle, food becomes their final bridge. Crying in H Mart is raw and sure to take mothers and daughters on an emotional journey.

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Amazon’s Big Spring Saleis officially here, and it’s packed with endless deals on everything from fashion to home furnishings. Of course, we’re starting our sale search with the beauty aisle – so many of our go-to skincare goodies and makeup faves are all under a mere $10 right now, and we just have to share ‘em so you can shop ‘em!

Scroll on to shop our top 10 deals on Amazon beauty finds you can’t miss before the sale’s over!

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e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner

This is by far the best drugstore eyeliner out there. Designed with a convenient retractable (no-sharpen!) tip, it's super easy to take on the go for any touch-ups. Plus, the color payoff and wearability of each shade is insanely impressive.

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If you're looking for an eyeliner that, no matter the circumstances, does not budge, this $5 is the perfect pick-me-up. You can find it in a handful of different colors to suit your makeup needs.

Promising review: "I can’t believe I’ve been trying to make felt tipped eyeliners work for so long. Usually I put on felt tipped eye liner and it barely shows up, maybe my eye lids are watery or oily. So naturally within a hour or two it doesn’t even look like I’ve put on eye liner. This is not the case with this elf eye cream retractable liner. It actually shows up right away, it also lasts for hours. Even after 8 hours there was still some on my eyes, although I did need to re apply in some spots. It also didn’t smudge. For it to last at all and not smudge is amazing for me."

Amazon

Nivea Body, Face, & Hand Moisturizing Cream

Though some people may see this $10 tinned cream as truly "old school,"many others still hold it near and dear for its ability to moisturize and heal dry skin in need of nourishment.

Amazon

The thick, non-greasy formula is chockfull of provitamin B5 that really sinks deep into the skin. The best part is it's really gentle, so you can use it on your face, body, and hands.

Promising review: "Nivea is a great product. My parents always had a tin of it around. I've continued the tradition. It is a wonderful thick cream that moisturizes well. Great value for the price, as a little goes a long way. Softens rough skin."

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TONYMOLY Petit Bunny Lip Gloss

This adorable bunny-shaped lip gloss is enriched with vitamin E for soft lips and a pinch of pigment so your pout gets a nice wash of color. It comes in a convenient stick form that's super easy to travel with!

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Right now, 6 different shades of this gloss are on sale for $6 (originally $8). Snag one before the sale's over!

Promising review: "I am really happy with this product. The tint is very pretty, and not too pigmented. I am very picky about the texture of my lip glosses and lip balms and this one is lovely."

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Versed Sweet Relief Night Mask + Face Balm

B+C Affiliate Writer, Meredith, truly cannot get enough of this stuff from Versed. It's a thick, moisturizing face balm that really nails down the 'slugging' skincare trend without totally swamping your skin. It is fairly oily and shiny after one application, so she recommends using it only at night – and you'll wake up with a glowy complexion!

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Its $10 (was $18) formula is loaded up with bacuri and kokum butters and apricot kernel oil that are all dedicated to protecting the skin barrier. Though these ingredients may sound intimidating, the product is still wonderfully gentle overall for any skin type.

Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin and LOVE this as an overnight moisturizer. It's thick but a little goes a long way. The winter where I live is very dry. I use it every night before bed, my skin feels great in the morning! It's neutral smelling but I prefer that."

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Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo

This $7 (was $10) shampoo will set all your hair growth goals so right. It's made with rosemary and mint essential oils that help stimulate the scalp for better growth, along with biotin that ensures your locks don't lose moisture during the washing process. Snag the coordinating conditioner to get the full benefits (read an editor's review here)!

Promising review: "This shampoo is my favorite. It has a nice smell and gives my thinning hair a lot of volume and softness. Lathers well. Packaged well, no leaks. Hair loss has slowed down some. I will definitely continue to use."

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e.l.f. Cosmetics Glossy Lip Stain

This $6 (yes, $6!) lip stain is unlike most lip stains in the way that it boasts a fun, glossy formula. Where some leave-on lip stains may dry up and make your lips look crusty AF (hate that), this one nourishes your pout, all the while leaving a nice wash of color behind.

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This e.l.f. product stole the heart of B+C Affiliate Writer, Meredith, for its natural look, comfortable wear, and undeniable affordability. Its low price of $6 makes it so easy to try out the lip stain trend without going all-in! There are also so many shades to pick from, so you're sure to find one that suits you perfectly.

Promising review: "This was the first time buying any thing that was being called a lip stain. I didn’t want to spend a lot since I wasn’t sure if I would like them or if they worked the way people said they did. This goes on very easy and I have only used it a few times now, but it did last for a number of hours and did not come off when I ate or drink anything. I have thinner lips, but I like at this at least helps them show up more and when I don’t want to wear a lot of color, this is a soft neutral."

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Method Pure Peace Body Wash

This $8 body wash smells like heaven, truly. With notes of peony, rose water, and pink sea salt, it's perfectly feminine and clean and feels like a total treat in the shower or bath. Though fragranced, it's still gentle on the skin and provides a good amount of moisture after each use!

Amazon

This body wash from Method also boasts a unique biodegradable formula made with plant-based cleansers that contains zero parabens or phthalates to ensure healthy skin 24/7.

Promising review: "I was hesitant to buy this as I was not sure about how the scent would be. I am pleasantly surprised.
It has a simple rose smell, but it's mild and lacks that perfumey, cloying sort of smell that can happen with floral scents. Very simple, like I'm rubbing roses on myself. Not super strong, it lingers but doesn't feel like it's following you around all day either."

Amazon

Essence Lash Princess Mascara

This $5 mascara definitely doesn't feel like it's $5. It undeniably volumizes and lengthens your lashes in a few simple swipes, all without those pesky clumps you might expect from a more affordable product.

Amazon

The brush itself features an easy-to-use conic shape that lets you access the entirety of your lashes for a cohesive look, too!

Promising review: "What a little hidden gem this is. I first saw this on a you tube video and decided to try it. The bottle is adorable, but the contents will blow you away. It's probably the best mascara or one of the best that I have ever used. It was very inexpensive so even though the woman on the you tube video was saying how great it was, I wasn't expecting it to be all that great, but was still curious. I'm really glad I bought it, because it is the best mascara from a company no one probably even knows of because it is not mainstream. Buy it! I think you will love it!!"

Amazon

Cocokind Mymatcha All-Over Moisture Stick

Infused with caffeinated matcha, this one-of-a-kind $9 moisture stick is perfect for combatting everything from dry lips to tried under eyes. Its formula is 100% vegan and super gentle on the skin, so people of any skin type can try it out.

Amazon

The wide shape of this balm-like moisture stick allows you to cover a good amount of real estate on your face or any dry patches elsewhere. It has a very slight matcha-y scent, too, for all you matcha fiends out there!

Promising review: "I have used these moisturizing sticks since I was pregnant with my son 7 years ago. I used them all over my face in the harsh winter months working at a ski resort and now under my eyes as a sleepy mama to a toddler. Great for preventing windburn and easy for kids to use. I can throw this in my son’s book bag for school when he plays outside in -30 degree weather and don’t have to worry about it getting all over his hands or leaking. No funky ingredients. No synthetic fragrances. We love it."

Amazon

Wet Brush Original Detangler Hair Brush

The Wet Brush is a team favorite around here. It's gentle, lightweight, and oftentimes comes in the cutest colors and patterns to make our hair care routines more fun.

Amazon

If you're still using your old, ratty hair brush, the flexible bristles on the Wet Brush will feel like a total treat on your head. They help minimize breakage while still effectively detangling your locks. We're simply obsessed with this $7 rainbow colorway, too!

Promising review: "It glides through my hair effortlessly, detangling without pulling or causing breakage. The bristles are gentle yet effective, making it perfect for both wet and dry hair. Plus, the color is so pretty! If you struggle with knots or just want a great everyday brush, this one is a must-have!"

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This post has been updated.

We just found the perfectdress for spring and summer, and not only does it come in a super trendy cut, it’s miraculously on sale at Target right now! We’re truly obsessed with this gem of a fashion find because it gives "quiet luxury” vibes for way less, is undeniably flattering, and can pair with practically anything.

Scroll on to discover the Target dress that’s a must-have for your spring and summer looks!

Target

Meet Wild Fable’s Drop Waist Mini Sundress: a sleeveless mini with a high neckline, low-cut back, and a drop waist (!), fit with some adorable buttons running down the front and cut from a lightweight, breathable rayon-linen fabric blend.

Target

This Target dress is truly nothing short of flattering. The high neckline, while considerably modest, is met with a low-cut back detail that balances your look out. Plus, the drop waist serves to elongate your torso for a stunning feminine effect.

Target

The mini length of this dress, combined with the breezy rayon-linen fabric blend it’s made of, makes it so suitable for the spring and summer months, where dressing for comfort should be the #1 priority – but, of course, this dress proves that you don’t have to sacrifice style for practically.

Target

The Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress is currently shoppable in three wonderful colorways: white, butter yellow, and blue gingham. All of the colors are simply so adorable for spring and summertime, since they can easily pair with other neutral accents or bolder pops of color! The sizing for the dress ranges from XXS to 4X, though several sizes are currently sold out online in certain colors.

Target

The Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress has earned 3.9 out of 5 stars from shoppers, where the feedback is a bit mixed. While some Target fans adore the dress, a few others note that the sizing is inconsistent. Here are some standout reviews to give you a glance at the bigger picture:

  • “I was so pleasantly surprised when I tried this on. I love the uniqueness of the style and pattern. I won’t even need to wear a bra with this but will probably opt for shorts underneath.”
  • “I got the dress in both extra small and double extra small (I'm 5'1" and 110 pounds) to see which fit better. The extra small was way too big, but the double extra small fit, though a little loose. Still, I really like the fit and the material—it’s great quality and the white isn’t see-through. Super cute overall!”
  • “This dress is very cute and comfy but the sizing is so inconsistent. I have the yellow one, which I got in store, in a small and it fits loosely but the white in a small was too tight. (I returned it and have the gingham one coming in a medium but I have a feeling it’s going to run too large like the yellow.) This is definitely a piece you’ll want to try on in stores.”

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress

We are still obsessed nonetheless, especially given the price of this dress. Typically sold for $30, it’s now on sale for Target Circle Week for just $21!

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