Book Review: PS: I Hate You by Lauren Connolly
From the moment I stumbled upon Lauren Connolly’s PS: I Hate You, I knew I was in for a journey filled with laughter, heartache, and perhaps a bit of catharsis. The idea of a bitter sweet romantic comedy revolving around loss and second chances felt like the perfect blend for a cozy reading session, and boy, did it deliver.
At its core, PS: I Hate You is about Maddie Sanderson, a woman wrangling her grief over her brother’s death while being forced to cooperate with Dominic Perry, his best friend and her first love. The backdrop of their adventure—hauling Josh’s ashes across eight meaningful destinations—set the stage for soul-searching and conflict wrapped in humor. Maddie was not just mourning but also grappling with complex feelings about Dom, the man who once broke her heart. It’s a classic case of "I hate you but I still want you," an emotional rollercoaster that many can relate to when it comes to love and loss.
Connolly’s writing style shines through in her ability to balance the weight of grief with moments of levity. The narrative flows fluidly, encapsulating raw emotions and the awkward tension that often arises in complicated relationships. Despite its heavier themes, the banter between Maddie and Dom sparkles with wit, reminiscent of those classic rom-coms that make you laugh out loud. I found myself highlighting memorable lines that seamlessly transitioned from humor to heartstring-tugging sincerity.
As I turned the pages, I often felt a connection to Maddie’s character. She’s flawed, angry, and at times, downright unbearable, yet that’s what made her relatable. Connolly doesn’t shy away from portraying her struggles but rather nudges the reader to join Maddie on her path toward healing. One particular segment that struck me was during a snowstorm when endless circumstances force her to share a bed with Dom. It’s a moment that perfectly encapsulates the classic trope of forced proximity while also serving as a turning point for their relationship.
Moreover, PS: I Hate You tackles grief with a refreshing vulnerability. Many readers have echoed this sentiment, noting how the book evokes a wide spectrum of emotions, prompting laughter, tears, and everything in between. One reviewer aptly put it as a "journey of grief and love," echoing my own experience with the book.
For those who relished the emotional highs and lows of books like You, with a View or P.S. I Love You, this story will surely resonate. It captures the intricacies of relationships with a nuanced lens, proving that sometimes love isn’t just about perfect moments; it’s also about confronting past hurts and finding solace amidst loss.
In conclusion, PS: I Hate You is a remarkable read that wades through the complexities of grief, second chances, and the messy reality of love. I found myself not only engaged but profoundly moved, and perhaps that’s the beauty of Connolly’s writing: it reminds us that even in our darkest moments, glimmers of hope and humor can still shine through. So, if you’re looking for a book that will tug at your heart while also making you chuckle, grab this one—it’s a delightful ride you won’t want to miss.