Book Review: Happy Place by Emily Henry
Buckle up, bitches, because I have some things to say about Emily Henry’s Happy Place! I approached this book with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. After my lukewarm experience with Beach Read, I was ready to give Henry another shot. “Why not?” I thought. “Maybe this one turns out to be pretty good!” Sadly, my reading experience left me with more questions about love and friendship than answers, and I’m here to share the rollercoaster of thoughts that ensued.
At its core, Happy Place revolves around Harriet and Wyn, a couple who broke up five months prior but must put on a façade of happiness for their best friends during a trip. The premise is rich with potential for drama and exploration of second chances, yet I found myself feeling like a third wheel throughout the entire story. The narrative jumps back and forth between the past and present, a technique I usually enjoy. However, the present drama often outshined the flashbacks, making the shifts feel jarring rather than enlightening.
One of my significant frustrations was the flatness of both the main and side characters. Harriet’s constant people-pleasing and lack of self-esteem were palpable, and I found myself longing for more depth in her character and Wyn’s, who often came across as a mere shadow. I mean, seriously, even a shoe has more personality than Wyn Connor! The miscommunication trope also grated on my nerves. How can two people in love be so utterly unable to voice their feelings after eight years? It left me rooting for them and simultaneously shaking my head in disbelief.
The group dynamics had me squirming in discomfort, reminding me of my own experiences feeling out of place in friend groups. While I appreciate that interpersonal relationships can be complicated and messy, the tension among friends in Happy Place felt more contrived than genuine. I yearned for the lively camaraderie I expected from a close-knit group—a missed opportunity in an otherwise fun setting.
Henry’s writing style has this love/hate effect on me. While she articulates relatable sentiments that hit home—“Same, sis, same!”—other moments felt bogged down by metaphor and unnecessary embellishments. And when I reached the much-anticipated romance scenes? They felt lackluster, devoid of the charged energy I anticipated. I was screaming internally like Regina George, wondering how Harriet, a neurosurgery resident, could abandon her hard-earned medical career for pottery. I know med school isn’t a walk in the park, and as someone who once dreamed of being a neurosurgeon, it felt like a slap in the face!
But here’s the kicker: even amidst my frustration, I couldn’t help but grasp the appeal of Henry’s writing. There’s a charm to her humor and wit—a sparkle that her fans adore. So, if you found joy in Happy Place, I am really, really happy for you! I genuinely wish I could share in that excitement.
In conclusion, while Happy Place ultimately left me feeling underwhelmed and out of sorts, it might still resonate with those who appreciate the nuances of second-chance romances. This book might not have been my cup of tea, but it has the potential to capture readers longing for camaraderie, love, and the nostalgic ache of youthful days. As for me and Emily Henry? I think this is where we part ways. Happy reading, folks!