Title: Happy Place
Author: Emily Henry
Source: Pasco County Library System
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Synopsis: Goodreads
Purchase Link: Amazon

Other books by this author: Beach Read, Book Lovers

Why did I choose to read this book?

This was a NetGalley rejection that I put on my library holds list for a later date. The previous two books I’ve read by Emily Henry didn’t knock my socks off, but there was enough there that I wanted to keep trying until I found one that did. Happy Place was just the next one in the queue.

What is this book about?

This book explores the following themes:
GO TO THERAPY WHEN YOU BECOME AN ADULT (yes, even if you think you had an okay childhood but ESPECIALLY if you think you had a messed up one)
It’s okay to change your job if you’re not happy (yes even if other people might be disappointed in you, it’s not their job!)
Communicate what you need to others (yes even if it might start a fight or make others uncomfortable)
A break/distance is helpful in trying times (applies to friendships or romantic relationships)

What is notable about this story?

This entire book was an attack on my entire being. I read this book as fast as I could because I had to, while putting it down to give my eyes a chance to CALM DOWN and STOP CRYING PLEASE. It reached into my millennial brain and poked every single sore spot it could find while also comforting me? RUDE.

If you’re a millennial this book is gonna speak to you, just be warned/encouraged about that. The other Henry books I’ve read kind of missed me but this one shot me through the heart. It takes a lot to do this so it’s the most notable thing about the book.

There’s also something here for everyone. All the relationships and friendships represented here are diverse and interesting. Everyone has different interests and issues. While the Kara character spoke the most to me, I am certain that one of the other characters would be anyone’s favorite too.

Was anything not so great?

Only a small quibble but whenever I encounter the “we have a character so filthy rich that I don’t have to worry about how my characters get to do what they need to do for the story!” it feels kind of lazy to me. I get it, it makes the story easier to write, especially if your story takes place in a mansion on the coast of Maine, but I’m still gonna let out a little “ugh” when one of the characters is a millionaire who just takes care of everyone. Takes me out of the suspended reality a bit.

What’s the verdict?

5 stars on Goodreads because any book that can grab me by the heart like that deserves nothing less. Full of romance, connection, friendship, conflict, and healing – if you’re between the ages of 30 and 50 you should definitely read this one and let it take you places. Trust me.

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