Tag: Happy Place

Emily Henry’s latest book Happy Place is exactly what you’d expect from the author if you’ve already read some of her other work; it’s wonderful.

Happy Place follows main characters Harriet and Wyn as they are forced to pretend they are still dating after being broken up for several months. Their tight-knit group of friends invites them on their annual trip to Maine, and Wyn and Harriet don’t want to ruin the trip by announcing their breakup. Clearly still bitter about the breakup because of their apparent love for each other, the two straddle the fine line of pretending to be together and falling back into the comfortable relationship they shared.

None of her books follow the same characters, but it’s easy to imagine that they’re all part of the same “universe” because you can really feel Henry in each character. The relationships have issues that are relatable even if you haven’t personally experienced them yourself. Have I ever been in a relationship with someone for almost ten years before ending it and feeling like my heart is missing a piece? Big no. But was I crying when the characters felt heartbroken? No… someone was chopping onions very near to me. The magical thing is that there isn’t only one issue with the characters that makes real-life sense. Each character addresses their own faults and fears in a way that makes them seem human instead of villainous.

Harriet, Wyn, Sabrina, Cleo, Kimmy and Parth will all remind you of at least one of your friends, but together they make up a group that would be delightful to vacation with. Another added bonus of this book is that it appealed to me as a person who has been growing out of a life dedicated to my friends and into one all my own. Happy Place made me feel like the end of an era isn’t the same as the end of…well, me.