Emily Henry’s “Happy Place” is a charming yet predictable tale of love rekindled amid the picturesque setting of a coastal Maine town. The novel follows the story of Harriet and Wyn, a once-perfect couple who have secretly broken up but must pretend to still be together during their annual vacation with friends. Henry excels in creating a vivid, almost tangible sense of place.
The characters themselves are well-drawn, especially Harriet, whose internal struggles and emotional growth are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. Henry delves into Harriet’s psyche, exploring her fears and insecurities with a nuanced touch. The dynamic between Harriet and Wyn is intricate, capturing the push and pull of their past relationship with authenticity. Their interactions, filled with a mix of longing, tension, and unresolved issues, form the emotional core of the novel. However, the plot’s reliance on common romance tropes can make it feel formulaic. The premise of pretending to be in a relationship is not new, and the predictable nature of the storyline detracts from its overall impact.
Henry’s writing style is engaging and accessible, with moments of wit and humor that lighten the more intense emotional scenes. Additionally, the resolution feels somewhat rushed and overly tidy, leaving little room for the complexities of real-life relationships to breathe. “Happy Place” is a bittersweet exploration of love, friendship, and the passage of time. While it may not offer many surprises, it provides a comforting, if familiar, journey through the landscape of past and present affections.
Cellardoor’s Chardonnay is a lovely wine to enjoy with this summer romance. This Maine vineyard’s chardonnay emulates the coastal Maine town that serves as the backdrop to this novel with it’s freshness and captivating aromatics, this wine exhibits great acidity and freshness, with a combination of oak, green apple, pear and lemon creating a wine that is rich and delightful. Pour yourself a glass, grab a lobster roll and enjoy!