A review by violentdelights
Happy Place by Emily Henry

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Some quick thoughts:

• Seems like a book for people that really wanted a college friend group
• Becomes much more likeable (to ME) if I don’t picture most the characters as rich and white. To me, Harriet is middle class Irish-Indian and Sabrina and Parth are a Latine couple. I tried to picture Wyn as Viet, but he was too good old-fashioned white boy. 
• In continuation of above: While Cleo was dark-skinned, I don’t think she was explicitly stated to be Black, and without other characters of colour it felt a little token-y.
• Some parts felt too…written. There were parts of dialogue that Wyn in particular would say that I just couldn’t picture a real person saying
• VERY unrealistic ending. How is she supposed to pay off those loans?

Overall, a fine book that wasn’t too memorable either way. I think where it really succeeded was atmosphere - if nothing else, this book added Maine and Vermont to my to-visit list. It picked up a little with the last quarter, but I wish it happened sooner and that the non-romantic conflict was touched on with more depth. I’m talking of course about the conflict between the friends, but also about seeing more interactions with Harriet and her parents/sister.