Happy Place is more than just a romance book. Its on family. On friendship. On growing up. And mostly, of love, in its most expected and non-expectant ways. Its imperfectly perfect, it literally has my whole heart.

Honestly, I actually held off reading this book for quite awhile. Since its a genre of romance that I'm not most keen off (second-chance), I figured I will need to read it at the right time. And I'm thankful that I did. I didn't know what to expect other than a story of ex-fiancees having to go to their last annual trip with their friends of 7 years as the cottage that they usually stay in is being sold. Unexpected announcements and delayed conversations had led them to be secretive about their break up. A story of strangers who became closer than family, of love in different forms and ways and of growing up.

This story came to me at the right time. Its not just the romance that had gotten me invested in the story. Its the story of people, of growing up and growing apart , and how human relationships are never easy. Its complex, its messy and sometimes it can be too much. But its also what makes human, human. Apart from TJR, I also came to love how Henry writes people and the complex relationship that they can come with. Happy Place not only explores the vulnerabilities of humans in close relationships with others, it also questions the characters and the readers, again and again, what is your definition of happiness? Is it having a good job? Or having fulfilled someone else's expectations? Or simply.... existing?

I like how the problem that led them to break up in the first place was realistic, raw and had made me cry so so much. I love that both of the main leads went through a state of self-reflection before coming back together, and it didn't felt forced. It showed how much in love you are with someone, when circumstances and lack of expression does not come hand in hand, even the strongest bond can eventually be broken. Not only that, the relationships of them as friends is what made this book endearing to me. Its parallel to the phase of adulting, of the people you love having to grow apart, and its like we're meeting someone new all over again. Its realistic. Its messy. Its humane.

Is this story perfect? Definitely not. But it tugged my heart and made me explore my own vulnerabilities at a time I needed it most. Its a read that will make you realize that friendships and relationships as an adult has never been easy. It comes with effort, tolerance and the willingness to make something happen. It leads me to this question to everyone,

What is Your Happy Place?

Personal Ratings: 5🌟

Thank you to Times Reads for this gem. I am forever grateful.