Book Review: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
From the moment I cracked open People We Meet on Vacation, I knew I was in for something special. Emily Henry has a knack for crafting relatable characters that tug at your heartstrings while inviting you to explore the complexities of love and friendship. This book isn’t just another tale of opposites attracting; it’s a celebration of flawed, beautifully complex people navigating life and their feelings for each other, all wrapped in a travelogue of experiences that genuinely felt personal to me.
At the center of this story is Poppy and Alex, two childhood friends whose dynamic beautifully encapsulates the essence of “friends to lovers.” Their journey spans years and various locations, from road trips to tropical getaways. As they navigate both their histories and enduring insecurities, the reader gets a front-row seat to their remarkable bond. Poppy, with her quirky energy and vibrant spirit, is someone I immediately connected with—she defies the norm and embraces her eccentricities. Alex, her thoughtful, introspective counterpart, represents the steady foundation she needs, and their chemistry crackles with tension and warmth.
The book delves into themes of acceptance, love, and fear—fear of losing someone you love and fear of not being enough. One quote resonated deeply with me: “You can love someone and still know the future you’d have with them wouldn’t work for you…” It’s a reminder that love isn’t always about being together; sometimes, it’s about understanding when letting go is necessary. This sentiment is woven throughout their story as Poppy and Alex confront the reality of their differences and the heartbreak that comes with unspoken feelings.
Henry’s writing style is exquisite, wrapped in humor, emotional depth, and exquisite imagery. The pacing mirrors the rhythm of their growing relationship, oscillating beautifully between past and present. Emily captures moments so evocatively that they transform into snapshots I could feel: late-night talks under twinkling stars, shared laughter that echoed through sun-drenched streets, and quiet moments where words weren’t necessary but love was palpable.
I particularly appreciated the way Henry portrayed the growth of both characters through their experiences and relationships outside of each other. As they dated other people and faced their own obstacles, the narrative showcased their maturity and self-discovery, culminating in an eventual realization—that their love was worth fighting for despite the odds. Poppy’s journey of learning to see herself as lovable is one I think many can relate to, and it’s expressed beautifully throughout.
Ultimately, People We Meet on Vacation is a love letter to friendships, love, and the realization that sometimes, the person you need is standing right next to you. While not every plot twist will resonate with every reader, the emotional core of this book—its heartfelt exploration of connection—will undoubtedly appeal to those who’ve ever felt the weight of unexpressed love.
If you’re searching for a book that not only entertains but also deeply resonates, then look no further. This book has etched itself into my heart, and I wholeheartedly believe it will do the same for anyone ready to embark on this wonderfully bittersweet journey with Poppy and Alex. With its lush descriptions and relatable characters, Emily Henry has crafted a beautiful narrative that stays with you long after you turn the last page—one that makes you feel understood and, ultimately, hopeful.
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