If you’re looking for the perfect book to add to your summer reading list, I have just the book for you. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry is a great read following two best friends, Poppy and Alex, who go on an annual vacation together.
Each chapter tells the story of a different vacation the dynamic duo has taken, while also bouncing back and forth to the present day. From Sanibel Island to San Franciso and New Orleans, pieces of Poppy and Alex’s friendship unfold in front of you and it feels like you’re actually on vacation with them.
Early on in the book, the reader learns that something happened while the two were in Croatia, and stopped talking to each other for two years after the incident. The details aren’t revealed until later on in the book but you start to piece it together as Alex and Poppy embark on one last vacation together in an attempt to save their friendship.
Not only is this summertime novel a solid combination of romance and adventure, but you fall in love with the characters and the genuine friendship that develops over time. When Alex and Poppy’s relationship turns rocky, you want to root for them so badly and find yourself not being able to put the book down.
As I was reading, I couldn’t help but start highlighting phrases and conversations that stood out to me because of how they seemed to capture the essence of the characters so well.
Alex and Poppy’s friendship is warm and inviting, like the warm, buttery croissants they describe each other as in one chapter. While they are both very different individuals, their unique qualities play off of each other very well and their banter can’t help but make you laugh out loud.
Henry sums up the magic of going on vacation when she wrote, “like a good book or an incredible outfit, being on vacation transports you into another version of yourself.”
In addition to her wonderful writing, Henry’s attention to detail doesn’t go unnoticed and the plot line isn’t predictable, as in other romance novels. My favorite part of the book was seeing all of the interworkings of Alex and Poppy’s decade-long friendship and how two completely different people can become the greatest of friends.
I highly recommend this stunning five-star novel to anyone who enjoys adventure, not-so-cheesy romance or just simply wants a good book to read.