Emily Henry Stan I Am – “Beach Read”

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again—I am an Emily Henry stan.

I took a break from reading for a while, but you know what pulled me out of my book slump? Beach Read. This book was just chef’s kiss—wonderfully humorous & entirely swoon worthy.

Both characters are dealing with their own traumas, yet they still find moments of happiness together. And let’s not forget the quirky side characters, who only add to the book’s appeal.

🚨 SPOILERS AHEAD 🚨

The main characters, January—who just lost her father while simultaneously discovered his affair—and Gus—who’s navigating a divorce after always feeling like no one’s first choice —have incredible banter throughout the book.

Their exchanges are often so witty and hilarious that I will legit laugh out loud. The banter is easily my favorite part of the story.

There is also just a tad bit of spice, so if you’re looking for that, no worries here!

On another note… The more I read Henry’s books, the more I wonder how much of herself she weaves into her stories.

Especially with Beach Read, where both main characters are authors, I continued to wonder—does she research like they do? Has she ever had to switch genres because life made it too hard to write romance? (Maybe the answers are out there, but honestly, I haven’t looked.)

Either way, just like all of her other books, what I love most about Beach Read is that it’s deeper than just a romance.

It’s a story that will hit differently depending on who reads it which I really appreciate. For example, I immagine authors will really relate to the writing struggles and take in this book a little differently than, say, little ol’ me.

Obviously, we know Beach Read will end on a happy note, but the journey is full of emotions—anger at January’s father, sadness for her loss, compassion for Gus. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel everything before it finally delivers that well-earned happy ending.

I devoured this one. I listened to it on Spotify but of course I had to buy the physical copy, just so I could have that beautiful cover on my shelf.

CANNOT WAIT FOR MORE BOOKS, EMILY.