People We Meet on Vacation

Our Review:

Emily Henry delivers a warmhearted exploration of friendship, love, and the complicated space between the two in People We Meet on Vacation. The novel follows Alex and Poppy, best friends who take annual vacations together until a falling out leaves them estranged for two years. When Poppy convinces Alex to take one more trip, the story unfolds in alternating timelines that reveal both their history and the tension of their present.

Henry excels at crafting dialogue that feels genuine and characters whose flaws make them relatable rather than frustrating. Her writing is accessible without being simplistic, blending humor with moments of genuine emotional weight. The dual timeline structure keeps readers engaged, parceling out revelations about the characters' past while building toward their uncertain future. She handles the will-they-won't-they dynamic with enough restraint to avoid predictability.

The novel thoughtfully examines how we construct our identities, the fear of vulnerability, and the way long-term relationships require us to grow alongside another person. Henry also touches on the tension between who we are with certain people versus who we present to the world, giving the romance an emotional foundation that feels earned.

Readers who appreciate character-driven contemporary fiction with romantic elements will find this an engaging read. It suits those looking for something lighter in tone but still emotionally satisfying. Henry has established herself as a reliable voice in this space, and People We Meet on Vacation demonstrates why her work continues to resonate with a devoted readership.