By David Nicholls
ISBN: 9780063394056
The slow-moving plot of this book might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you are in the mood for a light and introspective read, then this book is for you.
Synopsis
“Sometimes you need to get lost to find your way . . .
Michael is coming undone. Adrift after his wife’s departure, he has begun taking himself on long, solitary walks across the English countryside. Becoming ever more reclusive, he’ll do anything to avoid his empty house. Marnie, on the other hand, is stuck. Hiding alone in her London flat, she avoids old friends and any reminders of her rotten, selfish ex-husband. Curled up with a good book, she’s battling the long afternoons of a life that feels like it’s passing her by.
When a persistent mutual friend and some very unpredictable weather conspire to toss Michael and Marnie together on the most epic of ten-day hikes, neither of them can think of anything worse. Until, of course, they discover exactly what they’ve been looking for. Michael and Marnie are on the precipice of a bright future . . . if they can survive the journey.
A hilarious, hopeful, and heartwarming love story—the novel beloved New York Times bestselling author David Nicholls calls “my funniest book yet”—You Are Here is a bittersweet and hopeful story of first encounters, second chances, and finding the way home.”
What’s to like
This book is a lighthearted rom-com and does not disappoint if you are in the mood for an easy read and do not want too much out of a book. The characters are built well. Michael and Marnie are both relatable characters with their own insecurities and flaws. I enjoyed how the author portrayed their interactions in the book. Overall, it felt like seeing two people who are your friends, meeting and getting to know each other. You know their shortcomings, but you are rooting for them to end up together.
The setting and scenery of the Lake District were refreshing and, in a way, made the interactions raw and heartfelt without the distractions of city life and daily routine. Since I read this book on a trip to the Lake District in the UK, I might have been able to truly appreciate the setting and the feel of the book, and felt that it was a perfect book for my travel.
What’s not to like
The plot itself is quite flat. It is basically two characters talking and getting to know each other on a walk. While fans of literary fiction might enjoy reading about the thoughts of the characters, most would find themselves waiting for some plot development to happen.
This book would appeal to a niche audience. It is the kind of book for which you need to be in a certain mindset to truly enjoy. Much like comfort TV, which you watch, relax, and pass your time well, but that would not be on top of your recommendation list for others.
NOTES:
Book Review Rating: 3.5/5
Content Warnings: Death and pre-marital relations. Age advisory 16+
