Review of "PS: I Hate You" by Lauren Connolly
There’s something rather appealing about diving into a book with the promise of heartwarming journeys and second chances. When I stumbled upon "PS: I Hate You," I was intrigued—not just by its catchy title but also by the premise of a sister fulfilling her deceased brother’s travel bucket list alongside his charmingly obnoxious best friend. Unfortunately, while Lauren Connolly’s latest novel had all the potential for emotional depth, it ultimately left me feeling more aggravated than enlightened.
At the center of this story is Maddie Sanderson, a timid and often frustratingly indecisive character, who embarks on a year-long adventure meant to honor her late brother, Josh. But surprise, surprise! She’s chained to none other than Dominic Perry—the very guy who "loved her and left her" after a teenage fling. From their snarky banter to their unresolved feelings, it was clear that Connolly intended for readers to revel in this tumultuous relationship. However, instead of warmth and growth, I found myself grappling with their immaturity and the shallow treatment of grief throughout the narrative.
The book felt like a modern twist on Cecelia Ahern’s "P.S. I Love You," but if I’m being honest, it was more of a pale echo than a refreshing reinterpretation. Maddie, much unlike the endearing Holly from Ahern’s tale, comes off as a caricature—a doormat who struggles to process her grief and seems to take half-hearted stabs at self-discovery while traveling. Meanwhile, Dominic’s character—a baffling mix of possessiveness wrapped in a handsome facade—was hard to root for. At times, I wished I could fast forward through their interactions just to get to the next letter from their dearly departed friend.
Connolly’s writing style, while peppered with wit and humor, often strayed into the realm of juvenile antics that detracted from any emotional resonance. Between repeated phrases and juvenile humor that only landed as cringe-worthy, the pacing felt off-kilter. Instead of being drawn into expansive landscapes and heartfelt moments, I frequently found myself distracted by the narrative’s quirks—like Maddie’s bizarre desire to “like Dom’s arm” (a sentiment I still find perplexing). For a book that tackles poignant themes of love and loss, the execution felt less than refined.
One can appreciate moments of levity, but these comedic asides often overshadowed the story’s heart, making it hard to connect with any deeper emotional undercurrents. As a travel enthusiast myself, it’s a shame I could not immerse in the global settings that should have sparked wanderlust; instead, I was left feeling more annoyed than entertained.
Ultimately, while "PS: I Hate You" may attract readers who enjoy snappy dialogues and romantic entanglements, it might not resonate with those seeking a nuanced exploration of grief and personal growth. For me, the reading experience lacked the depth that its predecessor elegantly offered, leaving me longing for something far more enriching.
If you’re curious about how humor and heartbreak intertwine in this offbeat road trip, you might just enjoy the ride—everyone has their tastes, after all. But be prepared for a journey with plenty of potholes. While I appreciated the effort, it’s clear that this book is more of a mere imitation than a genuine portrayal of the complexities of love and loss, deserving a meager 3 stars.