Book Review: Anywhere You Go by Bridget Morrissey
When I first stumbled upon Anywhere You Go, I was instantly drawn in by its premise: a sapphic retelling of The Holiday? Count me in! As a die-hard fan of that holiday classic, with its charming characters and heartwarming moments, I was both excited and a tad apprehensive. Was this book going to live up to the nostalgic magic of the film? I was curious to see how Bridget Morrissey would weave her characters into this familiar yet refreshing tapestry.
At its heart, Anywhere You Go introduces us to Tatum Ward and Eleanor Chapman—two women from vastly different worlds. Tatum is a waitress in a small-town diner, grappling with her unrequited feelings for her regular, June. Eleanor, on the other hand, has just experienced a very public fall from grace as a high-profile publicist in NYC. Their lives intertwine through an unconventional house swap that sets the stage for unexpected revelations and connections.
The core themes of self-discovery, love, and resilience shine throughout the novel, but I found myself longing for a bit more depth. Tatum and Eleanor’s backstories felt somewhat flat; the emotional weight wasn’t as pronounced as I’d hoped. While I admired Morrissey’s attempt to delve into the past traumas of both characters, the narratives at times felt more like telling than showing, leaving me yearning for a deeper connection.
I did appreciate the contrast between Tatum’s quiet small-town life and Eleanor’s bustling NYC existence. However, the overall pacing was uneven, and I found it a bit challenging to keep track of the characters as the narrative shifted back and forth. Additionally, the stakes felt low—especially for Tatum, whose journey toward romance with June seemed almost too simple. I wanted her to grapple with her feelings a bit more!
The highlight for me was the chemistry between Carson, Tatum’s non-binary sibling, and Eleanor. Their interactions crackled with a playful energy that simply buzzed off the page. While the instant love trope can sometimes tread into predictable territory, their relationship had a tangible spark that I found refreshing. Moments like these reminded me of the thrilling chemistry I so adored in the characters of The Holiday.
Despite my critiques, I respect Morrissey’s dedication to representation, particularly her sincere portrayal of queer love. If you’re someone who enjoys light-hearted romances with diverse characters, Anywhere You Go might still appeal to you. However, if you’re looking for profound emotional arcs or nuanced relationships, you may be left wanting more.
In conclusion, while Anywhere You Go didn’t quite meet the high bar set by its inspiration, it offered a lighthearted escape with glimpses of charm and warmth. This book might not have taken me on the journey I hoped for, but it still reminded me of the beauty in trying to find love in unexpected places. So, grab your favorite warm drink, settle in, and give it a read—you never know what surprises might await you on your own path.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)
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