This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5

Seventeen-year-old Graham Larkin and Ellie O’Niell’s story began when Graham accidentally sent Ellie an email about his pet pig, Wilbur. As a pet owner herself, Ellie replied to the email without knowing who was the person behind it. Since then, without even knowing each other’s names, the two continued sending e-mails containing details of their daily lives, finding comfort behind their anonymity. Their relationship slowly began to unfold like a small and beautiful flower blossoming early in spring. Their identities remained shrouded together with the secrets they both chose to hide— the secret about Ellie’s family tree and the truth about Graham’s spotlight. Until, came that one summer, which was about to change, everything.

To start, I’ve had this review drafted for a few months before I became dormant with my book socials. I’ve only written up until the book overview and went on writing with the review itself a few days back. So without further ado, let’s get to the review.

First, I’d like to be honest. One word, cliche. This book is just one of those cliche teen romances. A gorgeous small-town girl and a good-looking, well-known boy who have secrets they both tried to conceal. As much as I was entertained by this book, I will not read its second book. Everything was just so cliche. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Second, writing style. I would not say that I disliked it, but I wouldn’t say I liked it either. I guess it’s safe to say that her writing is just not for me. Moreover, the story was so anticlimactic. One of my book(ish) pet peeves is an anticlimactic novel. I despise it more than a cliffhanger ending.

Lastly, would I recommend the book? For novice readers, possibly. It’s nice to explore diverse books when you’ve just started reading. It will help you discover what your book flavor is. However, for people who’ve read enough romance novels, my answer is no, I will not recommend it. The only reason I rated it 3/5 stars, is to express my appreciation towards the author’s exertions upon writing the book.