Lauren Connolly’s debut novel “PS: I Hate You” is a masterfully crafted contemporary romance that delves deep into the complexities of grief, trust, and the courage it takes to love again. The story follows Maddie Sanderson as she embarks on a unique journey to fulfill her late brother’s final wish – spreading his ashes across eight destinations he never got to visit. The catch? She has to do it with Dominic Perry, her brother’s best friend and the man who broke her heart seven years ago.
Character Development That Resonates
Maddie: A Complex and Relatable Protagonist
What makes this novel stand out is Connolly’s exceptional character development, particularly with our protagonist Maddie. Unlike many romance heroines who wear their hearts on their sleeves, Maddie’s inability to cry after her brother’s death speaks volumes about her complex relationship with emotions and vulnerability. Her coping mechanisms – sharp wit, sarcasm, and an obsession with puzzles – feel authentic rather than quirky character traits thrown in for effect.
The author skillfully portrays Maddie’s growth throughout the novel, from someone who uses work as a shield against emotional connections to a woman brave enough to confront her fears of abandonment. Her journey isn’t just about falling in love again; it’s about learning to trust herself and others, making her character arc deeply satisfying.
Dominic: Beyond the Brooding Hero Trope
Dom could have easily fallen into the trap of being another brooding, responsible hero, but Connolly gives him layers that make him memorable. His struggle between doing what’s “right” versus what his heart wants adds depth to his character. The revelation about his past marriage and lost child humanizes him, making his actions more understandable, if not entirely forgivable.
Innovative Storytelling Structure
The novel’s structure, built around eight different destinations, provides a fresh framework for the romance to unfold. Each location serves as both a physical journey and an emotional milestone, cleverly mirroring the stages of grief and healing both characters experience.
Strengths:
- The integration of Josh’s letters at each destination adds suspense and emotional depth
- Beautiful descriptions of various locations across America
- Natural progression of the relationship between Maddie and Dom
- Well-developed secondary characters, particularly Adam and Carter
- Authentic portrayal of grief and its many manifestations
Areas for Improvement
While PS: I Hate You excels in many aspects, there are a few areas where it could have been stronger:
- The pacing in the middle section occasionally slows, particularly during some of the travel segments
- Some readers might find Maddie’s initial hostility towards Dom slightly prolonged
- The resolution with Maddie’s mother feels somewhat rushed compared to other relationship developments
- A few plot points, like the timing of their work situations, could have been more realistically developed
Writing Style and Emotional Impact
Connolly’s writing style is refreshingly direct while maintaining emotional depth. Her dialogue sparkles with wit and authenticity, particularly in the banter between Maddie and Dom. The author excels at showing rather than telling, allowing readers to experience the characters’ emotional journey through their actions and reactions.
Noteworthy Elements:
- The use of puzzles as a metaphor for putting life back together
- The parallel love stories of Josh/Rosaline and Maddie/Dom
- The realistic portrayal of workplace dynamics
- The meaningful integration of family relationships
- The careful handling of heavy themes like grief and abandonment
Romance That Feels Real
The romance between Maddie and Dom avoids many common genre tropes while delivering satisfying emotional payoff. Their history adds complexity to their current interactions, and their journey from antagonism to trust feels earned rather than forced. The physical chemistry between them is well-written without overshadowing the emotional development of their relationship.
Impact and Relevance
“PS: I Hate You” stands out in the contemporary romance genre for its thoughtful handling of grief alongside romance. It speaks to anyone who has experienced loss while offering hope for healing and second chances. The book’s exploration of chosen family versus blood ties resonates particularly well in today’s context.
Comparison to Similar Works
While the novel shares some DNA with road trip romances like “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry and grief-centered stories like “Meet Me at the Lake” by Carley Fortune, it carves its own unique space in the genre. The integration of the scavenger hunt element with grief processing creates a fresh narrative approach.
Final Verdict
“PS: I Hate You” is a strong debut that successfully balances romance with deeper themes of loss and healing. Despite some minor pacing issues, the novel delivers a satisfying emotional journey that will resonate with readers long after the final page.
Perfect for readers who:
- Enjoy slow-burn second chance romances
- Appreciate complex family dynamics
- Like travel elements in their stories
- Want substance with their romance
- Enjoy character-driven narratives
May not appeal to readers seeking:
- Light, comedic romance
- Fast-paced plots
- Traditional romance structures
- Straightforward happily-ever-afters
Looking Forward
Lauren Connolly establishes herself as a promising voice in contemporary romance with this debut. Her ability to weave complex emotions with romance while maintaining authenticity suggests exciting possibilities for future works. This book sets a high bar for her next novel, and readers will eagerly await what she produces next.