Fun at Parties, Jamie Harrow (Review by Kristin Kurek)

Quinn, a famous online cycling instructor, is trying to stay positive. After a bad breakup, her ex-boyfriend is recorded saying hurtful things about her to his new girlfriend. And, of course, it’s gone viral. One day, overcome with stress, she sounds off in front of her enormous online audience. He boss suggests that she takes a few weeks off to recover. Quinn decides to use her time off to go on a cross-country road trip to commune with nature and attend her estranged best friend’s birthday bash. Her ex-friend and unrequited crush, Nate, asks to join her on part of her journey so he can meet up with their mutual friend, Logan. When Logan disappears, Quinn and Nate kick off a wild goose chase. Will they resolve their feelings for each other on the way? I loved this book for so many reasons. With so many heavy books in my autumn rotation, this book was a quick and easy read. Quinn had me laughing out loud constantly. I had fun learning about each of the characters and their backstories. As Quinn and Nate travel through the country, I felt excited to experience each of their adventures with them. This was a break from my day-to-day, and I really appreciated it. In addition to this book being a fun read, I was shocked by the depth contained within these pages. Quinn and Nate tackle themes of generational trauma, financial stability, toxic workplaces, and found family. The friendships in this book were unconditionally supportive but not immune to the struggle of maintaining friendships during adulthood. I don’t usually find myself being so inspired by a light, fun romance book. But, here we are! If you are looking for a fun road trip romance or if you are looking to connect with characters as they navigate some of life’s most difficult experiences, this book has both! Come along on this road trip! You won’t regret it.