Book Review: Have I Told You Lately by Rachael Lucas
From the moment I stumbled upon Have I Told You Lately by Rachael Lucas, I felt a tug at my heartstrings. Perhaps it was the promise of a picturesque island setting and the allure of self-discovery that drew me in. This is my first experience with Lucas’s writing, and while I found much to love, I also walked away with a bittersweet taste lingering in my mind.
At the story’s core is Emmie Brown, a character navigating the choppy waters of grief and routine. Two years after the loss of her mother, Nellie, Emmie finds herself shackled to the same day-to-day existence: running Parsley Pasties at the airport, where nothing exciting ever happens. The early pages paint a vivid picture of her mundane life, yet through the beautiful descriptions of the Isle of Siskin and Emmie’s gradual evolution, the reader quickly turns the pages with curiosity.
The discovery of a box in her mother’s wardrobe, filled with letters from someone named G, serves as the catalyst for Emmie’s impulsive trip to the Isle. The letters beautifully weave into the narrative, shedding light on the past and offering us glimpses into other characters’ lives. I loved how they served to enhance Emmie’s journey rather than bog it down. It’s a clever storytelling technique that adds depth and intrigue, and I found myself yearning to decipher the mystery behind G’s identity.
While I appreciated Emmie’s character growth as she branches out from her sheltered world, the book stretched its pacing a bit unevenly. The first 80% of the narrative expertly captures a couple of weeks in Emmie’s life, full of small joys and self-reflection. However, the final 20% felt rushed, hastily covering months of development. This abrupt transition affected the story’s believability, particularly in how Emmie’s relationships evolved as tensions mounted.
Now, let’s talk about the ending. Oh, the ending! Without diving too deep into spoiler territory, I must say that it left me feeling frustrated. Emmie’s growth seemed overshadowed by a side character’s actions, and I was left questioning the ethics of consent and personal boundaries. How could Emmie feel safe with someone who had caused such a whirlwind of turmoil? The absence of an epilogue left me yearning for closure, and I couldn’t help but feel that the resolution lacked the emotional weight that earlier parts of the story had so beautifully built.
Despite these hiccups, I would still recommend Have I Told You Lately for its heartwarming exploration of self-discovery, the strength of familial love, and the importance of carving out one’s unique path. Those who enjoy women’s fiction with engaging themes and relatable characters will find something to cherish in this story. For readers who crave a perfectly tied-up happy ending? This may not be your cup of tea. Personally, my journey with Emmie was undeniably enriching, but the ending left me pondering what it truly means to grow and heal.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the chance to delve into Emmie’s world. This review is a spontaneous reflection of my experience, and I encourage fellow readers to pick it up and discover the beauty and complexities that lay within.