By Emily Henry
Publication Date: 2024
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Theme: Perfect for anyone who believes that the best stories are the ones where we grow with the people we love.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
When I picked up Funny Story by Emily Henry, I expected a breezy, lighthearted romantic comedy, perfect for a quick escape. And while it is certainly that, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this story has so much more to offer. It’s a book that hits those emotional notes of self-discovery and growth just as hard as it hits the romance tropes we all love.
The Setup
Let’s be honest, the premise is chaotic in the best possible way: Daphne thought her life with her fiancé, Peter, was set. But then, Peter realises he actually wants to be with his best friend, Petra.
In a twist of fate that would have most of us reeling, Daphne ends up as roommates with the one person who understands exactly what she’s going through: Petra’s ex-fiancé, Miles.
They start as two people wallowing in their own shared misery, but when a wedding invitation for Peter and Petra lands in the mail, things get complicated. A little white lie about a “plus one” spirals, and suddenly, they are fake dating. Because, really, what better way to show the exes who’s boss than by faking a romance that turns out to be a little too real?
Why This Story Hit Differently
It’s easy for books in this genre to stay on the surface, but Funny Story dives deep. Beyond the banter and the “will-they-won’t-they” tension, this is a story about finding yourself when the life you planned implodes.
- Daphne’s Journey: I really connected with Daphne’s internal arc. She spends much of the book learning to identify patterns in her life, particularly regarding her on-again, off-again father. It’s a messy, relatable kind of growth that feels incredibly grounded.
- Miles’ Realisation: Miles was such a compelling character. He spends so much of his time cleaning up his family’s messes, especially for his little sister, that he has forgotten he doesn’t always have to be the fixer. Watching him learn to just be was refreshing.
- The Slow Burn: Emily Henry is a master of the slow burn, and this one didn’t disappoint. Watching Daphne and Miles evolve from roommates to best friends, and finally into something more, felt earned. It wasn’t just about the chemistry; it was about the foundation of friendship they built first.
Final Thoughts
This book is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most unexpected detours—even the ones that feel like total disasters at the time—are the ones that lead us to who we are meant to be. It’s about discovering your town, making friends, and learning that your past doesn’t have to dictate your future.
If you are looking for a read that will make you laugh, cry a little, and root for two people finding their way, put Funny Story on your Kobo TBR list immediately.
Have you read any Emily Henry lately? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how this one compares to her other work!