I recently finished 'People We Meet on Vacation' and absolutely adored the dynamic between Poppy and Alex. Poppy’s this vibrant, spontaneous travel blogger who thrives on adventure, while Alex is her complete opposite—a reserved, organized teacher who prefers quiet evenings. Their friendship is the heart of the story, with years of summer trips binding them together despite their differences. The tension between them is palpable, especially when past feelings resurface during one fateful vacation. Poppy’s quirky humor and Alex’s dry wit make their interactions hilarious and heartwarming. The book explores whether their bond can survive romantic complications, and their chemistry is off the charts.
The setting of 'People We Meet on Vacation' is a nostalgic road trip through some of the most iconic vacation spots in the US. The story alternates between present-day scenes in Palm Springs, where the two main characters reunite after years of estrangement, and flashbacks to their past summer trips. These flashbacks take us to places like Nashville’s honky-tonk bars, a cozy lakeside cabin in Montana, and even a chaotic weekend in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. The contrast between the glamorous Palm Springs resort and their more adventurous, sometimes messy past trips adds depth to their relationship. The author uses these locations almost like characters, shaping the dynamics between Poppy and Alex with each new backdrop. It’s a love letter to travel and how shared experiences in different places can bond people forever.
'People We Meet on Vacation' hits all the right notes. The chemistry between Poppy and Alex is electric—their banter feels so natural, like you're eavesdropping on real best friends. What makes it stand out is the slow burn. You get snippets of their decade-long friendship through flashbacks, each one adding layers to their connection. The emotional payoff when they finally admit their feelings? Chef's kiss. The travel theme also adds fantastic variety—each vacation spot feels vivid, from drunken nights in Croatia to quiet moments in Palm Springs. It's the perfect blend of humor, heart, and wanderlust.