This uplifting novel follows a by-the-book elementary school teacher who shocks her meddling family by taking a psychic’s advice and flying to London for a spur-of-the-moment Christmas vacation.
Twenty-six-year-old Bostonian Lucy Gray is jilted by her date at her sister’s 80’s-themed wedding. Inspired by the psychic her sister hired for the wedding—who prophesied that her life can only begin if she stops ignoring “the signs”—Lucy decides to live a little. When one of her students gives a presentation about London, Lucy takes it as a sign.
With her just-married OCD sister honeymooning in Greece, Lucy figures no one will mind if she takes the “just in case” backup honeymoon reservation at the Chaizer, a romantic London hotel. Between reconnecting with Cary, a charming London-based high school friend offering to serve as tour guide, and navigating increasingly frequent run-ins with the Chaizer’s handsome and mysterious concierge, Oliver—who seems to see right through Lucy—this promises to be a vacation unlike any other.
The story conveys an important message: No matter how stuck you feel, it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Lucy actively attempts to conquer her fear of the unknown and her romantic cluelessness to live in the moment. Her view of the world is charming, nerdy, and quirky, which makes for a fun read. Lucy notes: “He looks like someone who would be in love with someone who owns her own clothing line” and, later, “‘He isn’t very nice,’ I whisper. I look back at the receptionist. ‘And I don’t mean for a concierge. For a person.’”
Lucy’s exposition-heavy inner monologue, at points, threatens to overwhelm the story’s charm. It’s also challenging to follow all the people in Lucy’s large extended family-and-friends group, considering readers see little of them throughout the story.
Although at times long-winded and a bit far-fetched, Honeymoon Alone is an engaging story about a young woman breaking out of her comfort zone to find real happiness.
Also available as an ebook.
