30 Nov Entwined Emotions: A Deep Dive into ‘Mad About You’
Book Review of Mad About You: A Novel by Mhairi McFarlane
When I first stumbled upon Mhairi McFarlane’s Mad About You, I was immediately drawn in by the intriguing premise—a woman, Harriet Hatley, who calls off her engagement to “the perfect man” and must confront the tumultuous waters of self-discovery. As someone who has always fancied the idea of breaking free from the mundane and the expected, I felt an instant connection to Harriet’s journey. McFarlane has an undeniable gift for weaving emotional complexity into relatable narratives, making her novels feel both sharp and comforting, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
At its core, Mad About You is not just a romance—it’s a poignant exploration of personal growth, friendship, and the ghosts of our past. Harriet, a successful wedding photographer with a distinct aversion to romance, becomes the likable yet flawed emblem of many women faced with similar dilemmas. After rejecting the societal pressures of marriage, she spirals into a journey of uncertainty that’s both humorous and raw. The moment she moves in with Cal Clarke, a charming stranger with his own wedding mishap, a delightful contrast unfolds—like chalk meeting cheese yet somehow blending harmoniously.
One of my favorite aspects of this novel is McFarlane’s ability to infuse humor alongside heavier themes, such as emotional abuse and personal redemption. The narrative flows with detailed character development; Harriet is complemented beautifully by her best friend, Lorna, whose fierce loyalty and unabashed support add richness to the story. Robin Szabo, a reviewer, expressed it perfectly when she noted how the book showcases “the importance of great girlfriends,” offering depth in friendships that often eclipse romantic entanglements.
McFarlane’s writing strikes a perfect balance between wit and heart. With her signature sharp dialogues and relatable moments, I often found myself laughing out loud or nodding along in recognition. There were passages that genuinely made me pause, as they mirrored my own experiences with love and the fear of commitment. One line that particularly resonated with me was Harriet’s realization that, to find real happiness, she must face the hard truths of her past—even if it meant embracing discomfort.
What surprised me the most was the way the romance took a backseat to Harriet’s personal journey. While the chemistry between Harriet and Cal is palpable, it honestly felt like a subplot, a rewarding side effect of her ultimate transformation. This mirrors the sentiments of other readers who noted that the friendship at the heart of the story is what truly shines.
In terms of pacing, McFarlane does not rush through Harriet’s struggles; rather, she allows the reader to savor the moments of introspection and emotional growth. As I turned each page, I became more invested—not only in Harriet’s choices but in her evolution as a person.
In conclusion, Mad About You is a heartfelt exploration that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to confront their past while seeking their true self. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate a good mix of humor, complexity, and the crucial role of friendships. If you’ve ever questioned what it means to love authentically, this book is one you won’t want to miss. McFarlane’s latest offering reminds us that, sometimes, the journey to self-acceptance holds the promise of greater love—and that’s undeniably something to be mad about.
You can find Mad About You: A Novel here >>
