If It Makes You Happy

Julie Olivia
48 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2025

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Book Brief

Julie Olivia

If It Makes You Happy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2025
Book Details
Pages

513

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Romance

•

Contemporary Literature
Setting

Small town, America • Contemporary

Theme
Love

•

Grief

•

Hope
Topic
Love & Sexuality
First Publication Year

2025

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Reviews & Readership

4.1

105,724 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia is praised for its positive representation of body diversity and LGBTQ+ themes, creating a heartwarming and inclusive romance narrative. However, some reviewers note that the pacing can be uneven, impacting the story's flow. Overall, the book is celebrated for its charm and engaging protagonist.

Who should read this

Who Should Read If It Makes You Happy?

A reader who enjoys If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia likely appreciates body positivity, diverse representation, and light-hearted romance. Fans of Dumplin' by Julie Murphy and To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han would find this novel appealing due to its relatable characters and feel-good themes.

4.1

105,724 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

A thirty-year-old navigating the challenges of life changes, including running her late mother's inn in Copper Run, Vermont, after a divorce and her mother's death. She is known for her stoic demeanor and struggles with connecting to others, making her personal journey significant.

A thirty-three-year-old single father who runs a bakery and is a long-time resident of Copper Run, Vermont. His interactions with Michelle challenge his preconceived notions of romance and companionship.

Sixteen-year-old daughter of Cliff and Tracy, who is trying to find her place while dealing with a complicated family dynamic. She seeks independence and identity mostly through her relationship with her boyfriend, Josh.

Michelle’s younger sister, known for her bubbly and energetic demeanor. She is attending art school and is the intended heir to their mother's inn, influencing Michelle’s journey in subtle ways.

Michelle and Sara's deceased mother whose past actions and legacy influence Michelle's storyline. Her memory and the letter she left become pivotal in Michelle’s emotional reconciliation.

Cliff’s ex-wife and the mother of Emily and Brittany, living in New York City. She predominantly appears in internal reflections and influences the family’s dynamics through occasional calls and her past decisions.

Book Details
Pages

513

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Romance

•

Contemporary Literature
Setting

Small town, America • Contemporary

Theme
Love

•

Grief

•

Hope
Topic
Love & Sexuality
First Publication Year

2025

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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