The Breakup Vacation

Author: Anna Gracia

Genre: Romance

Pub Date: March 5, 2024

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Disclaimer: This review is based on an ARC received from NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing | MTV Books in exchange for an honest review

Review: There’s something inherently captivating about a rom-com set against the backdrop of a picturesque holiday destination. “The Breakup Vacation” promised readers an enticing blend of romance, self-discovery, and comedic escapades, all set in the vibrant atmosphere of Cancun. As someone who enjoys a good romantic comedy, I was intrigued by the premise and eager to dive into this story that offered a gender-reversed twist on “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.”

From the outset, the colorful cover and promising plotline drew me in, hinting at an entertaining romp filled with moments of self-exploration amidst a holiday setting. The idea of a young protagonist, Grace, navigating the complexities of love and relationships while surrounded by friends in a tropical paradise sounded like the perfect recipe for a light-hearted yet meaningful read. If you grew up in the early 2000 then this is probably going to me reminiscent of that.

However, as I delved into the story, my initial excitement gave way to mixed feelings. While the book delivered on its promise of providing a fun and engaging narrative, it fell short in certain areas that prevented it from reaching its full potential.

One of the primary issues I encountered was with the character development and depth. Grace, along with her friends, felt somewhat one-dimensional and stereotypical, lacking the nuanced layers that would have made them more relatable and compelling. Grace’s obsession with her ex-boyfriend, Josh, and her manipulative actions to win him back came across as immature and difficult to empathize with, making it challenging to fully invest in her journey of self-discovery.

Furthermore, while the romance between Grace and Daniel, a local with whom she develops a connection, had its moments of spark and chemistry, I couldn’t help but feel that it took a backseat to the more dramatic elements of the plot. The potential for a deeper exploration of their relationship and personal growth seemed somewhat overshadowed by the focus on comedic relief and exaggerated scenarios.

Despite these shortcomings, “The Breakup Vacation” still offered a light and enjoyable reading experience. The witty banter, humorous situations, and lively holiday setting kept the story engaging and entertaining throughout. It was a book that I could easily immerse myself in during a leisurely afternoon or while lounging by the pool on vacation.

In terms of themes, the book touched upon topics like race, friendship dynamics, and the pressure faced by young adults in romantic relationships. While these themes added some depth to the narrative, I felt that they could have been explored more fully to create a more impactful and resonant story.

Ultimately, “The Breakup Vacation” is a solid three-star read that blends romance, humor, and self-discovery in a captivating holiday setting. While it may not leave a lasting impression or delve as deeply into its themes as some readers might hope, it offers a delightful escape into a world of sun, sand, and spicy encounters—a perfect beach read for those looking for a mix of light-hearted fun and heartfelt moments.