Guest Book Review: The Idea of Love

By Courtney Marzilli

From the first look at the stunning cover of The Idea of Love, I knew I had to read this book. It was the first book of Patti Callahan Henry's that I have read and it won't be the last. Henry has a way with words and emotions and of course can tell a good love story. "The Idea of Love" is the perfect summer romance that will question whether you believe in actual love or is it merely an idea that we can control?


The story takes place in warm and whimsical South Carolina. At the heart of the story is Ella- a beautiful young woman who works at an upscale wedding boutique. Her dream is to be a wedding dress designer but is defeated by her uptight and condescending boss. One day she meets Hunter, a screenwriter who is in town gathering story ideas for a romance movie. Dealing with her own marriage struggles, Ella decides to create a false story about her life. Hunter, enticed by her story, starts to fall for Ella all the while having falsehoods of his own. The chemistry between the two is undeniable but unfortunately it's the wrong timing. Both living through lies, the romantic sparks develop but is it their reality or a story fit for the big screen? From a jealous, untrustworthy husband to a wise, elderly neighbor, the cast of characters are the perfect addition to the twists and turns of this story.

This was the perfect book to tote to the beach and kept me guessing and turning pages until the end. Henry tells a story that is like a movie you do not want to end. Whether you are a fan of romance or not this book had the perfect hint of mystery as well. This would be a great pick for a book club because I think it brings up some great topics- love, relationships and honesty. I will absolutely be adding more of Henry's books to my TBR pile!

Thanks to St. Martin's Press for the book in exchange for an honest review.

Courtney Marzilli is a book blogger and beauty junkie. She's always had a love for reading and hopes to share this love through her blog. Her favorite genres are women's lit, mysteries and pop culture non-fiction. When her nose is not buried in a book, she is off on adventures with her family near the Boston area. You can find her at her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

More by Patti Callahan Henry: