5 ⭐️ Fall Read- Perfect For Your New England Trip

🍁 I did it. I found the epitome of the perfect New England fall read. If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia absolutely knocked it out of the park.

Set in a small, Gilmore Girls-esque Vermont town, this book wrapped me up in that golden, cozy glow that just feels like fall. I’m actually heading to Vermont with my family this weekend, so this read couldn’t have come at a better time, and let’s just say my expectations are now sky-high 😅

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, here’s what you can expect:

✨ 90s nostalgia (hello, cassette tapes and flannel)

🏡 Small-town charm + cozy B&B vibes

🔥 A perfectly paced slow burn romance

💌 Found family & heartfelt friendships

🍂 Autumn atmosphere so vivid you’ll want to book a Vermont trip immediately

🎞️ Think: You’ve Got Mail meets Gilmore Girls with a dash of When Harry Met Sally

And can we just appreciated this stunning cover art? I’m literally using this book as my fall decor 😂

📣 If you have been to VT feel free to share any recs and good local bookstores! Also, have you read this book yet- is it an accurate representation of New England towns??

#lemon8bookclub #ifitmakesyouhappy #lemon8creator #bookwormsoflemon8 #fallbookrecs

Boston
2025/10/8 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, fellow bookworms, let's dive even deeper into why 'If It Makes You Happy' isn't just a 5-star read for me, but truly a gem for anyone seeking that perfect escape. You know those books that just wrap you up in a warm hug? This is it! It’s the kind of story that instantly lifts your spirits, making it an absolute 'happy bucket list' book if you ask me. Especially if you're part of a book club looking for a charming, discussion-worthy read, or simply craving a delightful escape. For all my friends in book clubs, imagine discussing this one! The setting alone—a quaint, Gilmore Girls-esque Vermont town—provides so much to unpack. We’re talking about community, the magic of small-town life, and how a place can truly shape a story. What makes a town feel like home? How do new beginnings blossom in familiar surroundings? This book offers rich themes for conversation, whether you're debating the charm of a cozy B&B, the allure of a Vermont fall trip, or the delightful cast of characters. I can already picture us sipping cider, talking about their journeys against that stunning autumn backdrop. And for those days when you just need a pick-me-up, 'If It Makes You Happy' delivers a hefty dose of pure joy. It’s that 'happy bucket book' you reach for when you need a gentle, heartwarming narrative. The 90s nostalgia is just chef's kiss – from cassette tapes to flannel, it transported me straight back to simpler times. And the slow-burn romance? Oh, it’s exquisite! Julie Olivia masterfully builds the tension and connection, making every page turn a delicious anticipation. It's not just a love story; it's about self-discovery, found family, and finding your place, all wrapped up in that dreamy Vermont autumn atmosphere. If you're like me and fall completely in love with Julie Olivia's writing style after this one, you'll definitely want to keep an eye out for her other works or similar authors who capture that same blend of wit, warmth, and genuine emotion. Julie Olivia has this incredible knack for creating characters you genuinely root for and settings you wish you could visit. If you enjoyed the blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and a touch of the fantastical that this book offers, consider exploring other contemporary romance authors who excel at crafting cozy, character-driven stories with a strong sense of place. Think Emily Henry for modern charm, or perhaps a classic like Nora Ephron for that 'You've Got Mail' feel, which this book definitely echoes. And if you're ever planning your own Vermont fall trip, remember this '5-star fall read' is now officially on my 'must-pack' list for ultimate immersion! Honestly, this book has not only given me endless joy but also sparked so many ideas for my upcoming Vermont adventure. It's more than just a book; it's an experience. So, whether you're looking for your next book club pick, a comfort read, or simply a beautifully written story that celebrates fall, small towns, and genuine connections, 'If It Makes You Happy' by Julie Olivia is an absolute must. You won't regret getting lost in its pages!

9 comments

The Bubbly Brunette 🫧's images
The Bubbly Brunette 🫧

I loved this one!! I'd read it again. lol

Brook's images
Brook

The aesthetics of this post is 🔥

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