Ever since Emily Giffin’s first novel, “Something Borrowed” made it to the bestseller’s list 18 years ago, Giffin’s books have been a staple read for women’s fiction. Though her work is categorized as “chick-lit,” there’s a lot more to Giffin’s storytelling than the genre gives her credit for. Besides, with each publication of a new novel, Giffin’s success grows. With “Something Borrowed” later adapted to the big screen starring Kate Hudson, Ginnifer Goodwin and John Krasinski. Giffin is no stranger to the bestseller list, and her latest book is no exception. Here are my thoughts on “Meant to Be.” And don’t worry, there are no spoilers ahead.
Published on May 31, 2022, Giffin’s readers flooded the digital sphere and their local bookstores to get their hands on this anticipated new release, myself included. With a stunning cover that’s perfect for beach side reading, it’s already off to a good start. This book follows two perspectives of a love story that appears to be doomed from the start. Joseph Kingsley III is America’s golden boy, descending from political power and riddled with familial tragedy, inspired by the Kennedy family. And Cate, an upcoming model who’s background is anything but glamorous, coming from a single parent household and a troubled past. But when these two cross paths, they navigate their differences between families, pasts and themselves. Leaving readers turning the page to find out if this couple is truly, “Meant to Be.”
This book takes readers to upstate New York, the city and the Hamptons. There’s family drama on a small domestic scale, and the large scale with the Kingsley’s fame and prestige. It looks at the budding excitement of a new romance, but contradicted with the whole world watching the romance unfold through the eyes of paparazzi and press exposé. The characters battle their own pasts, but additionally, Giffin explores how the media will threaten to uncover the secrets not meant to be shared.
But at the center of it all, it’s a story about love. Many readers can agree that Joe Kingsley is now a serious contender for the favorite book boyfriend. There’s swoon-worthy moments that have you falling in love through fiction, and characters that feel honest in their fears. If you’re a fan of the opposites attract trope in fiction, you’re sure to like this match up.
According to the author’s note, Giffin was heavily inspired by the story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s relationship, and their heartbreaking end. The Kennedy family has held America’s fascination since their rise to political fame, continuing to follow the lives of their descendants as well. This single family has inspired countless documentaries, books and biographies, factually recounting the events or using the stories as an inspiration. Giffin’s take on this story began as a “what if” question about these American icons, and the story unfolds from there. While some reviews found the story predictable, others found it fresh and inventive for Giffin. However, as someone who was less familiar with the Kennedy story, Giffin’s spin on it kept me continuously turning the page to discover what happens next.
So check out Emily Giffin’s latest novel to fall in love, get a glimpse of fame and see what the life of American icons would be like behind the scenes.
