In the vibrant tapestry of modern romance novels, Melissa Wiesner’s “Wish I Were Here” pirouettes onto the scene with a magical blend of humor, heart, and a dash of existential crisis. This enchanting tale whisks readers into a world where identity isn’t just a concept, but a tangible entity that can slip through one’s fingers like sand in an hourglass. Wiesner’s novel is a refreshing take on the age-old question of “Who am I?” wrapped in a cozy blanket of community, family (both blood and found), and the undeniable spark of unexpected love.
The Plot Tango: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
The Opening Number: Catherine’s Disappearing Act
Meet Catherine Lipton, a mathematics professor whose life is as meticulously ordered as her equations. Her world spins on its axis when she discovers she’s vanished from every official record. No social security, no credit cards, no proof of existence. It’s a nightmare for someone who thrives on structure and certainty.
Enter Stage Left: Luca, the Charming Doorman
As Catherine grapples with her sudden non-existence, in saunters Luca Morelli, the building’s doorman. He’s everything Catherine isn’t – carefree, spontaneous, and armed with a smile that could melt glaciers. Their initial interactions are a delightful clash of opposites, reminiscent of the sparks that fly in Sophie Kinsella’s “I Owe You One” or the charming encounters in Ashley Poston’s “The Dead Romantics.”
The Ensemble Cast: A Community of Characters
Wiesner populates her story with a colorful cast of supporting characters that bring depth and warmth to the narrative. From the spirited Mrs. Goodwin to the enigmatic Uncle Vito, each character adds a layer to the rich community tapestry that Catherine finds herself woven into.
The Grand Finale: Unraveling the Mystery
As Catherine and Luca embark on a series of misadventures to reclaim her identity, they uncover secrets, confront ghosts (both metaphorical and perhaps literal), and discover that sometimes, losing oneself is the first step to truly being found.
Character Choreography: A Study in Contrasts
Catherine: The Reluctant Ballerina
Catherine’s journey from rigid rule-follower to someone willing to bend (and occasionally break) the rules is both hilarious and heartwarming. Wiesner crafts a protagonist who is relatable in her flaws and inspiring in her growth. Catherine’s struggles with her identity crisis mirror the universal experience of feeling lost and the subsequent journey of self-discovery.
Luca: The Freestyle Dancer
Luca Morelli is more than just a pretty face with a charming smile. Wiesner peels back the layers of this seemingly carefree character to reveal a depth of compassion and wisdom that makes him the perfect foil for Catherine’s journey. His ability to see the beauty in chaos is the perfect counterpoint to Catherine’s need for order.
The Rhythm of Romance: A Slow Burn with Sizzle
The development of Catherine and Luca’s relationship is a masterclass in the slow-burn romance. Wiesner builds their connection through a series of moments both big and small, allowing readers to fall in love alongside the characters. The chemistry between them crackles with tension and humor, making their eventual coming together all the more satisfying.
Themes and Variations: The Heart of the Story
The Music of Identity
At its core, “Wish I Were Here” is an exploration of identity. Wiesner poses thought-provoking questions about what truly defines us. Is it our jobs, our relationships, our past, or something more intangible? Catherine’s journey forces readers to confront these questions in their own lives.
The Harmony of Community
The novel sings a beautiful ode to the power of community. Through the residents of the DeGreco building and the extended Morelli clan, Wiesner illustrates how we are shaped and supported by those around us. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the families we choose and the unexpected connections that can change our lives.
The Counterpoint of Order and Chaos
The interplay between Catherine’s need for structure and Luca’s embrace of spontaneity creates a fascinating exploration of how these opposing forces can complement and enhance each other. Wiesner suggests that true fulfillment lies in finding a balance between the two.
The Technical Execution: Wiesner’s Authorial Flair
Melissa Wiesner’s writing style is a perfect match for the story she tells. Her prose is witty and warm, with a rhythm that keeps pages turning. She has a knack for dialogue that feels natural and often sparkles with humor. The pacing is well-managed, balancing moments of introspection with bursts of action and comedy.
A Few Off-Beat Notes
While “Wish I Were Here” is a delightful read, there are a few minor quibbles:
The initial premise of Catherine’s disappearance might require a slight suspension of disbelief for some readers.
Occasionally, the large cast of characters can be a bit overwhelming to keep track of.
However, these are minor notes in an otherwise harmonious composition.
The Grand Finale: A Standing Ovation
“Wish I Were Here” is a testament to Melissa Wiesner’s growth as an author. Fans of her previous work, “The Second Chance Year,” will recognize her talent for blending humor with heart, but this novel showcases an evolution in her storytelling abilities. The complexity of the plot and depth of character development mark “Wish I Were Here” as a significant step forward in her writing career.
Encore: Final Thoughts
Melissa Wiesner’s “Wish I Were Here” is a captivating dance of romance, self-discovery, and community. It’s a novel that will make you laugh, tug at your heartstrings, and leave you contemplating your own place in the world. Perfect for fans of Sophie Cousens and Ashley Poston, this book is also likely to appeal to readers who enjoyed the whimsical elements of Josie Silver’s “One Day in December” or the community-focused charm of Fredrik Backman’s works.
In a world where we often feel pressured to have everything figured out, “Wish I Were Here” is a gentle reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from embracing the unexpected and allowing ourselves to be a little lost. It’s a warm hug of a book that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.
So, dear reader, if you’re in the mood for a story that will make you believe in the magic of new beginnings and the power of connection, look no further. “Wish I Were Here” is the perfect place to be.