Happy Hour traces the youth of its characters in an immersive, spinning narrative that catches the reader and doesn't let go. The characters are reckless enough to move the plot forward in unpredictable ways without ever being beyond the realm of belief.

2.75 stars

I am a sucker for a book set in New York City!

This book had charm and an easy-breezy vibe, but it lacked the depth I seek in a reading experience. I appreciated the witty commentary from the main characters but desired a bit more from the storyline; it was missing the 'oomph' for me.

I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley.

This was an okay read. It doesn't say much, and seems to focus more on the vibe and charms of New York city, rather than the plot or characters. I was expecting to read a fun, breezy and engaging read, but I was not hooked in to the story as much. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

This is a good read for people who love Sylvia Plath. The setting was intriguing and the writing, although descriptive, was captivating

I gave this a second shot and am glad I did. It is a fun summer read. Not mind blowing, but still enjoyable.

I forgot to leave a review on this - thank you for the access! But I really enjoyed this title. The passive and transient way in which the author describes moving through NYC as a young woman was so on point. Young folks are constantly navigating how to be moneyless and happy (then unhappy, then happy again) and this was the first book I have read in a long time that captured this so well. Truly a pleasure to spend a short time in this world.

This book was OK it was cute but didn't want leave me wanting more. It's a quick easy read so I would recommend it if you were stuck and didn't know what to read next

An absolutely incredible read – I could hardly put it down! A glittering debut that is both sharp and charming.

This was just like a spicy episode of two semi shallow and entertaining friends taking taking on NYC. This is a story all about the vibes and less about the story, so I would recommend going into things like you’re just looking at little glimpses of life. A unique read, but one I would recommend.

I really enjoyed this, the tone and the character led plot was really enjoyable. I felt while some aspects could have been a bit repetitive and the book isn't the most 'exciting' I took that to be a criticism on the mundane of every day life so I related to it!

Had to DNF it because the writing style wasn't for me, it was too descriptive to hold my attention for long and the whole concept felt very self-indulgent too. That being said, Isa's shenanigans were entertaining to read about and I know a lot of people have loved and will love this book. Just not my cup of tea.

Granados wrote probably my favorite book I've read in the past year with Happy Hour! This book is getting a ton of buzz, and rightfully so. Its main character, Isa, has such a distinct voice, the story is so compelling and the writing is superb. This book will stay with you for a long time even after you finish it. Such a wonderful debut and an author to watch for in the future, for sure!

Happy Hour encompasses a summer spent in New York City.
It was part social commentary and criticism of twenty somethings their lives in the city. A blend of artists. socialites, intellectuals and entrepreneurs all living their best life.
These urban youth never shy away when asked to have a good time no matter how their situation might be.
The glitterati of NYC life never fades in this one.

Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for giving the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

This was a DNF. I honestly tried to finish this story, but I could not relate to any of the characters or their situations. Overall this just had a really superficial feel to it.

Super refreshing to read. Absolutely loved it how bold and wild it was. Things I love: New York, twenty-somethings, and trying to figure it all out. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

Atmospheric, laissez-faire, but entertaining! It’s a fun romp with characters in their early 20s flitting around New York City trying to break into the socialite scene.
In very millennial book fashion, it doesn’t necessarily have the most dense plot and is more vibey. Definitely for fans of the likes of Ottessa Moshfegh.

First of all, beautiful cover and a great setting (New York) aaand that is about it.
I am sorry but I thought that the societal criticism would be deeper and more meaningful and not coming from a privileged party girl that just repeats her outings again and again, I was just not interested.
I can see the comparison to some other more popular books out there but this one lacked the depth of conversation and opinions to make me more interested. Instead, there were some onliners here and there about the issues of capitalism and the world's 'business as usual' attitude but to me, as a 30year old adult was just inadequate to keep my interest.

This book had me glued to the pages right from the beginning. An immersive read which brought me back to my days of trying to find myself amongst the noise of a busy new city.

Sad gal in the big city is one of my favorite genres! Others have mentioned My Year of Rest and Relaxation and this is NOT that—it’s not as dark or sardonic—but if you go into it without trying to make a 1:1 comparison, you’ll enjoy this too. On its own merits I found it compelling!

I loved this novel. Marlowe Granados juxtaposes the glitz and glamour of New York in the summer alongside her protagonist's depression, existential angst and social critique—definitely in the vein of a modern THE BELL JAR. The writing is fittingly juicy, every observation a chance to demonstrate the protagonist's extravagance. I cannot recommend it enough to the sad gal in your life.

Thanks to NetGalley and Verso for the ARC.