Four stars, rounded up from three and a half

Maybe halfway through this book, I realized I hadn't checked my page count in quite some time. I *compulsively* check how much I have left to read. The highest compliment I can pay a book is when I lose myself in it; it happens rarely, even with the best stories.

Did this book break the mold? No. But it was funny and warm and relatable and just what I needed with *points to everything going on in the world*.

Note: If you work or have worked in an office, it could be a little triggering. Luckily my coworkers aren't this catty, and most of these characters find redemption. We are more than who we are in our private Teams chats.

I admit it was difficult to spend all my reading time about an uninteresting, uninspiring, petty, unfunny group of people, people that main character, Jolene, works with in her office for 40 hours each week. Until the new Human Resources manager, Cliff, arrives, her life was not only boring, but pathetic. How and why she stayed in that particular job with those people was not very clear.

Told in the first person, the novel has Jolene finally opening up and finding worthwhile things about some of her office mates, however, that made them more human as the novel went on. Nevertheless, it was not easy to keep reading about this uninspiring group of office co workers. Realistict people and realistic workplace, you might say.

That Jolene found her "true" self in the end helped, especially after working through her guilt about a past incident in her life that may explain why she remained so long in her current job. I was glad Cliff came to her rescue.

As I am the publicist for this book I am unable to provide an unbiased review. I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue comes out May 2024.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.

A workplace drama with lots of dark humor and some unexpectedly beautiful moments about the secrets we all hide. Really enjoyed it.

Engaging, entertaining, and an automatic hand sell for fans of The Office. A recommended purchase for collections where lighter WF is popular.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Natalie Sue's debut novel, "I Hope This Finds You Well," is a delightful and insightful foray into the world of office culture, blending humor, romance, and a poignant look at the human connections that shape our lives. Set in the mundane yet complex environment of Supershops, Inc., the story centers around Jolene, an admin worker whose life takes a turn when she gains unintended access to her colleagues' private communications.

Sue's portrayal of office dynamics is spot-on, capturing the quirks, politics, and unspoken rules of the workplace with a keen eye for detail. Jolene's character is wonderfully developed; she's relatable and flawed, making her journey from an isolated observer to someone deeply entangled in her coworkers' lives both engaging and authentic. The novel excels in exploring the themes of loneliness and the desire for connection in a setting often characterized by superficial interactions.

The humor in "I Hope This Finds You Well" is one of its strongest points. Sue's writing is witty and sharp, with laugh-out-loud moments that lighten the narrative while still touching on deeper issues. The novel isn't just a comedy; it's a story with heart, exploring the complexities of relationships, both romantic and platonic, in the modern workplace.

The romance subplot, particularly between Jolene and Cliff, the HR representative, adds a charming and heartwarming element to the story. Their relationship develops naturally, with a mix of awkwardness and genuine affection that readers will find endearing. The way Sue weaves this romance into the larger narrative of office politics and personal growth is seamless and adds depth to the overall story.

Additionally, the novel’s exploration of ethical dilemmas, such as the consequences of Jolene’s access to private emails, is thoughtfully executed. It raises questions about privacy, honesty, and the lengths one might go to secure their job in a competitive environment.

"I Hope This Finds You Well" is a fresh and engaging read, perfect for fans of office comedies and contemporary romance. Natalie Sue's debut is a testament to her ability to craft a story that is as entertaining as it is meaningful, making this novel a delightful addition to the genre. It's a book that not only makes you laugh but also resonates on a deeper level, exploring the importance of connection in a world increasingly dominated by screens and superficial interactions.