
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
So Good To See You is a sharply observed, emotionally rich novel about a tangled group of university friends who reunite at a wedding in France years after graduating from Oxford. Francesca Hornak masterfully shifts between timelines — from the sun-drenched present in Provence to the murky complexities of their student days — with both wit and gravity. The result is a layered, character-driven story that feels immediate and true.
At the heart of the novel are Rosie, Serge, and Daniel — each one wrestling with their own personal crises. Rosie is trying to steady herself after a painful breakup and is unsure of what comes next. Serge is caught in financial turmoil and a fraught separation from Isla, his partner and the mother of his children. Daniel is battling addiction and simmering with resentment toward the privilege and hypocrisy he sees all around him — especially in Serge.
The book thrives on its nuanced portrayals. Rosie’s evolution from hesitant to quietly empowered is satisfying to witness. Daniel, though deeply flawed, is depicted with empathy — a self-made filmmaker fighting demons and injustice. Serge, perhaps the most difficult to like at first, slowly unravels to reveal deeper layers of vulnerability and remorse. Isla adds another compelling dimension, bringing a grounded, working-class voice to the ensemble and offering a refreshingly honest perspective on parenting and identity.
Hornak’s greatest strength lies in how authentically she captures the messiness of long friendships — the grudges, the secrets, the unresolved tensions. Her dialogue is crisp, her observations astute, and the pacing never falters.
Though the bulk of the action happens over a few chaotic days at a French wedding, the story feels expansive. Hornak seamlessly weaves past and present into a rich emotional tapestry. By the final page, these characters felt like people I truly knew — flawed, fascinating, and unforgettable.
So Good To See You is clever, poignant, and full of heart. An absolute pleasure to read.
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