The book titled "" (the German title for Mad About You ) by Mhairi McFarlane is an emotional and witty novel that explores themes of emotional abuse , self-discovery, and new beginnings. Plot Summary
The novel has been praised by reviewers from The StoryGraph for its balance of and serious subject matter.
: Forced to find a new home, Harriet moves into a flat-share with Cal , a man she has never met. Despite their differences—she is a cynic and he is a romantic—they develop a deep friendship based on sharp humor and mutual support.
: Harriet’s journey is less about finding a man to "save" her and more about finding her own happiness and voice.
: A major focus is on women supporting each other against toxic behavior.
: As Harriet tries to rebuild her life, a dark secret from a previous relationship surfaces, threatening to destroy her reputation and career. She must confront the trauma of past emotional abuse and decide whether to stay silent or risk everything to help another woman in a similar situation. Core Themes
: Unlike a typical "rosy" rom-com, the story dives deep into the subtle patterns of manipulation and gaslighting.
: Harriet Hatley is a successful wedding photographer in Leeds who, ironically, does not believe in marriage. When her long-term boyfriend, Jon, proposes in a way that feels manipulative, Harriet panics and realizes their relationship is fundamentally flawed.