I Hope This Finds You Well: By Natalie SueI

Natalie Sue’s debut novel, I Hope This Finds You Well, is a sparkling comedy that blends humor, heart, and the often overlooked complexities of office life. Set against the backdrop of a Canadian supermarket chain’s regional office, this novel follows the trials and tribulations of Jolene, a 33-year-old administrative assistant, as she navigates workplace dynamics and her own personal grief.

Plot and Themes

Jolene’s life is a blend of monotonous office tasks and a coping mechanism developed from a tragic past—her best friend Ellie’s accidental death in high school. She uses snarky, invisible notes in her emails to vent her frustrations, a habit that leads to unexpected chaos when one such note is accidentally revealed. This mishap not only lands her in mandatory sensitivity training but also grants her unintended access to her coworkers’ private emails, uncovering their secrets and deepening her entanglement in office politics​​.

As Jolene delves deeper into her colleagues’ lives, she discovers that each of them harbors their own struggles and secrets. This realization forces her to confront her own isolation and consider stepping out of her comfort zone, especially as her interactions with Cliff, the HR manager, grow more complicated and poignant​​.

Writing Style and Humor

Sue’s writing is infused with sharp wit and relatable observations that will resonate with anyone who has ever worked in an office environment. The dialogue crackles with laugh-out-loud moments, making the book not only a commentary on workplace culture but also a heartfelt exploration of loneliness and connection in the digital age​.

Reviewers have praised the book for its depth and emotional resonance, noting how it sneaks up on readers with its profound insights wrapped in humor. The character of Jolene is particularly compelling, with her blend of vulnerability and resilience making her an unforgettable protagonist​.

Critical Reception

The critical reception of I Hope This Finds You Well has been overwhelmingly positive. Kirkus Reviews lauds it as a beautiful and honest look at loneliness and the courage it takes to keep going. Publishers Weekly highlights the book’s quirky humor and the depth added by Jolene’s backstory, describing it as a must-read for fans of office comedies like Joshua Ferris’s Then We Came to the End​ (Kirkus Reviews)​​ (PublishersWeekly.com)​.

Other reviewers echo these sentiments, appreciating the book’s balance of snark, romance, and heartfelt moments. Shelby Van Pelt, author of Remarkably Bright Creatures, likens the book to an unexpected treat in a break room, while Ashley Poston praises it for its wickedly sharp banter and hilarious office shenanigans​ (NetGalley)​.

All in all

I Hope This Finds You Well is a delightfully humorous and touching debut that explores the nuances of office life and personal growth. Natalie Sue’s engaging narrative and well-drawn characters make this a standout novel that is both entertaining and deeply moving. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or a story with heart, this book is sure to deliver.

Also Read: Daughter of Mine: By Megan Miranda