Review: PS: I Hate You: 2nd Chances, Grief, and Real Love

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about this book

In PS: I Hate You, Maddie Sanderson sets out on an emotional journey to fulfill her late brother Josh’s final wish—scattering his ashes across eight destinations he never got to visit. But there’s a catch: she must complete the trip with Dominic Perry, Josh’s best friend and the man who once broke her heart. Forced to travel together, Maddie and Dom navigate a road filled with breathtaking sights, painful memories, and undeniable tension. As grief reopens old wounds, their shared history resurfaces, challenging them to confront both their past and their lingering feelings. With each stop, Maddie begins to wonder if her brother had a second wish in mind—one that involves giving love a second chance.

my thoughts

When I first picked up PS: I Hate You, I was intrigued by the promise of an emotional journey mixed with the classic “brother’s best friend” trope. Right from the start, the playful yet bittersweet tone drew me in, and I could tell this wasn’t just another surface-level romance. The raw emotions in Maddie and Dominic’s story immediately hit home, and the witty dialogue kept me hooked. I laughed, cried, and had moments where I had to put the book down just to process the emotions it brought up. If you’re the kind of reader who loves diving into the messy, beautiful parts of love and loss, this book is a must-read. Let me take you through why PS: I Hate You stands out in the world of romance novels.

characters that steal the show

Maddie Sanderson is the kind of protagonist who stays with you long after the last page. Her free-spirited nature hides a deep vulnerability, shaped by her fear of losing the people she loves. As a marketer, she throws herself into her work, taking on more than she should to avoid confronting her emotions. Her journey of growth and self-acceptance is as powerful as it is relatable, making her a character you can’t help but root for.

Dominic Perry, on the other hand, is Maddie’s steady opposite. If Maddie is the storm, Dominic is the anchor. Thoughtful, steady, and incredibly patient, he brings a calmness to her chaos. While his uptight tendencies sometimes clash with Maddie’s carefree approach, his deep love for her is undeniable. Watching him learn to follow his heart instead of his head is one of the most rewarding parts of the story.

relationship dynamics

The heart of this book lies in Maddie and Dominic’s relationship. Their dynamic is equal parts fiery banter and unspoken tenderness, with unresolved feelings simmering just beneath the surface. What makes their connection so compelling is the history they share. Maddie still harbors anger toward Dominic for events in their past, and Dominic struggles to navigate his guilt and responsibility. Their journey is messy and emotional, but it’s also deeply healing.

The way Lauren Connolly writes their interactions—alternating between humor, tension, and vulnerability—makes you root for them from the very beginning. Their relationship feels real, with all the ups and downs that come with it. It’s both heartwarming and frustrating in the best way, with their imperfections and growth making their love story all the more impactful.

pacing & plot

The plot centers around Maddie Sanderson and Dominic Perry, two childhood friends with a complicated history. After Maddie’s brother Josh passes away, she’s left reeling from the loss of her only family. Josh’s dying wish—an eight-state road trip to check off his bucket list—pulls Maddie and Dominic together for a bittersweet adventure. While the pacing occasionally jumps, this reflects the characters’ emotional turbulence. Some moments are fast-paced and full of banter, while others slow down for raw, introspective scenes that tug at your heartstrings. Each chapter feels purposeful, building toward a resolution that’s as satisfying as it is emotional.

writing style & setting

Lauren Connolly’s writing is where this book truly shines. Her tone is playful and witty during Maddie and Dominic’s lighter moments but shifts effortlessly to raw and emotional during their more serious conversations.

The settings—ranging from quirky roadside stops to quiet, reflective moments in nature—add richness to the story. Each place they visit feels like its own character, serving as the backdrop for moments of healing, growth, and connection. The travel aspect also keeps the plot dynamic and engaging, reflecting the characters’ emotional journey as they check off Josh’s bucket list.

themes & emotional impacts

Few books handle grief with as much care and authenticity as P.S. I Hate You. Maddie and Dominic’s experiences with loss are portrayed with raw honesty, capturing the messy, nonlinear nature of grief while showing how healing is possible through connection and self-reflection. The theme of second chances weaves through every aspect of the story, from Maddie and Dominic’s relationship to their individual growth, reminding readers that it’s never too late to change, forgive, or follow your heart.

The concept of found family also plays a significant role, with the Perry family’s unwavering support for Maddie showcasing the power of chosen connections, especially when biological family isn’t present. Finally, Josh’s bucket list becomes more than just a set of destinations; it’s a call to live fully and embrace life, even in the face of uncertainty. These themes resonate deeply, making the story feel both universal and intensely personal.

final thoughts

P.S. I Hate You is more than just a romance—it’s an emotional journey that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Lauren Connolly’s ability to balance humor, heartbreak, and hope is what makes this book stand out. For me, this was a story of healing, love, and finding the courage to live life fully. If you’re ready to feel all the feels, grab your copy of PS: I Hate You and dive in. Trust me, you won’t regret it.