Happy Ending by Chloe Liese Review — Proof That the Best Love Stories Start as Friends

Happy Ending follows two divorced strangers whose fake romantic history turns into real friendship — and maybe love — on a chaotic beach vacation.

Summary:

Thea and Alex share little beyond a love of food, a mutual dislike of their hometown, and the fact that they’re both divorced: she’s a non-cook entangled in a bitter custody battle over her dog, while he’s a world-class chef amicably coparenting his daughter. Two years earlier, after their exes quickly paired off, Thea and Alex impulsively invented a spite-fuelled lie about being former sweethearts and longtime friends—but what started as a ruse unexpectedly grew into a genuine, platonic friendship. Now, when their exes invite them on an awkward two-week “two-family” beach vacation, complete with daughter and dog, Thea and Alex are forced to confront whether the story they created has blurred into something more, and whether it might lead them somewhere neither ever expected: a real chance at happiness.

My Thoughts:

I love a good romantic comedy, and Happy Ending by Chloe Liese absolutely delivered on the promise of one. Thea and Alex have very little in common except for one major complication — they’re both divorced, and their exes are now happily together. In an impulsive moment fuelled by heartbreak and a little bit of spite, they invent a story about being longtime friends and former first loves. What begins as a harmless fabrication slowly grows into a genuine friendship over the next two years, one built on honesty, humour, and unexpected emotional safety.

Told across dual timelines — “Then” and “Now” — the story allows readers to watch their connection evolve piece by piece. I loved how naturally the relationship developed; the slow-burn pacing felt just right as Thea and Alex gradually realize they’re falling in love while both hesitating to risk the meaningful friendship they’ve come to rely on. Their emotional vulnerability, mixed with sharp banter and warmth, gives the novel its heart.

One of my favourite aspects was the extended relationship dynamics surrounding them. Thea’s growing bond with Alex’s ex-wife adds a refreshing layer of maturity to the story, and his precocious four-year-old daughter, Mia, completely steals the show — especially with her hilarious and endearing twists on language. Those moments brought so much joy and authenticity to the narrative. I also highly recommend reading or listening to the author’s notes at both the beginning and end, as they provide a frame of reference and deepen the emotional impact of the story.

The Narration:

I experienced this as an audiobook narrated by Jesse Vilinsky, who does a fantastic job bringing each character to life. Her performance captures the humour, vulnerability, and emotional nuance perfectly, making the listening experience incredibly engaging.

Final Thoughts:

Warm, funny, and deeply heartfelt, Happy Ending is a slow-burn romance about friendship, second chances, and discovering that sometimes the happiest endings are the ones you never planned for.