This one’s heartfelt, chaotic, and unexpectedly funny. Dee is heading to her best friend’s destination wedding—which would be fun, except she met the bride and groom in a psych ward, and she’s secretly in love with the groom. So yeah, not exactly a chill trip.

The book balances heavier themes like mental health and grief with sharp humor and complicated friendships. Dee’s voice is messy and real, and even when she makes questionable choices, you get it. It’s also got sister bonding, found family vibes, and some really tender moments.

This book was written for you if:
1. You love a little wedding-weekend chaos with big feelings.
2. You’re into messy, lovable main characters trying their best.
3. You want a story that mixes mental health, humor, and heart.

I'm somewhere between a 2 and a 3 with my rating - so I rounded down.

𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
As someone who personally navigates anxiety and depression, I was drawn to Never Been Better for its focus on mental health. I appreciate the author's intent to shed light on these topics, and it's evident that there's a genuine effort to portray the complexities of mental illness.

However, the narrative heavily relies on dialogue, which often felt more like exposition than organic conversation. This "tell rather than show" approach made the interactions feel somewhat forced and less authentic. While open communication among characters is commendable, the resolutions to deep-seated issues appeared overly simplistic, especially considering the nuanced realities of mental health struggles.

The characters, though central to the story, lacked depth and development. Their journeys didn't resonate with me as profoundly as I'd hoped. While the book aims to balance humor with serious themes, the execution sometimes fell flat, making it challenging to fully engage with the story.

In summary, while Never Been Better brings important conversations to the forefront, the storytelling approach didn't fully capture the intricacies of its subject matter for me.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of Never Been Better by Leanne Toshiko Simpson in exchange for my honest review and opinion. The cover drew me in and had me so excited to read this book. I went into the book thinking it was going to be a funny rom/com and it was funny at times but there are some much deeper topics discussed - mental health. I will say the book had me cheering for all the characters and I at one point had tears in my eyes. This is for sure a good read just know the cover is sort of deceptive to what lies behind it! :)

This book was a bit of a ride, we were recommend to read and we did. Our staff found that it hit them different, some enjoyed it some did not get it. But books do that. We loved the mental health representation in this book, especially through someone adulthood trying to figure out relationship, friendships, and living life in a wild way. Definitely a god read.

This is far from a traditional romance book and I think that's why it really helped me get out of a reading slump. Sometimes I just need something different to spark my love for books once again. I don't think I ever read a book where the romantic entanglements started in a psych ward. I loved that the author wrote about mental health in such a thoughtful way but not afraid to include some dark humor too. There was a lot of stuff going on at once and I think the pacing could've actually been slowed a bit. However, I still really enjoyed this one and will look for more from the author.

I am sorry to say that I didn’t love it. The overall writing style wasn’t for me, personally, but if you have interest in a love triangle between friends brought together by their mental health needs, give this one a try.

What I liked:
-Song titles as chapter titles and a playlist included at the beginning for music lovers
-Destination wedding setting
-Some funny dialogue
-Close and supportive sister relationship (interesting caretaker dynamic)
-Misa’s Japanese Canadian family and community

What I didn’t like:
-Excessive alcohol consumption by characters on medications who are dealing with serious mental health diagnoses
-Jealousy and vindictiveness within friendships
-Characters who whine and complain about everything

The main characters in this story met during mental health hospitalizations.
This novel is not for those uncomfortable reading about depression, self-harm, suicide attempts, and manic episodes. I appreciate the author sharing the topic of mental health and the characters’ experiences with mental healthcare

I absolutely loved this book. The way the character development continued to evolve throughout the story was perfect! Once I started reading this book I literally could not put it down (I tried i really did). I can't wait till I can read more from this author

Thank you to Net Galley and the Publishing Company for this Advanced Readers Copy of Never Been Better by Leanne Toshiko Simpson!

This one was just okay for me. I felt the characters were a bit underdeveloped and and the story tried to tackle too many big issues at once.

Definitely not a romance, a road to self discovery is more accurate. Which in itself is beautiful. I just didn’t care about the characters there was nothing really interesting about them. Clever chapter headers though.

Totally different book from my normal choices, but I requested this one based on an email I got and I was hooked after reading the synopsis.

Three Canadians who become fast friends after spending time together at a psychiatric facility. I really enjoyed the parts of the book that took place while they were in the hospital. I liked the character development throughout the book, from being in the facility to back out in the "real world" to being at the swanky resort for Matt and Misa's wedding. I feel like the book accurately portrayed what it's like to deal with mental illness, especially when it is coming from an author who lives with bipolar disorder and founded a reflective writing program at Canada’s largest mental health hospital. Also, how is this a debut novel?? I want to read more from her!

The cover drew me in initially, as well as the description: My Best Friend’s Wedding meets The Silver Linings Playbook. The plot wasn't quiet like I expected, but not in a bad way. I found most of the characters to be unlikable.

This author did a great job creating buzz around the release of her book and the synopsis made me anxious to dive right in! I am not sure I would classify this book as a romance, but it was a beautiful story about three friends who met under particular circumstances. I loved the mental health discussions as I wish more people were open about their mental health struggles and help they receive. Overall, the book kept me engaged and I was literally laughing outloud at parts!

Even when you don't share the same health concerns as your character group, it can be challenging to read a book focusing on mental health (and illness) and the way people grow and change through that. Leanne tackles these themes with a surprising lightness that still retains the respect and care needed to take on these difficult topics. We're lucky she put her words into the world!

This story was very touching. I really felt connected to the characters and their personal struggles. I loved the journey that the main characters went on.

A well-written book with firsthand experience, so VERY realistic. The characters are therefore relatable and their feelings and issues believable. I truly enjoyed reading it.

I received this e-book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for the copy!

Although this book has a slow start, it ended up being a quick read! It was an interesting journey following Dee to discover herself. This was a cute story that was also funny here and there, but just not my favorite.

This was a fun and lighthearted read even though it delved into mental health issues. I loved the character development and the overarching themes of accepting yourself.

I enjoyed this book! My main gripe however is that it was marketed as a romance and I felt it was more about friendships and relationships in general. The focus on mental health was very meaningful but did make me need to be in "the mood" to read it.

Never Been Better by Leanne Toshiko Simpson is a brilliantly offbeat and tender comedy that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and mental health with a deft touch. The novel follows the journey of Dee, a bipolar woman determined to prove she's turning her life around, amidst the backdrop of a seaside wedding where chaos seems inevitable.

The story kicks off with Dee, Misa, and Matt, former “three musketeers” of the psych ward, reuniting a year after their discharge. Matt and Misa are getting married in the picturesque Turks and Caicos, and the secrecy surrounding their meeting place doesn’t sit well with Dee, who has harbored unrequited feelings for Matt. Dee’s emotional struggle is palpable as she navigates her desire to confess her love and the fear of disrupting the delicate balance of their friendship and support system.

Simpson masterfully portrays Dee’s internal conflicts and her messy search for stability and affection. Dee is a refreshingly complex protagonist—hilariously candid yet profoundly vulnerable. Her journey is both relatable and heart-wrenching, and Simpson’s nuanced depiction of bipolar disorder adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Dee’s highs and lows are portrayed with empathy, capturing the erratic yet earnest quest for love and self-acceptance.

The novel’s setting in a luxurious seaside resort contrasts sharply with the tumultuous emotional landscapes of its characters. Simpson’s vivid descriptions bring the idyllic surroundings to life, enhancing the escapism of the narrative while also highlighting the internal storms brewing within Dee. The resort, with its beautiful beaches and opulent amenities, serves as a compelling backdrop for the unfolding drama and comedy.

Supporting characters add richness and texture to the story. Tilley, Dee’s high-voltage sister, is a delightful whirlwind, providing both comic relief and heartfelt support. Her dynamic with Dee underscores the complexities of familial bonds, especially when one sibling struggles with mental health issues. The chemistry between Dee, Matt, and Misa is palpable, their history adding layers of tension and loyalty to the plot. Simpson skillfully handles the trio’s intricate relationship, making the stakes of Dee’s potential confession feel real and significant.

Simpson’s writing style is a perfect blend of humor and poignancy. Her sharp, witty dialogue keeps the narrative lively, while moments of introspection offer profound insights into Dee’s psyche. The balance between comedy and emotional depth is well-maintained, making for a compelling and engaging read. Simpson’s ability to inject humor into serious topics without trivializing them is commendable, providing a refreshing perspective on mental health and recovery.

The plot’s pacing is generally well-executed, though there are moments where it slows down, particularly in the middle sections. Some readers might find the resolution a bit predictable, but the journey there is filled with enough twists, heartfelt moments, and laugh-out-loud scenes to keep the story engaging. The ending, while somewhat anticipated, is satisfying and offers a sense of hope and continuity for Dee’s journey.

In conclusion, Never Been Better is a wonderfully offbeat and emotionally resonant novel that tackles the complexities of love, friendship, and mental health with humor and heart. Leanne Toshiko Simpson has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a memorable read. Dee’s messy, sincere quest for love and stability is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they’re falling apart while trying to keep it together. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate a blend of comedy, romance, and genuine exploration of mental health.