Wish I Were Here by Melissa Wiesner

In a world where our digital footprints often define us, what would happen if you suddenly ceased to exist? Melissa Wiesner’s delightful romantic comedy, “Wish I Were Here,” explores this intriguing premise with humor, heart, and a touch of magic. This enchanting novel invites readers to ponder the true meaning of identity and the power of community in shaping our lives.

A Mathematician’s Disappearing Act

Dr. Catherine Lipton, a brilliant mathematician on the cusp of her dream job, finds her meticulously planned life unraveling when she discovers she’s vanished from all government records. With her career and future hanging in the balance, Catherine must confront the possibility that her carefully constructed identity may be nothing more than an illusion.

Wiesner’s portrayal of Catherine’s predicament is both comical and poignant. The author skillfully balances the absurdity of the situation with the very real consequences Catherine faces, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged and invested in the protagonist’s journey.

An Unlikely Partnership

Enter Luca Morelli, the charming and carefree doorman of Catherine’s apartment building. Initially irritated by Luca’s laid-back attitude and penchant for bending rules, Catherine finds herself reluctantly teaming up with him to solve the mystery of her disappearance. Their partnership forms the heart of the novel, and Wiesner excels in developing their relationship with wit, warmth, and authenticity.

The chemistry between Catherine and Luca is palpable from their first encounter. Their banter is sharp and entertaining, reminiscent of classic romantic comedies. As they navigate increasingly absurd situations—from impersonating hospital staff to meeting with a Mafia boss—the growing attraction between them feels natural and earned.

A Colorful Cast of Characters

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its vibrant supporting cast. The residents of the DeGreco apartment building form a quirky, endearing community that brings the story to life. From Mrs. Goodwin, the sprightly dance enthusiast, to Sal, the enigmatic elderly neighbor, each character adds depth and charm to the narrative.

Wiesner’s talent for creating memorable, multi-dimensional characters shines throughout the book. Even minor players, like Uncle Vito and the burlesque dancers from Catherine’s past, leave a lasting impression. The author’s ability to weave these diverse personalities into a cohesive, believable community is truly commendable.

Themes of Identity and Belonging

At its core, “Wish I Were Here” is an exploration of identity and self-discovery. Catherine’s journey to reclaim her legal existence becomes a metaphor for her internal struggle to understand who she truly is beyond her academic achievements and carefully planned life.

Wiesner deftly handles this theme, allowing Catherine’s character to evolve organically as she confronts her past and reevaluates her priorities. The contrast between Catherine’s rigid worldview and Luca’s free-spirited approach to life serves as a catalyst for her growth, challenging her preconceptions and opening her eyes to new possibilities.

A Touch of Magic and Mystery

While firmly rooted in the romantic comedy genre, “Wish I Were Here” incorporates elements of magical realism that add an extra layer of intrigue to the story. The mysterious circumstances surrounding Catherine’s disappearance and the subtle hints of supernatural intervention create an atmosphere of wonder and possibility.

This blend of genres works surprisingly well, with the magical elements enhancing rather than overshadowing the central romance and character development. Wiesner strikes a delicate balance, leaving just enough ambiguity to keep readers guessing while maintaining the story’s emotional core.

Humor and Heart in Equal Measure

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to seamlessly blend humor with genuine emotional depth. Wiesner’s writing sparkles with wit, from clever wordplay to hilarious situational comedy. Yet, she never sacrifices the emotional resonance of the story for a cheap laugh.

Moments of levity are balanced with touching scenes that explore themes of family, belonging, and self-acceptance. This deft handling of tone ensures that the novel remains engaging and satisfying throughout, avoiding the pitfalls of becoming either too frivolous or overly sentimental.

A Love Letter to Community

Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of “Wish I Were Here” is its celebration of community and chosen family. As Catherine becomes more entangled in Luca’s world, she discovers the joy and support that comes from being part of a tight-knit group.

Wiesner’s depiction of the DeGreco building and its inhabitants is a testament to the power of human connection. The author reminds us that family isn’t always defined by blood, but by the bonds we form and the people who show up for us in times of need.

Pacing and Plot Development

The novel moves at a brisk pace, with each chapter bringing new complications and revelations. Wiesner keeps the plot twisting and turning, maintaining a sense of mystery and anticipation throughout. While some of the coincidences and plot devices may require a suspension of disbelief, they fit well within the slightly magical world the author has created.

The resolution of Catherine’s identity crisis is satisfying, tying together the various threads of the story in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. Wiesner avoids the trap of an overly neat ending, instead opting for a conclusion that feels true to the characters and themes she has established.

A Fresh Voice in Romantic Comedy

With “Wish I Were Here,” Melissa Wiesner establishes herself as a fresh, vibrant voice in the romantic comedy genre. Her writing style is accessible and engaging, with a knack for crafting memorable scenes and dialogue that leap off the page.

Fans of Sophie Cousens and Ashley Poston will find much to love in Wiesner’s work, but the author’s unique blend of humor, heart, and magical realism sets her apart from her contemporaries. “Wish I Were Here” feels both familiar and refreshingly original, a testament to Wiesner’s skill as a storyteller.

Minor Critiques

While the novel is largely successful, there are a few minor issues that may give some readers pause. The pacing in the middle section of the book occasionally lags, with some repetitive scenes that could have been tightened. Additionally, the resolution of Catherine’s relationship with her mother feels somewhat rushed and underdeveloped compared to other aspects of the story.

These minor quibbles, however, do little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the novel. Wiesner’s engaging prose and lovable characters more than make up for any slight missteps in pacing or plot.

Final Thoughts: A Magical, Heartwarming Read

“Wish I Were Here” is a delightful, uplifting novel that reminds us of the importance of authenticity, community, and opening ourselves up to unexpected possibilities. Melissa Wiesner has crafted a story that will make readers laugh, cry, and reevaluate their own place in the world.

With its perfect blend of romance, humor, and magical realism, this book is an ideal escape for anyone looking for a feel-good read that doesn’t sacrifice depth or character development. Wiesner’s talent for creating memorable characters and heartwarming relationships shines through on every page.

As Catherine learns to embrace the messiness and unpredictability of life, readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way. “Wish I Were Here” is more than just a romantic comedy; it’s a celebration of the connections that define us and the courage it takes to be truly ourselves.

For those who enjoyed Wiesner’s previous work, “The Second Chance Year,” this new offering solidifies her place as an author to watch in the genre. New readers will find themselves charmed by her unique voice and eager to explore more of her writing.

In a world that often feels disconnected and uncertain, “Wish I Were Here” serves as a gentle reminder of the magic that can be found in everyday life and the transformative power of love and community. It’s a book that will leave readers smiling long after they’ve turned the final page, grateful for the journey they’ve shared with Catherine, Luca, and the colorful inhabitants of their world.