Funeral, Divorce, and New Beginnings

Michelle's world unravels at her mother's funeral, where she's forced to reveal her divorce to her family. The loss of her mother and her marriage leaves her adrift, but duty calls: her family needs her to run the Bird & Breakfast inn in Copper Run, Vermont, until her sister Sara graduates. Michelle, a driven advertising executive, leaves Seattle for the small town, inheriting not just her mother's legacy but also her ex-husband's dog, Rocket. The move is a reluctant leap into the unknown, shadowed by grief, guilt, and the fear of being alone. Yet, as she steps into her mother's shoes, Michelle is determined to keep everything under control—even as her life feels anything but.

Small Town, Big Changes

Cliff Burke, single dad and local baker, juggles his daughters, Emily and Brittany, and the demands of his bakery. The town is tight-knit, nosy, and full of autumn charm, but Cliff's life is far from simple. His ex-wife, Tracy, is distant, and his teenage daughter is testing boundaries. When Michelle arrives next door, their worlds collide. Both are carrying wounds—Cliff from divorce and the pressures of single parenthood, Michelle from loss and the collapse of her marriage. The town's warmth is both a comfort and a challenge, as Michelle struggles to fit in and Cliff tries to keep his family together.

Unlikely Neighbors Collide

Michelle and Cliff's first meeting is a comedy of errors, with a runaway dog, a startled child, and instant, electric chemistry. Both are guarded, but their banter is sharp and their attraction undeniable. Michelle is all business and boundaries; Cliff is warmth and wit. Their families become entangled—Brittany adores Rocket, Emily is curious about Michelle, and the town watches with interest. Dinner at the Burkes' is awkward but revealing, setting the stage for a slow, simmering connection. Both sense the possibility of something more, but neither is ready to admit it.

Grief, Guilt, and Cinnamon Rolls

Michelle is haunted by her mother's absence and the feeling that she's not enough—for her family, for the inn, or for herself. Guests are unimpressed, her baking is a disaster, and she feels like an outsider. Cliff, meanwhile, is stretched thin by parenting and the demands of the bakery. Their paths cross in moments of vulnerability—Michelle's frustration with her failures, Cliff's exhaustion and worry for his daughters. Baking lessons become a bridge between them, as Cliff teaches Michelle the art of cinnamon rolls and the value of imperfection. Their friendship deepens, and so does their mutual longing.

Pumpkin Patch and Broken Hearts

The Harvest Festival brings the town together, but also exposes old wounds. Brittany is hurt in the pumpkin patch, and Michelle rushes to help, earning Cliff's gratitude and trust. Emily's teenage rebellion surfaces, and Cliff's ex-wife's absence is felt more keenly. Michelle's competence is questioned, and she feels the sting of not being her mother. Yet, in the chaos, she finds moments of belonging—helping Cliff, connecting with his daughters, and slowly letting her guard down. The town's quirks become endearing, and Michelle begins to see Copper Run as more than a temporary stop.

Learning to Stay Afloat

Michelle's attempts to run the inn are met with mixed results. She's overwhelmed by the demands, the loneliness, and the constant reminders of her mother's legacy. Cliff becomes her anchor, offering practical help and emotional support. Their friendship is tested by misunderstandings and the ever-present fear of vulnerability. Both are haunted by the past—Michelle by her mother's letter and her own perfectionism, Cliff by his failed marriage and the weight of single fatherhood. Yet, together, they begin to carve out a space for healing, laughter, and the possibility of happiness.

People Lessons and Hospitality

Cliff's "People Lessons" push Michelle out of her comfort zone, teaching her the art of small-town hospitality and the value of genuine connection. She learns to engage with guests, embrace imperfection, and accept help. Their partnership deepens, blurring the lines between friendship and something more. Michelle's sister Sara arrives, bringing a burst of energy and a reminder of what's at stake. The inn becomes a hub of community, and Michelle starts to imagine a future that isn't defined by control or fear. Cliff, too, begins to hope for more than survival.

Autumn Festivals and Family Ties

As autumn deepens, so do the bonds between Michelle, Cliff, and their families. Halloween brings laughter, mischief, and a charged moment between Michelle and Cliff that neither can forget. Sara's presence stirs up old sibling dynamics and new possibilities. Cliff's daughters confide in Michelle, and she becomes an unexpected source of comfort and wisdom. The town's traditions become her own, and the inn starts to feel like home. Yet, the specter of leaving looms, and both Michelle and Cliff are forced to confront what they truly want.

Wounds, Walls, and Warming Up

Thanksgiving approaches, bringing with it a flood of emotions. Michelle is torn between her duty to her family and her growing feelings for Cliff. Cliff grapples with the pain of letting his daughters go for the holiday and the realization that he wants more than friendship with Michelle. Their connection deepens in stolen moments and late-night conversations, but both are afraid to risk their hearts. The holiday forces them to confront their fears, their desires, and the possibility of a future together.

Secrets, Setups, and Sisterhood

Sara's attempts to set up Cliff and Michelle backfire, exposing hidden feelings and unspoken truths. Michelle's sense of responsibility clashes with her longing for happiness. Cliff is caught between loyalty to his family and his desire for Michelle. The town's meddling, Sara's encouragement, and a series of near-misses push them to the brink. Both must decide whether to protect themselves or take a leap of faith. The answer comes in a moment of vulnerability, as they finally admit what they mean to each other.

Thanksgiving, Realizations, and Regrets

Thanksgiving is a turning point. Surrounded by family, friends, and the ghosts of the past, Michelle and Cliff are forced to confront their feelings. A fight leads to a passionate confession, and they finally give in to their love. Yet, the reality of Michelle's impending departure hangs over them. Both are changed by their time together, but the future is uncertain. Michelle must choose between the life she built in Seattle and the happiness she's found in Copper Run. Cliff must learn to let go—and to fight for what he wants.

Christmas, Confrontations, and Choices

Christmas brings both joy and conflict. Cliff's ex-wife Tracy returns, stirring up old resentments and forcing everyone to reckon with the past. Emily's crisis brings Michelle and Cliff closer, as they navigate the challenges of parenting, blended families, and forgiveness. The holidays are a crucible, testing their love and their resolve. In the end, Michelle is faced with a choice: return to her old life or embrace the messy, beautiful future waiting for her in Copper Run. With the support of her family, her sister, and Cliff, she finally chooses happiness.

Letting Go, Coming Home

Michelle prepares to leave, saying goodbye to the town, the inn, and the people who have become her family. Cliff drives her to the airport, both of them heartbroken but resigned. Yet, as Michelle is about to board her flight, Cliff—spurred on by Rocket and his own realization—races through the airport to stop her. In a dramatic, heartfelt reunion, they confess their love and choose to build a life together. Michelle decides to stay, taking ownership of the inn and her own happiness.

New Year, New Love

The new year dawns with hope, laughter, and the promise of lasting love. Michelle and Cliff celebrate with their families and the town, embracing the messiness and joy of their new life. The inn thrives, the bakery flourishes, and their blended family finds its rhythm. The story ends with a sense of belonging, fulfillment, and the knowledge that happiness is found not in perfection, but in the courage to choose what makes you happy—together.

Epilogue: Rocket's Reflections

Years later, Rocket reflects on the journey from Seattle to Copper Run, from loneliness to family. He watches as Michelle and Cliff build a life filled with laughter, love, and the chaos of children and pets. The inn is bustling, the bakery is warm, and the porch swing is always occupied. Rocket knows he's a good boy, but more importantly, he knows he's home. In the end, it's the simple things—a walk, a laugh, a touch—that make life worth living.

Characters

Michelle Cadell

Michelle is a fiercely independent advertising executive whose life is upended by her mother's death and her own divorce. Tasked with running her family's inn in Copper Run, she is thrust into a world that challenges her need for control and perfection. Michelle's journey is one of vulnerability—learning to accept help, embrace imperfection, and open her heart to love. Her relationship with Cliff is transformative, teaching her that happiness is found in connection, not achievement. Through grief, guilt, and self-doubt, Michelle discovers her own strength and the courage to choose joy.

Cliff Burke

Cliff is the heart of Copper Run—a baker, a devoted father, and a man still healing from the wounds of divorce. His humor and generosity mask a deep fear of not being enough, both for his daughters and for himself. Cliff's relationship with Michelle is a slow burn, built on banter, trust, and mutual respect. He is patient, supportive, and unafraid to show vulnerability. Cliff's journey is about letting go of the past, embracing the messiness of life, and daring to hope for a second chance at love.

Emily Burke

Emily is Cliff's teenage daughter, navigating the turbulence of adolescence, first love, and family upheaval. Her relationship with her parents is fraught with tension, especially with her mother's absence and her father's new relationship. Emily's bond with Michelle is unexpected but profound—she finds in Michelle a confidante and role model. Emily's arc is one of growth, learning to trust, forgive, and find her own voice.

Brittany Burke

Brittany, Cliff's younger daughter, is a source of light and laughter. Her love for Rocket and her open-hearted acceptance of Michelle help bridge the gap between families. Brittany's innocence is a reminder of the joy found in simple things, and her resilience inspires those around her.

Sara Cadell

Sara, Michelle's younger sister, is the embodiment of hope and possibility. Her artistic spirit and boundless energy contrast with Michelle's seriousness, but their bond is unbreakable. Sara's encouragement and belief in Michelle are pivotal, pushing her sister to pursue happiness and embrace love. Sara's own journey is about finding her place in the world and supporting those she loves.

Tracy Burke

Tracy, Cliff's ex-wife, is a complex figure—ambitious, restless, and struggling to reconcile her dreams with her responsibilities. Her absence looms large, shaping the dynamics of the Burke family. Tracy's return forces everyone to confront old wounds and the reality of blended families. Her arc is one of acceptance, learning to let go and allow her children to find happiness where they are.

Rocket

Rocket, the border collie, is more than a pet—he's a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and unconditional love. Passed from Michelle's ex-husband to her, Rocket resists change but ultimately becomes the bridge between families. His perspective in the epilogue offers a poignant, humorous reflection on the meaning of home and belonging.

Carol Burke

Carol, Cliff's sister, is a source of comic relief and steadfast support. Her self-doubt and anxiety are balanced by her loyalty and love for her family. Carol's presence grounds Cliff and provides Michelle with a much-needed friend. She is the unsung hero, always there in moments of crisis and celebration.

Lisa and George

Lisa and George are the quintessential small-town couple—meddling, well-meaning, and always present. Their involvement in everyone's business is both a nuisance and a comfort. They represent the community's collective heart, offering wisdom, support, and the occasional unsolicited advice.

Lars

Lars, Cliff's lifelong friend, is the comic foil and confidant. His pizzeria is a gathering place, and his humor lightens even the darkest moments. Lars's unwavering support and gentle teasing help Cliff navigate the challenges of love, parenting, and self-doubt.

Plot Devices

Dual Narration and Alternating Perspectives

The novel alternates between Michelle and Cliff's points of view, allowing readers to experience both the internal and external conflicts of each character. This structure deepens empathy, reveals misunderstandings, and heightens the slow-burn tension. The dual narration also mirrors the theme of two lives converging, each bringing their own baggage, hopes, and fears.

Small-Town Setting as Character

The town of Copper Run is more than a backdrop—it's an active participant in the story. Its festivals, gossip, and traditions shape the characters' choices and growth. The setting provides both comfort and challenge, forcing Michelle to confront her isolation and Cliff to open his heart. The town's warmth and quirks are a constant source of humor, conflict, and healing.

Food and Baking as Metaphor

Baking is both a literal and symbolic thread, representing the process of healing, connection, and transformation. Cliff's lessons in the kitchen mirror the emotional lessons both he and Michelle must learn—embracing imperfection, taking risks, and savoring the moment. Food becomes a language of love, apology, and hope.

Letters, Keepsakes, and the Weight of the Past

Michelle's mother's letter, her pendant, and the inn's binder are tangible links to the past, carrying both comfort and unresolved pain. These objects serve as catalysts for reflection, confession, and ultimately, letting go. The unsent letter at the airport is a pivotal plot device, prompting Michelle's final, life-changing decision.

Miscommunication and Slow-Burn Romance

The romance unfolds through misunderstandings, near-misses, and the gradual dismantling of emotional walls. Both Michelle and Cliff are afraid to risk their hearts, leading to moments of frustration, longing, and eventual catharsis. The slow-burn structure heightens the emotional payoff, making their union feel earned and transformative.

Community as Catalyst and Mirror

Copper Run's residents are both obstacles and allies, pushing the protagonists out of their comfort zones and reflecting their growth. The town's festivals, crises, and celebrations provide a stage for personal and relational transformation. The community's acceptance is both a challenge and a reward, underscoring the novel's themes of belonging and chosen family.

Symbolic Epilogue

The epilogue, narrated by Rocket, offers a whimsical yet profound perspective on the story's themes. It reframes the journey as one of adaptation, loyalty, and the simple joys of companionship. Rocket's reflections tie together the novel's motifs of home, love, and the courage to choose happiness.

Analysis

If It Makes You Happy is a heartfelt, slow-burn romance that explores the messy, beautiful process of starting over after loss. Set against the nostalgic backdrop of a 1990s Vermont autumn, the novel uses the rhythms of small-town life, the rituals of baking, and the bonds of family to examine what it means to heal, belong, and choose joy. At its core, the story is about two people—each carrying wounds, guilt, and the fear of being unlovable—who find in each other the courage to be seen and the permission to be happy. The dual narration allows for a nuanced exploration of grief, vulnerability, and the slow work of building trust. The supporting cast—quirky, loving, and ever-present—embodies the idea that community is both a challenge and a gift. The novel's plot devices—letters, food, festivals—serve as metaphors for the characters' journeys, while the epilogue's dog's-eye view offers a gentle reminder that happiness is found in the ordinary, everyday moments. Ultimately, the book argues that happiness is not a destination, but a choice—a series of small, brave decisions to let go, reach out, and savor the sweetness of now.

Last updated: September 4, 2025