The Happy Camper is a standalone modern romance by Melody Carlson. Many say not to judge a book by its cover, but doing so with this book will not be a problem. The vibrant, happy feel really matches the feelings of the main character, Dillon Michaels, as she restores a vintage trailer.
Many of the elements of this story follow the typical route of romance novels, but it is the places where it diverges that make it more endearing. One example is the main character Dillon. She does not spend her days stewing when she experiences upheaval in her life. Rather she makes some quick decisions and acts upon them. She never even looks back. It is nice to see decisiveness in a female protagonist.
There are some humorous situations in the story and some that are just plain fun. The over-dedicated ex-boyfriend is pretty great, but his refusal to take no for an answer is not charming, but rather annoying. It reinforces the concept that he never really listened to or cared about Dillon.
The tale ends somewhat abruptly, but in a relatively satisfying way. This is a nice, easy read that doesn’t keep rehashing characters’ past traumas. The characters move forward and begin to see new ways to be happy.
This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Revell
Content Analysis:
Profanity/Language: None
Violence/Gore: None
Sex/Nudity: It is mentioned that two unmarried characters have been living together for many years; non-married characters kiss, hold hands and embrace.
Mature Subject Matter:
Death of a parent.
Alcohol / Drug Use:
None