The Burnout is the latest novel by Sunday Times bestselling author Sophie Kinsella, published in 2023.
I’ve always enjoyed Sophie Kinsella’s books. I particularly enjoyed her earlier works such as Can You Keep a Secret and The Undomestic Goddess. I also enjoyed her hugely successful Shopaholic series.
I’ve enjoyed her more recent novels but haven’t been as captivated by them as her earlier works. However I always look forward to a new Sophie Kinsella book and so I was excited to read The Burnout.
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Plot
Sasha is at her wit’s end, exhausted by the demands of corporate life and the mundane routines that have drained her joy. Fed up with inane emails and corporate cheerfulness, she decides to escape to a childhood seaside resort with the intention of finding peace.
However, the off-season reality is far from idyllic, with a dilapidated hotel and an unexpected companion—Finn, a grumpy and equally stressed individual.
As they navigate their burnout differently, from kale smoothies to whisky on the beach, mysterious messages force them to confront their exhaustion and rediscover lost passions.
The undeniable energy between them sparks conversations about their past, present, and the significance of their connection.
The Burnout Book Review
I really enjoyed this book and I’d say it’s a return to Sophie Kinsella at her best.
One of the main aspects that drew me into the book was the mix of elements it had to offer. The narrative seamlessly switches between funny anecdotes and poignant moments, and I really felt emotionally invested. I found myself laughing out loud at the witty dialogue and then in the next breath tearing up at the poignant scenes with Terry who was suffering with dementia.
I found Sasha to be a really relatable protagonist. Her struggles, aspirations and vulnerabilities really resonated with me. Sophie Kinsella has a knack for creating characters that feel like friends and Sasha is no exception. Her journey of self-discovery and growth adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making it all the more engaging.
I enjoyed the romance between Finn and Sasha. From enemies to friends to lovers, their journey was entertaining and provided the perfect balance of wit, tension and chemistry.
I especially loved the setting. I also spent my childhood summers in Devon so the every mention of the beaches and caves felt like a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I loved the dilapidated old hotel and its Fawlty Towers vibes. The eccentric staff at the hotel added a layer of comic relief that complemented the overall tone of the book.
The book had the predictable misunderstandings and lack of communication which is so common in romcoms but I can forgive that because I enjoyed the rest of the story so much.
Overall, there were so many things to enjoy about The Burnout including the relationship between Finn and Sasha, the chaotic events at the hotel and the poignant moments shared with Terry. In my opinion The Burnout was Sophie Kinsella back to her best, delivering laughs, romance and moments that tugged at the heartstrings.
What to read next
If you enjoyed The Burnout, I’d definitely recommend reading more Sophie Kinsella books, especially her earlier works, such as The Undomestic Goddess and Can You Keep A Secret?
If you’re looking for more romantic reads, I’d recommend You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry and Meet Me in London by Georgia Toffolo.