'The Happy Couple,' Naoise Dolan's second novel after 'Exciting Times,' delves into the complexities of romantic relationships in a contemporary world. Set in Dublin, 'The Happy Couple' tells the story of Celine and Luke as they head toward their wedding and the three friends who may cause a rift between them. 

Celine was focused on her music career as a concert pianist. She enjoyed her independence, yet she struggled to face life alone. On the other hand, Luke worked with a huge global tech company as a PR person. He was known for having fleeting relationships as he sought approval from others.

The tale begins as the two characters impulsively decide to tie the knot because neither can end things between them. They decided to marry not because they genuinely wanted to but because they could not face their reality. However, passion was not their priority; avoiding the fact their relationship was ending was what spurred their sudden vows.

Dolan's novel focuses on how denial is more powerful than love. When Luke vanished at their engagement party, Celine still convinced herself that things were okay between them. Although his voice sounded fine when he came back, it hid lies. However, she wanted people to see her in a certain way more than anything else. She wanted the comfort of having the identity as a wife, caring less about what Luke offered and more about staying in the safe bubble that marriage gives her. The book focuses on how people fool themselves, showing their emotions and wants beyond being romantically involved with someone.

While 'The Happy Couple' might draw comparisons to 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney, its storytelling and the way it switches between points of view sets it apart. Dolan wrote a standout book showing what caused the cracks in Celine and Luke's relationship. Dolan softly reveals what each character is like and what they struggle with, showing their complexities. The writing presents profound ideas in a lean and sarcastic way, providing brilliant perspectives from Luke's best friend Archie and Celine's sister Phoebe, adding more depth and emotions to the story.

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Dolan's characters pondered whether getting married still mattered in a world where people could do whatever they wanted. Similar to the novel 'The Marriage Plot' by Jeffrey Eugenides, 'The Happy Couple' provides insights into how love keeps going even when the people in the relationship do their own thing and things change considerably. The story shows that getting married is not inherently good or bad; it can work out, but it can also fail. 

Dolan's 'The Happy Couple' is a delightfully modern and engaging novel, blending warmth and humor seamlessly. Its witty dialogue and astute reflections delve into the intricate dynamics of modern relationships and the concept of marriage, creating a theatrical vibe. Dolan's meticulous attention to detail adds depth to this intelligent and refreshing narrative, offering keen ideas that feel pertinent and captivating in the modern context. Overall, it is a relevant read that remains highly interesting and thought-provoking. 

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