Review of Sunny Side Up by Katie Sturino
When I first heard about Katie Sturino’s debut novel Sunny Side Up, I was immediately drawn in by the premise of a confident, body-accepting heroine navigating the ups and downs of life in Manhattan. As someone who is passionate about body positivity and the complexities of modern romance, I couldn’t resist diving into Sunny Greene’s journey. This book promised not only a refreshing take on romance but also a celebration of authenticity, and it certainly delivered on both fronts.
Sturino introduces us to Sunny, a thirty-five-year-old divorcée who is all too familiar with the pressures of societal expectations. Fresh off her split from sports executive Zack Peterson, Sunny’s anxiety peaks during her brother’s wedding preparations, sending her into panic attacks while trying on dresses at Bergdorf Goodman. But instead of succumbing to despair, she takes a leap into entrepreneurship, launching SONNY, a size-inclusive luxury swimwear line born from her own dressing room struggles. This initial premise set the stage for a tale that goes beyond romance; it’s a vibrant commentary on self-acceptance and the journey to embrace who we are.
What I loved most about Sunny is her complexity as a character. Sturino deserves applause for crafting a heroine who isn’t presented as a ‘fixer-upper.’ Instead, Sunny’s growth stems from learning to value herself, her career, and her choices, whether it’s finding love or taking charge of her business. The romance triangle involving Dennis, the relatable mailman, and Ted Manns, the dashing investor, is equally compelling. Unlike many novels that forcefully pit love interests against each other, Sturino skillfully presents both men as authentic, relatable characters—creating genuine tension and emotional weight that is both modern and realistic.
Another standout element for me was the exploration of body positivity, which is woven seamlessly throughout Sunny’s narrative. Sturino doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of living in a larger body within a world that often prioritizes thinness. Sunny’s struggle to accept herself, particularly during her panic attack at a high-end store, is a poignant metaphor for breaking free from unrealistic standards. These scenes resonate deeply, reflecting a truth that many readers will find relatable.
Sturino’s writing sparkles with a contemporary energy that captures the millennial voice perfectly. Her dialogue flows naturally, especially in the humorous moments shared between Sunny and her friends Brooke and Noor. Their dynamic feels like a comforting embrace amidst the chaos of life and love—something that reminded me of my own friendships, which often serve as a lifeline.
However, the novel isn’t without its flaws. At times, the pacing lagged, particularly during the more extensive business-centric scenes that could feel a bit dry. The resolution of Sunny’s romantic journey felt rushed, leaving me wanting a bit more depth and reflection. Additionally, while some secondary characters like Zack came off as caricatures, they didn’t detract from Sunny’s strong narrative.
Ultimately, Sunny Side Up is more than just a love story; it’s a powerful narrative about female empowerment and the courage to live authentically. For anyone who has ever felt the burden of societal standards or wished for a love story that celebrates individuality, this book offers both a mirror and a window into possibility.
I wholeheartedly recommend Sunny Side Up to readers who crave contemporary romance with substance and those who value themes of entrepreneurship, body acceptance, and unwavering female friendship. Sturino has created a novel that feels both significant and entertaining, proving that romance can—and should—embrace the complexities of life in all its messy glory. If you’re looking for a book that invites you to root for a heroine who refuses to shy away from her true self, this is the one for you.