"Something Blue" Summary

Introduction

Imagine your best friend steals your fiancé. Now, imagine the story told not from the wounded party’s point of view, but from that of the “villain.” Emily Giffin’s Something Blue does just that, offering a witty, insightful, and emotionally charged exploration of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. Part romantic comedy and part coming-of-age tale, this novel is the sequel to Giffin’s beloved Something Borrowed, flipping the script to let us see the world through the flawed yet fascinating Darcy Rhone.

First published in 2005, Something Blue quickly became a staple of contemporary women's fiction. Its blend of humor, honesty, and heart has resonated with college students, young professionals, and seasoned readers alike. If you’re a fan of stories where growth comes from chaos—and where the “mean girl” might just steal your sympathy—this book is a must-read.

Historical Context

Set in the early 2000s, Something Blue unfolds against the backdrop of Manhattan’s fast-paced social scene, complete with designer handbags, trendy brunch spots, and the constant pressure to have it all. The novel reflects the anxieties and aspirations of young professionals in the post-9/11 era, a time when traditional milestones like marriage and career success were being re-examined.

Emily Giffin’s writing captures the zeitgeist of the era, drawing on real-life issues like the pursuit of “having it all,” the complexities of female friendship, and the fear of being left behind. The novel is also a commentary on social status, personal reinvention, and the importance of authenticity.

Brief Synopsis

Plot Overview

Something Blue picks up where Something Borrowed leaves off—except this time, the spotlight is on Darcy Rhone. Once the golden girl with a flawless life, Darcy’s world comes crashing down when her best friend, Rachel, falls in love with her fiancé, Dex. Suddenly single and shunned, Darcy is forced to confront the hard truth: she may have been the architect of her own misery.

Fleeing to London to stay with her old friend Ethan, Darcy embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, she faces the consequences of her past choices, navigates an unexpected pregnancy, and ultimately learns what it means to grow up, forgive, and find true happiness.

Setting

The novel moves between the glitzy, high-pressure world of Manhattan and the quieter, more introspective environment of London. In New York, Darcy is surrounded by luxury and superficiality, while London offers her a chance to escape, reflect, and rebuild. The contrast between these settings mirrors Darcy’s internal transformation, as she moves from chaos to clarity.

Main Characters

Below is a table summarizing the key characters in Something Blue:

Plot Summary

To keep things organized and spoiler-light, let’s break down the plot into key sections:

The Fallout

The novel opens with Darcy in denial about the end of her engagement and her friendship with Rachel. Used to being the center of attention, Darcy struggles to accept that she has lost both her fiancé and her best friend. Her initial response is to blame everyone but herself, showcasing her trademark mix of arrogance and vulnerability.

The Escape

Desperate for a fresh start, Darcy flees to London to stay with Ethan, her childhood friend. London is a world away from New York’s drama, and Ethan is the voice of reason Darcy desperately needs. At first, Darcy tries to recapture her old life by seeking out wealthy, eligible bachelors and clinging to her glamorous persona. However, Ethan’s patience and honesty force her to confront her flaws.

The Turning Point

Darcy’s pregnancy becomes a turning point. As she prepares for motherhood, she is forced to reevaluate her priorities. The glamorous parties and designer clothes lose their appeal, and she starts to appreciate the quieter, more meaningful aspects of life. Ethan’s unwavering support and tough love help her grow, and she begins to understand the value of selflessness and integrity.

Transformation and Redemption

As Darcy sheds her old habits, she becomes more empathetic and self-aware. She reconciles with her past, forgives Rachel, and opens herself up to the possibility of new love. By the end of the novel, Darcy has transformed from a self-absorbed socialite into a mature, compassionate woman ready to embrace the challenges and joys of motherhood.

Themes and Motifs

Something Blue is rich with themes that resonate with readers of all ages, especially those navigating the transition to adulthood.

Friendship and Betrayal

At its core, the novel explores the complexities of female friendship. Darcy and Rachel’s relationship is a study in loyalty, jealousy, and forgiveness. Giffin challenges readers to consider whether true friendship can survive even the deepest betrayals.

Self-Discovery and Growth

Darcy’s journey is one of self-discovery. Forced to confront her flaws, she learns that true happiness comes not from material success, but from authenticity and personal growth.

Forgiveness and Redemption

The novel is ultimately about the power of forgiveness—both of others and oneself. Darcy’s ability to forgive Rachel (and herself) is central to her transformation.

The Illusion of Perfection

Giffin skewers the myth of the “perfect life,” showing that even those who seem to have it all are often deeply unhappy. The novel encourages readers to look beyond appearances and embrace their true selves.

Literary Techniques and Style

Emily Giffin’s writing style is characterized by its conversational tone, sharp wit, and emotional honesty. She employs the following techniques throughout Something Blue:

• First-person narrative: The story is told from Darcy’s point of view, allowing readers to experience her transformation firsthand.
• Irony and humor: Giffin uses irony to highlight the absurdities of Darcy’s world, while her humor makes even the most painful moments relatable.
• Symbolism: Objects like designer shoes and luxury apartments symbolize Darcy’s former life, while London represents new beginnings.
• Realistic dialogue: The characters’ conversations are authentic and engaging, capturing the nuances of friendship and romance.

Author's Background

Emily Giffin is a bestselling American novelist known for her insightful explorations of relationships and personal growth. A graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Virginia School of Law, Giffin left her legal career to pursue writing—a decision that paid off with the success of her debut novel, Something Borrowed.

Her works often feature strong female protagonists facing difficult moral choices, and she is praised for her ability to create complex, relatable characters. Giffin’s books have been translated into multiple languages and adapted for film, solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary women’s fiction.

Her impact extends beyond literature; she has inspired countless readers to re-examine their own relationships and life choices, making her a favorite among book clubs and university courses focused on modern fiction.

Key Takeaways

• Growth is possible, even for the most flawed characters.
• Forgiveness can heal even the deepest wounds.
• Material success does not guarantee happiness.
• True friendship requires honesty and vulnerability.
• Self-discovery often comes from unexpected challenges.

Reader's Takeaway

Reading Something Blue is like sitting down with a friend who isn’t afraid to tell you the hard truths. You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear as you watch Darcy stumble, fall, and ultimately rise. The novel offers a compelling reminder that people can change—and that sometimes, the person you least expect to root for becomes the hero of their own story.

For college students juggling friendships, relationships, and the pressure to succeed, Darcy’s journey is both cautionary and inspiring. You’ll walk away from this book with a renewed appreciation for honesty, resilience, and the messy beauty of second chances.

Conclusion

Something Blue is more than just a juicy tale of love and betrayal—it’s a smart, heartfelt exploration of what it means to grow up and take responsibility for your own happiness. Emily Giffin’s sharp insights and engaging storytelling make this novel a standout in contemporary fiction.

Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, coming-of-age stories, or simply enjoy a good redemption arc, Something Blue delivers. It’s a book that invites readers to reflect, laugh, and ultimately, believe in the power of transformation. If you haven’t read it yet, now is the perfect time to dive in and discover why Darcy Rhone’s story continues to captivate readers around the world.