Watching everyone around get there before I do: WISH YOU WERE HER.

Wish You Were Her by Elle McNicoll
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I need to come to terms that Elle McNicoll books and me are not compatible!

Famous actress Allegra Brooks, age 18, wants one normal summer, so she escapes to Lake Pristine to spend the summer with her dad at his bookstore. Once there, she meets Jonah Brooks, who is helping run the town's annual Book Festival. Jonah immediately insults her and then spends much of his time avoiding her.

Meanwhile, Allegra is emailing an anonymous person at the bookstore, whom she knows has to be Jonah's co-worker. Allegra is autistic--something she's never shared with her fans--and she feels like this anonymous pen pal just gets it, gets her.

WISH YOU WERE HER hits us over the head with the idea that its two main characters are autistic. I love stories about neurodivergence, love seeing familiar traits reflected in the stories I read, but this topic deserves to be woven into a story, not just thrown in readers' faces over and over. Show us, don't tell us. Repeatedly.

As for Jonah, he was very hard to like, even with his own character influenced by his autism. He seemed to like Allegra only because she was pretty, and the two's "instalove" feeling was chalked up to... wait... wait... oh my gosh, if you guessed autism, you're right!

There was a gaggle of townspeople, but most were not redeemable besides teenage Grace and a reappearance from Jasper, who is the MC in a previous McNicoll book. Allegra's father even holds a ridiculous grudge against Jonah for the silliest reason... honestly I just have to stop listing all the reasons this book was frustrating.

There's a cute lake setting and some fun book references. I respect the attempt to include autism in the story, but it would be better to acknowledge that autism is just one part of a person, not their entire entity.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.

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As defiant as well as defender: PERSEPHONE'S CURSE.

Persephone's Curse by Katrina Leno
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was not at all what I expected, but it was excellent!

Not that I'm surprised, because anything Katrina Leno writes is amazing.

The four Farthing sisters--Winnie, Bernie, Evelyn, and Clara--have always been told they are descended from Persephone. And who knows, it could be true, because there's a ghost that lives in their house, a young man named Henry, that only they can see.

It all works out until Evelyn and Henry fall in love and Winnie attempts to solve the problem. It seems each sister has a bit of magical powers, and Winnie sets off a series of catastrophic events involving closed portals and the Underworld.

It might sound over the top, but it all works really well. So much of this beautiful, magical ghost story is simply four sisters attempting to navigate growing up in the world. Bernadette, the eldest, is trying to figure out if she belongs at college. Evelyn is grappling with her love for Henry. Winnie, our main narrator, has big feelings and an ability to see the ghosts of Farthings past (and perhaps a crush on the cute girl at the magic store), and feisty Clara is the artistic wise youngest sister who despite her wisdom, still requires the love and guidance of her older sisters.

This well-written, lyrical story is an ode to New York City and sisterhood. It's utterly fascinating, with equal dashes of magic and Little Women mixed together, along with some lesbians! What more could we ask for, really? I loved it.


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Me holding you and you holding me: NOBODY IN PARTICULAR.

Nobody in Particular by Sophie Gonzales
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable one - I mean boarding school setting + royalty + queer characters? What more do you need?

I will say this book felt long to me. There was just *a lot* going on.

Danni is headed to Bramppath College, a boarding school, thanks to her Mom's new relationship. Danni didn't have the best of luck at her old high school in Colorado, so she's not sure about moving across the globe to a new school, let alone one as elite as Bramppath. But at Bramppath, she makes friends, including Princess Rosemary of Henland. She learns her new friends are grieving from a terrible incident last year, which greatly affected Rose's public reputation. She and Rose also become extremely close--starting a relationship that they must keep secret, or face the wrath of Rose's parents and the entire nation of Henland.

I loved the premise of this story, including the importance of being yourself and coming out on your own terms. Rose has grown up realizing that she can never fully be herself and be Queen. The story does an excellent job of showing her grappling with this difficult idea. Further, there's delicious tension between Rose and Danni, which is wonderful (setting aside the fact that they are high schoolers). They are both smart, witty, strong young women who come into their own as the book progresses.

A very dark and awful event hangs over much of this book, keeping this from feeling like a total light and breezy rom-com. It also feels somewhat pushed aside in the final quarter, which is strange after it looms over so much of the story.

Still, this is a lovely story and often quite humorous, despite the serious topics. It's unabashedly queer and will make you cheer out loud at times. 4+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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It's a good time to get into trouble: COME AS YOU ARE.

Come As You Are by Dahlia Adler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Thanks to formally being named Everett, "Evie" Riley gets assigned to the boys dorm at her new boarding school, Camden Academy. Somehow, there is not another room on the entire campus, so she's stuck living in a single, packed among the boys, and being ridiculed by the entire school.

This story is slow and awkward first--it feels a little clunky and hard to get into. It does pick up a bit. Evie has fled to Camden to escape a failed relationship and issues with her sister back home. She decides the only way to make this work is to become a "bad girl"--learning from the hands of new friend, Salem. They make a pact: she'll teach Salem to be a respectable guy who gets good grades and he'll teach her his wayward tricks.

Their pact seems halfhearted at best and a flimsy method to push the plot along; I wish there had been more follow-through. Salem has Evie do a few random things, while she forces him to... shower and study. The two spend plenty of time together, though, allowing them to forge a stronger relationship. But Evie is clueless and Salem's soon with another girl. Evie and Salem have excellent banter, but be prepared for quite a slow burn.

Evie tries very hard in this story, and sometimes you want to tell all these kids that high school/boarding school isn't all that their life will contain. Luckily, there are light moments too, including Evie's friendship with Salem's twin, Sabrina.

This book is well-suited for its YA audience, with plenty of juvenile drama (though there's a lot of sex too). As for this middle-aged adult, quirky Salem carried the story.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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I want a kiss in the morning: THE ROMANTIC TRAGEDIES OF A DRAMA KING.

The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King by Harry Trevaldwyn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a rather precious book with a very dramatic protagonist, but Patrick "Patch" does a pretty good job of winning you over.

He's over-the-top and melodramatic, but that's just his way. Patch is a teen, learning to be a gay teen, a better friend, and a good person. And--most importantly to him--he's on a quest to get his first boyfriend. With the help of his best friend, Jean, he's looking at two options from his Drama Club: quiet and shy Sam and Sam's American friend, Patrick.

As Patrick and the club work on putting together a production of Sweeney Todd, Patch and Jean rankle at the fact that their friend turned nemesis, Tessa, is back in the club too--and catching Patrick's eye. Patch's way of approaching the world is filled with confidence and drama, with the writing almost coming across as satire at times. It makes you laugh though and shines with humor and realism.

It's great to read a YA book filled with queer teens (and allies, as Jean would be quick to point out). It's a sweet story, with plenty of teen theatrics--both literal and emotional. There's a full cast of side characters, including Patch's aggrieved English teacher who must listen to his rants, and Jean deserves her own book. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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People think we live one life: THE RIVAL.

The Rival by Emma Lord
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Lifelong academic rivals, Sadie and Seb, have spent years locked in a battle of wits and will. Sadie thinks she’s finally free of him in college—ready to reinvent herself—until he unexpectedly makes it off the waitlist and shows up on campus. Their competitive fire reignites as they both set their sights on the same coveted spot at the school’s zine, Newsbag, trading sharp banter and well-aimed zingers along the way.

But soon, their rivalry takes a backseat to a bigger issue: student-run organizations like Newsbag are struggling to stay funded while sports programs seem to have an endless cash flow. Suddenly, the two aren’t just competing for a position—they’re fighting to ensure the zine survives at all. Forced to work together, Sadie begins to realize that Seb is the one person who truly sees her, beyond the image she’s carefully curated for her boisterous family. He understands her humor, her love of writing, and the parts of herself she’s hidden for years.

The novel repeatedly underscores the pressures both Sadie and Seb face from their families—Sadie, expected to be the peacemaker, and Seb, expected to be the perfect student. And if you don’t catch this theme the first time, don’t worry—you’ll be reminded at least 50 more. Their so-called "rivalry" is also hammered home constantly, despite it being glaringly obvious to everyone (except them) that their animosity is fueled by something much deeper. When the story shifts focus to their slow-burn realization of feelings, Sadie’s personal growth, and the struggles of student-led organizations, it becomes far more engaging. Unfortunately, the forced antagonism and family dynamics start to feel repetitive and frustrating.

That said, the book shines in its side characters—like the lovable lesbian café owners, the Newsbag team, and Sadie’s roommate, Christina (to whom Sadie is, frankly, a terrible friend for much of the novel). While her self-actualization is central to the story, her selfishness makes it hard to root for her at times.

There are plenty of sweet and enjoyable moments here, but they’re sometimes weighed down by repetition and overused tropes. YA readers may find comfort in its exploration of parental expectations and the journey of self-discovery in college, but a little more nuance would have made this story truly stand out.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Wednesday Books in exchange for an honest review.

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And I'll beg, steal, or borrow a little sunshine: DUST.

Dust by Alison Stine
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

A haunting and harrowing novel about a young woman trying to find her place after her family moves to desolate Colorado.

Thea and her family relocate from Ohio to Colorado after a flood ravages their hometown. Thea's father sees a future for his family without technology or the trappings of modern life. They'll own their own land and grow their own food, school the kids at home, and eschew electricity and running water. But arriving in Colorado, the family finds a half-built house and fields too dusty and parched to grow much of anything. And then the dust storms start.

Wow, this is an amazing story. Thea is deaf in one ear, but told by her parents to hide her inability to hear. She feels disconnected from her family and the world, and Stine writes the text to illustrate the "blanks" in conversation that Thea cannot catch. With her father's reluctance to embrace technology or outside education, the book clearly illustrates Thea's suffocation of being trapped on the hot, dusty farm, unable to hear and struggling with the feeling of being different and "in between." The writing just oozes claustrophobia.

We see how easily a person's world can be narrowed without education or access to the internet or books--Thea works so hard to secretly get to the town's library, for instance, where she meets some kind town members, and Ray, another deaf kid her age, which opens up an entire world for her. Otherwise, she's so isolated, seeing only her little sister, and not even knowing that being deaf is okay. Ray teaches Thea about ASL and she accompanies him and his uncle on journeys around the county to visit other town members, learning about other types of people.

Watching Thea's world broaden is amazing, especially as she tries to learn more about her environment. DUST leans heavily into environmentalism, illustrating the effects of climate change on Colorado, and how the 1930s-era Dust Bowl horrors could so easily happen again. The storms and the climate feel like another character, creating a tense atmosphere that truly comes to life.

This book just has that uncanny ability to make you feel--the tenseness of the storms; the powerlessness Thea feels against her father; the kindness of Thea's boss at the local cafe where she works; and the bit of hope and spark that comes between Thea and Ray. It's so beautifully written, and Thea is a wonderful character. My only issue is the story's ending, which I felt wrapped up too easily. A book this dark and poignant almost deserved a more severe conclusion, as much as I cared for all the characters.

Still, this is an amazing book and so worth the read. 4+ stars (rounded up here).

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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And the hills move like lungs, the river speaks in tongues: WHAT THE WOODS TOOK.

What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I will start out by saying that I adore Courtney Gould and will read anything she writes. Her writing is beautiful, original, and a gift for the queer community. Even WOODS, which is not my favorite of hers, is well-done.

Devin has spent just a short time in her latest foster home when she's awakened in the night and taken away. She soon learns that her foster parents have sent her to the Revive Wilderness program, a program for troubled youth where a small group of teens spends 50 days in the woods with two counselors. You know, the teens are there against their will, but whatever, right?

Devin clashes immediately with Sheridan, another strong-willed female in the group, but has better luck with Ollie, a lost and troubled soul; the younger Aiden; and religious Hannah. It doesn't take Devin long to realize that things seem off (beyond the forced kidnapping) and soon counselors disappear, the woods seem extra eerie, and more.

This isn't true horror, I don't think, but it sure is creepy and certainly sinister. Gould does a wonderful job of building up the tension. Unfortunately, it takes a while to get to a lot of the scary parts, and they sometimes fizzle out. A huge part of the novel's beginning is spent on the discord between Devin and Sheridan, to the point of repetition and frustration. There's far more focus on interpersonal relationships and the camper's backgrounds than the horror vibes. What does show up is unique and intriguing and often quite spooky.

I especially loved the focus on these wilderness camps, which really do exist, and how they can affect the psyche of already fragile young teens. Also important is Gould's emphasis on queer relationships and her consistently strong portrayal of teens overall. This is a bit of a slow burn, plot-wise, but there's a lot to love here too. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. Look for WOODS on 12/10/2024!!

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Where the love light gleams: SOME LIKE IT COLD.

Some Like It Cold by Elle McNicoll
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

This one had a fun premise, but lost a few things in execution!

Jasper is the black sheep of her family, thanks to her autism, which her mom has basically had her hide since childhood. Her family aims for perfection and focuses on her older sister, Christine, who is getting married on New Year's Eve. Jasper reluctantly returns home to Lake Pristine for the wedding festivities, with the secret knowledge that she's dropping out of college with dreams of going into interior design.

SOME LIKE IT COLD has a lot of good points to make about neurodivergence and autism, but good grief, it gets repetitive, as if it's beating us over the head with Jasper's diagnosis! It doles out symptoms like we're reading from WebMD, rather than learning about an actual human. Her sister Christine is horrible with no true redeemable qualities, making it difficult to root for the sisters to reconcile.

Jasper's love interest is Arthur, who has remained in Lake Pristine to run his late father's movie house. The two were childhood enemies, but with Jasper's return this childhood hatred turns into a spark. This is quite confusing, as it seems like they truly hated each other, and the story never makes clear how that hate actually manifests as unrequited love.

The story has some cute points, including its picaresque small town holiday setting and Jasper's friendship with Arthur's little sister, but it's bogged down by repetition and a lack of forward momentum. There's also far more telling than showing with the prose, making the book feel very long. Note that this is characterized as YA, but both Jasper and Arthur come across as older.

Overall, this has some fun Christmas aspects, but I couldn't quite get past all the flaws. 2.5 stars.

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I just wanna spend every second with you: THE CALCULATION OF YOU AND ME.

The Calculation of You and Me: A Novel by Serena Kaylor
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

I have complicated feelings about this book, but that's appropriate, as our main character, Marlowe, is a complicated person. One of the best things about Serena Kaylor's books is that she writes nuanced characters with various dimensions, and she doesn't shy away from depicting neurodivergent personalities.

I was slow to warm to THE CALCULATION OF YOU AND ME and even considered not finishing it, due to Marlowe's singular focus on her ex, Josh, who breaks up with her at the end of the summer, but leaves enough glimmer of hope (in Marlowe's eyes) so that she pines for him all summer. When he truly ends it (in the chemistry lab, no less) on the first day back at school, she's devastated. Around Josh, Marlowe could feel "normal"--she had friends, she went out on dates and to parties, and she was part of the typical high school experience, much to her parents' relief. Without Josh, she's just weird Marlowe, autistic teen. Even worse, when Josh breaks up with her, he tells her she's not romantic enough, only solidifying her internal monologue that she's not like other girls.

Marlowe turns to fellow student Ash, a loner with whom she's been recently paired on an English project, to teach her about romance. Ash works at a romance bookstore (this town has a bookstore dedicated solely to romance books, which sounds so, so amazing) and while he's reluctant to help, citing pure hatred of Josh, Marlowe wins him over, especially when she helps publicize his band.

What follows is a very touching neurodiverse love story with an exploration of teen autism. It's an ode to romance, as Ash teaches Marlowe about the genre via various novels and then romance experiences (aka dates). One of the best things about the book is the focus on Marlowe's relationship with her friends, who are cute, quirky, and not afraid to be different. There's a diverse cast with queer characters--always appreciated.

While focusing on one thing (or person) is, in fact, a part of Marlowe's autism, her focus on Josh went on too long and the book would have been far more engaging with more Ash. It took 20% of the story to even get to her pact with Ash to learn about romance; with that early 20% focused almost solely on opining about Josh. (And I think it's fair to say that Josh is not worth opining over.) It would have been nice to see Marlowe reach her revelation about Josh's true character a bit earlier, so we could have more Marlowe/Ash time. Any part of the story that looked into Marlowe's relationship with her friends, her family, or her banter with Ash was far more interesting.

The story doesn't always feel deep or substantial, but its exploration of neurodivergence is excellent. This tale would be very appropriate and a good fit for its YA audience. 3.5 stars for me.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.

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I turned myself in with you: ANNIE LEBLANC IS NOT DEAD YET.

Annie LeBlanc Is Not Dead Yet by Molly Morris
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

This is a strange little book. Wilson enters her town's contest to, you know, earn the right to bring someone back from the dead for 30 days. She picks her best friend, Annie, trying to overlook the fact that the two weren't friends at all in the last year of Annie's life. But when she gets Annie "back," she seems to gloss over that fact, falling back with Wilson like the old days and confusing her to no end.

So I'm fine with a book about someone coming back from the dead being quirky; in fact, you'd expect it. Instead, ANNIE LEBLANC seems like a standard YA story about friend drama--it just happens that one of those friends is dead. Nothing seems to happen! Wilson is an OK main character, if a bit in her head, but I didn't even like Annie, or Ryan, the third friend in their trio, or Wilson's mom Jody.

Wilson spends her life being responsible for her mom and her little sister, feeling lonely with no friends after a blow up with Annie and Ryan. The book drags out the reveal of why she and Annie and Ryan fought and it still doesn't make sense. Wilson seems to think she's found a loophole to keep Annie alive, so she works diligently to achieve it, while being rather clueless. Meanwhile, there's a million miscommunications, and it appears as if this gang never once interacted with one another or another human.

I'm glad the story has lesbian/bisexual rep and enjoyed the themes of friendship (albeit awkward ones!) and family, but this plot missed overall for me. 2.5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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You sent my head to spinning, just like a Tilt-A-whirl: EVEN IF IT BREAKS YOUR HEART.

Even If It Breaks Your Heart by Erin Hahn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Look it's Erin Hahn, just breaking my heart and putting it back together like it's nothing...

Erin Hahn calls this her "sad rodeo" book, and that was definitely true, but it was also a gorgeous love story and a beautiful story about recovering from grief and loss.

Case and Walker grew up best friends, thick as thieves, and working the rodeo circuit together, riding bulls. But all that changed when Walker's chronic illness caught up with him and he died at age 17. Now Case feels adrift in the world without his best friend. Walker leaves behind a list of things he wanted to do--along with items like jumping naked in a pool and winning the buckle on the national rodeo circuit, Case spies "befriend Winnie Sutton." Case never paid much attention to Winnie, who works at his dad's ranch, but knowing that she meant something to Walker changes things.

This book almost made me like horses, which is a huge feat, as I've been scared of them since childhood. But the ranch vibe is lovely, as is Winnie's absolute reverence for the animals with which she works. Winnie's been raising her younger siblings since her Mom split when she was a kid and her Dad checked out. At this point, she can only practice with other people's horses, but she dreams of competitively barrel racing. And dammit, she's good. I fell hard for Winnie, who has the weight of the world on her shoulders, yet remains optimistic and strong for her family. She has no desire to open her heart or depend on anyone and that includes rich, clueless Case.

I love Erin Hahn's writing and she captured Case and Winnie so well. As they slowly open up to each other and start to trust again... it's impossible not to get caught up in their love. There's nothing instant or half baked in this book. The character development is strong, as we watch Winnie struggle to balance family with her own desires and Case attempt to open up after losing his best friend--and figure out what it is he wants to do with his future. If you've ever lost someone you loved and grew up with young, this book will hit hard.

BREAKS perfectly balances dealing with grief with romance. And it expertly mixes in some fun, with the rodeo pieces (and some awesome 90s country references). This is a beautiful and touching story with wonderful characters. 4.5+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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Seven wonders, city streets: THE GETAWAY LIST.

The Getaway List by Emma Lord
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really love Emma Lord.

Her books are so effusive and original. THE GETAWAY LIST is an enjoyable ode to New York City, growing up, and finding yourself. When Riley graduates from high school, she thought she'd have a plan, but she has none. Her mom expects her to stay home over the summer, work at her coffee shop, and go to community college, but when Riley has the chance to visit New York City for the weekend, her visit suddenly turns into... staying. New York City feels like home, like herself, like Riley can finally breathe again. Lord makes us feel like a part of NYC with Riley, bringing the city to life as Riley slowly discovers pieces of herself that she lost while molding herself into the version of Riley that pleased her overbearing mom.

New York also has Tom, Riley's childhood best friend, who moved to the city four years ago. The two expected to see each other often, but when that didn't happen, they developed "The Getaway List," a bucket list of sorts, filled with ideas to keep them connected. Once together, they start knocking items off the list--take a class together, do a run together for the delivery service where Tom works, etc. Riley loves everything about New York, including the fun new group of friends she meets, but she is a bit confused by the new feelings she has for Tom. Falling in love with NYC is one thing; falling in love with Tom is certainly another.

While this is certainly a YA book filled with teen angst and drama, Riley and Tom are mature, and this is such an effervescent and intriguing story. Riley and Tom bonded as children over a time traveling book series, which is woven throughout the book; it's so nerdy and cute, just like them. Like many of Lord's books, this is a romantic story, but also a tale of friendship at its core. She writes about friendship so beautifully, and it's wonderful reading about Riley and Tom's journey.

THE GETAWAY LIST has a bouncy set of ancillary characters who boost the story, from Tom and Riley's other childhood friend, Jesse, who is trying to make it with his band; to Mariella, Tom's cheerful, brilliant tech genius /artistic friend; and Luca, whom Tom and Riley meet at a writing class. This group's new friendship is sweet and touching too. As for Tom and Riley, they do not have overwhelming chemistry, but a deep, calm relationship. Their friendship is the basis for anything more and watching them grow is special in its own way. They are also funny, nerdy, and growing up.

As with any book by Lord, this story is unique, humorous, and entertaining. LIST delves into mother/child relationships, friendships, coming-of-age, and romance with its own special insight. 4+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.

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And we march towards the light: WHERE ECHOES DIE.

Where Echoes Die by Courtney Gould
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Courtney Gould can WRITE.

WHERE ECHOES DIE is a totally mesmerizing story written in Gould's gorgeous prose. I was completely drawn into the town of Backravel, Arizona-- a place where there are no cars, cemeteries, or churches. It seems like a picturesque place built among worn military structures. But Beck's mom started out writing an article on Backravel and eventually the town consumed her until her death. Now Beck and her sister Riley are spending two weeks in Backravel for a supposed vacation. But for Beck, it's so much more: she has to know why she lost her mom to Backravel.

This is an amazing fantasy tale that explores grief in deep and beautiful ways. The methods Beck uses to deal with her mom's death are not always healthy, but they are nuanced and touching. ECHOES is haunting in so many ways. Time just seems to move differently in Backravel. It's a mystical place, though not necessarily a good one. Gould uses the stark desert landscape to her advantage, creating an atmospheric story that is truly creepy and unsettling. You can feel Backravel as you read--see it, imagine the characters, sense the heat rising off the car-less streets.

The story dragged just a little for me slightly after the halfway mark. I needed Beck to be better to Riley, to communicate more, and things to move just a little faster. Otherwise, this was a great read. A wonderful spooky fantasy page-turner with a sapphic bent.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.

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And the first thing on my mind when I arise: GOING BICOASTAL.

Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler
My rating: 4+ of 5 stars

Natalya Fox has a big choice to make: stay home in New York City for the summer, with her mathematician professor dad and familiar group of friends, or go to LA to stay with her pretty much estranged mom and intern at her mom's company. Natalya is scared of change, but she knows she should fix things with her mom. Unable to decide, her story plays out SLIDING DOORS style: alternating chapters show us her life in NYC and then in LA.

This is an amazing story with tons of bisexual and Jewish rep -- it so awesome to see this book out in the world! It totally cements that I'll read anything Dahlia Adler will write. Once you get into the two timelines, the story flows nearly effortlessly. We see Natalya in LA with her mom, where she meets Adam, a fellow intern struggling to get by. Or she's in NY with her dad, her group of friends, and Elly--the redheaded girl she's long lusted after. Both Adam and Elly are excellent love interests, so we really get two romances in one. Both timelines allow us to see sweet Natalya finding her way and exploring her Jewish identity.

While the two timelines idea could be gimmicky, it's really cute overall and works well here. I loved the Jewish and bisexual representation. This is a fast read with a wonderful cast that will make you smile. 4+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. Look for GOING BICOASTAL on 6/13/2023!!

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And all I know is I'm feeling something I've never felt: PIECES OF ME.

Pieces of Me by Kate McLaughlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dylan grew up with fairly wealthy, albeit divorced, parents and is close to her twin brother. She loves art, and, on the surface, her life seems great. But she's struggled throughout the years--with ADHD and drinking binges. Lately, she's "losing time," often waking somewhere with no memory of where she is or what she's been doing. When she realizes she's spent three days with a boy named Connor without any memory of it, Dylan knows she has to seek help. She's eventually diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID), which starts to help explain why Dylan feels as if there are voices and people living inside of her. But the diagnosis is scary and sometimes Dylan isn't sure she can keep going.

I love Kate McLaughlin's books. This one wasn't quite as emotional as some for me--it's beautifully written, of course, as usual, and I definitely felt for Dylan, but it took me quite some time to get sucked into the story, when normally a McLaughlin book is something I read in practically one setting. PIECES has almost a clinical feeling to it; it covers DID so well that it often feels as if we are reading half fiction, half medical tome, especially as Dylan struggles to figure out what is "wrong" with her (I refuse to classify any mental health disorder as something wrong with a person).

However, the story picks up a lot when she is diagnosed. There's still a ton of explanation of DID, but once we get to meet the other people (alters) who make up Dylan's system, the story becomes more meaningful. DID is caused by trauma when the host is young and they splinter into their alters to protect themselves from what happened. Watching Dylan struggle to realize that something terrible happened to her as a child and then show tremendous strength to learn about DID and delve into that incident is pretty amazing. She's a very strong character and McLaughlin also does an excellent job of giving Dylan's many alters their own personalities as well, as we sometimes get their POV as well.

If this all sounds a little weird, it's really not. The book is very well-done and presented quite well. Dylan struggles to have a relationship with Connor, who turns out to be a remarkably nice person. She has a mom who wants what is best for her and a twin who feels jealous at the attention she receives. I do think some of this story was presented a bit through rose-colored glasses (and McLaughlin even acknowledges that in her author's note): Dylan has a boyfriend who is fully accepting, a family who supports her, and the financial resources to seek treatment. It may not be the most realistic portrayal of DID around. But it's certainly eye-opening, and I believe thoughtfully done (no shame, no mocking).

This is a quiet novel, with the only real plot Dylan's diagnosis and her working through to discover the source of her trauma. It's very dark at times, with a huge set of trigger warnings* (see the bottom of this review). But it's compelling and fascinating and well-done, with McLaughlin's typical laser focus on a topic.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. Look for PIECES OF ME on 4/18/2023!!

*trigger warnings: suicide, child abuse/sexual assault, alcohol abuse

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My heart, it's like a loaded gun: THIS VICIOUS GRACE.

This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

Alessa is a Finestra, revered in her society for a magical gift that is supposed to magnify the power of her partner, called a Fonte. The only problem is that Alessa keeps killing her Fontes instead. Three weddings, three funerals. Now a foreseen swarm of demons is heading toward their island, and Alessa must find a Fonte before it's too late to save her homeland. Her fellow islanders are frustrated and turning against her, so Alessa hires an outcast named Dante to protect her. Dante helps her refine her gift, but his secrets may also doom them all.

At first, I was not sure I would enjoy this book. It felt long and confusing as could be. There is a lot of terminology to learn, and it did not seem like everything was explained very clearly. It took me some time to get into the story. However, once Dante appeared on the scene, I was totally sucked in. Not that Alessa (aka Finestra) isn't a great character. She's pretty awesome--spunky and tough, but thoughtful, too. However, Alessa and Dante's friendship and chemistry made the story for me.

I loved the themes in this one--learning to work together versus tackling problems alone; not fearing the unknown; and pushing back on tradition. I guess all of those hit home for me! I am a sucker for a heroine coming into her own. And Dante was the best--who doesn't love a brooding hero with a (secret) heart of gold, right?

This had a rather abrupt and worrisome ending, but there's a sequel. I'll need to read that right when it comes out! Also, fun fact, my daughter's (very awesome) second grade teacher is thanked in the acknowledgements of this book! 3.5 stars.


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The better to dream of you: THE RENAISSANCE OF GWEN HATHAWAY.

The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway by Ashley Schumacher
My rating: 4+ of 5 stars

It's been nearly one year since Madeline's mom died. She grew up with her parents on the renaissance faire circuit, being homeschooled and helping her parents with their faire booth. Now it's just her and her dad and Maddie finds herself scared she'll forget things about those she loves, so she keeps a journal, marking down "noticings" of everything that happens. Then she meets Arthur, the son of the owners of her latest faire. Arthur seems determined to break through Maddie's walls and become her friend, inviting her to become the Princess of the faire. Maddie doesn't want to get attached to anyone ever again, but Arthur makes it pretty difficult.

This is such a sweet book that delves into the insecurities of teenage life and the difficulties of grief and loss. Maddie (nicknamed "Gwen" by Arthur) is a lovely character recovering from the loss of her mother. She is a darling introvert and the book does an excellent job of portraying her awkwardness and her body issues. It's so wonderful to see a book that discusses a character who is awkward, overweight, funny, and kind. I really loved Maddie. And Arthur is a genuine and kind character as well, being raised by two dads (!) in a castle. There are a ton of fun ren faire references. Maddie and Arthur's romance is a slow, gentle one. This is not a steamy book, but it's a touching one. Their family and friends are witty and cute. I was a bit frustrated with some of the misunderstandings (Maddie thinking Arthur liked another girl, for instance). Overall, this is a very sweet YA story, though. 4+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. Look for it on 3/14/2023!!

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How do you count all the stars in the sky: BEGIN AGAIN.

Begin Again by Emma Lord
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Andie Rose always needs a plan. And her current one seems flawless. Transfer from her community college to Blue Ridge State to be with her long-time boyfriend Connor, major in psychology, and get her life back on track. But as soon as she arrives at Blue Ridge, a major crack hits: Connor has transferred from Blue Ridge to be with her. Oops. Blue Ridge is tough academically. Andie needs a campus job. And her new roommate Shay needs a major, which Andie is struggling with, despite her reputation as someone who can fix anyone's problems... except maybe her own.

So this is cute and fun, for sure. Not my favorite Emma Lord (that is still TWEET CUTE) but a very good read nonetheless. I spent half the book trying to figure out if Blue Ridge was a stand-in for UVA, so I need some mental health help of my own. Andie certainly came with her own set of issues, but don't we all? Her mom passed away when she was young and then her dad basically bailed, leaving her in the care of two sweet, silly grandmas. Sure, they took care of her, but wouldn't that give you a bit of a complex, too? Blue Ridge is where Andie's parents met and fell in love, so she's dealing with that extra heaping of pressure.

The highlights in this book are the friend groups. I loved AGAIN's message about finding yourself and finding your friend family in college (or anywhere). Shay, Andie's roommate, is great, as is Valeria, another friend. And Andie's R.A., Milo, is wonderful--along with his extended family that seems to lurk at every place in Blue Ridge, including the local bagel shop. Andie and Milo's relationship is a slow burner, but it's a good one, and like a lot of Emma Lord relationships, it's really hard not to get behind it. They are just so darn... perfect. Milo has lost his dad; we know Andie has lost her mom, and the book does a strong job of exploring grief and how losing a parent affects your ability to trust. (We will just ignore the whole side plot with Connor, because frankly, he's not worth our time.)

This one felt a bit repetitive off and on--Andie is obsessed with earning these school ribbons, for example, because her parents did--that are tied to club events at the school and sometimes that all felt too much. For someone who loves to give advice, you wanted to shake her from time to time for her decision-making. There's a broadcasting/radio angle that seemed like it would be too much, but actually turned out to be perfect.

Overall, BEGIN AGAIN is chaotic and probably not one bit reflective of my college experience, but it's sweet and touching and full of charm and humor. There are representative characters and a couple you can root for--sometimes there's not much more you need, right? 3.5 stars, rounded to 4 here.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. Look for BEGIN AGAIN on 01/24/2023!!

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I see what's missing in your eyes: I'M THE GIRL.

I'm the Girl by Courtney Summers
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

At sixteen, Georgia Avis has big dreams, but she's held back by a life of poverty. While walking alongside the road, she discovers the body of thirteen-year-old Ashley James, the daughter of the local sheriff. Georgia is hit by a car during everything, and her memories of the incident are jumbled. But she teams up with Ashley's older sister, Nora, to try to figure out what happened. All trails seem to lead to Aspera, a beautiful resort where Georgia's late mother once worked.

Ugh, I feel terrible as I love Courtney Summers, but this one just didn't work for me. Her writing is as lyrical and gorgeous as ever, but I didn't care for the plot, which dragged and had a lot of issues. I really enjoyed the writing in this book, that there was a queer relationship between Georgia and Nora, and that it featured a mystery to solve. The rest of it... not so much.

Unfortunately, the relationship between Nora and Georgia has no depth. It's thrown at us, but we see no development with them, or really any other characters in the book. I wanted to care about them--and everyone else--but it was hard. Georgia honestly came across as frustrating beyond words. Her decisions made me want to scream. Aspera--this strange, fancy resort--and its owners--loom over Georgia's life. She's obsessed with it, but we are never sure why, and her focus on working there is borderline insanity. So many of the problems in this book could have been avoided if everyone would have just been honest with each other from the beginning (including Georgia's family)--this is a huge pet peeve of mine in literature.

GIRL bills itself as a cautionary story about the power of the wealthy and the power males hold over women, but it adds nothing new. If it's focused on sexism and patriarchy, Georgia does not seem to want to fight those things--if anything, she lets things happen to her and spends a lot of time caring what the men around her think of her. Again-this just adds to the confusing angle of Georgia and Nora's relationship.

Overall, I had a hard time caring about any of the characters or the story here. It was confusing, seemed full of plot holes, and then, after everything, gave us a vague ending. So frustrating. 2 stars for me, but many others liked it more.

I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.



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