for those who are looking for a queer representation, I believe they could find it in this book. so far, this is one of the most relatable wlw books I’ve read. not because I’ve gone through the same journey as the protagonist, but because I’ve been through the same kind of crisis. from my perspective, this a beautiful and deeply empathetic story told through the main character. I read it while listening to the audiobook, which only heightened my understanding of the story, its emotions, and the dilemmas woven throughout it. the first few chapters felt like being slapped in the face with a fish rather than a hand. it wasn’t for the romance, but because of the portrayal of motherhood and the protagonist’s relationship with her mom. I found myself gasping every time the book put into words the very things I’ve felt and carried with me all this time, especially when it came to my own emotions toward my mother. I think that, honestly, is one of the main reasons this book has become one I would recommend to anyone looking for a wlw story that goes beyond romance and delves into deeper emotional struggles, complicated family relationships, and sentimental values. as I write this review, I find myself still deeply thinking about her journey and thinking about how many women must have found a piece of themselves in her. the shame, confusion, euphoria, and love are all portrayed with such humanity that the story never mocks or diminishes the journey of self discovery. I might be in the minority here, but I found this book slow and almost boring whenever it delved into the main character’s journey with attraction and love. almost surprising, because this is a romance book. but I think repetitive would be the word. so for the ending, I honestly don’t know how to feel about it. I fully understand and acknowledge that it’s an important moment in her l character development, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I felt satisfied with how it unfolded. I know what the author was trying to do, but still feeling that something about it didn’t quite work for me. overall, still a good read!