Isabel

I'm rating this as a 4 for the entertainment I had while reading it, the plot had so many holes it looked like a drain BUT the main couple had chemistry, the FMC is awesome, and I laughed so much, that it deserves those 4 stars more than most books.

This book needed editing, there are some things about the writing could be better, but the character development and the plot are solid.
That said, this isn't a happy book, and you should look up the trigger warnings before you read it because multiple disturbing subjects are being discussed here.

Both Hazzard and Sommers aren't the best or more likable characters you'll see, to be honest, most of the characters here aren't likable, but they're very human and flawed.

Probably my favorite book of them all to this point 4.5/5
I loved the lore and all the mix of little details of different cultures and religions merged in here.
I like the way Kate and Curran are learning to compromise to make it work, even though I still hold him to better standards because she deserves it. But I will be able to enjoy their dynamics because of compromise and communication.
Aunt B, Dali, Doolittle, Andrea, Raphael, Derek, and Julie own my heart.
I also think the conflict between Raphael and Andrea is needed, even if some of the arguments weren't. I want to see their relationship evolve and grow, and I root for them to become better people, individually and together.

This is a 2/5 because it was interesting enough to be devoured quickly but I won't read the sequel.

Sophie Lark's writing is intriguing enough to make me read this all in one sitting. It's not flowery prose or complex poetry, it is a matter of fact, and sometimes you can feel it doesn't take itself all that seriously. Its most potent part is the ability to make you care enough to keep reading, I was entranced and hooked because I wanted to know what would happen to Mara.

The characters aren't exactly likable, and I don't think they would be to everybody's tastes. Still, I can understand why she dedicated this book to people who have struggled in the past because Mara can be relatable in her messy and flawed way of life because of what she's been through and who she chooses to be despite her wounds. Some moments I rooted for her, some moments I laughed at her poor decisions, and many times I was happy that she had agency over it, and she reflected on her choices.

Honestly speaking this is a fantastic and wholesome read.

It made me laugh, cry, question my worldview, and wish to hug my family and friends tight.

I can't wait to read all of them.

I'm here like, WHAT THE EVER LOVING *$%#@ did I just read? FIVE STARS.

My face is swollen and I am deeply sad, yet hopeful. This book is beautiful, heartbreakingly beautiful.

I felt seen, celebrated, respected, and loved. Like Fish, I'm a Capricorn sun queer girl with a complicated family, and as Simone would say I feel marveled and reveled at by this book, and that doesn't happen often for people like us.

Thank you, Jas Hammonds, we do deserve moments too.

Sweet, fresh and definitely one of the books I wish I had when I was growing up. Being black and queer ain't easy, but seeing someone out there writing for the next generation of black kids makes me think their path will be more gentle than mine, and that fills my heart with joy.

This book gave me everything I wanted from it, good round and we'll developed characters, beautiful friendships, growth and a sweet love story. 100% recommend.