I’ve had this one sitting on my to read shelf for quite a while. I knew I’d like it – I haven’t read anything by Oseman that I haven’t liked – but I was nervous about this one all the same, and so it went on the backburner until I felt ready for it (and had exhausted all the ARCs I needed to read and review by specific deadlines).

As in all of Oseman’s other work, the cast of characters is diverse in a way that doesn’t feel forced. Georgia is an instantly likeable character, and being able to see the world of dating and romance through her eyes is one that shook me to my core as I was reading, because I found I had much in common with her even as a twenty-something adult. Each of Georgia’s friends are unique in their own way, and each have their own drives and motivations and don’t act solely as support for the main character. The plot, while somewhat formulaic, is still intriguing enough to keep the reader engaged and turning pages, and I was unable to put it down once I started a reading session.

The only complaint I really have is that the end is very tidy. I think Oseman could have left off a couple of the last chapters and it would have made for a more poignant read; that would probably boost my rating to five stars. But I appreciate what Oseman was aiming for, and the ending as it is isn’t egregious.

I think that, knowing this was focused on asexuality, I knew this would be an important read for me, and that might have been what put me off it for so long – but now I’m kicking myself for waiting. I do hope more teens and young adults who are struggling with these issues, or even are just looking for representation, are able to find this book and see themselves reflected on the page.