Where to really start with this one?

I will say, the emotion is there. There is a genuine effort to humanize trans experiences as we see Kate and Leo try to live authentically as themselves while also dealing with the regular teenage pains. I did feel for these characters, even though their plights weren't exactly shown with the best language or care.

I have no doubt the author had good intentions while writing this book, but I don't think they had the language or experience to respectfully tell a trans story. To my knowledge, the author identifies as cis and has worked in providing gender affirming care, but, in my opinion, these factors didn't really help in making a trans affirming narrative. Kate is constantly misgendered and deadnamed by people who are supposed to be supportive friends. Somehow it feels like she has to earn being called the correct pronouns and to be seen as a woman. Leo's identity is used as a plot twist in a way that feels like the typically transphobic "covert trans" trope. The use of the phrase "born in the wrong body" is a big no no and I don't think the excuse of "it was written in 2015" can really cover that. 

There are moments where the fears that come with being trans are treated well: Kate being absolutely terrified of puberty, of her body changing in ways she does not want or Leo just wanting to stay under the radar, fearing being clocked and facing more violence. There are bits and pieces that have something there, but the oversights are just enough that it doesn't really balance out.

As for regular storytelling aspects, it was fine. I felt like at times there wasn't much for Kate to do and so she becomes more of a tag along than someone with her own story. The pace was decently, it was readable without getting sidetracked or too bogged down by extraneous material. 

It has some heart there, but it really needed an authentic voice for it to really shine.