This was such an incredibly emotional, poignant read, and I'm so happy to have finally experienced this story (this, too, is one of those books that I've seen everywhere but only got recently)!

The book tackles very real, tangible issues without ever romanticizing them. The relationship between Laura Dean and Freddy is as compelling as it is toxic, and you can't help but root for Freddy from the very first page. It's easy to blame her for accepting Laura's behavior and for taking her back at every turn, but we're also confronted with the reality that it's never as easy as that when you're stuck in a vicious circle with someone that you have such deep feelings for.

As questionable as some of her actions were - particularly the way she treated her friends - I truly loved that the catalyst for Freddy to finally break up with LD was the realization that she doesn't like the person that she is when she's in this relationship. I think that's such a valuable lesson to learn, even at 26, and such a good way to look at everyone that's in your life and know if that relationship serves you or not.

Doodle?? Was my favorite???? And I need more of them and Freddy, please and thank you. I would also enjoy reading more about Eric and Buddy, especially since at the end of this book they're going through some of their own stuff as well - just more of this friend group + Vi and Mo, please!!

Highly enjoyable, super intriguing, and a very good read. Definitely give it a chance if you can!!