I may doubt the truths of the world, but never again will I doubt whether or not the person that I am, or may be, is loved or worthy of love. I know myself, and I don’t. Both can be true.

This book... feels so much like a warm hug, and I'm so happy that it exists in the world. This is exactly the kind of book I needed when I was younger, the kind of book that would've helped me figure myself out sooner, and knowing that queer kids are now growing up in a world where they have that? Where they get to see themselves and know that they deserve to be happy and loved no matter what? I'm going to adore any book that gives that to them/us 🏳‍🌈

I'm absolutely floored that this is a debut, because it's clear from the very first page how much love and care Racquel has put into her craft. Every single character is so beautifully created, but especially Ophelia, who I fell in love instantly!! Her rose-colored view of the world, her affinity for roses (that I share, even though I can't actually grow them myself) and her open heart are all things that I admire her for. Her journey with her sexuality is so, so incredibly authentic and well-done, and just seeing her grapple with all the changes that she has to face alongside this HUGE thing that she's discovering about herself for the first time is... weirdly comforting, actually. It almost helped me process everything that's changed, and has been changing, in my own life, because through her, I'm realizing that I can give myself the space I need to do that.

And isn't that the point of it all? The realization that, even though she is changing, and the future is unknown, and it's scary but exciting at the same time, she is and will always be (and excuse me for this next pun) Ophelia, after all? Isn't it worth it, in the end, to go through the hard and scary times just to discover that you're stronger than all of it, and that all you have to do is be yourself, completely and unapologetically? This is what Ophelia gives us, and this is what she's going to give so, so many kids who are looking for their place in the world, and I don't have words to express how proud and happy I am that she's a part of the world!!!

Now, I have to talk about the other characters as well, because I'm me and because found family always, always makes my chest ache. The support system that Ophelia is surrounded by, even when she thinks she isn't, is incredible to read about (even if it makes me cry a little). Her and Sammie's relationship especially, the fact that they've grown up together and they're able to accept each other with no reservations, even though they do come across a few bumps in the road - that's so important to have. Her growing friendship with Wes was also very beautiful, because it bloomed from that sense of kinship that you can only get from other queer people, who share your experiences and who can help you understand yourself when you feel like you're drifting alone at sea. Them visiting the LGBTQ+ center and Ophelia becoming a regular after that? Truly literary excellence!!!

I think this book is so important, and I get why it's been so highly - and rightly - praised. I definitely will pick up Racquel's next books as soon as we're blessed with them, because I'll be reading everything she writes from now on!!