This was far more intense than the description gave away. The only other book I can think of that covered unhealthy and unsafe relationships this graphically is A Little Life so you have been warned.

Based on style alone, I was very impressed with this book. The writing is smooth and lyrical with some of that removed-ness from our protagonist in a Sally Rooney-esque way. I didn't realise how close the writing had drawn me in until the very end when my time spent with Michael came to an end and I realised I was really rooting for him.

Content-wise, this was probably too much for me. Chaarani did not shy away from being very open about Michael's concerning relationships, and while that provided a stark look into aspects of Canada's queer scene, I would've appreciated some warning before hand, particularly as this was an audio-ARC.

All in all, I do believe that this will find its audience in the book-community, but perhaps just not with me!