To my great shame, I’ve never actually read any Oscar Wilde before (even though I was supposed to for uni shhhh), but I have always had a fascination with classics, and with retellings of said classics. When I stumbled upon this, it seemed right up my alley, and I’ve enjoyed it quite a bit!!

I really enjoyed and was able to relate to Janey as a character, and I truly appreciated the exploration into adoptee life that Horan emphasizes in this book. It was beautifully put on the page, and I’m especially glad that I read this because it allowed me to learn about the experience of someone different from myself. That’s something I appreciate and look for in all my books!

Janey and Gwen’s relationship (and especially Janey’s Gay Panic Mode every single time she was in Gwen’s radius, I mean, haven’t we all been there??) was so much fun as well! I especially loved the prom scene, with Gwen calling Jane brave when for finally admitting to loving her with no hesitation - fundamentally, this is what queer love is. The biggest act of bravery you will ever perform in your life.

I also was very happy that the platonic relationships, especially Jane and Algie’s, were given just as much attention and care as our main pairing. You can genuinely feel the love that these two have for each other every single time they interact, and they bring out the best from each other, and it was just beautiful!! Also, last but not least, I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t ask for an Algie and Cecil spin-off, please? Thank you!!

Now, for the less than good part, and the reason why my rating is what it is. The story, while unique and so full of heart, definitely felt a tad bit rushed and unfinished to me. Janey finds out she has bio family, meets them, and… everything is solved? The gang goes to prom and has a beautiful time and all the agonizing that she’s done is just quickly wrapped up with a neat little bow? We were going from point A to point B so fast, I found myself going “Wait, what? Already???” multiple times throughout, and I would’ve loved a bit of a different pacing overall.

As always, the characters made this book fun for me, and I would definitely recommend it as a quick, cozy YA that’s super enjoyable. But I’m starting to believe that I’m growing a bit out of the genre? Remains to be seen. For now, it’s still my go-to, and I look forward to keep exploring and figuring out my (new) reading tastes!