4.5 stars

(Minor spoilers?)

This was a beautiful, poignant, and honestly heartbreaking story. It was definitely driven by the characters and emotions rather than the plot, so if you're not a fan of that then this might not be the book for you. But in my opinion, it was wonderfully done and extremely emotional. I almost cried while reading, and that says a lot because only one other book has gotten to me like that. I loved Marin and Mabel, I loved Mabel's parents, I even loved Gramps. I never expected that twist, and it made me feel even worse for Marin.

The only complaints I have are one, this is said to be an f/f romance, and two, the ending left me wanting more.

Regarding the first, I know for sure that Mabel is bi, and Marin is either bi or lesbian. The only time they're together romantically is in the flashback chapters. I wasn't expecting anything to develop while Marin was grieving, but in the end it seems like Mabel is happy with her boyfriend and Marin happy to have her friend back. There was no hint that they eventually end up together. Or at least, if there was, I missed it.

As for the second, I did like the ending. It was sweet, and everyone got what they wanted. Well, sort of. I think Marin got what she wanted? Anyway, what I mean is that the very end seems to be a flashback. I liked that, but I would've liked to see anything, even a small snippet, about how Marin and Mabel were adjusting. How Marin was coping. If they did end up together. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I liked it, but I wish there was more.

So all in all, I did enjoy this book. It was better than I can say, to be honest. I can't think of words worthy of this book. It was my first of Nina's books, and it didn't disappoint. I can't wait to read more of her work. 😊