I was able to read this book early via e-arc, which I got from Edelweiss. So thank you, Edelweiss!

TW: riot/protests, period-typical homophobia, mention of death of a partner

Throughout most of this book I was thinking that it was a solid four-star read. But then the last few chapters warmed my heart so much and I couldn't not bump it up at least a half star. Both the plot and the romance are slow burn, but the pay off is definitely worth it in both areas. Not just the two main characters, but even the supporting characters were fleshed-out, making them seem like real people. I loved the discussion of the feminist themes that were present in this book, just like how they were present in the previous book in this series. I also loved how the books in this series, along with many other books, continue to show that the lgbtq+ community has always existed, and that we will always find a way to gather together and carve out a space for ourselves, in spite of and in defiance of hate and bigotry.