I loved this book! But I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it to everyone. The writing reminded me of Sally Rooney’s and Miranda Popkey’s styles. It was the perfect length at 242 pages with lovely brief chapters. I was hooked throughout. It’s an easy book to pick up and put down but I found myself not wanting to put it down. I should thank Naoise Dolan for expanding my vocabulary because I had to look up a word from every page. The back did call it “politically alert,” which isn’t inaccurate, but it wasn’t very political. I was expecting more commentary on Hong Kong politics but wound up learning more about British politics. The book discusses, Marxism, monogamy, class, abortion, capitalism, and privilege more than an particular political event. Finally, I would say this novel is more character-driven than plot-driven so if that’s not your speed, maybe skip it.

I feel bad rating it this low, but it was just completely mediocre and I had high expectations because I loved her previous novel, Love Lettering.
Each book has had its own solid metaphor for conversation that I appreciate. But beyond that, I won’t remember this book a year from now.

I didn't want to do half stars anymore.... but here we are with a 4.5!
I love that Jess was a single mother! I love that this took place in San Diego! Fizzy and Jess may have my favorite best-friend relationship for a romance novel! I just had some logistical issues with the black moment, but don't want to go into them for fear of spoilers. Nothing enough to take me out of the book, but enough to make this not a 5 star read. But I also really like how the black moment played out in a not-entirely-cliche-way! I'm torn. But Christina Lauren can do no wrong. Also I am glad it wasn't longer!