I had no expectations for this book. I’d never heard of the author before; I didn’t know much about it—all I knew is that there was mental health/disability representation.
And it was so good?! I was completely absorbed in the book. From chapter one, the chemistry and banter between Jack and Raine had me hooked. I loved their characters, and I related so heavily to them both. Not to mention Sebastian? Best kitty ever. I love him. I would die for him.
On a serious note, the representation of both OCD and ADHD were wonderfully done. There was obvious knowledge and care in the handling of the subjects. I’m not sure whether either representation was #ownvoices, but regardless, I highly recommend it for that alone. I really appreciated the depth of discussion and exploration of intrusive thoughts. It’s so rare to see that aspect of OCD represented, and it was so meaningful, as someone with OCD, to read about a character with those experiences. This is a beautiful love story, and I could read about these characters falling in love and finding themselves a dozen times over. They were real, they were flawed, and they were so easy to love and root for.
Even the side characters felt truly alive. I loved them so much and wish I could read an entire additional book for each and every one of them. This is the third book in a series (though they are standalones), and I’m really looking forward to picking up Ollie and Nina’s book, but I desperately wish Roisin, Clara, and Aoife had their own books as well. I loved Sarah Grunder Ruiz’s writing, and I can’t wait to pick up her backlist.