First thing I did after finishing this book, I checked my Goodreads READ shelf to see when's the last time I read a YA book that is emotional, insightful, and written beautifully at the same time.

As Long as the Lemon trees Grow is easily my best YA read this year but This Place is Still Beautiful easily claims the second spot.

Wow, such a surprising read and a great way to close my 2023 reading year.

RATING: 5stars