Scan barcode
booksthatburn's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
I appreciate the choice to have a main character (Quentin) who is sex-repulsed and asexual (but probably not aromantic). I think it's handled pretty well, especially with regards to the friendship/relationship between the main characters (Laurence is bisexual). It's important to note that the villains are antagonists partly due to their disrespect of personal autonomy and disregard for consent, especially but not only with regards to sex. This means that certain elements of the plot revolve around unwanted sexual contact and conversations aimed at both main characters. There's also a focus on addiction and recovery, of working through the destructive patterns in their lives and trying to make long-term changes.
I hope the sequels feature Quentin working through the mental blocks which are disrupting his life, but without treating it like he needed to be fixed with sex. Based on how this book went, I have high hopes that this will be handled well going forward, but I'll be keeping my eye on it.
Graphic: Alcoholism, Drug use, Alcohol, Bullying, Stalking, Drug abuse, Gaslighting, and Violence
Moderate: Sexual assault, Toxic relationship, Sexual harassment, Death, Death of parent, Vomit, Child abuse, and Grief
Minor: Pregnancy, Acephobia/Arophobia, Ableism, Suicide, Suicidal thoughts, and Sexual content
zirogods's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Gaslighting, Sexual assault, and Toxic relationship
Minor: Alcoholism, Biphobia, Death of parent, Stalking, Suicidal thoughts, and Vomit
deestraith's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I'd say read this if you plan to read fast, if you're looking to be entertained! But give it a pass if you're looking for something very polished or with a very nuanced anti-oppression angle.
Graphic: Addiction, Cursing, Death of parent, Drug use, Grief, Panic attacks/disorders, and Vomit
Moderate: Stalking
Minor: Rape and Suicide