A review by sapphic_in_the_stacks
Always the Almost by Edward Underhill

emotional hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The way that transness and self discovery was tackled was refreshing and joyful. I loved the way music was incorporated, and the relationship with the music teacher was developed. 
I think I generally liked the protagonist's inner voice, but I did go back and forth on whether it was a bit heavy on angst, particularly in the friendship / relationship dynamics.

Also, I didn't like the cheating plot line, I wish that was handled differently. I think there were ways to achieve the same narrative goals without implying that cheating is justified in some situations. Eric was truly the purest, kindest character in the book, and I think he deserved better. There were plenty of ways to create tension and conflict in their relationship without having Miles cheat on him with Shane. Honestly, Miles telling Eric about his feelings for Shane could have had the same effect.