A review by bookphenomena_micky
Some Like It Cold by Elle McNicoll

emotional inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Headlines:
Perceptions
Family expectations
Being neurodiverse

This whole audio was a delight, I couldn't turn it off, needing to see what was going to happen with Jasper and needing some comeuppance for her family and they way they were. This whole story was a beautiful exploration of life through Jasper's neurodiverse eyes and equally how she was perceived.

This family was tough to read, they controlled and did not accept Jasper's differences beyond the label. She had been trained and conditioned to do what was expected of her and this story started as she returned home from a break from university with plans to step outside of their expectations. The story unravelled from there. I couldn't stand her sister despite some later redeeming features and as for the mother and weak-willed father, they were equally awful.

One person truly saw Jasper and that was Arthur. He was a wonderful character, charming and yet a bit of a grump. His long term crush was endearing. These two grew a friendship that was most lovely and unintentional. This part of the storyline was joy.

There's nothing preachy about this book but we all need some insight into the neurodiverse experience, whether we have that experience personally or live with someone who does, it's great to see this representation woven so well into a super-engaging story.

Ultimately, this book felt uplifting but real. The difficulties Jasper experienced weren't diluted but her warm and kind personality rubbed off across the book, making it hopeful.

I listened on audio and the narration pulled out the characterisation so well.

Thank you to First Ink for the audio review copy.