A review by madi_oasis
Lakelore by Anna-Marie McLemore

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Lakelore was a surprise for me, the blurb enticed me but left a lot of the story up to me to read on and discover, which I appreciated. 

The interpersonal relationship developing between Lore and Bastián, and their own development as intersectional young people was so beautiful to experience. I teared up and cried several times, mostly toward the ending of the book as the symbolism of the lake and seiches and underwater world became stronger. Several quotes have stuck with me, but the most impactful would have to be: 

“You can’t separate everything hard from everything beautiful.” - Bastián

I could connect with these characters on so many levels, and with A.M.’s writing, being a young adult who’s queer and non-binary I felt seen and also felt like I could gain another valuable perspective into the life of the people in my life who have ADHD and dyslexia. This is a must-read if you want to experience queer YA with a character-driven story, believable angst, and LGBTQIA+ hope. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings