Anytime there’s a book with anxiety representation, I’m all over it! I didn’t know it was happening with this book, but it was a big focus. Leigh is a character that I saw myself in several times. I have seen some reviews where they couldn’t understand or thought she was annoying. They should count themselves lucky that they have never had the same anxiety-filled life.

I’m going to expand on this a little more. Leigh is in an MFA program because she’s lost in life. Her parents are divorcing, she hates her job, and pining over her High School crush. On top of all these things, Leigh is living with a lot of anxiety. When she gets into this MFA program, it rears its ugly head. She likes to have this persona of what she thinks other people like. People pleasing goes hand in hand with anxiety. If we think others think we are pretty, acceptable, smart, etc, there’s a feeling of belonging. She goes to her first workshop, and her thoughts are so relatable. I remember thinking similar things in a new college class or anywhere that it’s a new experience. You don’t want to talk or give your opinion because you are not confident it would land well. The embarrassment of something like that happening is just debilitating. I’m just pointing out another scope to understand the FMC. The way she acts throughout the book makes a lot of sense if you’ve experienced high levels of anxiety. I’m so glad that we get her therapist sessions because it helps open that up further. There is a lot to unpack with her parents.

Anyway, besides the mental health representation, the romance was great. There are many moments in their life when things don’t pan out. They are both holding onto words and grudges from the past that don’t help them move forward in the present. Regardless, I loved Will and how he saw Leigh. He was patient and way more understanding than a normal person would be. To all the spice lovers, there are a couple of moments, but not a big part of the story.I wish I would have gotten more of Will’s POV. He’s reserved, and we don’t know much about what’s going on with him.

The friendships are amazing! I loved Gen and how she didn’t put up with Leigh’s crap. She is really what a true friend should be. The writing workshop crew was great to get to know and love. I flew through this book in a little over a day. I enjoyed it and all the relationships. If you are looking for an angsty romance with a lot of poetry and mental health awareness, this is for you. I couldn’t put it down!

Thank you, Forever and Netgalley, for an e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.