Reviewed by Sam@WLABB on
I always love how much diversity Redgate packs into her books, and it never seems forced. Laila was a really complicated and interesting character. She loved writing and adored her writing class, but when her teacher was hospitalized, he was replaced by an award winning author, who was not a fan of Laila's work. She demanded a lot from her, and forced Laila out of her comfort zone in order for her to grow as a writer. During this exercise, Laila learns a lot about herself, with one of the biggest things being confronting her own sexuality. This was a part of the story I found very compelling, and Redgate did an incredible job exploring this with Laila.
I also was a fan of Laila's squad. They were an interesting group with a great dynamic. The dynamic gets a little complicated, but I kept hoping that their friendship was strong enough to weather the storm, because they really did share a special bond.
I don't think the pieces of Laila's writing accomplished what I think they should have. They sort of didn't work for me in the story, but that could totally be a case of "it's me, not you", because I have rarely enjoyed it in books I have read.
This was not a perfect read, but I did have some great take aways, and I felt a LOT of things. There were tears and smiles and frustration and joy too, and I always appreciate feeling the feels when I read.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 5 March, 2017: Finished reading
- 6 July, 2018: Reviewed
- Started reading
- 11 July, 2017: Finished reading
- 6 July, 2018: Reviewed
- Started reading
- 6 July, 2018: Finished reading
- 6 July, 2018: Reviewed