Gemini

by Sonya Mukherjee

[Angie]

I received an ARC through NetGalley.

I really enjoyed Gemini! I had never read about conjoined twins before, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The author does an amazing job of giving us enough details about the twins' medical history and their situation, but without forgetting that they're people. Clara is the more quiet twin. She's passionate about astronomy and just wants to go unnoticed by others. On the other hand, Hailey is an artist and likes standing out. She believes they can do anything together, while her sister isn't so sure about life's possibilities for them.

Gemini tackles a lot of issues. Obviously, there's Clara and Hailey going about day to day life while attached at the spinal column. There's talks about having surgery to separate them, and the risk associated with that. But the girls are also dealing with starting college. Their parents want them to stay home, Clara is okay with that, but Hailey wants to go to art school and travel. Boys also come into play, as Hailey gets the courage to ask out her crush, while Clara starts falling for the new boy. This brings up a whole new set of questions for the twins, because how would romantic relationships work for them?

Gemini was just a great read. I really liked Clara and Hailey. They have a bond that can't really be described or understood. Their dreams, goals, and fears are completely relatable. Of course, only very few people can relate to being conjoined, but the fear of loneliness, being stuck, and having regrets are universal. I also really liked how involved the side characters were. The parents are present. The mom did annoy me at times, but I totally believed her overprotective nature. The girls have great friends, and even the boys had me cracking a smile.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.