An Epic Construct

Not So Normative #1

by D.C. Emerson

This is an adult LGBTQ+ Romance novel.

Is a LGBTQ+ friendly dating app the answer to all of Penelope's dating woes? Her ex-girlfriend turned asexual best friend and roommate sure thinks so. Within a few minutes of swiping, Penelope matches with the mysterious, yet charming Riley, who identifies as queer, but is slow to open up about his sexuality... and everything else.

As Penelope explores dating again, she gets the opportunity to MC a drag brunch, in full drag king regalia. For a long time, Penelope has suspected she might be nonbinary, but that feels like something she'll sort out on her own eventually... right?

The drag brunch is a smashing success, and she meets a beautiful woman in the audience named Taylor. Penelope falls for her hard, and Taylor supports Penelope as she finally begins to explore her gender identity.

Penelope begins to notice similarities between Riley and Taylor, in the way they think, the way they talk, and most importantly in the way they make her feel. What if the two people she's falling for are more than just amazing, what if they're her soul mate?

Follow Penelope's journey as she navigates the ups and downs of dating, self-discovery, and the search for love and acceptance in a hilariously complicated and ultimately satisfying, queer love story.

Genres: Romance, Queer, LGBT, Lesbian, Young Adult, Fiction, Contemporary

315 pages, ebook

Published February 25, 2023

About the author

D.C. is an avid board gamer and rock climber who lives on the East Coast of the United States but loves to travel to places near and far as often as they can.

D.C. has always identified as queer, but during the pandemic they came out as nonbinary (they/them pronouns) to family and friends. This book was part of that process, and they have loved exploring different genderqueer identities like their own through their writing, reading, research, and countless hours watching reels and videos on social media.

Their biggest hope in writing queer fiction is to provide at least one other person out there with characters and story lines that they can recognize themselves, or their friends and loved ones in.

Reviews

[D.C. Emerson]

AUTHOR'S NOTE- This is an adult romance novel, please do not add it to YA lists because it is not a YA book. This book covers adult topics, using adult language, and focuses on characters in their late 20s and early 30s (I just don't want anyone to be led astray!) Thank you SO MUCH for reading and I hope you enjoy.

[Jessica Rush · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🏳️‍🌈🐈‍⬛🐇☕🎤

Honestly, this book is everything for a person struggling with their identity needs to read. Even if you identify as cisgender, then you need to read this book just so you know how those who are non-binary, gender fluid or trans feel about themselves, which will teach you how to treat them with the respect that they deserve.

This book is beautiful. It is informative, had a great storyline, and even though I had a feeling where it was headed, it was written so beautifully that when it came about I still cried. (in a good way)

I loved all the characters and how they just merged into one big queer family. I loved how everyone was supportive, always there for each other and helped each other through depressive states. I loved the connection between Nels and Riley. I loved everything. I can't wait for the next book.

I loved how everyone was queer. Pansexual, Nonbinary, Lesbian, Asexual, Bisexual, Transgender, Gay, Genderfluid and not to mention Drag Queens and Kings! This book had everything and it was truly beautiful.

Just like this cover.

Thanks to Dawn Culter-Tran and NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can already tell this is going to be one of my favourites for 2023.

An Epic Construct follows Penelope as she navigates a new queer dating app as she tries to find love in her late 20's. What follows this is an incredible journey of friendship, love, sexuality, gender, consent, boundaries, communication, self discovery and acceptance. This book has so much depth but is presented in a way that was light-hearted and funny which made it such an enjoyable read.

The characters in this book have my entire heart, although the book primarily centres around Penelope, Riley and Taylor, there were so many incredible side characters who also had amazing representation and diversity. I find with books I sometimes get overwhelmed when there are so many pointless side characters, but each side character in An Epic Construct had a clear purpose and added so much more depth to the storyline and I could imagine the book without them.

I don't think my review could ever show how much I loved this book but I'll be recommending this book to everyone who will listen. An easy 5 Stars and an incredible debut from Dawn Cutler-Tran.

Thank you so much to The Paper House & NetGalley for providing me with this e-ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review.

I post about diverse & queer novels @niksreadss on Instagram

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

First of all, thank you NetGalley and The Paper House for the ARC.

“An Epic Construct” is a queer love story that explores various topics such as self-discovery, finding love and acceptance, and mental health.

I liked the relationship between the characters, both the romantic and the platonic ones.
The characters were fantastic and I adored how much supportive they were with each other.

The author's portrayal of depression and anxiety was also well-done.

I highly suggest this book to everyone and I will definitely read both the sequel and prequel.

Representation :
-pansexual nonbinary MC
-queer gender fluid MC
-asexual romantic lesbian FSC
-bisexual MSC
-bisexual FSC
-trans MSC

TW: anxiety and depression

[MeMe · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was something very appealing about the story's overall premise. Despite Riley's anxiety and other issues, such as depression, Penelope handled everything like a pro. I found the lack of communication to be a little frustrating. Almost all the conversations were tedious and I felt they never accomplished anything. Even when they did talk, something always derailed it and it was dragged out. The waiting time Riley took before telling Penelope was almost too long, as I completely understand his anxiety and depression, so I can see why he was anxious. As much as I enjoyed P's sense of humor, I was also impressed with her awareness of being female. As she explored and discovered herself, I was impressed. Maria was delightful to read about and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Ace Romance through her. It was a pleasure reading the story about Frankie and Diego getting together as well as Diego's past. It was magnificent learning about gender identities.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely book, 3.5 stars rounded up to 4! I really liked the main relationship, and it’s a portrayal of different gender identities I haven’t read about very often in published media! I admit I was worried when I got to the resolution of the conflict, because grand public gestures give me so much second-hand embarrassment so I was relieved to keep reading and see that it didn’t really end up being public. And it made me tear up! I loved them affirming each other. 🥹 I also will say though that something about the dialogue felt...idk, like an overly explain-y tumblr post? Not how real people talk? I mean I’m sure some people do but it took me out of it at times. Still, I really enjoyed this and I was excited to get to the end and see that there’s gonna be a sequel!

Thanks to NetGalley and The Paper House for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

[TeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

At this point, I am convinced it's impossible for me not to love what D.C. Emerson writes. I absolutely LOVED this book. D.C. Emerson portrays gender identity in a very real and relatable way. It may look a little different from your own journey, but it still feels like something you have felt. The feelings are there with so much real emotion. I especially enjoyed the conversations around intimacy and how dysphoria can affect how it's approached. The communication and consent were so well done. Penelope and Riley clearly respect each other. Their individual journeys were so interesting and played into their relationship dynamic in a very interesting way. All in all, this was wonderful, and I loved every minute of it. I HIGHLY recommend reading this one!

[Trift · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I’m going to do something I don’t normally do here and try to do a summary for this book. (I’m shit at summaries so I normally just do vibes.) I don’t think you should look up the summary for this book. I think if you’re going to read this, you should just pick it up and start. Okay so.

Penelope and Riley, both scorned by disastrous dating attempts, turn to a dating app, where they meet and begin dating. As a favor to her brother, Penelope hosts a drag show as drag king Pen’n Winks. With the help of drag queen Sham Pain and Taylor, who Penelope meets at the drag show, Penelope begins to explore her gender identity and how she’s never really felt much like a woman, or a man for that matter. And new relationships are no easy matter, between Riley, who she could love if only he’d open up to her, and the spark of chemistry she feels with Taylor, Penelope has got a lot on her plate.

This book is a wild rollercoaster. It’s a lot of fun. I love Penelope. She’s an absolute joy. Riley is a sweetheart teddy bear that was played with too hard, and you just want to patch him back up and cuddle him and tell him it’ll all be okay. Really liked Taylor too, and all of Penelope and Riley’s friends.

There’s a few criticisms I have of this that I can’t really discuss without spoiling things, so I’ll just say there there’s a few nitpicky points I have where some sacrifices were made so the plot could advance like the author wanted it to. And there’s a few more nitpicky details I have where I wanted to say like, “Okay, we get it, so this isn’t necessary.”

But all over, I really liked this. I had a great time reading it. I read it pretty much in one sitting, giving my wife constant updates as I went through the highs and lows of this rollercoaster plot. There’s a lot of good discussion about gender and what it means to different people and what that means that it should mean to you, etc.

Someone DM me if you’ve read this and want to talk about it. Because I really want to talk more about it.

Thanks to NetGalley and The Paper House for a copy of this ebook in exchange for a honest review.

I’ve moved mostly to Instagram so join me there if you’d like.

[Katriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Beautiful story that has wonderful characters exploring their sexualities, and their gender identities.

This is such a poignant story and really important to read right now. This book shows what true acceptance is, and shows how to be understanding and supportive of those who are simply trying to be themselves. Penelope, Taylor, and Riley all have insecurities with themselves due to the actions and behaviors of others, among other things, but along the way they were able to befriend the people who turned into their biggest allies and supporters.

I loved Penelope, she is such an exuberant, confident (at times), and quirky woman who's trying to put herself out in the dating world while also figuring herself out. I adored how much Penelope paid attention to Riley whenever they spent time together, she was so aware of all the nuances Riley's body language gave off and was able to pick up on them and adjust to make Riley comfortable. Her being so supportive and accepting was just so beautiful to read.

I could relate a lot to Riley, he was scared to open up to Penelope in fear of judgement, and then in fear of her leaving him... He had walls around his heart and it took him a while,(and some therapy) before he could open up to her. Throughout the story everything that happens leads up to a very important moment. And while that scene and the chapters after that are heartbreaking, they were absolutely necessary. I can't say too much cause I don't want to spoil anything but... While I was devastated for everyone involved, if that moment never happened, then I don't think Riley, Taylor and Penelope would've ever been able to work together.

Penelope, Riley and Taylor all went through struggling times throughout the story, each of them are trying to figure out who they are, what they like, and what feels right to them. There is a bit of angst in this book but it has a place in this story. Once you read this yourself you'll understand what I mean by that. I learned quite a bit whilst reading this story about gender fluidity and how it's okay to try new things to figure out who you are and who you want to be. I thought this story was really beautiful.

I do want to say I thought the writing itself was extraordinary!! It immediately pulled me in and immersed me into the world the author had created. The characters were dynamic, personable, relatable, and absolutely fantastic! I loved that the side characters are just as important as the MC's, and the bonds that Penelope, Taylor, and Riley have with their friends is Soo beautiful!

While this story is on the more heavy side (at times), I do think this is a lovely, and light romance story. It's what the world needs right now, it's what I need. This was an absolute joy to read and I'm excited for book 2!!

[Danielle - drops.everything.and.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What a fantastic book! I wasn't even halfway through and I was already recommending this book to friends.

This book is a beautiful exploration of sexuality, gender, friendship, and romance. While the book centres around the characters of Penelope, Riley, and Taylor, we are also introduced to their close friends and family, all of whom are incredibly supportive, compassionate, kind, and with the exception of one straight character, are part of LGBTQPI+ community. Penelope, Riley, and Taylor are each on a journey of coming into their best and favourite selves, something I think so many of us are trying to do. In the case of these characters, it is largely concerning their gender and sexuality, but also how to be one's favourite self in a relationship, especially when it's new, tentative, and trust is slowly growing. I also love how the characters are trying new things, for example, Penelope hosting a drag brunch as a drag king. As she steps outside of her comfort zone, she is able to become more in tune with who she is and who she/they want to be.

The relationships that Penelope, Riley, and Taylor have with their friends are beautiful and, I think, something that we all deserve to have. Friends who love us, care for us, support, challenge us, cheer us on and cheer us up, who want the best for us. This book shows how powerful friendships can be, how important they are for our health and happiness.

This is a romance, so I would be remiss if I didn't speak to this element of the book. Well, the romance is extraordinarily well done, and even comes with a bit of a twist! While I clued in on the twist fairly early on, doing so only made me appreciate the writing of the book even more, the details and clues that are present.

Something I was so impressed with is how consent is approached in this book. It is explicit. It is often. There are discussions about boundaries, about needs, about preferences. And the characters are respectful, listen, and change their behaviours accordingly. When a character makes a mistake, even inadvertently, they own it and apologize.

Overall, I love this book. It is fantastic and I will happily recommend it to others. To note, while the characters are in their late 20s, I do think this is a book that people in their late teens could read and enjoy.
I understand there will be a second book and I will happily read it when it becomes available!

Thanks to NetGalley, The Paper House and the author for an e-ARC of the book. Opinions are entirely my own.

[Fruzsina Bagin · Rating 5 out of 5]

"An Epic Construct" is not just a story, but a mirror – a sensitive and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by those in search of their identity. However, it can be valuable not only for those who experience these dilemmas personally – it is also a useful and enlightening read for those who want to understand queer people around them better and learn how to support them with respect and empathy.

The story centres on Penelope, who after many failures tries her luck on a new queer dating app, hoping to finally find love. However, the events that follow are about much more than a romantic search: the novel becomes an emotionally rich and profound journey of friendship, love, sexuality, gender identity, personal boundaries, communication, self-discovery and acceptance.

Although the book touches on serious issues such as depression, anxiety and the struggle with societal expectations, the author delivers it with sensitivity and humour. It was particularly fascinating to see that much of the conflict at the heart of the story stems from a lack of communication or miscommunication – a problem that often makes it difficult to experience self-identity and human relationships in real life.

The characters are absolutely fascinating. Although the novel focuses mainly on Penelope, Riley and Taylor, the supporting characters are just as memorable and full of life. As one big queer family, they support each other, endure hard times together, and are always there for each other. D.C. Emerson has explicitly taken care of diversity, with pansexual, bisexual, gay, lesbian, asexual, non-binary, transgender and genderfluid characters all represented in the story, and even the world of drag queens (and drag kings).

Overall, "An Epic Construct" is not just a novel, but an experience. It is a book that has the power to touch you, to inspire you and to teach you something about yourself and others. Sensitive, humorous, honest and profound, it is exactly the kind of book I would recommend to anyone open to a heart-warming and thought-provoking read.

I received a free copy of "An Epic Construct" by D.C. Emerson via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Issy Waldrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me open with the statement that I absolutely loved that story. Really really loved it. It was wonderful, heartwarming, adorable, and filled with so many gender and queer feels. It's the kind of read that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside as you finish it, and smiling stupidly as you read through it, the interactions between the characters something to be envious of.

It's a journey of self discovery and coming out, and being able to share that with others, and finding oneself in the right space to be able to do so. Of being able to find the one for you, of building a relationship with them, and of being accepted and loved, with all of the pain and heartbreak that is felt along the way, along with all of the happiness and joy. The journey isn't always easy, but it isn't a journey made alone either.

The characters, especially the friends are on both sides are wonderful (lots of cuddles!), and I really think everyone's life would be better with friends like that. There is life to them all, and they enrich the story in so many ways. Yes, most of them are queer, but that is part of what makes the book as wonderful as it is. None of them are perfect, especially the mc's, but that really makes the journey so engrossing, and so relatable. Because, for many, what the characters go through and have been through really is quite familiar.

It is wonderfully written, hilarious at times, serious at others, but still managed to keep me immersed and just wanting to read more (and yes, I am very excited for the sequel). It was the sort of story that I knew from the first few pages that I was going to love it, and it did not disappoint.

It really is an adorable story, and one that I am so glad to have found, and eagerly recommend to others. Especially for anyone on the gender spectrum (be it trans, non-binary, gender fluid, bigender etc), as so much of it is relatable.

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Epic Construct is unlike most romance novels I’ve read recently. Sure, there’s a love story - maybe even a few - but it’s much more than two people meeting and falling in love. This book is a beautiful journey of introspection, self-discovery and acceptance for both main characters, both of themselves and each other.

When Penelope and Riley first match through a dating app, their connection already feels charged. Dawn Cutler-Tran infuses their interactions with flirty banter but also a healthy dose of vulnerability. Both characters harbor uncertainties and insecurities, and it’s this sense of wanting more yet holding back that sets the stage for what I can only describe as an intensely complex and fragile budding romance.

The mental health, gender and sexuality representation in this novel are outstanding. I’ve had this on my TBR and decided to make it my first read of the #transrightsreadathon, and I’m so glad I did. I’ve read books with trans or gender fluid characters, but rarely do they acknowledge or display what that lived experience looks like the way it happens in this book. Pen and Taylor Riley’s thoughts, emotions and behaviors are conveyed genuinely and unmistakably true to who they are. I wish more stories showed this level of intricacy, sincerity, sensitivity and awareness when portraying these characters.

As much as this book is about love and acceptance, it’s also about communication. I sincerely wish real life was full of the honesty & ability to openly share your needs the way Taylor Riley and Penelope do with their chosen support networks. Not that they don’t have fears & anxiety - they do. But knowing someone is there with that type of unconditional love and understanding isn’t something everyone has despite the fact it’s something we all need.

[ABG · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written story about finding yourself, and finding love. This is one of most diverse casts I’ve ever seen in a book, with characters of various races, genders, ages, sexualities, and backgrounds. The representation was very well-done - this book clearly made the distinction that its characters weren’t stereotypes, but characters will full lives of their own, and for all identities that I can speak for (I’m nonbinary and asexual), I must say that the representation was respectful and relatable. I loved seeing Penelope meet Riley and the two of them work on each other and themselves through the course of the narrative. Penelope’s conversations with Taylor were something that I haven’t often seen - characters talking about their queerness so frankly and in such depths - and it was really well done. Each POV felt distinctive, the characters were likeable and if not relatable written to be understandable. The plot moved forward naturally as did the relationships - I never once found myself bored. The author has a lovely writing style that seamlessly blends dialogue, thoughts, and actions, and it was a joy to read. I will say, though, that you definitely have to be reading with a keen eye! I skimmed some parts of the earlier chapters when I was in a hurry and suffered a little for that later. Take the time to read this one - it’s definitely worth it. I would recommend it to anyone who likes romance novels and wants to learn more about the LGBTQ community, and anyone who is in the community - you’ll surely find yourself or a friend in some characters, or see how their experiences are different to yours.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[The Bookish Chimera - Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Like you’ve been trying to think of a word you’ve forgotten your entire life, and when you remember it it’s a huge relief.”

I adored An Epic Construct, probably because it resonated very deeply with me. This story has the perfect balance between emotions. Taylor Riley and Penelope are anxious, but the book is also full of (queer) joy. Even though they question who they are –sometimes with tons of self criticism– hope and joy prevail.
This book is like a cozy blanket that helps you pass the darkest hours of winter, and should be read by people questioning, and even by anyone, because the author makes something I love in all their works: they humanize the characters, trigger empathy, and even though queerness is the core of the book, it also isn’t. Characters are. Humans are. I can’t say how deeply I love it (and have trouble putting it into words, sorry).
Everyone’s experience is of course different, but I’ve read some of the most relatable things I’ve read until now, especially (but not only) regarding anxiety. Such books help feel less alone in the world, help understand that no one is alone, even though everyone is unique. That makes them invaluable.

Thank you to the author for the gifted ebook. My opinions are my own.

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story

I really loved the overall premise of the story. I loved how Penelope discovered herself more and how she handled all of Riley’s anxieties and other issues, like depression.

It was a little frustrating for the miscommunications to go on for so long. I felt like they had almost too many talks and it was frustrating that the times they did get to talk, something always happened to derail it and nothing was accomplished and it was dragged on. I totally understand Riley’s anxiety over telling Penelope and it spiraling into depression, so I can see it taking a little longer for him to tell her, it just felt almost too long.

I loved P’s sense of humor and I loved how she knew she was female and not trans, not male but more neutral. I liked how she explored that and discovered who she was. I absolutely adored Maria and learning thru her about ace romantic. I loved Frankie and Diego and the little side story of them getting together and Diego’s past. Sham Pain was a delight!!

I loved the story and I loved learning about all these gender identities. The author did a really amazing job telling this sweet story.

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever questioned your sexuality, or even moreso, your gender expression and gender identity, read this book. Even if you haven't questioned it, if you enjoy discussions of it, read this book.

Penelope gets pressured into a dating app by her asexual roommate and quickly becomes interested in Riley. Riley is very sweet, but struggles with anxiety and depression and disappears for days at a time (though is extremely well supported by other friends). In the meantime, Penelope's brother begs her to emcee at his cafe's drag brunch, where she meet Taylor. Penelope and Taylor quickly strike up a deep texting relationship, particularly discussing gender. Is Penelope falling for both of them?

Honestly, the romance aspects in the books almost feels more of a cover for the large discussions around sexuality and gender, but I am 100% here for that. And I really like a lot of the characters. I'm looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series holds for us!

Note: I received a free review PDF of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, but reviews are my own.

[Leta Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I don't typically read any type of romance and wasn't sure how much I would actually enjoy this book, but I was excited to support my best friend anyway. Even though I had read parts of it before it was published and knew generally how the story was supposed to go ahead of time, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how quickly I became attached to the characters and how much I enjoyed seeing the different story lines weave together. I don't personally identify as LGBTQ+ so it was also enlightening to read about so many characters with life experiences different than myself in so many ways, but seeing that at our core we do have some similarities - like
how we all want to be loved and accepted by those around us. It was especially meaningful considering that I know the author was pulling from lived experiences as she built these multi-dimensional characters, both her own and from other people she has met and gotten to know along the way. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a sweet romance.

[Heather Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the modern era of online dating, Penelope is talked into using an LGBTQ+ app that her asexual bestie and roommate tell her about. While getting to MC a drag brunch, she meets a beautiful woman in the audience named Taylor. They begin forming a deep connection in their queerness and Taylor supports Penelope as she finally begins to explore her gender identity. Penelope isn't sure if she is non-binary, but feels she needs to find who she is in the journey of introspection, self-discovery and acceptance for both main characters, both of themselves and each other.
Penelope meets Riley through the dating app, and they soon grow a relationship with each other. They both have insecurities and anxiety, but help each other get through it.
This book is a great example of unconditional love with someone who has flaws. Their communication with each other is one of the prime requirements in a relationship. Communication isn't a huge importance in many romance books, and that won me over.

[Aleksander Petit · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Epic Construct is a highly enjoyable and meaningful read. The LGBT+ representation, mental illness representation, and the ways the two intersect is relatable in a way that I don't often see in media. I have a million and one praises to sing about this book and can't articulate all of them, but it boils down to An Epic Construct being a validating experience for me as a queer, mentally ill twenty-something. It addresses the layers of how scary dating can be in a way that makes failed past experiences feel less like outright failures and more like bricks in the path towards something happy later on. And the book also has charming, sometimes even ridiculous moments that will make you laugh and smile. Also cute pets. Overall, an amazing book about the importance of open communication but also taking things at your own pace in both your relationships with others and your relationship with yourself.

[Happy Booker · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘An Epic Construct’ is a fictional LGBTQ+ story about Penelope’s dating life and how her friend thinks she will have a more successful dating experience if she joins a dating app. As Penelope is also trying to figure out her own identity and suspects her to be nonbinary, she meets Riley, who identifies as queer. Every other character she meets and interacts with becomes more challenging and dynamic as the story unfolds.

The author ensures the reader’s intrigue and introduces a very diverse and exciting tale that enables the reader to understand what it’s like to be sexually challenged and how to navigate the ups and downs of dating.

I appreciate the self-discovery and searching for love regardless of sexual orientation. I recommend this book to those who like fictional and dating stories.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

•This is an adult LGBTQ+ Romance novel! It is such a cute story!! The characters were adorable together and I was so excited to get to see how their story played out!!

Mini review:
•This was such a cute story! It shows the story of two people who meet on a dating app who end up having a hard time deciding and sharing what their sexuality is.

•There was a plot twist in this story and I was a little shocked! As soon as it happened I instantly wanted to finish the book to see how the rest played out!!

•A small breath escaped his lips. "I... make you melt? When I..." he stopped and just blinked down at her. "Yes, sweetheart. You do. And surprisingly, it seems that I like melting.”

•"I want a chance at forever with Nels."

[Jasmine Shouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Epic Construct is a sweet story about dating, gender, and self-exploration.

Penelope and Riley independently decide to start dating again using a queer app and they match together. From the first date, their respective anxiety helps break the ice while they start to learn more about each other and themselves.

I love their support networks and how healthily they communicate, even when they miscommunicate. Respect and consent are huge to them both, and it shows.

Rep: Sapphic, Achillean, Asexual, Pansexual, Bisexual, Trans, Nonbinary, Gender-fluid, Anxiety, and Depression

Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review!

[mikayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for this ARC!!

An Epic Construct was a very good read. It followed Penelope, Taylor, and Riley as they find themselves and go on dating adventures.

An Epic Construct was entertaining, cute, heartwarming, and enjoyable. It was an easy and fun read. I enjoyed the characters and how they all had very good support systems. There was so much queer representation as well! The plot twist was pretty predictable. The writing was amateurish at times but overall decent.

The book did cover some darker topics like depression, so fair warning for that and please check the trigger warnings!

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t think I have ever felt so seen by a book before. To quote my own notes: I am Penelope and Penelope is me. I related so hard to their gender journey. They had such an amazing support network for it too, with their friends being so amazing. I especially loved Maria and Penelope’s friendship and how unconditionally they loved each other. Overall I was so invested and so proud of Penelope. I was also very invested in the romance. It was so sweet, and they were such a perfect match. I am so glad it was multi pov and I got each of their thoughts and feelings. They were both anxious and awkward, yet willing to put in the work. They also balanced each other well. I liked how they included their friends in the development of their relationship as well. So for the most part this was such a wholesome read. However, there was some very intense angst that had me sobbing. It was so well written but heartbreaking. Thankfully there was an amazing, very happy and hopeful ending. So overall I adored this book and cannot recommend it enough.

[Rachel Clair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of An Epic Construct.

This book was so unique and relatable, taking its time exploring the challenges of entering a relationship for anxious people, especially when there are identity struggles happening. It was so refreshing to read characters who are careful and intelligent and empathetic in their communication. Highly recommend!

The only downside is the formatting in the ARC copy was an absolute mess and made the book quite challenging to read… many letters being left out, and some sentences randomly getting scrambled so I had to decipher what the true order of the sentences should be.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt so seen reading this book. As someone who has never felt 100% comfortable in my own skin, I could relate to both Penelope and Riley. I absolutely loved this book. Both MCs are struggling with their identity and being honest in their life with who they are and expressing themselves as such. I fell in love with both of them. I also love the fact that they both have friends and family who accept them just as they are. Such a good story and I can’t wait to see how their relationship develops.

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how queer DC Emerson's books are! They're light, they're fun, but at the same time they dig deep into queer identities. I love how understood and not-alone they make me feel.

If there's a trope that many of us hate (with good reason), it's a love triangle. Though I love it when authors take on the challenge of twisting the idea and turning it on its head. Without spoiling the plot, this is exactly what DC Emerson does here, and they've done a great job!!

Penelope has a hell of a time trying to navigate her feelings for beautiful and badass Taylor, and for sweet and skittish Riley. At the same time she's also starting to question her own gender and what that means for her relationships.

Emerson brings us a drag queen, drag kings, multiple found families, healthy relationships, and a conversation on gender that felt incredibly personal to me. This is a really positive book and I think a lot of us "what the hell is gender anyway?" folks would enjoy reading it.

[Devons book corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book about Penelope and Riley. When both decide to start dating again using a queer app, they end up being matched together. Penelope ends up discovering herself even more, and she helps Riley with her anxiety and depression. I really liked that. I also thought Penelope had a great sense of humor and I loved that about her, plus her character in general. Overall, a really cute story.

[Julee (overbookedwithjulee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really stole my heart. I loved all the main characters, the story line was very intriguing. You follow the story through three points of view. It has a content warning at the beginning of the book, so you don't have to look it up yourself, which was a nice touch. The ups and downs throughout the book made me care more about the characters. The character growth was great also. I really recommend this book.