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Pillow Forts and Hurricanes
Emma has an unbreakable bond with her roommates and lifelong best friends, yet struggles to create a romantic connection that comes even close to their friendship. That’s why Emma accepts her stoic boyfriend keeping her at a distance. All of her fantasies about romance and relationships, however, come tumbling down when she witnesses said boyfriend cheating on her.
Following her recent breakup and her evolving bond with her best friend, Noah, Emma begins to question everything she ever knew about relationships, romantic and platonic. When Emma suggests the possibility of a queerplatonic relationship to Noah, the two must navigate their feelings, unveiling secrets they’ve kept from each other… but as confusing it can be, at least they’re doing it together.
Following her recent breakup and her evolving bond with her best friend, Noah, Emma begins to question everything she ever knew about relationships, romantic and platonic. When Emma suggests the possibility of a queerplatonic relationship to Noah, the two must navigate their feelings, unveiling secrets they’ve kept from each other… but as confusing it can be, at least they’re doing it together.
111 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2023
12 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Margherita Scialla
7 books195 followersMargherita Scialla (they/them) is a gen-z author born and raised in Italy. They obsessively studied languages for years, only to drastically change paths and study design at university.
They now spend their days procrastinating and avoiding all and any responsibility (and getting their driving license) in order to read and write.
They now spend their days procrastinating and avoiding all and any responsibility (and getting their driving license) in order to read and write.
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September 22, 2023I’d like to thank the author for providing me a free electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think the sentiments and idea behind this story were really heartfelt, and I think it has a lot of potential. Ultimately it wasn't for me, but I encourage checking it out for yourself to see if you'll love it!
I think the sentiments and idea behind this story were really heartfelt, and I think it has a lot of potential. Ultimately it wasn't for me, but I encourage checking it out for yourself to see if you'll love it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2024
Many thanks to the author for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
As an aroace person, it's so special to me to see queerplatonic relationships represented. I read a lot of romance, because I love to live vicariously through fictional characters, and while I LOVE that, there's always some distance because it's not something I want for myself. I haven't read many books featuring explicit QPRs before, but the ones I've read have felt really personal and really special to me, and this novella was no exception.
I especially liked that one of the characters is alloromantic, but decides for herself that romance isn't working out well for her and that she would prefer a QPR with one of her closest friends. There was a great discussion about how romance is never an obligation, regardless of romantic orientation, which I really appreciated.
While this is fairly short even for a novella, the characters and their relationships are fleshed out so well, which I was impressed by. I didn't expect to feel so connected to them so quickly.
This is truly a hug of a novella, and one I can see myself revisiting lots of times when I'm in need of some comfort.
As an aroace person, it's so special to me to see queerplatonic relationships represented. I read a lot of romance, because I love to live vicariously through fictional characters, and while I LOVE that, there's always some distance because it's not something I want for myself. I haven't read many books featuring explicit QPRs before, but the ones I've read have felt really personal and really special to me, and this novella was no exception.
I especially liked that one of the characters is alloromantic, but decides for herself that romance isn't working out well for her and that she would prefer a QPR with one of her closest friends. There was a great discussion about how romance is never an obligation, regardless of romantic orientation, which I really appreciated.
While this is fairly short even for a novella, the characters and their relationships are fleshed out so well, which I was impressed by. I didn't expect to feel so connected to them so quickly.
This is truly a hug of a novella, and one I can see myself revisiting lots of times when I'm in need of some comfort.
May 21, 2023
I would first like to thank the author for sending me an electronic ARC to read and review.
I was very excited to hear about this story when my friend told me about it, as I am an aromantic asexual person. There is little to no representation of people like me in books out there, so I really wanted to see the author's take on aromanticism and queerplatonic partnerships. Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed.
The writing tells more than it shows. We are told all about Emma's past, exactly how her friendships developed, and what her romantic relationships were like in the past. We are told what she feels about her boyfriend cheating on her. I would have really liked to see the author show Emma's feelings and relationships rather than telling us what they are like. It makes the whole story feel flat and obvious. Emma breaks up with her boyfriend, but there's already another guy she wants to pursue a (queerplatonic) relationship with, so all there's left to do is ask. I think what would have made this a more compelling story, and honestly a more representative story, would be to focus not only on Emma's feelings about her breakup, but also grappling with amatonormativity. It's mentioned briefly, but it feels like she has already come to terms with it and has made up her mind.
All in all, it wasn't a terrible read, but I think this short story needs to be fleshed out and the author could benefit from developing their writing skills a bit more.
I was very excited to hear about this story when my friend told me about it, as I am an aromantic asexual person. There is little to no representation of people like me in books out there, so I really wanted to see the author's take on aromanticism and queerplatonic partnerships. Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed.
The writing tells more than it shows. We are told all about Emma's past, exactly how her friendships developed, and what her romantic relationships were like in the past. We are told what she feels about her boyfriend cheating on her. I would have really liked to see the author show Emma's feelings and relationships rather than telling us what they are like. It makes the whole story feel flat and obvious. Emma breaks up with her boyfriend, but there's already another guy she wants to pursue a (queerplatonic) relationship with, so all there's left to do is ask. I think what would have made this a more compelling story, and honestly a more representative story, would be to focus not only on Emma's feelings about her breakup, but also grappling with amatonormativity. It's mentioned briefly, but it feels like she has already come to terms with it and has made up her mind.
All in all, it wasn't a terrible read, but I think this short story needs to be fleshed out and the author could benefit from developing their writing skills a bit more.
May 15, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of this short story.
Received it today and read it today!!!
There was a playlist at the start of the book and I saw a song I recognised Someone To You by Banners. I love that song so had that on repeat as I read it.
Emma was a character that I related to, in terms of having lots of bad relationships. But also the way she was and came across!!
Noah was just me. I was like the author must have been looking inside my brain and just copy and pasted haha
The physical affection between the friends was the best and I just loved that it was just how it was and that it was not questioned because they knew each other's boundaries and just show their love in that way
The talk about the queerplatonic relationship was exactly how I have always pictured it being in a book. It made me emotional that it was there in words, them having a conversation about it and listening to each other about what they expect of it.
I have not always loved short stories but this story like got me, it was just a piece of myself that I never thought I would ever see and it is there and real.
I still have Tears In The Water staring at me to read. Which I will get to soon I promise haha
Received it today and read it today!!!
There was a playlist at the start of the book and I saw a song I recognised Someone To You by Banners. I love that song so had that on repeat as I read it.
Emma was a character that I related to, in terms of having lots of bad relationships. But also the way she was and came across!!
Noah was just me. I was like the author must have been looking inside my brain and just copy and pasted haha
The physical affection between the friends was the best and I just loved that it was just how it was and that it was not questioned because they knew each other's boundaries and just show their love in that way
The talk about the queerplatonic relationship was exactly how I have always pictured it being in a book. It made me emotional that it was there in words, them having a conversation about it and listening to each other about what they expect of it.
I have not always loved short stories but this story like got me, it was just a piece of myself that I never thought I would ever see and it is there and real.
I still have Tears In The Water staring at me to read. Which I will get to soon I promise haha
June 8, 2023
2.5 Stars
I’m not sure how to describe the writing style of this book other than saying it was vague. I see what the author is attempting with the theme and ending of the book, and I think this story has great potential. It’s possible it may be better if it were longer to strengthen the development and relationship between these characters. We are constantly told how close they are and how the lead, Emma feels about these two boys, but we aren’t shown enough to truly care, at least for me. I think it was a decent story it just needs more depth. More showing and less telling.
I’m not sure how to describe the writing style of this book other than saying it was vague. I see what the author is attempting with the theme and ending of the book, and I think this story has great potential. It’s possible it may be better if it were longer to strengthen the development and relationship between these characters. We are constantly told how close they are and how the lead, Emma feels about these two boys, but we aren’t shown enough to truly care, at least for me. I think it was a decent story it just needs more depth. More showing and less telling.
June 20, 2023
This was so unbelievably sweet and wholesome!
I have to admit that, before reading this, I didn't realize that "queerplatonic" was an actual, specific type of relationship. I thought it was just a way for Scialla to mention clearly in the title that their story was centered around queer friendship. So I definitely learned something new today, and it got me thinking of some queer friends of mine who may actually relate to or connect with the idea of a queerplatonic relationship. It also got me to rethink a few of my own queer relationships, and the way these have often fallen into that grey, slightly confusing area between friendship and romantic love. I never considered before that there could be something more and that not every relationship had to fall exactly into one of these two categories. It sent me down into a bit of a spiral, but in a good sense, in a way that got me to reevaluate and maybe rediscover a part of myself I didn't have the words for before. Not to say necessarily that I would want specifically queerplatonic relationships with all my queer friends, but this short story at the very least opened my mind up to the possibility of one's feelings existing outside of the specific bounds of friendship or romance as I've always understood them.
The story itself is so warm and comforting. I found myself smiling throughout it, even when I wasn't expecting it, and the moments of deep affection had me so emotional (I did indeed shed some tears while reading). I think Scialla really captured the beauty and happiness of having someone with whom you can be fully and truly yourself, and the feeling of inner peace that comes with that type of physical and emotional proximity to a person. It did have me yearning for a closeness and a safe space for true, untethered vulnerability that I maybe don't have the guts to admit that I want. So once again, the story sent me down a bit of a spiral in that sense. Which is great for me because slice-of-life usually isn't my go-to when it comes to reading, but having this slight identity crisis in a 60-page story made it so that I was much more invested than I expected to be.
My one thing is that I do think the writing needs work. There were some passages that felt a little clunky and turns of phrase that came out a little awkward. It definitely isn't to a point that took me completely out of the story or that was hyper-distracting, but I did notice it, and it was enough to throw me off a bit.
That being said, it brought me to tears in under 60 pages, so credit where credit is due, I really enjoyed this. If you're looking for something cozy and wholesome, that may or may not also incite a deep, personal identity crisis into your own feelings and the nature of your relationships, then this is the short story for you!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have to admit that, before reading this, I didn't realize that "queerplatonic" was an actual, specific type of relationship. I thought it was just a way for Scialla to mention clearly in the title that their story was centered around queer friendship. So I definitely learned something new today, and it got me thinking of some queer friends of mine who may actually relate to or connect with the idea of a queerplatonic relationship. It also got me to rethink a few of my own queer relationships, and the way these have often fallen into that grey, slightly confusing area between friendship and romantic love. I never considered before that there could be something more and that not every relationship had to fall exactly into one of these two categories. It sent me down into a bit of a spiral, but in a good sense, in a way that got me to reevaluate and maybe rediscover a part of myself I didn't have the words for before. Not to say necessarily that I would want specifically queerplatonic relationships with all my queer friends, but this short story at the very least opened my mind up to the possibility of one's feelings existing outside of the specific bounds of friendship or romance as I've always understood them.
The story itself is so warm and comforting. I found myself smiling throughout it, even when I wasn't expecting it, and the moments of deep affection had me so emotional (I did indeed shed some tears while reading). I think Scialla really captured the beauty and happiness of having someone with whom you can be fully and truly yourself, and the feeling of inner peace that comes with that type of physical and emotional proximity to a person. It did have me yearning for a closeness and a safe space for true, untethered vulnerability that I maybe don't have the guts to admit that I want. So once again, the story sent me down a bit of a spiral in that sense. Which is great for me because slice-of-life usually isn't my go-to when it comes to reading, but having this slight identity crisis in a 60-page story made it so that I was much more invested than I expected to be.
My one thing is that I do think the writing needs work. There were some passages that felt a little clunky and turns of phrase that came out a little awkward. It definitely isn't to a point that took me completely out of the story or that was hyper-distracting, but I did notice it, and it was enough to throw me off a bit.
That being said, it brought me to tears in under 60 pages, so credit where credit is due, I really enjoyed this. If you're looking for something cozy and wholesome, that may or may not also incite a deep, personal identity crisis into your own feelings and the nature of your relationships, then this is the short story for you!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2023
Thank you so much to the author for a digital ARC of this short story!
4.75/5
This story felt more personal to me than I expected it would!
The way the characters explained their feelings and the way that relationships can be different than ‘normal’ was really special and I felt my own feelings reflected there.
Can’t wait to read more by Margherita!
4.75/5
This story felt more personal to me than I expected it would!
The way the characters explained their feelings and the way that relationships can be different than ‘normal’ was really special and I felt my own feelings reflected there.
Can’t wait to read more by Margherita!
June 8, 2023
was excited to read this because i need more queerplatonic stories and while i love the depiction of friends so close and affectionate everyone has ~ideas about them, this ultimately this feels underdeveloped and not much time was spent on the actual queerplatonic relationship.
content/trigger warnings as listed in the book; cheating, smoking (cigarettes), brief mention of smoking weed and alcohol consumption, cursing, brief description of food, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, arophobia, general ignorance regarding non romantic and platonic relationships, doubts and insecurities
rep; emma (mc) is bisexual. noah (sc) is aromantic. emma and noah are in a queerplatonic relationship.
content/trigger warnings as listed in the book; cheating, smoking (cigarettes), brief mention of smoking weed and alcohol consumption, cursing, brief description of food, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, arophobia, general ignorance regarding non romantic and platonic relationships, doubts and insecurities
rep; emma (mc) is bisexual. noah (sc) is aromantic. emma and noah are in a queerplatonic relationship.
June 30, 2024
UPDATED REVIEW PILLOW FORTS AND HURRICANES
It was so great getting to spend more time with these characters, and this expanded novella is probably even sweeter than By Your Side already was.
ORIGINAL REVIEW BY YOUR SIDE
Many thanks to the author for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
As an aroace person, it's so special to me to see queerplatonic relationships represented. I read a lot of romance, because I love to live vicariously through fictional characters, and while I LOVE that, there's always some distance because it's not something I want for myself. I haven't read many books featuring explicit QPRs before, but the ones I've read have felt really personal and really special to me, and this novella was no exception.
I especially liked that one of the characters is alloromantic, but decides for herself that romance isn't working out well for her and that she would prefer a QPR with one of her closest friends. There was a great discussion about how romance is never an obligation, regardless of romantic orientation, which I really appreciated.
While this is fairly short even for a novella, the characters and their relationships are fleshed out so well, which I was impressed by. I didn't expect to feel so connected to them so quickly.
This is truly a hug of a novella, and one I can see myself revisiting lots of times when I'm in need of some comfort.
It was so great getting to spend more time with these characters, and this expanded novella is probably even sweeter than By Your Side already was.
ORIGINAL REVIEW BY YOUR SIDE
Many thanks to the author for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
As an aroace person, it's so special to me to see queerplatonic relationships represented. I read a lot of romance, because I love to live vicariously through fictional characters, and while I LOVE that, there's always some distance because it's not something I want for myself. I haven't read many books featuring explicit QPRs before, but the ones I've read have felt really personal and really special to me, and this novella was no exception.
I especially liked that one of the characters is alloromantic, but decides for herself that romance isn't working out well for her and that she would prefer a QPR with one of her closest friends. There was a great discussion about how romance is never an obligation, regardless of romantic orientation, which I really appreciated.
While this is fairly short even for a novella, the characters and their relationships are fleshed out so well, which I was impressed by. I didn't expect to feel so connected to them so quickly.
This is truly a hug of a novella, and one I can see myself revisiting lots of times when I'm in need of some comfort.
May 17, 2023
I'd like to thank the writer for sending me an ARC of this work. I really appreciate the opportunity to read this, since it intrigued me and pushed me to learn more about queerplatonic relationships.
BYS made my heart explode and taught me overall more about aromantic persons & queerplatonic relationships through the characters - and OH THE CHARACTERS! I loved them! Having heard their story, their thoughts... I'm sure they'll stay with me always.
It was a very easy, fun and interesting read! I recommend!
UPDATE: The cover got uploaded and I’m positively MESMERIZED!!!!
BYS made my heart explode and taught me overall more about aromantic persons & queerplatonic relationships through the characters - and OH THE CHARACTERS! I loved them! Having heard their story, their thoughts... I'm sure they'll stay with me always.
It was a very easy, fun and interesting read! I recommend!
UPDATE: The cover got uploaded and I’m positively MESMERIZED!!!!
March 29, 2025
So dang sweet!
I've never read a story about a queerplatonic relationship before as its central focus, and this was super cute! It got me thinking too about what "romance" really is, how I feel it as someone who's allo and then how that sort of love differs with friends and platonic relationships. Emma and Noah's platonic love and how they expressed it was perfect, and I'd love to read more from this universe! 💕
I've never read a story about a queerplatonic relationship before as its central focus, and this was super cute! It got me thinking too about what "romance" really is, how I feel it as someone who's allo and then how that sort of love differs with friends and platonic relationships. Emma and Noah's platonic love and how they expressed it was perfect, and I'd love to read more from this universe! 💕
May 27, 2023
WHERE IS MYYYYY QUEER PLATONIC PARTNER lmao
was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and i was very excited to read about a QPR! i especially love how noah was aromantic (maybe ace?) the way emma approached a QPR with noah was so mature and the exact way i think it should have been handled. i adored the fact that the whole trio was overly affectionate with one another but in a *platonic way! it was very cool to read about a bisexual person wanting a QPR b/c i only thought aromantics folks wanted that but i love knowing that you can still have a romantic relationship and also a QPR!! this is the rep i need to see more of ❤️
was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and i was very excited to read about a QPR! i especially love how noah was aromantic (maybe ace?) the way emma approached a QPR with noah was so mature and the exact way i think it should have been handled. i adored the fact that the whole trio was overly affectionate with one another but in a *platonic way! it was very cool to read about a bisexual person wanting a QPR b/c i only thought aromantics folks wanted that but i love knowing that you can still have a romantic relationship and also a QPR!! this is the rep i need to see more of ❤️
July 8, 2025
where do i sign for this to become a full-length novel? 😭
May 18, 2023
[I received an eARC for this book, thank you to the author!]
This was such a short and sweet story. Emma is cheated on by her boyfriend, and she turns to her friends for help and comfort. The story itself is really, really short, but tackles some important themes: it's not always necessary (nor important) dating and having a romantic relationship with someone. We can have also intense platonic relationships with our friends, without actually being "in love".
I really liked it, and I loved the relationship between Emma and Noah. It felt just right, for them.
I have now also a LOT of thoughts to think.
I did hope the story had some other developements, though. I love that it's short (which felt right for this kind of story), but I also long for something... more? I wanted to read more about the relationship between Noah and Emma, read about Noah inner thoughts, read more about Dawson...
I don't know. It's so good, but I am also greedy and I want more.
Thank you again to the author for the arc! I really enjoyed it. I also cannot write reviews with an actual sense.
This was such a short and sweet story. Emma is cheated on by her boyfriend, and she turns to her friends for help and comfort. The story itself is really, really short, but tackles some important themes: it's not always necessary (nor important) dating and having a romantic relationship with someone. We can have also intense platonic relationships with our friends, without actually being "in love".
I really liked it, and I loved the relationship between Emma and Noah. It felt just right, for them.
I have now also a LOT of thoughts to think.
I did hope the story had some other developements, though. I love that it's short (which felt right for this kind of story), but I also long for something... more? I wanted to read more about the relationship between Noah and Emma, read about Noah inner thoughts, read more about Dawson...
I don't know. It's so good, but I am also greedy and I want more.
Thank you again to the author for the arc! I really enjoyed it. I also cannot write reviews with an actual sense.
August 25, 2023
4.25/5 ⭐
By your side follows the main character Emma (a bisexual woman) who just got out of a bad relationship. With the help of one of her best friends Noah (an aromantic guy) she changes her view about relationships and gets a new perspective about platonic and romantic feelings.
This story is perfect to read if you want to know more about queerplatonic relationships/ different kinds of relationships in general. The main character and her two best friends are all characters I liked a lot. Their relationship with each other felt so sweet and healthy. I especially loved the good communication between Noah and Emma.
The only thing that kept me from rating this 5 stars is that sometimes parts of it felt like they were only there to teach the reader something.
Overall I really loved it and would recommend it to everyone especially because stories with aromantic characters are sadly rare.
(I also really appreciated the doctor who reference)
By your side follows the main character Emma (a bisexual woman) who just got out of a bad relationship. With the help of one of her best friends Noah (an aromantic guy) she changes her view about relationships and gets a new perspective about platonic and romantic feelings.
This story is perfect to read if you want to know more about queerplatonic relationships/ different kinds of relationships in general. The main character and her two best friends are all characters I liked a lot. Their relationship with each other felt so sweet and healthy. I especially loved the good communication between Noah and Emma.
The only thing that kept me from rating this 5 stars is that sometimes parts of it felt like they were only there to teach the reader something.
Overall I really loved it and would recommend it to everyone especially because stories with aromantic characters are sadly rare.
(I also really appreciated the doctor who reference)
November 24, 2023
This had me… swooning? I’m not sure how to put this. this novella spoke from my heart. I know the kind of connection that is neither a friendship nor romance and lust. I, too, show affection to my closest friends in the way Noah and Emma do. It is often misinterpreted by outsiders. They often think we’re in a romantic relationship or that I have a crush on my friends but no. It’s just… I love them… platonically but also… it’s not as platonically. It’s like my spirit, my soul is drawn to theirs but not in a romantic way. They’re my home and I’m their home.
We need more literature like this, please. This might help others to understand and perhaps we will even find words to describe this kind of connection properly.
We need more literature like this, please. This might help others to understand and perhaps we will even find words to describe this kind of connection properly.
May 17, 2023
thank you Margherita Scialla for trusting and giving me an ARC of this story
I think this is a story worth telling and I’m really glad you chose to write it.
I liked it and despite its short length I came to love the characters, especially Noah.
I would happily read more about Emma, Noah, Dawson and Roan if you ever feel like writing again about them!
You should really read it if you’re searching for good aro rep and a queerplatonic relationship 💚
I think this is a story worth telling and I’m really glad you chose to write it.
I liked it and despite its short length I came to love the characters, especially Noah.
I would happily read more about Emma, Noah, Dawson and Roan if you ever feel like writing again about them!
You should really read it if you’re searching for good aro rep and a queerplatonic relationship 💚
May 18, 2023
Thank you Margherita Scialla for giving me the opportunity to become one of the lucky people to get a copy of the ARC before release date. I'm really really grateful.
First of all, I'd like to say I am Aromantic and I was so happy a book with an Aro character will come out soon. I desperately need more Aro representation. Also, English isn't my first language so forgive me for any errors in this review. It's going to be kinda long cause this story just grabbed my heart for real.
So, the book is about Emma who just got cheated on by her now ex-boyfriend Albert. But before Albert was even in her life, she always had her best friends with her : Dawson and Noah.
Emma has been with Dawson since forever (let's say) then Noah arrived just like that, blended in and now it's like he was always part of the band. And since then, they were inseparable.
Overall it is a cute story. You can learn a little more about queerplatonic relationships by reading it. I say "little" because every qpr is different so Emma and Noah's story is just an aspect of it. Though I think it needed a little more character development. Let's say Emma's and Noah's personal backstories wasn't enough for me to get immersed completely in the story. But again I kept in mind it's a short so... Yeah.
The topic of heteronormativity and amatonormativy was well put. Not in details either but it's still a necessary topic to be addressed.
The big talk about the qpr YES PLEASE. Really, what I love about Emma and Noah is their straightforwardness. Because communication is the key of every relationship (***romantic or not***) and YES they communicate. A BIG GREEN FLAG. They also know their boundaries. So it's really really refreshing. #healthyrelationship
Another little detail that I liked is the mention of "partner" instead of boyfriend and/or girlfriend. It is very inclusive and I love it so much.
I'm going to put the pro and the cons here, starting from the cons so you'll end up on a good note.
!!! SPOILER ALERT !!! Don't read any further if you don't want to get spoiled. I'll put the rest of my review in spoilers and I hope it'll work, I don't really know how to use Goodreads yet.
While I'm here, give lots of love to "Tears in the water" by the same author too. There's one aroace side character in it and the main characters are just so cute. I may be Aro but I can assure you, you would fall for Tate. (Read the trigger warning first please)
First of all, I'd like to say I am Aromantic and I was so happy a book with an Aro character will come out soon. I desperately need more Aro representation. Also, English isn't my first language so forgive me for any errors in this review. It's going to be kinda long cause this story just grabbed my heart for real.
So, the book is about Emma who just got cheated on by her now ex-boyfriend Albert. But before Albert was even in her life, she always had her best friends with her : Dawson and Noah.
Emma has been with Dawson since forever (let's say) then Noah arrived just like that, blended in and now it's like he was always part of the band. And since then, they were inseparable.
Overall it is a cute story. You can learn a little more about queerplatonic relationships by reading it. I say "little" because every qpr is different so Emma and Noah's story is just an aspect of it. Though I think it needed a little more character development. Let's say Emma's and Noah's personal backstories wasn't enough for me to get immersed completely in the story. But again I kept in mind it's a short so... Yeah.
The topic of heteronormativity and amatonormativy was well put. Not in details either but it's still a necessary topic to be addressed.
The big talk about the qpr YES PLEASE. Really, what I love about Emma and Noah is their straightforwardness. Because communication is the key of every relationship (***romantic or not***) and YES they communicate. A BIG GREEN FLAG. They also know their boundaries. So it's really really refreshing. #healthyrelationship
Another little detail that I liked is the mention of "partner" instead of boyfriend and/or girlfriend. It is very inclusive and I love it so much.
I'm going to put the pro and the cons here, starting from the cons so you'll end up on a good note.
!!! SPOILER ALERT !!! Don't read any further if you don't want to get spoiled. I'll put the rest of my review in spoilers and I hope it'll work, I don't really know how to use Goodreads yet.
While I'm here, give lots of love to "Tears in the water" by the same author too. There's one aroace side character in it and the main characters are just so cute. I may be Aro but I can assure you, you would fall for Tate. (Read the trigger warning first please)
August 31, 2024
I want to thank Margherita for sending me an eARC of their book before the release date in exchange for a review.
By Your Side is a book where Emma finds out her boyfriend has been cheating on her. When she comes home and finds refuge in her friends and especially Noah, she begins to think of their bond and what they could have in the future. Thus begin a questionning and discussion about what a queerplatonic relationship is and if this is even in store for them.
This story is about 12k words. In itself, it's very short, but there are enough pages to make you love the characters and their bond, because we immediately jump into the story and their friendship. I think the character I related to the most was Noah. The way he thinks, acts, and loves reminds me of me. There was this sentence he said when talking about queerplatonic relationships: "I don't want to be a replacement for something else, nor you'll discard when you find a person you start liking romantically." It hit me, right then and there, that this was most likely a common fear for people in a qpr. I appreciated him mentioning it from the get-go, making sure that if they indeed started a queerplatonic relationship, it would be something sure, certain, exclusive, and without an unknown end date. This would be something serious, that could last for the rest of their lives. I also loved the aro representation. Many people believe that aro and/or ace people are lonely because they don't want/need a romantic relationship. While this may be the case sometimes, it's a very common misconception. Aro and/or ace people are not lonely because they're "alone"; most of the time, they aren't even alone. They are surrounded by friends, and this is plenty enough. Noah even said it himself. Dawson and Emma are more than enough to make him happy.
Next, there is Emma. Loving, caring, and unlucky in love Emma, who just wants to be loved the way she deserved to be loved. She's the one who instigated the discussions around the queerplatonic relationship between Noah and her. This short story touches on a subject I think is very important: queerplatonic relationships aren't reserved for aro and/or ace people. Anyone can be in one, as long as they want to. Hell, cishet people can be in one. Emma has believed for all of her life she couldn't have one, because she's bisexual. But when she talks to Noah about it, she realizes she can have it. Because she has Noah, because she wants one with Noah, and that's all you need to have a queerplatonic relationship.
The talk about qpr is very well conducted too. It's natural, brought up nicely, and it makes sense. I believe qpr don't have one definition; everyone has their own definition of it, because it can change depending on the people who are in this relationship. Noah and Emma's version of a queerplatonic relationship is therefore just one option, and there are many more. I had never read a book that talks about it so openly, or even at all. And it was so freeing to read it. To read these words, and to have them make sense, and to recognize yourself in them. When Emma said "What I feel for you is different. It's a different kind of something, a sort of deep longing, something that I can never place entirely, neither in friendship nor romance.", and when Noah said "I feel that longing too. I've felt it a few times in my life, and I feel it for you." I smiled, my heart warm and fuzzy, because. Hello. This felt good to read.
The short story ends before they take their final decision. Both Noah and Emma agree they need time to think about it, that jumping into this new thing right now isn't a good idea, it's too soon. But it doesn't take a genius to realize the open ending isn't really an open ending, and that they'll end up in this queerplatonic relationship.
Also, bonus point for the polyamourous relationship hint right at the end. My lil queer heart was so happy to read this part. Go poly relationships. Noah poly king.
And also, GOD the dedication. "For the people who didn't know there was another option"?Thank you.
By Your Side is a book where Emma finds out her boyfriend has been cheating on her. When she comes home and finds refuge in her friends and especially Noah, she begins to think of their bond and what they could have in the future. Thus begin a questionning and discussion about what a queerplatonic relationship is and if this is even in store for them.
This story is about 12k words. In itself, it's very short, but there are enough pages to make you love the characters and their bond, because we immediately jump into the story and their friendship. I think the character I related to the most was Noah. The way he thinks, acts, and loves reminds me of me. There was this sentence he said when talking about queerplatonic relationships: "I don't want to be a replacement for something else, nor you'll discard when you find a person you start liking romantically." It hit me, right then and there, that this was most likely a common fear for people in a qpr. I appreciated him mentioning it from the get-go, making sure that if they indeed started a queerplatonic relationship, it would be something sure, certain, exclusive, and without an unknown end date. This would be something serious, that could last for the rest of their lives. I also loved the aro representation. Many people believe that aro and/or ace people are lonely because they don't want/need a romantic relationship. While this may be the case sometimes, it's a very common misconception. Aro and/or ace people are not lonely because they're "alone"; most of the time, they aren't even alone. They are surrounded by friends, and this is plenty enough. Noah even said it himself. Dawson and Emma are more than enough to make him happy.
Next, there is Emma. Loving, caring, and unlucky in love Emma, who just wants to be loved the way she deserved to be loved. She's the one who instigated the discussions around the queerplatonic relationship between Noah and her. This short story touches on a subject I think is very important: queerplatonic relationships aren't reserved for aro and/or ace people. Anyone can be in one, as long as they want to. Hell, cishet people can be in one. Emma has believed for all of her life she couldn't have one, because she's bisexual. But when she talks to Noah about it, she realizes she can have it. Because she has Noah, because she wants one with Noah, and that's all you need to have a queerplatonic relationship.
The talk about qpr is very well conducted too. It's natural, brought up nicely, and it makes sense. I believe qpr don't have one definition; everyone has their own definition of it, because it can change depending on the people who are in this relationship. Noah and Emma's version of a queerplatonic relationship is therefore just one option, and there are many more. I had never read a book that talks about it so openly, or even at all. And it was so freeing to read it. To read these words, and to have them make sense, and to recognize yourself in them. When Emma said "What I feel for you is different. It's a different kind of something, a sort of deep longing, something that I can never place entirely, neither in friendship nor romance.", and when Noah said "I feel that longing too. I've felt it a few times in my life, and I feel it for you." I smiled, my heart warm and fuzzy, because. Hello. This felt good to read.
The short story ends before they take their final decision. Both Noah and Emma agree they need time to think about it, that jumping into this new thing right now isn't a good idea, it's too soon. But it doesn't take a genius to realize the open ending isn't really an open ending, and that they'll end up in this queerplatonic relationship.
Also, bonus point for the polyamourous relationship hint right at the end. My lil queer heart was so happy to read this part. Go poly relationships. Noah poly king.
And also, GOD the dedication. "For the people who didn't know there was another option"?Thank you.
December 31, 2023
A very sweet short story about a beautiful platonic connection between two people. Wish it was a little longer because the characters were so lovely.
Very smooth writing. I’m excited to read more of Margherita’s books!
Very smooth writing. I’m excited to read more of Margherita’s books!
May 29, 2024
First read/review 15th July 2023 of original, By Your Side ⬇️
Emma’s relationship ends abruptly when finds her boyfriend cheating on her at a party. Yet another failed relationship brings her repressed platonic feelings for one of her best friends to the surface once more. How will Noah react to such a revelation?
The most beautiful short story about friendships that I enjoyed reading so much! I would happily read a full length novel about Emma, Dawson and Noah because I loved their friendship and them so much. I related so much to Emma and Noah, which made me feel so seen and validated. I am obsessed with Margherita’s writing so I cannot wait to see it what xyr publish next!
⚠️ CWs: Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Acephobia/Arophobia, Cursing, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Suicidal thoughts ⚠️
———————————————
Second read/review: 29th May 2024 for republished version ⬇️
Fell in love with the first time this was published as By Your Side and fell even more in love after reading the republished version which came to be Pillow Forts and Hurricanes (also the meaning of this title is everything).
I adore all of the representation with this book and Margherita does a fantastic job! Xem made me feel so seen with xyr characters, especially Emma and Noah. I really loved learning more about queerplatonic relationships as this is something that I didn’t know existed as a queer person — I felt like I was learning alongside the characters, which was quite wholesome. I especially loved seeing Noah and Emma communicate with each other, it was so healthy and refreshing to see. I do think there was times in their communications that Emma was a bit insensitive but I feel as the book progressed, she acknowledges those faults in her communication and I feel like she doesn’t have any ill intentions, she’s just a very curious character who seemed confused with what her sexuality is, which I loved to see.
It was so lovely to be back in this world, with the characters and I’m excise for the next instalments in this series.
Also in regard to the section in “next in The Sandwort University Adventure series”, I would be so down for having more bonus stories for Emma and Noah!
⚠️ CWs: cheating, brief mention of drug use, alcohol use, cursing, mention of different eating habits & descriptions of food, brief mention of diets (as a suggested “treatment” for PCOS), brief mention of weight gain as a general symptom of PCOS, medical incompetence, internalized ableism regarding both PCOS and autism, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, current toxic relationship, subtle signs of PTSD, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, internalized heteronormativity, arophobia ⚠️
Emma’s relationship ends abruptly when finds her boyfriend cheating on her at a party. Yet another failed relationship brings her repressed platonic feelings for one of her best friends to the surface once more. How will Noah react to such a revelation?
The most beautiful short story about friendships that I enjoyed reading so much! I would happily read a full length novel about Emma, Dawson and Noah because I loved their friendship and them so much. I related so much to Emma and Noah, which made me feel so seen and validated. I am obsessed with Margherita’s writing so I cannot wait to see it what xyr publish next!
⚠️ CWs: Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Acephobia/Arophobia, Cursing, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Suicidal thoughts ⚠️
———————————————
Second read/review: 29th May 2024 for republished version ⬇️
Fell in love with the first time this was published as By Your Side and fell even more in love after reading the republished version which came to be Pillow Forts and Hurricanes (also the meaning of this title is everything).
I adore all of the representation with this book and Margherita does a fantastic job! Xem made me feel so seen with xyr characters, especially Emma and Noah. I really loved learning more about queerplatonic relationships as this is something that I didn’t know existed as a queer person — I felt like I was learning alongside the characters, which was quite wholesome. I especially loved seeing Noah and Emma communicate with each other, it was so healthy and refreshing to see. I do think there was times in their communications that Emma was a bit insensitive but I feel as the book progressed, she acknowledges those faults in her communication and I feel like she doesn’t have any ill intentions, she’s just a very curious character who seemed confused with what her sexuality is, which I loved to see.
It was so lovely to be back in this world, with the characters and I’m excise for the next instalments in this series.
Also in regard to the section in “next in The Sandwort University Adventure series”, I would be so down for having more bonus stories for Emma and Noah!
⚠️ CWs: cheating, brief mention of drug use, alcohol use, cursing, mention of different eating habits & descriptions of food, brief mention of diets (as a suggested “treatment” for PCOS), brief mention of weight gain as a general symptom of PCOS, medical incompetence, internalized ableism regarding both PCOS and autism, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, current toxic relationship, subtle signs of PTSD, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, internalized heteronormativity, arophobia ⚠️
May 16, 2023
First off, I want to thank the author for giving me an ARC! This in no way affects my review.
I really enjoyed this short story! BY YOUR SIDE follows bisexual university student Emma, who goes to a party and finds her boyfriend with his tongue down some other girl's throat. The story is about how she deals with the breakup, and comes to terms with her wonderfully intense platonic feelings for her best friend(s).
I've been dying for more queerplatonic relationships (that are endgame, not just a side to a main romantic plot) and BY YOUR SIDE fit the bill perfectly! My aroace heart was jumping for joy at the depiction of Emma's beautiful intimate relationships with her best friends, Noah and Dawson (I will cry and beg for more platonic intimacy in all stories, please and thank you!) and as Emma admitted what she wanted to Noah and had a lovely, honest conversation with him. I downright squealed when Noah suggested inviting Dawson and his partner to be a part of their queerplatonic relationship in the future (queerplatonic polyamory for the win!!)
I will say I do wish the story had focused more on the platonic relationship brewing instead of Emma's breakup and all her feelings surrounding it. Noah addressed this in the story when Emma asked if they could be queerplatonic partners, telling her he wouldn't be a rebound/replacement for a romantic partner, and while she assured him he wouldn't and she would take some more time to make sure this was what she wanted, I still feel maybe this conversation would have had more of an impact for me if she'd had it while she wasn't currently nursing a heartbreak.
This didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story at all, however, it was just a personal preference! All in all, this story hit all the right beats for my aroace heart and I'm honoured to have been gifted an early review copy. Thanks again to the author for the review copy!
I really enjoyed this short story! BY YOUR SIDE follows bisexual university student Emma, who goes to a party and finds her boyfriend with his tongue down some other girl's throat. The story is about how she deals with the breakup, and comes to terms with her wonderfully intense platonic feelings for her best friend(s).
I've been dying for more queerplatonic relationships (that are endgame, not just a side to a main romantic plot) and BY YOUR SIDE fit the bill perfectly! My aroace heart was jumping for joy at the depiction of Emma's beautiful intimate relationships with her best friends, Noah and Dawson (I will cry and beg for more platonic intimacy in all stories, please and thank you!) and as Emma admitted what she wanted to Noah and had a lovely, honest conversation with him. I downright squealed when Noah suggested inviting Dawson and his partner to be a part of their queerplatonic relationship in the future (queerplatonic polyamory for the win!!)
I will say I do wish the story had focused more on the platonic relationship brewing instead of Emma's breakup and all her feelings surrounding it. Noah addressed this in the story when Emma asked if they could be queerplatonic partners, telling her he wouldn't be a rebound/replacement for a romantic partner, and while she assured him he wouldn't and she would take some more time to make sure this was what she wanted, I still feel maybe this conversation would have had more of an impact for me if she'd had it while she wasn't currently nursing a heartbreak.
This didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story at all, however, it was just a personal preference! All in all, this story hit all the right beats for my aroace heart and I'm honoured to have been gifted an early review copy. Thanks again to the author for the review copy!
August 19, 2023
2.5*
Rep: sapphic MC, aromantic character, queer side character
The rating is a little generous not gonna lie, decided to round up 2,5 because I am truly happy there is such a story surfacing in the book publishing. However... I just couldn't give it more than that :/ The writing lacked in a lot of places. The whole queerplatonic deal didn't really come up until the end and even then there was... something so clumsy about it. I was feeling rather awkward reading the conversation of them discussing QPR... what was jarring for me was that 'queerplatonic' wasn't shown to be a new word for either of them, yet they didn't use it accordingly? I'm not sure, it was just a weird feeling for me.
What's more, if I hadn't knew beforehand this is story with queerplatonic rep I would have thought this is just a random book about an allo girl who happen to have bad luck with romance and was secretly crushing on one of her best friends (Noah). This is the impression it gives off until the end.
Regarding the characters - they were rather underdeveloped (like most things in this story to be fair) which caused me to have complicated feelings about Emma. In one moment I liked how badass she is, the next I'm annoyed by her. I really would have loved if Noah was the MC. Probably it's just me being aroace but I'm so curios to see what's going on in this guy's head - how he comes to terms with his aromanticisms, these previous relationships that "burned him". Instead we're stuck in an allo person's head trying to explain to us queerplatonic feelings? Something that is mainly popular in the aro community? I do love that Emma comes to realize she doesn't NEED to date even if she's able to and that's okay. Despite the fact that I love this concept I still would have preferred to have the aro perspective here instead the allo one.
Rep: sapphic MC, aromantic character, queer side character
The rating is a little generous not gonna lie, decided to round up 2,5 because I am truly happy there is such a story surfacing in the book publishing. However... I just couldn't give it more than that :/ The writing lacked in a lot of places. The whole queerplatonic deal didn't really come up until the end and even then there was... something so clumsy about it. I was feeling rather awkward reading the conversation of them discussing QPR... what was jarring for me was that 'queerplatonic' wasn't shown to be a new word for either of them, yet they didn't use it accordingly? I'm not sure, it was just a weird feeling for me.
What's more, if I hadn't knew beforehand this is story with queerplatonic rep I would have thought this is just a random book about an allo girl who happen to have bad luck with romance and was secretly crushing on one of her best friends (Noah). This is the impression it gives off until the end.
Regarding the characters - they were rather underdeveloped (like most things in this story to be fair) which caused me to have complicated feelings about Emma. In one moment I liked how badass she is, the next I'm annoyed by her. I really would have loved if Noah was the MC. Probably it's just me being aroace but I'm so curios to see what's going on in this guy's head - how he comes to terms with his aromanticisms, these previous relationships that "burned him". Instead we're stuck in an allo person's head trying to explain to us queerplatonic feelings? Something that is mainly popular in the aro community? I do love that Emma comes to realize she doesn't NEED to date even if she's able to and that's okay. Despite the fact that I love this concept I still would have preferred to have the aro perspective here instead the allo one.
February 8, 2025
Updated info to match the new version Pillow Forts and Hurricanes
content warnings: cheating, smoking cigarettes, brief mention of smoking weed, underage drinking, cursing, mention of different eating habits & descriptions of food that may be sensitive to people with body & eating disorders, brief mention of diets (as a suggested “treatment” for PCOS), brief mention of weight gain as a general symptom of PCOS, medical incompetence, internalized ableism regarding both PCOS and autism, unintentional masking, impostor syndrome, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, current toxic relationship, subtle signs of PTSD, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, internalized heteronormativity, arophobia, general ignorance regarding nonromantic and platonic relationships, negative thoughts revolving around doubts and insecurities.
representation: bisexual female main character with PCOS, (undiagnosed) autistic aromantic male main character, plus size bisexual male side character, Black autistic nonbinary side character
content warnings: cheating, smoking cigarettes, brief mention of smoking weed, underage drinking, cursing, mention of different eating habits & descriptions of food that may be sensitive to people with body & eating disorders, brief mention of diets (as a suggested “treatment” for PCOS), brief mention of weight gain as a general symptom of PCOS, medical incompetence, internalized ableism regarding both PCOS and autism, unintentional masking, impostor syndrome, mention of past emotionally abusive relationship, current toxic relationship, subtle signs of PTSD, brief allusion to past suicidal ideations, victim blaming, internalized heteronormativity, arophobia, general ignorance regarding nonromantic and platonic relationships, negative thoughts revolving around doubts and insecurities.
representation: bisexual female main character with PCOS, (undiagnosed) autistic aromantic male main character, plus size bisexual male side character, Black autistic nonbinary side character
Read
December 2, 2024Well, it's better than the original short story.
While I don't think it's available, here is my original review of By Your Side:
While I don't think it's available, here is my original review of By Your Side:
July 27, 2023
I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon Margherita's works, and for having this preordered (for today!). I absolutely love their writing style and the way they handle conversations between characters is *chef's kiss*!!! Thank you for writing! This and your other works as well!! And I absolutely loved that it brought attention to an aro experience that isn't exclusive at all to aros/aces alone! <3 In addition, because I am aro-spec, I finally saw myself reflected in this piece, in a way that didn't make my existence feel lonely (bc I have some friends I hold near and dear to my heart). So thank you for that wonderful reminder! This piece feels like home.
And to anyone reading this review, make sure you are staying hydrated and that you eat something today! Happy Pride! 🏳️🌈
And to anyone reading this review, make sure you are staying hydrated and that you eat something today! Happy Pride! 🏳️🌈
May 16, 2023
I was one of the readers lucky enough to have been trusted with an ARC from the author themselves, which made the reading experience even more intimate than usual; a person trusting you early with their creation and asking for your opinion is a risk for both sides and requires honesty that I hope I will be able to provide.
The focus of this story lies on how a connection that starts as friendship can evolve into something else, which is at the same time different and similar to a relationship between friends. Enter the queerplatonic relationship; how can you differentiate between the platonic and the queerplatonic? How can you prove to yourself your feelings are not just friendly since there is no physical expression of romantic interest to work as tangible proof for the turn the relationship has taken?
These questions are the main reason people on the ace spectrum (but not only them) have difficulty explaining to others, who either due to choice, circumstance or orientation feel attraction and love in more "understandable" terms, the way they feel for their partners, friends and significant others.
However, as the author clearly illustrates, proof is only important when you try to externally validate your relationship using means and words created by people whose experience diverges from yours: Why should sex or other physical acts of intimacy exclusively mark the change of feeling between people and verbal expression of emotions relavent only to those involved be undermined because they are less visible?
The relationship between the protagonists is misunderstood by others and yet to us readers it becomes perfectly clear how through communication and honesty a queerplatonic relationship takes form and blossoms.
Considering how the connections between Emma and Noah, especially, are the basis of the narrative, the short story form is very suitable; concise, well-written and just long enough so that a complex plot doesn't throw our focus on the protagonist's feelings off but the relationship development is successfully presented, it's the perfect vessel for a character oriented story.
"By Your Side" felt important to me both as a person trying to understand my place in the queer spectrum, but also as a reader of literature who wishes for stories to help familiarize the general public with a queer vocabulary integral to our experiences and point of view.
Thank you again, dear author, for including me in your journey. I think your work will be appreciated by many people and mirror the thoughts of even more.
The focus of this story lies on how a connection that starts as friendship can evolve into something else, which is at the same time different and similar to a relationship between friends. Enter the queerplatonic relationship; how can you differentiate between the platonic and the queerplatonic? How can you prove to yourself your feelings are not just friendly since there is no physical expression of romantic interest to work as tangible proof for the turn the relationship has taken?
These questions are the main reason people on the ace spectrum (but not only them) have difficulty explaining to others, who either due to choice, circumstance or orientation feel attraction and love in more "understandable" terms, the way they feel for their partners, friends and significant others.
However, as the author clearly illustrates, proof is only important when you try to externally validate your relationship using means and words created by people whose experience diverges from yours: Why should sex or other physical acts of intimacy exclusively mark the change of feeling between people and verbal expression of emotions relavent only to those involved be undermined because they are less visible?
The relationship between the protagonists is misunderstood by others and yet to us readers it becomes perfectly clear how through communication and honesty a queerplatonic relationship takes form and blossoms.
Considering how the connections between Emma and Noah, especially, are the basis of the narrative, the short story form is very suitable; concise, well-written and just long enough so that a complex plot doesn't throw our focus on the protagonist's feelings off but the relationship development is successfully presented, it's the perfect vessel for a character oriented story.
"By Your Side" felt important to me both as a person trying to understand my place in the queer spectrum, but also as a reader of literature who wishes for stories to help familiarize the general public with a queer vocabulary integral to our experiences and point of view.
Thank you again, dear author, for including me in your journey. I think your work will be appreciated by many people and mirror the thoughts of even more.
May 13, 2023
‘By Your Side’ is a queerplatonic short story about Emma evaluating her current relationships and what she needs from her loved ones.
Firstly, love that the author included a list of trigger warnings in the beginning and usually when authors do this I tend to add a lot more to the list but with this I think I only added two. Also, I think this is the first book I’ve ever read that had a playlist in it and of course I had to listen to it while reading. (Loved the song choices by the way - such a great fit for the story)
The book starts with Emma ending up in a low situation and it really only goes up from there which I really enjoyed. Apart from a little gossipy high school moment by some back ground characters, I felt like most of the characters in this were really stable people and the way they discussed their emotions and how they comforted each other was so mature and I personally loved that.
This book and these characters’ relationships really made my heart feel so warm. Their communication with each other, the use of love languages, the open queerness… ugh I frickin adored it. Especially how open the dialogue was between the main friend group and even Emma’s own thoughts where she was talking about forced heteronormative relationships.
Platonic love is something I’ve felt for a few people throughout my life and whenever I’ve tried to describe it to people they always misunderstand or tell me I’m just in love with them so to see these characters affirming each others feelings for each others as deeper than friends but not romantic makes me so sad happy. I hope to one day be understood the way they understand each other.
Also, the possibility of them all entering a polyamorous relationship in the future… I LOVED THAT. In conclusion, this was brilliant, please go read it as soon as it comes out !!!
Rep - Aromantic; Bisexual; Platonic Relationship; Queer; They/Them
TWs/CWs - Alcohol Consumption; Arophobia; Brief Description of Food; Cheating; Cursing; Drug Use (Weed, BGC); Emotional Abuse (Past); Ignorance; Smoking (Cigarettes); Suicide Ideation (Brief); Victim Blaming
Firstly, love that the author included a list of trigger warnings in the beginning and usually when authors do this I tend to add a lot more to the list but with this I think I only added two. Also, I think this is the first book I’ve ever read that had a playlist in it and of course I had to listen to it while reading. (Loved the song choices by the way - such a great fit for the story)
The book starts with Emma ending up in a low situation and it really only goes up from there which I really enjoyed. Apart from a little gossipy high school moment by some back ground characters, I felt like most of the characters in this were really stable people and the way they discussed their emotions and how they comforted each other was so mature and I personally loved that.
This book and these characters’ relationships really made my heart feel so warm. Their communication with each other, the use of love languages, the open queerness… ugh I frickin adored it. Especially how open the dialogue was between the main friend group and even Emma’s own thoughts where she was talking about forced heteronormative relationships.
Platonic love is something I’ve felt for a few people throughout my life and whenever I’ve tried to describe it to people they always misunderstand or tell me I’m just in love with them so to see these characters affirming each others feelings for each others as deeper than friends but not romantic makes me so sad happy. I hope to one day be understood the way they understand each other.
Also, the possibility of them all entering a polyamorous relationship in the future… I LOVED THAT. In conclusion, this was brilliant, please go read it as soon as it comes out !!!
Rep - Aromantic; Bisexual; Platonic Relationship; Queer; They/Them
TWs/CWs - Alcohol Consumption; Arophobia; Brief Description of Food; Cheating; Cursing; Drug Use (Weed, BGC); Emotional Abuse (Past); Ignorance; Smoking (Cigarettes); Suicide Ideation (Brief); Victim Blaming
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