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Listen Closely
A heartwarming, cozy YA romance, perfect for fans of You've Got Mail, from the highly-acclaimed author of Lover Birds.
Jude's smile is magnificent. Their sharp edges melted away into a rare and beautiful joy. The flash illuminates them as their photo is taken, and for just a second, they glow. It feels like lightning has struck.
When Jude and Aiden are paired up together for an internship at a local radio station, things are awkward. Jude is quiet, withdrawn, has one friend, and is suspicious of everyone. Aiden is charming, outgoing, and popular, with a seemingly easy confidence and golden retriever energy.
But after they discover a shared love of podcast dramas, Jude and Aiden realise that they have more in common than they first realised – especially after Aiden reveals that he is a huge fan of Jude’s own podcast, The Night Merchant.
With a wonderful and original meet-cute premise, an adorable couple with a grumpy x sunshine dynamic and gorgeous chemistry, and themes of forced proximity, found family, and mistaken identity, Listen Closely is an irresistible, heartwarming, swoon-worthy romance and a beautiful coming-of-age story – perfect for fans of You’ve Got Mail, Heartstopper, and Rainbow Rowell.
Jude's smile is magnificent. Their sharp edges melted away into a rare and beautiful joy. The flash illuminates them as their photo is taken, and for just a second, they glow. It feels like lightning has struck.
When Jude and Aiden are paired up together for an internship at a local radio station, things are awkward. Jude is quiet, withdrawn, has one friend, and is suspicious of everyone. Aiden is charming, outgoing, and popular, with a seemingly easy confidence and golden retriever energy.
But after they discover a shared love of podcast dramas, Jude and Aiden realise that they have more in common than they first realised – especially after Aiden reveals that he is a huge fan of Jude’s own podcast, The Night Merchant.
With a wonderful and original meet-cute premise, an adorable couple with a grumpy x sunshine dynamic and gorgeous chemistry, and themes of forced proximity, found family, and mistaken identity, Listen Closely is an irresistible, heartwarming, swoon-worthy romance and a beautiful coming-of-age story – perfect for fans of You’ve Got Mail, Heartstopper, and Rainbow Rowell.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2025
4 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Leon Egan
2 books72 followersLeon Egan (he/they) is a trans author from Liverpool. Shortly after graduating from an MA in Publishing, the world fell apart, so mostly he’s just been getting a lot of writing done. Leon is the writer and producer of scripted fiction podcast Tell No Tales and their debut YA novel Lover Birds published in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 30, 2025
4.5 rounded up!
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this story and it’s a very quick easy read!
I’m glad a lot of the conflict was resolved quickly and there wasn’t a big argument (I had been waiting for it from about the half way point) and the conflict presented was handled in a very classic YA way
Overall this was just a sweet, slow burn, grumpy x sunshine trans YA read about the whole of audiodramas and I had a fun time
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this story and it’s a very quick easy read!
I’m glad a lot of the conflict was resolved quickly and there wasn’t a big argument (I had been waiting for it from about the half way point) and the conflict presented was handled in a very classic YA way
Overall this was just a sweet, slow burn, grumpy x sunshine trans YA read about the whole of audiodramas and I had a fun time
July 11, 2025
because the urge to just make my own fiction podcast wasn't strong enough before.
this book is specifically tailored to my interests and it did not disappoint. a book where two people bond over audio drama appeals to me especially because a big part of me becoming interested in the medium in the first place was because of radio silence by alice oseman, which centres audio drama in a similar way. I really enjoyed all the fiction podcast specific references, and how despite it being a fairly niche community, the book still mentioned a wide range of important shows. i overall felt very represented by characters who spend every waking moment listening to audio dramas, and i really enjoyed this book!
also shoutout to Waterstones for surprising me by unexpectedly sending a signed copy when I ordered it!!
this book is specifically tailored to my interests and it did not disappoint. a book where two people bond over audio drama appeals to me especially because a big part of me becoming interested in the medium in the first place was because of radio silence by alice oseman, which centres audio drama in a similar way. I really enjoyed all the fiction podcast specific references, and how despite it being a fairly niche community, the book still mentioned a wide range of important shows. i overall felt very represented by characters who spend every waking moment listening to audio dramas, and i really enjoyed this book!
also shoutout to Waterstones for surprising me by unexpectedly sending a signed copy when I ordered it!!
November 2, 2025
“It can be tricky to remove one’s mask after such a long time.”
I was intrigued by Listen Closely since I first heard about it and knew I needed to read it. As audio dramas are at the center of the story, I chose the audio version. I have no regrets, the narrators (Cloud Quinn and Maggie Bain) did an incredible job to bring the characters to life (I have no words to even begin to describe the audio drama part).
This book is a YA like I wish I could have found some when I was a teen. It’s a book that makes diverse people feel seen —and that’s no coincidence that the representation theme, and how it is validating, is at the core of the book.
I adored the patter of the double/hidden identity, especially as we have neurodivergent and trans characters (who are so well pictured!). That image of the mask that you have to put on your face everyday and that becomes a part of who you are, but how it feels so liberating —but also terrifying and sometimes very difficult— to get rid of, was so perfect. Again, I wish I had a (some) YA book(s) to talk to me about that through fiction when I was younger, I would have felt allowed to be myself a lot earlier. To talk about that under the prism of teenage-years (when you discover who you are), the mirror of the private and public persona but also the role of the audios’ characters was a big plus as it made the subject resonate a bit more.
This is a book about self discovery, mutual discovery and love. It’s touching, and —most of the time— cozy. I had such a great time with it!
4.5/5
I was intrigued by Listen Closely since I first heard about it and knew I needed to read it. As audio dramas are at the center of the story, I chose the audio version. I have no regrets, the narrators (Cloud Quinn and Maggie Bain) did an incredible job to bring the characters to life (I have no words to even begin to describe the audio drama part).
This book is a YA like I wish I could have found some when I was a teen. It’s a book that makes diverse people feel seen —and that’s no coincidence that the representation theme, and how it is validating, is at the core of the book.
I adored the patter of the double/hidden identity, especially as we have neurodivergent and trans characters (who are so well pictured!). That image of the mask that you have to put on your face everyday and that becomes a part of who you are, but how it feels so liberating —but also terrifying and sometimes very difficult— to get rid of, was so perfect. Again, I wish I had a (some) YA book(s) to talk to me about that through fiction when I was younger, I would have felt allowed to be myself a lot earlier. To talk about that under the prism of teenage-years (when you discover who you are), the mirror of the private and public persona but also the role of the audios’ characters was a big plus as it made the subject resonate a bit more.
This is a book about self discovery, mutual discovery and love. It’s touching, and —most of the time— cozy. I had such a great time with it!
4.5/5
Read
June 5, 2025I will write a proper review shortly
Timeline of events:
1st June - Saw Lover Birds recommended in local bookshop
2nd June - Borrowed the audiobook and loved it
3rd - Wanted to read more from the author and saw their new books available for request on NetGalley and requested
4th June - Request was approved so my TBR was abandoned to read Listen Closely
5th June - Finished reading Listen Closely and came to the sad realisation I'm actually going to have to wait to read more books by this author.
(If it wasn't already obvious, I enjoyed the book and thank you for the eARC)
Timeline of events:
1st June - Saw Lover Birds recommended in local bookshop
2nd June - Borrowed the audiobook and loved it
3rd - Wanted to read more from the author and saw their new books available for request on NetGalley and requested
4th June - Request was approved so my TBR was abandoned to read Listen Closely
5th June - Finished reading Listen Closely and came to the sad realisation I'm actually going to have to wait to read more books by this author.
(If it wasn't already obvious, I enjoyed the book and thank you for the eARC)
January 6, 2026
trans joy!! nerds!! so cute!!
July 24, 2025
Intimate & hopeful with characters so warm n fuzzy you wanna keep 'em forever. Loved this book!
September 7, 2025
Rather fittingly for a book all about audio dramas, I don't think any written words can truly encapsulate my feelings for this book. A good ole keyboard smash may come a bit closer; not close enough, though.
Let me try: gjsldjfjfysishfhfhAHHH.
Nope, it didn't work...
Anyway - THE BOOK. It's why we're all here, after all. Except for you, Sebastian (don't ask me where this bit is going. I have no clue).
'Listen Closely' truly lives up to its name and goes beyond that. It feels as tender and vulnerable as resting your head on one's chest - listening to the fragile but ever beautiful (in its own rather fleshy way) heartbeat that drums into your very soul.
At the book's heart, in turn, is identity. At first, going into it, I was expecting some mistaken identity and secret identity shenanigans. And while I at first was a little confused at the revelation to Aiden as to the mastermind behind 'The Night Market' being Jude occurring so early, the book instead sucker-punched me in the gut and put my heart in a blender!
It was all worth it, however, for the most amount of laughter that has escaped my lips in months - especially during that final interview transcript!
Yes, there were a lot of tears along the way, too (I felt like Jude reacting to 'The Unfathomable Depths' season 1 finale at times). However, every spark of joy and each moment of sob-worthy heartbreak helped elevate this story and its message to The Inconceivable Heights... Get it? Because of the audio drama in the book? It's funny because– okay, I'll stop.
The message in question, above all else, is that you are not alone. Nor is the entire world against you - no matter how much it may feel like it is. Finding your true self in this world is not easy, and sharing that self with others might as well be a recognised form of torture. However, if you do, you will find the people who will love and support you with all their heart.
I hope that you, dear reader of this overly tangent-ridden review, will find your people. You deserve to be seen and heard. Never forget that.
Now, if you need me, I'll be sobbing in the corner in-between giddy kicking of my feet.
Thank you! <3
Let me try: gjsldjfjfysishfhfhAHHH.
Nope, it didn't work...
Anyway - THE BOOK. It's why we're all here, after all. Except for you, Sebastian (don't ask me where this bit is going. I have no clue).
'Listen Closely' truly lives up to its name and goes beyond that. It feels as tender and vulnerable as resting your head on one's chest - listening to the fragile but ever beautiful (in its own rather fleshy way) heartbeat that drums into your very soul.
At the book's heart, in turn, is identity. At first, going into it, I was expecting some mistaken identity and secret identity shenanigans. And while I at first was a little confused at the revelation to Aiden as to the mastermind behind 'The Night Market' being Jude occurring so early, the book instead sucker-punched me in the gut and put my heart in a blender!
It was all worth it, however, for the most amount of laughter that has escaped my lips in months - especially during that final interview transcript!
Yes, there were a lot of tears along the way, too (I felt like Jude reacting to 'The Unfathomable Depths' season 1 finale at times). However, every spark of joy and each moment of sob-worthy heartbreak helped elevate this story and its message to The Inconceivable Heights... Get it? Because of the audio drama in the book? It's funny because– okay, I'll stop.
The message in question, above all else, is that you are not alone. Nor is the entire world against you - no matter how much it may feel like it is. Finding your true self in this world is not easy, and sharing that self with others might as well be a recognised form of torture. However, if you do, you will find the people who will love and support you with all their heart.
I hope that you, dear reader of this overly tangent-ridden review, will find your people. You deserve to be seen and heard. Never forget that.
Now, if you need me, I'll be sobbing in the corner in-between giddy kicking of my feet.
Thank you! <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for this eArc! As soon as it was announced I couldn’t wait to dive into Leon Egan’s writing again!
Listen Closely is a ya romance about Jude who just wishes they could fit in better at school, and their relationship with Aiden, a boy in their year at school. When Jude and Aiden end up at the same work experience they develop a close friendship over their joint love of audio dramas and the story follows them as they get closer and slowly start to come out of their shells.
This book is full of self discovery as the characters learn to love themselves and become more comfortable with who they are as they battle with self doubt and the lonely feeling that they don’t belong. It is also full of much needed representation that I’ve never read anywhere before.
I found these characters massively relatable, particularly Jude. Jude uses their audio drama obsession to escape and when they put their headphones in and immerse themself in another world, they feel safe. But, because of that need for comfort, they forget about the people close to them outside of that bubble who are also struggling and find themselves clinging onto new connections who understand their interests better. I get obsessed with things too and I sometimes have no idea how to talk to people outside of it because I want to stay hidden in that world and it can be particularly hard when no one else you know understands the one thing you want to talk non stop about so I felt this in my soul.
I also think Listen Closely is so cleverly written. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything that switches povs in this way and I enjoyed the freedom and lack of structure. The way Egan decided when and where they felt they needed to change pov without feeling tied down to keeping it per chapter. It works so well.
This book is absolutely perfect for fans of Radio Silence (which is me I adore that book!) and I cannot recommend Leon Egan’s writing enough for any Alice Oseman fan!
Listen Closely is a ya romance about Jude who just wishes they could fit in better at school, and their relationship with Aiden, a boy in their year at school. When Jude and Aiden end up at the same work experience they develop a close friendship over their joint love of audio dramas and the story follows them as they get closer and slowly start to come out of their shells.
This book is full of self discovery as the characters learn to love themselves and become more comfortable with who they are as they battle with self doubt and the lonely feeling that they don’t belong. It is also full of much needed representation that I’ve never read anywhere before.
I found these characters massively relatable, particularly Jude. Jude uses their audio drama obsession to escape and when they put their headphones in and immerse themself in another world, they feel safe. But, because of that need for comfort, they forget about the people close to them outside of that bubble who are also struggling and find themselves clinging onto new connections who understand their interests better. I get obsessed with things too and I sometimes have no idea how to talk to people outside of it because I want to stay hidden in that world and it can be particularly hard when no one else you know understands the one thing you want to talk non stop about so I felt this in my soul.
I also think Listen Closely is so cleverly written. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything that switches povs in this way and I enjoyed the freedom and lack of structure. The way Egan decided when and where they felt they needed to change pov without feeling tied down to keeping it per chapter. It works so well.
This book is absolutely perfect for fans of Radio Silence (which is me I adore that book!) and I cannot recommend Leon Egan’s writing enough for any Alice Oseman fan!
July 27, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley, however all opinions are my own.
So the reason I wanted to read this is because I. LOVE. QUEER. BOOKS. I think at this point we already know. What really did surprise me however is I did not realise that I'd already DNF'd "Lover Birds", Leon's other book. Why did this surprise me you ask? Well, one it's before they changed their name, but two I absolutely adored this book. Friends, I'm so glad I got another chance to read Leon's works. This book was SO good. It hit every single trope that I wanted from a queer book. For example, the found family in this book genuinely made my heart so happy. Was there bad communication at times? Yes. Was there times where I genuinely did not know what was going to happen between everyone? Absolutely. However it was executed so perfectly and genuinely felt like such a real and authentic friend group. I loved that this book was dual POV. Getting to see both Jude's and Aiden's side of the stories was incredible, and seeing what emotions they brought out in each other made it feel so much more real. This book had me cackling with the witty banter (I see you with the black mould joke), but also broke my heart at times whilst talking about real life queer issues, and just Aiden's and Jude's thoughts and feelings in general. If you're going to read this I definitely recommend grabbing a pack of tissues for both the happy and sad tears. I loved the grumpy x sunshine theme. I loved listening to Jude & Aiden talk about their separate experiences as trans people. And I especially loved that we have yet another beautiful story around queer love. I will 100% be grabbing myself a copy of this one when I ger paid.
So the reason I wanted to read this is because I. LOVE. QUEER. BOOKS. I think at this point we already know. What really did surprise me however is I did not realise that I'd already DNF'd "Lover Birds", Leon's other book. Why did this surprise me you ask? Well, one it's before they changed their name, but two I absolutely adored this book. Friends, I'm so glad I got another chance to read Leon's works. This book was SO good. It hit every single trope that I wanted from a queer book. For example, the found family in this book genuinely made my heart so happy. Was there bad communication at times? Yes. Was there times where I genuinely did not know what was going to happen between everyone? Absolutely. However it was executed so perfectly and genuinely felt like such a real and authentic friend group. I loved that this book was dual POV. Getting to see both Jude's and Aiden's side of the stories was incredible, and seeing what emotions they brought out in each other made it feel so much more real. This book had me cackling with the witty banter (I see you with the black mould joke), but also broke my heart at times whilst talking about real life queer issues, and just Aiden's and Jude's thoughts and feelings in general. If you're going to read this I definitely recommend grabbing a pack of tissues for both the happy and sad tears. I loved the grumpy x sunshine theme. I loved listening to Jude & Aiden talk about their separate experiences as trans people. And I especially loved that we have yet another beautiful story around queer love. I will 100% be grabbing myself a copy of this one when I ger paid.
December 5, 2025
I loved the characters and cast diversity. I really identified with the protagonist, Jude. The dual point of view with Aiden worked amazingly, and I enjoyed being able to see the love interest as a fully formed person. Also, the fact the author managed to make a scene about binding simultaneously sexy and educational was brilliant.
(Spoilers ahead)
However, I couldn't devour the book the way I devoured the author's first, Lover birds. I think it was because, a) the podcast snippets didn't grab me (nothing bad to say about them - they just weren't my vibe or genre), and b) Jude's best friend, Ava, was a bit flat and contradictory.
Ava starts out as incredibly kind and empathetic, but then does a complete 180 and becomes a jealous monster. The only reasons that the author gives are that she's jealous and doesn't trust Aiden. These aren't bad reasons in and of themselves, but Ava's behaviour towards Jude is straight up cruel - she stonewalls Jude and then physically harms them in PE. Her reaction is extreme and prolonged, and totally at odds with the kind, empathetic girl we meet in chapter 1. More importantly, without proper back story, Ava is a bitchy mean girl, and I have no idea how I'm supposed to root for her and Jude reconciling at the end of the book.
Interestingly, underdeveloped side characters was my one big criticism of Lover birds.
(Spoilers ahead)
However, I couldn't devour the book the way I devoured the author's first, Lover birds. I think it was because, a) the podcast snippets didn't grab me (nothing bad to say about them - they just weren't my vibe or genre), and b) Jude's best friend, Ava, was a bit flat and contradictory.
Ava starts out as incredibly kind and empathetic, but then does a complete 180 and becomes a jealous monster. The only reasons that the author gives are that she's jealous and doesn't trust Aiden. These aren't bad reasons in and of themselves, but Ava's behaviour towards Jude is straight up cruel - she stonewalls Jude and then physically harms them in PE. Her reaction is extreme and prolonged, and totally at odds with the kind, empathetic girl we meet in chapter 1. More importantly, without proper back story, Ava is a bitchy mean girl, and I have no idea how I'm supposed to root for her and Jude reconciling at the end of the book.
Interestingly, underdeveloped side characters was my one big criticism of Lover birds.
September 4, 2025
I need both 'The Night Market' and 'Unfathomable Depths' to appear in my Spotify rotation right now.
I loved this book. It was beautifully done and made my lunchtimes at work very enjoyable (plus gave me some incredible ideas for items in my tabletop games).
Both Jude and Aiden were wonderful narrative voices and I am glad that the love story didn't end up getting taken over by any sort of transphobic parent or a friend revealing themselves as an enemy in the same vein, that definitely gave it a little more realness. Also a big plus, the one bully character is just aggressively dismissed because who has time for small people with smaller minds?
I hands down did not like Ava. She felt like she didn't deserve the redemption she got and her attitude across the book just really got my back up but she was ultimately the only downside for me.
I loved this book. It was beautifully done and made my lunchtimes at work very enjoyable (plus gave me some incredible ideas for items in my tabletop games).
Both Jude and Aiden were wonderful narrative voices and I am glad that the love story didn't end up getting taken over by any sort of transphobic parent or a friend revealing themselves as an enemy in the same vein, that definitely gave it a little more realness. Also a big plus, the one bully character is just aggressively dismissed because who has time for small people with smaller minds?
I hands down did not like Ava. She felt like she didn't deserve the redemption she got and her attitude across the book just really got my back up but she was ultimately the only downside for me.
August 20, 2025
Listen Closely" by Leon Egan is a heartwarming YA romance perfect for fans of "You've Got Mail" and "Heartstopper". It follows Jude, a quiet and withdrawn individual, and Aiden, a charming and popular boy, who are unexpectedly paired for a radio station internship. Initial awkwardness gives way to shared interests as they discover a mutual love for podcast dramas, especially Aiden's fondness for Jude's own podcast, "The Night Merchant".
This cozy read boasts a delightful meet-cute, a grumpy x sunshine dynamic, and palpable chemistry between the leads. Themes of forced proximity, found family, and mistaken identity intertwine in this irresistible, swoon-worthy romance, making it a wonderful coming-of-age story that will captivate readers looking for a charming and feel-good read.
This cozy read boasts a delightful meet-cute, a grumpy x sunshine dynamic, and palpable chemistry between the leads. Themes of forced proximity, found family, and mistaken identity intertwine in this irresistible, swoon-worthy romance, making it a wonderful coming-of-age story that will captivate readers looking for a charming and feel-good read.
August 14, 2025
Thank you to Harper Collins for gifting this book to me for my honest review.
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I needed to pick this up when I read for fans You've Got Mail, my all-time favourite rom-com.
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I will say that unfortunately, this took me a while to get into and for a while I considered DNFing. But then we started getting into the podcast side of the story which I enjoyed.
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I found the characters a little confusing and all over the place and sometimes lost who's perspective we were in.
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I can see how this could be compared to You've got mail. But for me it was a but of a miss.
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I needed to pick this up when I read for fans You've Got Mail, my all-time favourite rom-com.
.
I will say that unfortunately, this took me a while to get into and for a while I considered DNFing. But then we started getting into the podcast side of the story which I enjoyed.
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I found the characters a little confusing and all over the place and sometimes lost who's perspective we were in.
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I can see how this could be compared to You've got mail. But for me it was a but of a miss.
August 25, 2025
4/5 ⭐️- NetGalley
This was really cute, i loved seeing the progression of friendship into more between Jude and Aiden.
It was really sweet and handled their hardships perfectly.
God Ava was a bitch at some points, but she came through at the end where she was needed.
Overall thought this was really good even though I don’t really understand or am into the whole world building fiction audio podcasts haha
This was really cute, i loved seeing the progression of friendship into more between Jude and Aiden.
It was really sweet and handled their hardships perfectly.
God Ava was a bitch at some points, but she came through at the end where she was needed.
Overall thought this was really good even though I don’t really understand or am into the whole world building fiction audio podcasts haha
November 18, 2025
4⭐️
Before I started to listen to the audiobook I haven’t realised that it includes characters that are non binary or trans. But I loved it and it felt just wholesome. Especially that the whole book is written by an LGBTQIA+ author makes it even more special. Personally I know a little bit about the community but not a lot. This book made it possible to learn more about it. I would love to incorporate more books like this into my reading journey.
Before I started to listen to the audiobook I haven’t realised that it includes characters that are non binary or trans. But I loved it and it felt just wholesome. Especially that the whole book is written by an LGBTQIA+ author makes it even more special. Personally I know a little bit about the community but not a lot. This book made it possible to learn more about it. I would love to incorporate more books like this into my reading journey.
July 18, 2025
a little slow to get into, but once it gripped me, it turned out to be a relevant, sweet and engaging story. it doesn’t shy away from what it’s like to be a trans person today, but written in an optimistic way.
often comparing new stories to very successful ones, like heartstopper, can be a disservice, however Listen Closely for stands alone as a brilliant book 👏
often comparing new stories to very successful ones, like heartstopper, can be a disservice, however Listen Closely for stands alone as a brilliant book 👏
December 21, 2025
Thanks hugely to Netgalley for an eCopy of this book.
This was a heartwarming story of discovery. First love and working out if those feelings are returned.
The narration from both main characters helps you understand their thinking, their hopes, dreams and insecurities.
Beautifully written, with carefully authentic insights into their identity.
This was a heartwarming story of discovery. First love and working out if those feelings are returned.
The narration from both main characters helps you understand their thinking, their hopes, dreams and insecurities.
Beautifully written, with carefully authentic insights into their identity.
July 16, 2025
lovely and hopeful while still having complex characterisation. Leon Egan is such a wonderful addition to the UKYA scene
August 25, 2025
Outstanding, best YA book I've ever read!
September 28, 2025
I loved this!! A queer ode to unmasking and finding people who accept and appreciate you🫶
November 10, 2025
i was captivated the whole time what a beautiful story
September 22, 2025
Cute read.
September 29, 2025
Trigger warnings for Listen Closely include: transphobia, panic attacks, depression & anxiety; autistic masking; and underwater related horror.
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☆
The dedication reads "For every trans creator whose stories showed me a world in which I could exist."
~
Each segment from The Night Market is so alluring and captivating. It draws you in and makes you demand more of that content. For me, it makes me want to actually listen to the whole audio drama.
~
"Reaching a hand out to a few people who need it is better than trying to appeal to everyone."
~
"They presumably chose to have a kid. Carried me for nine months, went through all the pain of childbirth, all the nappies and the tantrums. And after all that hard work they’re eventually just going to realise they’ve wasted it on someone who can’t stand to be around them because they’d rather stick to their outdated views than show an ounce of respect to me as a human being."
~
I've spent many a night thinking 'if only I could've continued to be that perfect cishet girl they wanted. If I could've just been cishet, allistic, didn't have issues. Maybe they could love me properly. Maybe they could've loved that girl. It hurts more than I'd care to admit that they seem to care more about their outdated views on the queer community than their own child. As much as I try to numb it out and forget, it still hurts every time they use the wrong name or pronouns for me. But at the same time, I've told them before what it does to me, and confronting it again now would just cause more issues than it would actually solve. And I know that isn't quite what Harper is getting at with what zir saying here. But that's the feelings and thought processes it pulled out of me.
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I enjoyed Lover Birds, I really did. But this is something else. Truly. It took me 2 days from start to finish. I got completely sucked in and immersed.
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One other aspect of this book that was intriguing to me was the idea of parasocial relationships, which have always been something of a fascination to me. I wrote about it in an essay I wrote last year. I talked about the fact there's a difference between admiring a person and enjoying the work they've created, and putting them on a pedestal and holding them to unattainable standards. Admiring the work someone creates is fine, that's a normal thing. But parasocial relationships are one-sided, because one party is unaware of the feelings being associated with them. In this instance, Aiden is aware of information about Jude, whereas Jude isn't. I can't really say too much more about that without giving spoilery details, but it was something I found intriguing to think about.
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"It’s a sign the world is changing. There are politicians and legislators and doctors who act as gatekeepers, but when people are making art it comes from a place of resistance. It shows there are people out there like me, passionate enough to demand change on their own terms."
•
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
☆
☆
The dedication reads "For every trans creator whose stories showed me a world in which I could exist."
~
Each segment from The Night Market is so alluring and captivating. It draws you in and makes you demand more of that content. For me, it makes me want to actually listen to the whole audio drama.
~
"Reaching a hand out to a few people who need it is better than trying to appeal to everyone."
~
"They presumably chose to have a kid. Carried me for nine months, went through all the pain of childbirth, all the nappies and the tantrums. And after all that hard work they’re eventually just going to realise they’ve wasted it on someone who can’t stand to be around them because they’d rather stick to their outdated views than show an ounce of respect to me as a human being."
~
I've spent many a night thinking 'if only I could've continued to be that perfect cishet girl they wanted. If I could've just been cishet, allistic, didn't have issues. Maybe they could love me properly. Maybe they could've loved that girl. It hurts more than I'd care to admit that they seem to care more about their outdated views on the queer community than their own child. As much as I try to numb it out and forget, it still hurts every time they use the wrong name or pronouns for me. But at the same time, I've told them before what it does to me, and confronting it again now would just cause more issues than it would actually solve. And I know that isn't quite what Harper is getting at with what zir saying here. But that's the feelings and thought processes it pulled out of me.
~
I enjoyed Lover Birds, I really did. But this is something else. Truly. It took me 2 days from start to finish. I got completely sucked in and immersed.
~
One other aspect of this book that was intriguing to me was the idea of parasocial relationships, which have always been something of a fascination to me. I wrote about it in an essay I wrote last year. I talked about the fact there's a difference between admiring a person and enjoying the work they've created, and putting them on a pedestal and holding them to unattainable standards. Admiring the work someone creates is fine, that's a normal thing. But parasocial relationships are one-sided, because one party is unaware of the feelings being associated with them. In this instance, Aiden is aware of information about Jude, whereas Jude isn't. I can't really say too much more about that without giving spoilery details, but it was something I found intriguing to think about.
~
"It’s a sign the world is changing. There are politicians and legislators and doctors who act as gatekeepers, but when people are making art it comes from a place of resistance. It shows there are people out there like me, passionate enough to demand change on their own terms."
•
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
May 6, 2025
Lively MCs. Authentic representation of trans and non-binary young people. Lots of laughter, but also much bullying and online spite.
Loved the audio podcast passion these people share. A different online community.
Loved the audio podcast passion these people share. A different online community.
November 9, 2025
Very good story, very cute. It was easy to read and engage with. The story just pulls you in and it's easy to relate to the characters
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