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Might as Well Be an Ocean
When a heart chooses frost over fire, can true love’s warmth still find a way in?
Mara Davies learned early to keep her heart on ice. Abandoned by her mother, she raised herself while her father drowned his grief in alcohol. Everything changed when she met Fayth Havens, the one person who truly sees her and accepts everything that makes Mara her overstimulated mind, wandering thoughts, even her comfort in a pair of worn-out Family Guy pajamas, holes in the ass and all.
Now approaching their thirties, Mara and Fayth are best friends, though unspoken desires simmer just beneath the surface. When they strike a “friends with benefits” pact, Mara risks everything for a connection that burns hotter than she ever expected.
A twist of fate—and a piece of cake—lead to a fake engagement, forcing Mara and Fayth into an intimate tangle of buried truths. As misunderstandings threaten to pull them apart, Mara feels the distance between them might as well be an ocean. Can she open her heart to the love she’s convinced herself isn’t meant for her?
Might as Well Be an Ocean is a sapphic romance about chosen family and the healing power of love—because sometimes, a little Fayth is all it takes to melt the ice.
Mara Davies learned early to keep her heart on ice. Abandoned by her mother, she raised herself while her father drowned his grief in alcohol. Everything changed when she met Fayth Havens, the one person who truly sees her and accepts everything that makes Mara her overstimulated mind, wandering thoughts, even her comfort in a pair of worn-out Family Guy pajamas, holes in the ass and all.
Now approaching their thirties, Mara and Fayth are best friends, though unspoken desires simmer just beneath the surface. When they strike a “friends with benefits” pact, Mara risks everything for a connection that burns hotter than she ever expected.
A twist of fate—and a piece of cake—lead to a fake engagement, forcing Mara and Fayth into an intimate tangle of buried truths. As misunderstandings threaten to pull them apart, Mara feels the distance between them might as well be an ocean. Can she open her heart to the love she’s convinced herself isn’t meant for her?
Might as Well Be an Ocean is a sapphic romance about chosen family and the healing power of love—because sometimes, a little Fayth is all it takes to melt the ice.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2024
91 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Kellan McKnight
4 books93 followersKellan lives in the deep south with her wife and a cadre of kids and pets. She enjoys the finer things in life like quality dark roast coffees, ice-cold lagers, and world peace (in that order).
You can often find her listening to an audiobook while heavy metal blasts on Spotify and a scary movie plays on TV (hello ADHD), or just trying to catch some downtime (napping) from
her crazy, busy, wonderful life.
You can often find her listening to an audiobook while heavy metal blasts on Spotify and a scary movie plays on TV (hello ADHD), or just trying to catch some downtime (napping) from
her crazy, busy, wonderful life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 16, 2025
(rounded up from 1.5)
One of my bigger disappointments so far of the year. I can see the seeds of an interesting story in here but the execution is not great, I'm afraid. The writing is very awkward, the jokes all fall flat and the characters are terrible for each other and should honestly just not be together until they both do some work on themselves. For a book about people who are thirty, this is SO high drama that I feel like the author wasn't confident that the characters could stand alone and be interesting and engaging in their own journeys without so much random angst and drama thrown in. Unfortunately, I had to force myself to finish this one and was disappointed because I love a good sapphic romance with a neurodiverse character.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS with some spoilers (because I slept on it some more):
- There are simply too many sex scenes. Not in a homophobic way but in a "my kingdom for one decent conversation instead of just not talking to anyone and then having sex instead" way.
- Speaking of nobody talking to each other, when you simply storm out on your fake girlfriend/fiance and do not speak to her or her family at all for four months AND when you are living with said girlfriend but do not converse at all for weeks out of sheer stubbornness, there is a problem and I would like to see us growing and learning to move away from this problem by actually having some honest and healthy conversations going forward. Instead, we get a lot of sex again.
- Incredibly strange as well that the fake girlfriend/fiance/childhood bestie was "always" kind of in love with you and yet had zero issues using you for lots of sex and messaging her ex-boyfriend in the middle of your sexcapades for a booty call/just to talk. Fayth's change of heart simply makes no sense to me at all and I have a hard time believing it because she also immediately jumps to said horrible ex instead of actually talking to her childhood bestie about her feelings that have apparently always been there?
- This is marketed as an ice queen and even the titles of the parts of this book suggest this but I would argue that this is not an ice queen because Mara is neurodivergent and closed off due to trauma but not actually intentionally icy or armoured up for work or social situations. If you're looking for an ice queen, I don't think you'll be satisfied with Mara being called one.
- The incredibly random entrance of Mara's mom at the end of the book for literally no reason except to add more drama and nonsense.
I am deeply frustrated with this book. It is SO high angst and drama when it doesn't need to be. We can have a reasonably balanced book about someone who is learning about their neurodivergence on top of abandonment issues and other trauma from basically having one parent left who completely neglects you and another who just leaves. The relationships with the Patels and Fayth's family as found family for Mara and her fearing to lose it if she and Fayth ever get together and actually break up would be interesting and Vikram dying and her losing the only father figure she had in her life would be rich material for a story about Mara's own development and trauma but instead we get lots of sex and zero conversations and drama at the end.
One of my bigger disappointments so far of the year. I can see the seeds of an interesting story in here but the execution is not great, I'm afraid. The writing is very awkward, the jokes all fall flat and the characters are terrible for each other and should honestly just not be together until they both do some work on themselves. For a book about people who are thirty, this is SO high drama that I feel like the author wasn't confident that the characters could stand alone and be interesting and engaging in their own journeys without so much random angst and drama thrown in. Unfortunately, I had to force myself to finish this one and was disappointed because I love a good sapphic romance with a neurodiverse character.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS with some spoilers (because I slept on it some more):
- There are simply too many sex scenes. Not in a homophobic way but in a "my kingdom for one decent conversation instead of just not talking to anyone and then having sex instead" way.
- Speaking of nobody talking to each other, when you simply storm out on your fake girlfriend/fiance and do not speak to her or her family at all for four months AND when you are living with said girlfriend but do not converse at all for weeks out of sheer stubbornness, there is a problem and I would like to see us growing and learning to move away from this problem by actually having some honest and healthy conversations going forward. Instead, we get a lot of sex again.
- Incredibly strange as well that the fake girlfriend/fiance/childhood bestie was "always" kind of in love with you and yet had zero issues using you for lots of sex and messaging her ex-boyfriend in the middle of your sexcapades for a booty call/just to talk. Fayth's change of heart simply makes no sense to me at all and I have a hard time believing it because she also immediately jumps to said horrible ex instead of actually talking to her childhood bestie about her feelings that have apparently always been there?
- This is marketed as an ice queen and even the titles of the parts of this book suggest this but I would argue that this is not an ice queen because Mara is neurodivergent and closed off due to trauma but not actually intentionally icy or armoured up for work or social situations. If you're looking for an ice queen, I don't think you'll be satisfied with Mara being called one.
- The incredibly random entrance of Mara's mom at the end of the book for literally no reason except to add more drama and nonsense.
I am deeply frustrated with this book. It is SO high angst and drama when it doesn't need to be. We can have a reasonably balanced book about someone who is learning about their neurodivergence on top of abandonment issues and other trauma from basically having one parent left who completely neglects you and another who just leaves. The relationships with the Patels and Fayth's family as found family for Mara and her fearing to lose it if she and Fayth ever get together and actually break up would be interesting and Vikram dying and her losing the only father figure she had in her life would be rich material for a story about Mara's own development and trauma but instead we get lots of sex and zero conversations and drama at the end.
December 23, 2024
I don't really agree with Mara being characterized as an ice queen; she is warm to a lot of people. She is emotionally unavailable and clueless, for sure, but in my mind, a queen has some power often related to her job.There are a few things I felt were missing to make the book perfect: I wish McKnight had shown more of why Mara and Fayth are such best friends. I would have liked to see more scenes of them just being friends. Lastly, and I know it's a delicate exercise, but adding some hints of misinterpreted signals from Mara, while keeping the reader in the loop about Fayth's real feelings, would have been perfect. But now, I know a book about Fayth's side might grant my wishes. Overall, it's a balanced book with layered characters, deep topics, representation, humor, and spice.
PS : moving in with someone is not going slow... Lol
PS : moving in with someone is not going slow... Lol
November 28, 2024
This book was an absolute pleasure to read. It evoked a range of emotions within me, from laughter to tears and hot under the color too. The storyline is well-crafted and captivated my attention from beginning to end. The book authentically portrays the highs and lows that Mara experiences, not only in her pursuit of love but also in her journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
It is a heartwarming book, and I found it difficult to put down. I genuinely loved the storyline that focused on the discovered family and the friends surrounding Mara. It was heartwarming to witness the unwavering support she received from those around her, especially during the challenging times when her mother abandoned her, leaving her with her alcoholic father as such a young age. Mara's personal growth and the strength she exhibited were truly inspiring. Even though she may not have recognized it herself for a considerable period, her journey resonated deeply with me.
The love story between Mara and Fayth was exquisitely crafted, and the profound connection they shared was undeniable. Despite the challenges and obstacles they encountered, their love endured and triumphed, a testament to the enduring power of true love.
It is indeed a remarkable and enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it. Looking forward to more from Kellan.
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is a heartwarming book, and I found it difficult to put down. I genuinely loved the storyline that focused on the discovered family and the friends surrounding Mara. It was heartwarming to witness the unwavering support she received from those around her, especially during the challenging times when her mother abandoned her, leaving her with her alcoholic father as such a young age. Mara's personal growth and the strength she exhibited were truly inspiring. Even though she may not have recognized it herself for a considerable period, her journey resonated deeply with me.
The love story between Mara and Fayth was exquisitely crafted, and the profound connection they shared was undeniable. Despite the challenges and obstacles they encountered, their love endured and triumphed, a testament to the enduring power of true love.
It is indeed a remarkable and enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it. Looking forward to more from Kellan.
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2024
Might As Well Be An Ocean by Kellan McKnight is a deeply involved exploration of childhood trauma paired with neurodivergence and the effects of those on one's mental health, particularly their ability to feel deserving of love.
Mara and Fayth become best friends at a pivotal time in Mara's youth when her survival instinct has already begun to harden her heart to keep her safe. Years pass, and the two are inseparable. Harboring an overwhelming love for Fayth that she would never reveal, she remains a steadfast friend.
McKnight gives us the down-and-dirty realness of these issues from Mara's perspective, inviting us to dive into a dark and desperate place, and then she shows us the way out. Mara and Fayth struggle to connect and admit their feelings for one another, even through a friends-with-benefits arrangement and a fake engagement.
Despite her prickly personality, Mara finds herself in the right places at the right times to meet folks who care for her, offer her advice, and allow her the room to process the realizations she has about her mental state.
This challenging and hopeful account of rising above one's circumstances is a valuable read that I can see helping guide others through accepting themselves and their issues and creating a plan of action to begin the process of healing.
Might As Well Be An Ocean is a love letter to those who need help seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
There is a lot of steamy sex in this book. I mean like beginning page 1, so if that is not your thing, be warned. It was a little too much for my personal preference.
Mara and Fayth do have very intimate interactions besides sex, as well. I especially like how Fayth is so caring, nurturing, and strong for herself and Mara.
This book deals with some heavy issues but also has a lot of love and some laughs. Mara has very intense feelings and racing thoughts. The pace is quick and the plot engaging. I invested right away and enjoyed the ending. I even teared up.
I also love it when the title makes appearances in the text.
There is a little addition to tease an upcoming novel from Fayth's perspective that definitely piqued my interest.
I like the writing style. I love the beautiful cover. I recommend this book by Kellen McKnight and I will be reading the others by this author that are already on my TBR list.
Trigger warnings for dysfunctional families, poverty, child rejection, mental illness, alcoholism (not by MCs), recreational drug use, cheating (not by MCs), death of a loved one...
#nostrings #friendswithbenefits #bestfriendstolovers #fakeengagement #spicy #childhoodtrauma #PTSD #panicattacks #anxiety #fearofabandonment #neurodivergent #foundfamily #dysfunctionalfamily #childrejection #nonbinaryrep #selfsabotage #healing #HEA
I received this free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
Mara and Fayth become best friends at a pivotal time in Mara's youth when her survival instinct has already begun to harden her heart to keep her safe. Years pass, and the two are inseparable. Harboring an overwhelming love for Fayth that she would never reveal, she remains a steadfast friend.
McKnight gives us the down-and-dirty realness of these issues from Mara's perspective, inviting us to dive into a dark and desperate place, and then she shows us the way out. Mara and Fayth struggle to connect and admit their feelings for one another, even through a friends-with-benefits arrangement and a fake engagement.
Despite her prickly personality, Mara finds herself in the right places at the right times to meet folks who care for her, offer her advice, and allow her the room to process the realizations she has about her mental state.
This challenging and hopeful account of rising above one's circumstances is a valuable read that I can see helping guide others through accepting themselves and their issues and creating a plan of action to begin the process of healing.
Might As Well Be An Ocean is a love letter to those who need help seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
There is a lot of steamy sex in this book. I mean like beginning page 1, so if that is not your thing, be warned. It was a little too much for my personal preference.
Mara and Fayth do have very intimate interactions besides sex, as well. I especially like how Fayth is so caring, nurturing, and strong for herself and Mara.
This book deals with some heavy issues but also has a lot of love and some laughs. Mara has very intense feelings and racing thoughts. The pace is quick and the plot engaging. I invested right away and enjoyed the ending. I even teared up.
I also love it when the title makes appearances in the text.
There is a little addition to tease an upcoming novel from Fayth's perspective that definitely piqued my interest.
I like the writing style. I love the beautiful cover. I recommend this book by Kellen McKnight and I will be reading the others by this author that are already on my TBR list.
Trigger warnings for dysfunctional families, poverty, child rejection, mental illness, alcoholism (not by MCs), recreational drug use, cheating (not by MCs), death of a loved one...
#nostrings #friendswithbenefits #bestfriendstolovers #fakeengagement #spicy #childhoodtrauma #PTSD #panicattacks #anxiety #fearofabandonment #neurodivergent #foundfamily #dysfunctionalfamily #childrejection #nonbinaryrep #selfsabotage #healing #HEA
I received this free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
November 29, 2024
If you are looking for hot scenes, this book gives you them from the start. Personally, I like to have seen the chemistry and relationship first, but that was, sort of, not where this couple was at..... sort of! This book is so much more than hot scenes, tho' there are plenty throughout. There is also, I felt, a real opportunity to walk in someone different's shoes. One main has had a complicated and unpleasant childhood. She also has neuro divergent challenges. This book gave me an inkling of what living in that situation could be like. This is a romance, and it seemed to all work out with a reasonable bit of book still to go. I thought the author was giving us a good bit of happy ever after to read. She wasn't. I will just say full karma was played out and I loved reading the way it played out. I found it moving.
Some bits of the book weren't a total fit for me. The physical intimacy but I loved the other intimacy the mains shared. That is a preference on my part and not a book fault, some may even see it as a strength. I loved the rest!
Some bits of the book weren't a total fit for me. The physical intimacy but I loved the other intimacy the mains shared. That is a preference on my part and not a book fault, some may even see it as a strength. I loved the rest!
June 5, 2025
I received an ARC of the audiobook, which I’m so grateful for and this is 100% my own and honest review.
I was hooked from the first chapter! It instantly made me want to continue reading. Kellan’s writing is so witty and funny, which makes it a joy to read! Abby Craden’s phenomenal voice did an amazing job at bringing this story to life! I devoured this book, couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
Mara giving her vagina a pep talk fucking killed me 🤣🤣🤣 you need to read this!
Written in first person with a single POV. Dual timelines. Neurodiversity rep, friends to lovers, friends with benefits, fake dating, found family. Narrated by Abby Craden. 5x Spicy Scenes (very very good ones!!)
I was hooked from the first chapter! It instantly made me want to continue reading. Kellan’s writing is so witty and funny, which makes it a joy to read! Abby Craden’s phenomenal voice did an amazing job at bringing this story to life! I devoured this book, couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
Mara giving her vagina a pep talk fucking killed me 🤣🤣🤣 you need to read this!
Written in first person with a single POV. Dual timelines. Neurodiversity rep, friends to lovers, friends with benefits, fake dating, found family. Narrated by Abby Craden. 5x Spicy Scenes (very very good ones!!)
December 23, 2024
Sweet Second Chance Romance
Mara hasn’t had the easiest time of life, but meeting Fayth helped and now they are best friends, but both have an attraction to one another they keep to themselves. Making a pact to be friends with benefits only complicates matters further and then throwing a fake engagement in on top, only makes things worse.
What I loved most about this story was all the insights into the past that helped to better understand Mara and her situation, and then the reactions she was having to her friendship and relationship with Fayth. Everything was very complicated between them, and Fayth was the type of person it was easy to get wrapped up in because of her energy and enthusiasm, but for Mara you could empathise with pain it caused her. She had what she wanted but not quite, and so that honestly about her feelings for Fayth caused awkwardness and some uncomforting moments that lead to the rollercoaster that was their attraction to one another. If we’d not been clued into their arrangement for a fake engagement, it’d been difficult to know they were not in an official relationship.
Fayth and Mara’s story was one packed with emotional moments. Some of those flashbacks to their younger years had me wishing Mara had been able to tell Fayth all those years ago how she really felt. It really might have saved her some heartache. But the tension and sadder moments kept the drama and made the story very relatable. Something I actually enjoyed because I empathised with Mara so much. It felt at times like Fayth wasn’t aware of how Mara felt about her, but as things unfolded I started to feel like maybe she wasn’t as clueless as she seemed, just making the same mistake as Mara in assuming feelings were not mutual.
I really enjoyed the story, it was the true definition of soul mates. I am now really excited to learn more about Fayth and Mara and what the future holds for them.
Mara hasn’t had the easiest time of life, but meeting Fayth helped and now they are best friends, but both have an attraction to one another they keep to themselves. Making a pact to be friends with benefits only complicates matters further and then throwing a fake engagement in on top, only makes things worse.
What I loved most about this story was all the insights into the past that helped to better understand Mara and her situation, and then the reactions she was having to her friendship and relationship with Fayth. Everything was very complicated between them, and Fayth was the type of person it was easy to get wrapped up in because of her energy and enthusiasm, but for Mara you could empathise with pain it caused her. She had what she wanted but not quite, and so that honestly about her feelings for Fayth caused awkwardness and some uncomforting moments that lead to the rollercoaster that was their attraction to one another. If we’d not been clued into their arrangement for a fake engagement, it’d been difficult to know they were not in an official relationship.
Fayth and Mara’s story was one packed with emotional moments. Some of those flashbacks to their younger years had me wishing Mara had been able to tell Fayth all those years ago how she really felt. It really might have saved her some heartache. But the tension and sadder moments kept the drama and made the story very relatable. Something I actually enjoyed because I empathised with Mara so much. It felt at times like Fayth wasn’t aware of how Mara felt about her, but as things unfolded I started to feel like maybe she wasn’t as clueless as she seemed, just making the same mistake as Mara in assuming feelings were not mutual.
I really enjoyed the story, it was the true definition of soul mates. I am now really excited to learn more about Fayth and Mara and what the future holds for them.
January 1, 2025
2.5, rounded up. This one really should have been a dual POV for it to have worked. As it turns out, the emotional burden was all on Mara even though both MCs brought equal problems to the relationship. I was rooting so hard for a HEA of them going their separate ways, but alas, toxicity prevails.
Maybe if we saw Fayth’s POV, it would have been possible for me to root for them. I was glad that Mara put in the work, but Fayth was a pretty awful friend and partner at multiple points in this story and it all fell as Mara’s fault for her walls and for being emotionally stunted.
Also, if someone was actively texting another person to schedule a date/booty call while in the literal middle of a sexual encounter with me, that would be the end of any emotional connection I could ever form with that person. How are we supposed to believe that Fayth had this deep love for Maya when she took up so little space in her mind that Fayth couldn’t be bothered to put off texting her other hook up for a couple of hours? This caused a huge break up (as it should) but there was never any apology, remorse, or indication that this was unhinged behavior that was deeply hurtful to the person she supposedly loved. Yet Mara was expected to absorb this type of behavior from Fayth and the justification that she invites this because she’s closed off is incredibly toxic.
Maybe if we saw Fayth’s POV, it would have been possible for me to root for them. I was glad that Mara put in the work, but Fayth was a pretty awful friend and partner at multiple points in this story and it all fell as Mara’s fault for her walls and for being emotionally stunted.
Also, if someone was actively texting another person to schedule a date/booty call while in the literal middle of a sexual encounter with me, that would be the end of any emotional connection I could ever form with that person. How are we supposed to believe that Fayth had this deep love for Maya when she took up so little space in her mind that Fayth couldn’t be bothered to put off texting her other hook up for a couple of hours? This caused a huge break up (as it should) but there was never any apology, remorse, or indication that this was unhinged behavior that was deeply hurtful to the person she supposedly loved. Yet Mara was expected to absorb this type of behavior from Fayth and the justification that she invites this because she’s closed off is incredibly toxic.
June 4, 2025
Might As Well Be An Ocean is a raw, heartfelt exploration of love, resilience, and self-acceptance. Through Mara’s complexity, struggles, and growth, readers are invited into a deeply personal journey that sheds light on neurodivergence, trauma, and the power of meaningful connections. Balancing heavy themes with moments of humor, warmth, and intimacy, the story definitely leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the beauty in vulnerability and the strength it takes to embrace love in all its forms. I highly recommend giving this book a read because it is a rich and rewarding experience for any reader who steps into Mara and Fayth’s world.
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
Audiobook Addition: Abby Craden absolutely nails the narration in this book. She brings out every nuance of the story, especially the way it weaves together humor and intense emotion. I really felt like I was inside Mara’s head, seeing everything through her eyes and living each moment with her. And Fayth’s voice? Spot on. Craden captured her essence so perfectly that somehow, the audio made me fall for her even more than I already had. This is a really awesome listen!
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
Audiobook Addition: Abby Craden absolutely nails the narration in this book. She brings out every nuance of the story, especially the way it weaves together humor and intense emotion. I really felt like I was inside Mara’s head, seeing everything through her eyes and living each moment with her. And Fayth’s voice? Spot on. Craden captured her essence so perfectly that somehow, the audio made me fall for her even more than I already had. This is a really awesome listen!
February 4, 2025
Good story.
I liked this book. It showed a wide range of emotions. I liked Mara. She went through hell and back and evolved into vision of herself she wished to be. It was an amazing journey. Not an easy one. Both MC’s were interesting and I can’t wait to read Fayth side of the story.
I liked this book. It showed a wide range of emotions. I liked Mara. She went through hell and back and evolved into vision of herself she wished to be. It was an amazing journey. Not an easy one. Both MC’s were interesting and I can’t wait to read Fayth side of the story.
June 18, 2025
Things I Loved:
- Sapphic Romance FF Lesbian/Bisexual
- Childhood best friends to messy fake dating to lovers
- Mental health rep and lots of self healing
- Late diagnosed neurodivergent
- Single POV
This book was a whirlwind. A messy messy whirlwind and I don't mean the writing, that was really good, just the characters. Oh my gosh so much of their problems together could have been solved if they had just sat down and talked.
Okay let me give a proper review.
This whole book is in Maras POV and so we only the story told from her perspective. God she had a rough start to life and honestly I loved her story and as hard as difficult as it was you could tell she was doing the best she could. Did she make alot of questionable decisions along the way, absolutely yes. But I think she was battling her own self constantly and truly was stuck in survival mode. I wouldn't say she was an ice queen either, as this book constantly says and was marketed her to be, but shes just rather traumatised and doesn't do very well expressing her emotions. Anger very much so being one of them. She pushes people away to protect herself.
Faith, ill be honest annoyed me alot. Fayth is actually alot of the reason I didnt enjoy alot of this book. She made alot of shit choices and she treated Mara pretty shit on multiple occasions. The breakdown in communication was just as much her fault as it was Maras and yet we only really got a small acknowledgement at the end from Fayth. Some of what she did would have been a break of trust and personally I wouldnt have let her back in after that. I would have liked to see more remorse and more of an apology, especially knowing how much hurt she caused the person she supposedly loved this whole time. Even then im not sure her actions are redeemable. I am aware though that Fayth is getting her own book with her own POV and I wonder if it was written this way on purpose.
Mara's mother showing up at the end did feel a little unessesary and unrealistic. I dunno.
As I said, there were alot of aspects of this book I loved, but some parts just didnt hit the mark for me or felt unaccessary. I loved the story of overcoming trauma, grief, found family, healing with the help of therapy and diagnosis and medication. I loved the NB side character, they were amazing.
✨️
- Sapphic Romance FF Lesbian/Bisexual
- Childhood best friends to messy fake dating to lovers
- Mental health rep and lots of self healing
- Late diagnosed neurodivergent
- Single POV
This book was a whirlwind. A messy messy whirlwind and I don't mean the writing, that was really good, just the characters. Oh my gosh so much of their problems together could have been solved if they had just sat down and talked.
Okay let me give a proper review.
This whole book is in Maras POV and so we only the story told from her perspective. God she had a rough start to life and honestly I loved her story and as hard as difficult as it was you could tell she was doing the best she could. Did she make alot of questionable decisions along the way, absolutely yes. But I think she was battling her own self constantly and truly was stuck in survival mode. I wouldn't say she was an ice queen either, as this book constantly says and was marketed her to be, but shes just rather traumatised and doesn't do very well expressing her emotions. Anger very much so being one of them. She pushes people away to protect herself.
Faith, ill be honest annoyed me alot. Fayth is actually alot of the reason I didnt enjoy alot of this book. She made alot of shit choices and she treated Mara pretty shit on multiple occasions. The breakdown in communication was just as much her fault as it was Maras and yet we only really got a small acknowledgement at the end from Fayth. Some of what she did would have been a break of trust and personally I wouldnt have let her back in after that. I would have liked to see more remorse and more of an apology, especially knowing how much hurt she caused the person she supposedly loved this whole time. Even then im not sure her actions are redeemable. I am aware though that Fayth is getting her own book with her own POV and I wonder if it was written this way on purpose.
Mara's mother showing up at the end did feel a little unessesary and unrealistic. I dunno.
As I said, there were alot of aspects of this book I loved, but some parts just didnt hit the mark for me or felt unaccessary. I loved the story of overcoming trauma, grief, found family, healing with the help of therapy and diagnosis and medication. I loved the NB side character, they were amazing.
✨️
October 23, 2025
It's dramatic, full of bad communication and flawed humans and even more drama - but it works oh so well. It's a tearjerker for sure.
November 21, 2024
I loved how this story was so realistic and the characters were lovable but flawed…specifically Mara. There were so many instances throughout the book where I could relate to Mara and her and her struggles. As a therapist I can say that the mental health aspect of the story was very accurate and well thought out. The book had a great balance of heartbreaking, hilarious, and spicy moments. I became so invested in so many of the characters that I am hoping for several follow-up’s particularly for Farrah as she is hilarious. 10/10 would definitely recommend…job VERY well done.
November 22, 2024
Loved this book. The first chapter was 🔥. Loved the progression of the story, very easy to fall into, and get sucked in wanting to know what happens next. Many parts were very relatable, and I love that in any character. I'm excited to see what comes next for these characters.
March 23, 2025
I didn’t even finish the book yet but it’s so cringe. This book is a walking GASLIGHT. Why is everyone acting like Mara is the problem?! Her best friend literally chose her crappy boyfriend over her best friend of over 15 years!!! And then she only cares and wants to reconcile when she finally sees his true colors that everyone warned her about. But yet and still, Mara is being pushed to fix it when she was never the problem. The REAL ICE QUEEN is definitely fayth. This is unrealistic and it’s beginning to give 14 year old wattpad with sex!
Update: finished book & fayth still takes no accountability & everyone around them pretends Mara is the problem. And they all are gaslighting her under the guise that they care.
Update: finished book & fayth still takes no accountability & everyone around them pretends Mara is the problem. And they all are gaslighting her under the guise that they care.
December 22, 2024
"Might as well be an Ocean" is a high-octane romance, to say the least. The characters are gray, like us, and therefore relatable. I have so many thoughts swirling in my mind regarding the story, which prompts me to write this review.
First of all, a big shout-out to Ms. McKnight for creating such flesh-and-bone characters. Oh my god, where do I even start? From Mara Davis to Nita Patel, each character is beautifully crafted. But my favorite is Mara Davis. Oh boy! Ms. McKnight has breathed life into her. A person grappling with huge abandonment issues and being neurodivergent, Mara struggles to accept happiness, hence those lofty ice walls around her. At times, readers may want to shake her to infuse some sense into her. She's as stubborn as a rhino and a pain in the arse for Fayth Havens and us. But one can't hate her; on the contrary, Mara will garner readers' sympathy. Her overly traumatized childhood (or absolute absence of it) shaped her into the adult Mara.
This book is written from the first-person POV, so we get to know Mara Davis up close and personal. It is as if we are walking with Mara Davis side by side, experiencing and understanding life with her. But all said and done, Mara Davis is crystal clear about one thing—she loves Fayth Havens. The North Star of Mara's life, the anchor to her drifting ship, is Fayth Havens.
This brings me to discuss the second MC, Fayth Havens. It has been properly established that Fayth also loves Mara deeply and is very patient with her, but sometimes I couldn't wrap my head around some of her actions (though I do understand that with Mara, she was walking on eggshells)... Especially her stance regarding Derrick, who was a bully to Mara. Given the fact that Fayth knew Mara like she knows the back of her hand... then why? So, I can't say I fully understand Fayth Havens, although I would like to cut her some slack; it was never easy to stick with Mara, a raging rhino. Of course, in the latter part of the story, I see Fayth rise above her usual self and tackle the bull by the horns. Anyway, we've been promised to get to know Fayth properly in the next release. So, keeping my fingers crossed... Fayth Havens... I am waiting to hear your part of the tale. 😄
Now about the steamy scenes—they are hot, I mean sweat-generating hot. And readers, it is really a matter of personal choice whether those scenes sit right with you or not. For me, they sit right in the super-hot territory. Readers should also know this is a high-angst story, but above all, it's a story that leaves you with raw emotions.
First of all, a big shout-out to Ms. McKnight for creating such flesh-and-bone characters. Oh my god, where do I even start? From Mara Davis to Nita Patel, each character is beautifully crafted. But my favorite is Mara Davis. Oh boy! Ms. McKnight has breathed life into her. A person grappling with huge abandonment issues and being neurodivergent, Mara struggles to accept happiness, hence those lofty ice walls around her. At times, readers may want to shake her to infuse some sense into her. She's as stubborn as a rhino and a pain in the arse for Fayth Havens and us. But one can't hate her; on the contrary, Mara will garner readers' sympathy. Her overly traumatized childhood (or absolute absence of it) shaped her into the adult Mara.
This book is written from the first-person POV, so we get to know Mara Davis up close and personal. It is as if we are walking with Mara Davis side by side, experiencing and understanding life with her. But all said and done, Mara Davis is crystal clear about one thing—she loves Fayth Havens. The North Star of Mara's life, the anchor to her drifting ship, is Fayth Havens.
This brings me to discuss the second MC, Fayth Havens. It has been properly established that Fayth also loves Mara deeply and is very patient with her, but sometimes I couldn't wrap my head around some of her actions (though I do understand that with Mara, she was walking on eggshells)... Especially her stance regarding Derrick, who was a bully to Mara. Given the fact that Fayth knew Mara like she knows the back of her hand... then why? So, I can't say I fully understand Fayth Havens, although I would like to cut her some slack; it was never easy to stick with Mara, a raging rhino. Of course, in the latter part of the story, I see Fayth rise above her usual self and tackle the bull by the horns. Anyway, we've been promised to get to know Fayth properly in the next release. So, keeping my fingers crossed... Fayth Havens... I am waiting to hear your part of the tale. 😄
Now about the steamy scenes—they are hot, I mean sweat-generating hot. And readers, it is really a matter of personal choice whether those scenes sit right with you or not. For me, they sit right in the super-hot territory. Readers should also know this is a high-angst story, but above all, it's a story that leaves you with raw emotions.
December 24, 2024
❤️❤️
Beautifully written love story about two besties that fall in love. Mara and Fayth meet at the age of 14 and this heartbreaking beautiful love story starts. They become best friends and the story fast forwards about 15 years and they become best friends with benefits. Mara has been in love with Fayth since they met so friends with benefits is not the best idea 😭 she took what she could get so i get it. Mara had a difficult childhood and it was so heartbreaking to read especially chapter 2. The childhood trauma along with neurodivergence and the feeling deserving of love, was hard to read but so real. Her mom left at a young age and her dad was an alcoholic and basically left her to fend for herself. Even after everything she went through, she still has such a big heart. Her story really broke my heart.
I don’t particularly feel like Mara was an ice queen but someone that experienced lots of trauma in her life that she closed off feeling all together. Fayth and Mara’s relationship was not perfect what so ever once that got together but I loved to see the growth between the two. A lot happens so I won’t spoil anything. I do recommend to read this if you like fake dating, friends to lovers and neurodivergent main character. The angst was just enough to keep the story flowing and the spice was sooooo hot. Starts from page one 😏😎 oh! And we are getting Fayth’s POV in 2025 so I’m super excited about that.
Beautifully written love story about two besties that fall in love. Mara and Fayth meet at the age of 14 and this heartbreaking beautiful love story starts. They become best friends and the story fast forwards about 15 years and they become best friends with benefits. Mara has been in love with Fayth since they met so friends with benefits is not the best idea 😭 she took what she could get so i get it. Mara had a difficult childhood and it was so heartbreaking to read especially chapter 2. The childhood trauma along with neurodivergence and the feeling deserving of love, was hard to read but so real. Her mom left at a young age and her dad was an alcoholic and basically left her to fend for herself. Even after everything she went through, she still has such a big heart. Her story really broke my heart.
I don’t particularly feel like Mara was an ice queen but someone that experienced lots of trauma in her life that she closed off feeling all together. Fayth and Mara’s relationship was not perfect what so ever once that got together but I loved to see the growth between the two. A lot happens so I won’t spoil anything. I do recommend to read this if you like fake dating, friends to lovers and neurodivergent main character. The angst was just enough to keep the story flowing and the spice was sooooo hot. Starts from page one 😏😎 oh! And we are getting Fayth’s POV in 2025 so I’m super excited about that.
August 29, 2025
Kellan McKnight knows how to get you in your feels, especially with this book. This easy to read, deep and tear-jerking book will leave you wanting both the characters to actually communicate what they want to each other.
Mara, a girl who was abandoned by her mother at a young age and had an alcoholic father who left her for days at a time to fend for herself. With nothing to eat and no new clothes to wear, she was the butt of everyone's jokes in school. She knows how to have her guard up at all times because of how her past treated her. But when she gets a job at her local store and is taken in by an amazing couple, her hopes and dreams are something of the present.
Faythe, Mara's best friend throughout school and present day wants to be more intimate with Mara. When they finally land with a friends with benefits negotiation, Faythe leaves Mara high and dry when her on again/off again boyfriend comes back in the picture.
Mara doesn't know how to tell Faythe that she is in love with her because she never felt that love as a child and is so jaded that she can't let anyone in. Faythe, who has been pining over Mara since they were kids will now do anything just to have Mara in her life as more than a friend.
Will Mara be able to finally allow someone in her life permanently or will she push Faythe away to save herself heartache?
Mara, a girl who was abandoned by her mother at a young age and had an alcoholic father who left her for days at a time to fend for herself. With nothing to eat and no new clothes to wear, she was the butt of everyone's jokes in school. She knows how to have her guard up at all times because of how her past treated her. But when she gets a job at her local store and is taken in by an amazing couple, her hopes and dreams are something of the present.
Faythe, Mara's best friend throughout school and present day wants to be more intimate with Mara. When they finally land with a friends with benefits negotiation, Faythe leaves Mara high and dry when her on again/off again boyfriend comes back in the picture.
Mara doesn't know how to tell Faythe that she is in love with her because she never felt that love as a child and is so jaded that she can't let anyone in. Faythe, who has been pining over Mara since they were kids will now do anything just to have Mara in her life as more than a friend.
Will Mara be able to finally allow someone in her life permanently or will she push Faythe away to save herself heartache?
December 23, 2024
I fucking loved this story! It’s my favorite of all Kellan’s books so far. The longing and the angst and the growth of the characters just blew me away. I LOVE a story that’s really well written and I love a story with complex characters. This book had that in spades. I’m struggling to find the words to describe how much I enjoyed this book! Mara is more than just your typical ice queen and I related with her SO HARD! I really appreciate that the conflict between the MCs didn’t just magically disappear- they had to work for it! Fantastic neurodivergent rep, found family, amazing smutty hot sex scenes, deep emotional connections and a really quirky and sometimes downright funny internal monologue with a melting ice queen to boot, what’s not to love? If you’re looking for a contemporary sapphic romance with all the angst and all the longing and a fantastic MC then this is the book for you!
March 2, 2025
The first thing I have to say is that I love the beautiful cover and the title. The story of Fayth and Mara is complex. Best friends since childhood and by chance they enter into a fake relationship. Mara has been in love with Fayth since day 1 and out of sheer love she also gets involved in a friends-with-benefits situation. But was that a good idea?
The book is told entirely from Mara's pov, which made it incredibly difficult for me at times to understand the situation between the two of them. I still have a lot of question marks in my head. Even the start of the book is very sexy, lots of spice and smut. Don't get me wrong, I do love a book full of smut. But because I didn't understand the complexity and dynamic of the two at all at the beginning, I found the numerous sex just a bit too much. And also very rough. Even if they were just best friends, but with the fact that Maya is so much in love with Fayth, I would have expected more emotion and tenderness.
Nevertheless, I was very captivated by their story, precisely because it wasn't transparent. I wouldn't describe Mara as an ice queen either, but rather as a woman who has already experienced a lot and has built up a protective layer around her heart as a result.
I loved the longing, the heartache, the drama, the twist, the spice (in the last chapters) and the great chemistry between the two. A very emotional novel. It's beautifully written. I'm glad there will be another book about Fayth's pov. I'm sure it will complete the picture of all. After the rocky start, I really enjoyed the book and can recommend it.
The book is told entirely from Mara's pov, which made it incredibly difficult for me at times to understand the situation between the two of them. I still have a lot of question marks in my head. Even the start of the book is very sexy, lots of spice and smut. Don't get me wrong, I do love a book full of smut. But because I didn't understand the complexity and dynamic of the two at all at the beginning, I found the numerous sex just a bit too much. And also very rough. Even if they were just best friends, but with the fact that Maya is so much in love with Fayth, I would have expected more emotion and tenderness.
Nevertheless, I was very captivated by their story, precisely because it wasn't transparent. I wouldn't describe Mara as an ice queen either, but rather as a woman who has already experienced a lot and has built up a protective layer around her heart as a result.
I loved the longing, the heartache, the drama, the twist, the spice (in the last chapters) and the great chemistry between the two. A very emotional novel. It's beautifully written. I'm glad there will be another book about Fayth's pov. I'm sure it will complete the picture of all. After the rocky start, I really enjoyed the book and can recommend it.
March 2, 2025
Not sure where to begin. I enjoyed the smut and the overall love story. Mara and Fayths love for each other is that of a fairy tale and the one we all dream of having ourselves one day. Im so glad they ended up together! I really thought Mara would just run away. However, I found myself suuuper annoyed reading this book. To be honest, it was frustrating to finish and I didn't want to continue reading past Mara's realization/want to change and work on herself. It felt like the story was just dragging along. I understand her mother was a vital part of her traumas but I dont know it just felt unnecessary. I think some of my frustrations came from personal biases but also Mara (and Fayth at the beginning) were just frustrating characters overall. Id give the book a 2.5/5 so I rounded up to 3 lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
This was a high angst and spice romance (a heads up that there’s a lot of squirting in the sex scenes). Mara and Fayth had great chemistry and it was clear they loved each other, but neither character seemed ready for a serious relationship in my opinion. I wish that Mara’s growth coping with her trauma and neurodivergence had come when she was single rather than unhappily coupled up. Fayth also seemed to unfairly place most of the burden of talking on Mara, when she barely talked about her feelings either. So it would’ve been nice to see a little more work on communication and being a better partner from Fayth as well.
My favorite part was the found family. Nita, Vik, and Sheila were wonderful surrogate parents, and Farrah was hands down my favorite character, totally the perfect little sister I never had. I’d happily read a spin-off story about her and her partner.
My favorite part was the found family. Nita, Vik, and Sheila were wonderful surrogate parents, and Farrah was hands down my favorite character, totally the perfect little sister I never had. I’d happily read a spin-off story about her and her partner.
January 19, 2025
I liked this up until about 70% way through then it went rapidly downhill very quickly.
1. A clownsexual named Jules shows up and I had to suffer through several they/them passages.
2. The go-to source for confirmation of neurodivergence apparently is Facebook Reels and TikTok.
3. Coincidences happen. Mara's mother, who appeared out of nowhere, was not only promiscuous but also comically evil.
4, Of course the source for all the mental health issues Mara suffered from are mommy issues.
5. And a pill is the remedy for happiness.
Might as Well Be an Ocean between me and the last part of the book.
1. A clownsexual named Jules shows up and I had to suffer through several they/them passages.
2. The go-to source for confirmation of neurodivergence apparently is Facebook Reels and TikTok.
3. Coincidences happen. Mara's mother, who appeared out of nowhere, was not only promiscuous but also comically evil.
4, Of course the source for all the mental health issues Mara suffered from are mommy issues.
5. And a pill is the remedy for happiness.
Might as Well Be an Ocean between me and the last part of the book.
March 18, 2025
Loved this!
This was a wonderful story and I just wanted to wrap Mara up and keep her safe and whole, but of course, her being who she was wouldn’t allow it, and that’s part of her charm. The only thing that somewhat frustrated me was that based off of this point of view it seemed like Mara mostly felt like she was the only one at fault and the only one that needed to put work into the relationship and that Fayth held no responsibility which wasn’t true. But with Fayth’s POV coming this year, I’m looking forward to seeing things from her perspective. I just hated seeing it like Mara was the only one that had things to improve on. Otherwise, I loved this!
This was a wonderful story and I just wanted to wrap Mara up and keep her safe and whole, but of course, her being who she was wouldn’t allow it, and that’s part of her charm. The only thing that somewhat frustrated me was that based off of this point of view it seemed like Mara mostly felt like she was the only one at fault and the only one that needed to put work into the relationship and that Fayth held no responsibility which wasn’t true. But with Fayth’s POV coming this year, I’m looking forward to seeing things from her perspective. I just hated seeing it like Mara was the only one that had things to improve on. Otherwise, I loved this!
June 12, 2025
*audiobook review
Well this book certainly deserves all the hype that’s surrounding it! 💜
I loved this book! More than anything it just felt real and authentic to me. It had humour, sadness, excellent MCs and well developed side characters that you can help but love!
I’m not normally a fan of the ‘best friends to lovers’ trope but it was a definite winner in my eyes. It had so many beautifully tender moments while bringing attention to neurodivergence in the best of ways. Excellent writing by Kellan McKnight and excellent narration as always by Abby Craden. I’ll definitely relisten to this book again and again.
Well this book certainly deserves all the hype that’s surrounding it! 💜
I loved this book! More than anything it just felt real and authentic to me. It had humour, sadness, excellent MCs and well developed side characters that you can help but love!
I’m not normally a fan of the ‘best friends to lovers’ trope but it was a definite winner in my eyes. It had so many beautifully tender moments while bringing attention to neurodivergence in the best of ways. Excellent writing by Kellan McKnight and excellent narration as always by Abby Craden. I’ll definitely relisten to this book again and again.
January 20, 2025
The book was cute and I liked the MCs - but there was a lot going on. Maybe a bit too much for my liking. I really liked the beginning of getting straight into it, but the middle was a bit messy for me. It was angsty and I missed a bit of Fayths POV (at the end of the book I see its coming this year). Mind you, I just come from a very slow burn in a historical setting so any other time I might have given it 4 stars. I still really enjoyed the book and finished it in one weekend. So, its still a solid read!
October 17, 2025
This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last! I was surprised me in the best way. The humour landed perfectly quick, sharp, and not forced. The love story was both sweet and sexy, with just the right amount of spice. But what really got me was the depth of the main character. I cried, I got angry, and I found myself rooting for her healing. It’s rare to find a book that hits every emotional note this well. I agree with other reviewers suggesting this isn’t an ice queen story, it truly didn’t feel like the ice queen trope we all drool over.
December 3, 2025
The writing style made it feel like two very different people worked separately to complete this book. Some portions were eloquent while others had a more immature style.
As far as the story, it was hard for me to picture them together as a couple. Despite saying she had dropped hints, I didn’t think Fayth’s words and actions don’t point to her also having romantic feelings for her BFF, beyond their friends with benefits arrangement. I felt that too much blame was placed on Mara. Both MCs had obvious issues, but only Mara’s are addressed.
As far as the story, it was hard for me to picture them together as a couple. Despite saying she had dropped hints, I didn’t think Fayth’s words and actions don’t point to her also having romantic feelings for her BFF, beyond their friends with benefits arrangement. I felt that too much blame was placed on Mara. Both MCs had obvious issues, but only Mara’s are addressed.
December 19, 2024
Might as Well be an Ocean is a standalone romance. This is not a genre that I usually read but it is such a moving and touching story I am so glad that I read this book!
I fell in love with Mara Davies and Fayth Havens and their inspiring story. I laughed and I cried while reading Might As Well Be An Ocean! This is definitely a 5-star read for me!
Thank you, Kellan McKnight, for inviting me to read your book! Simply said, I loved it!
I fell in love with Mara Davies and Fayth Havens and their inspiring story. I laughed and I cried while reading Might As Well Be An Ocean! This is definitely a 5-star read for me!
Thank you, Kellan McKnight, for inviting me to read your book! Simply said, I loved it!
December 29, 2024
3 for 3
Kellen McKnight has written 3 books and I am proud to say I own all 3! This book brings the emotional energy of a freight train-like her other 2 books! Lots of ups and downs for Faythe and Mara-but their story proves love cannot always fix a person-but it’s a great place to start! Check this story out and if you haven’t already-get Kellan’s other 2 as well!!
Kellen McKnight has written 3 books and I am proud to say I own all 3! This book brings the emotional energy of a freight train-like her other 2 books! Lots of ups and downs for Faythe and Mara-but their story proves love cannot always fix a person-but it’s a great place to start! Check this story out and if you haven’t already-get Kellan’s other 2 as well!!
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