Quick Review:
⭐️ 5/5 stars – Sebastian and Calliope are everything. They are just beyond adorable and I can’t get enough of them. This story has amazing representation for the neurodiverse community and it’s so spot on authentic. This story dives deep into what it means to truly see and accept someone, quirks and all.
🌶️ 3/5 Spice Rating – It’s open-door, but it’s not overly graphic. The scenes we do get? Tender, intentional, and sooo emotionally loaded. Like, it’s not just about the heat (though it’s there!), it’s about how safe they make each other feel. Especially with Sebastian—his sensory needs and boundaries are so respected, and Callie meets him with so much care. It’s honestly just as sexy as it is sweet.
🖤 2/5 Darkness Rating – While this isn’t a dark romance, it does touch on some heavy topics. You might want to check the trigger warnings before diving in. Maren Jenner lists them on her site.
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What I Loved:
Sebastian’s neurodivergence isn’t just mentioned—it’s fully lived in. The routines, the overstimulation, the directness, the info-dumping (with bonus butterfly and penguin facts!)—it’s all there, and it’s handled with so much care. And the way Callie doesn’t just tolerate those parts of him but adores them? I melted.
But what really made me soft was how he showed up for her, especially with her dad. Like, he doesn’t swoop in to fix it—he just quietly, consistently has her back. It’s that quiet, steady kind of love that feels safe. And honestly? That hit way harder than any grand gesture ever could.
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The Story (No Spoilers!):
Okay, it’s about what happens when someone finally sees you. Sebastian is rigid, brilliant, and quietly battling the weight of being “too much” in a world that doesn’t bend for neurodivergent brains. Callie? She’s bold, messy, and so used to being underestimated she practically dares people to do it.
They’re complete opposites on paper—but as their lives keep colliding, they start to realize the parts they’ve always been told are “wrong” might be the things that make them perfect for each other. It’s slow, sweet, a little prickly, and full of growth—and I ate it up.
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Final thoughts:
This it’s not just another grumpy-sunshine, enemies-to-lovers trope. This story dives deep into what it means to truly see and accept someone, quirks and all. Sebastian and Callie’s journey is filled with moments that made me laugh, swoon, and even tear up a bit. Their dynamic is a beautiful reminder that love isn’t about changing for someone, but about growing together and embracing each other’s authentic selves.
As someone who is neurospicy—a playful term for neurodivergence—I really resonated with Sebastian’s experiences. His challenges with routines, sensory sensitivities, and communication felt so authentic. Seeing Callie embrace and love those aspects of him without trying to change him? It hit home in the best way.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. And honestly? I am unwell.