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Spikes, Dice and Other Variables
Life is over for Riley McMahon.
Well, it isn’t really, but when you’re the star setter of the volleyball team and on the brink of academic ineligibility, the actual end of Everything™ feels closer than you think. Terrified of failing math and losing her spot on the team, she’s desperate to do anything to save her grades.
So when she finds out about the gaming club run by Simon, the smart kid in her math class, she joins without a second thought in order to convince him to tutor her. The problem? She sort of told him she loves the game he plays. And she's never rolled a single D20 in her life.
But as they spend time together, Riley realizes she might feel something other than friendship towards Simon. Riley’s been avoiding relationships her whole life, and as her friends start to notice her not-so-platonic feelings for Simon, she’s forced to face her discomfort around dating, and what being in a romantic relationship means for her. Balancing her own fears against society’s expectations, Riley must figure out what matters most to her, and how to let everyone else’s expectations go.
Well, it isn’t really, but when you’re the star setter of the volleyball team and on the brink of academic ineligibility, the actual end of Everything™ feels closer than you think. Terrified of failing math and losing her spot on the team, she’s desperate to do anything to save her grades.
So when she finds out about the gaming club run by Simon, the smart kid in her math class, she joins without a second thought in order to convince him to tutor her. The problem? She sort of told him she loves the game he plays. And she's never rolled a single D20 in her life.
But as they spend time together, Riley realizes she might feel something other than friendship towards Simon. Riley’s been avoiding relationships her whole life, and as her friends start to notice her not-so-platonic feelings for Simon, she’s forced to face her discomfort around dating, and what being in a romantic relationship means for her. Balancing her own fears against society’s expectations, Riley must figure out what matters most to her, and how to let everyone else’s expectations go.
Paperback
First published September 15, 2026
About the author
Harper Kinsley
5 books16 followersHarper Kinsley is an author, educator, and lifelong Midwesterner with a deep love of storytelling. When not writing novels, she enjoys creating stories through TTRPGs as the resident Forever DM and dabbling in whichever hyperfixation craft has most recently sparked her interest. She lives with her partner and the trash goblin in her house that she also calls her cat.
Harper can be found on Instagram at @harperkinsleyauthor
Harper can be found on Instagram at @harperkinsleyauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 11, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an early copy of this for the author while they were editing. There is so much heart in this
is story and you fall in love with every character for so many reasons. Riley and Simon are amazing leads, and you go through this small snippet of their life rooting for them the whole time. So excited for more from Harper!
is story and you fall in love with every character for so many reasons. Riley and Simon are amazing leads, and you go through this small snippet of their life rooting for them the whole time. So excited for more from Harper!
June 11, 2025
I have read snippits of this book and loved what I have read I am in love. Can't wait for the book to come out. Read short stories from Harper Kinsley and she is very much a up and coming author would recommend you give this book a read when it comes out :)
July 26, 2026
Thanks to Harper Kinsley for sending me an eARC of her book!
I’m not sure words can accurately convey how absolutely wholesome and inspiring this book is, but I’m going to try.
This book is for everyone who has ever felt they are “too much” or that they are “broken” because they don’t fit into society’s typical mold. It’s also an amazing learning opportunity for everyone else. I truly believe this book should be stocked in every bookstore and classroom for the teen who needs it. I wish I had this book as a teenager.
Riley’s journey of self-discovery is eye-opening and heart wrenching but also so sweet and heartwarming. It’s a coming-of-age depiction of asexuality and it hits the reader right in the feels. I don’t want to spoil the journey that Riley goes through so I won’t say specifics. You just have to trust me and read it.
Riley also has undiagnosed ADHD. Her struggle with “being enough” for her parents, her teachers, even her friends at times… it’s a rough read. It’s also a necessary read. So many kids are looked down upon for their neurodivergence when they should instead be treated with kindness and respect. Simon’s sister is also on the autism spectrum. What I loved about how Kinsley wrote both of these fantastic females is that she celebrated their differences while not hiding their struggles. Both of these depictions felt real and raw.
There is also a big found family aspect to this book with Riley’s friend group. My favorite scene is when her new Dungeonpath friends come to one of her volleyball games. They know nothing of the sport; they just go to support Riley. That’s it. That’s the only reason. They didn’t need to “gain” something from going. They just wanted to be there for her. It’s a reminder that I think we all need, especially as adults. So few of us are still able to be that 100% supportive friend, not because we don’t want to be but because now we have responsibilities: kids, spouses, pets, jobs, hobbies, etc. We view our time as adults with “what do I get out of this” / “I don’t want to do that” instead of “you want to do this; I’ll be there for you.” The genuine wholesomeness of these teenagers… it makes you want to go back to that time, when you would go to an event simply because your friend wanted to go.
One more thing I will say about this book. There are times when diversity representation in media can feel like an author checking boxes. Spikes, Dice, and Other Variables has a lot of representation but it NEVER feels like a checklist. It truly feels like, “these characters were written exactly how they needed to be, exactly how they simply ARE and that is beautiful.” 💖
I’d recommend this specifically to readers who are neurodiverse or identify as asexual - but I would also recommend this to anyone who wants to learn more about exactly how it feels to be either or both. I hope everyone can learn to love Riley and all the other characters for exactly who they are, differences and all.
Some quotes from the arc copy that need to be highlighted!
“You are not broken because the world refuses to make space for you.”
“I want every part of me to be enough.”
“Maybe there’s not a right or wrong choice. Maybe we just make the best decision we can and hope it doesn’t screw us over.”
“Your feelings might be a little bigger than others, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be allowed to feel them.”
“Nobody makes fun of an athlete for enjoying what they do.”
I’m not sure words can accurately convey how absolutely wholesome and inspiring this book is, but I’m going to try.
This book is for everyone who has ever felt they are “too much” or that they are “broken” because they don’t fit into society’s typical mold. It’s also an amazing learning opportunity for everyone else. I truly believe this book should be stocked in every bookstore and classroom for the teen who needs it. I wish I had this book as a teenager.
Riley’s journey of self-discovery is eye-opening and heart wrenching but also so sweet and heartwarming. It’s a coming-of-age depiction of asexuality and it hits the reader right in the feels. I don’t want to spoil the journey that Riley goes through so I won’t say specifics. You just have to trust me and read it.
Riley also has undiagnosed ADHD. Her struggle with “being enough” for her parents, her teachers, even her friends at times… it’s a rough read. It’s also a necessary read. So many kids are looked down upon for their neurodivergence when they should instead be treated with kindness and respect. Simon’s sister is also on the autism spectrum. What I loved about how Kinsley wrote both of these fantastic females is that she celebrated their differences while not hiding their struggles. Both of these depictions felt real and raw.
There is also a big found family aspect to this book with Riley’s friend group. My favorite scene is when her new Dungeonpath friends come to one of her volleyball games. They know nothing of the sport; they just go to support Riley. That’s it. That’s the only reason. They didn’t need to “gain” something from going. They just wanted to be there for her. It’s a reminder that I think we all need, especially as adults. So few of us are still able to be that 100% supportive friend, not because we don’t want to be but because now we have responsibilities: kids, spouses, pets, jobs, hobbies, etc. We view our time as adults with “what do I get out of this” / “I don’t want to do that” instead of “you want to do this; I’ll be there for you.” The genuine wholesomeness of these teenagers… it makes you want to go back to that time, when you would go to an event simply because your friend wanted to go.
One more thing I will say about this book. There are times when diversity representation in media can feel like an author checking boxes. Spikes, Dice, and Other Variables has a lot of representation but it NEVER feels like a checklist. It truly feels like, “these characters were written exactly how they needed to be, exactly how they simply ARE and that is beautiful.” 💖
I’d recommend this specifically to readers who are neurodiverse or identify as asexual - but I would also recommend this to anyone who wants to learn more about exactly how it feels to be either or both. I hope everyone can learn to love Riley and all the other characters for exactly who they are, differences and all.
Some quotes from the arc copy that need to be highlighted!
“You are not broken because the world refuses to make space for you.”
“I want every part of me to be enough.”
“Maybe there’s not a right or wrong choice. Maybe we just make the best decision we can and hope it doesn’t screw us over.”
“Your feelings might be a little bigger than others, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be allowed to feel them.”
“Nobody makes fun of an athlete for enjoying what they do.”
featured
September 7, 2026Riley McMahon from Spikes, Dice and Other Variables is asexual!
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to netgalley and the author for the earc
This book’s gonna be one of the next asexual must read!
Riley’s journey was really important to read, I liked her character and her determination 😌
Simon is such a cutiepie and a supportive boyfriend 🫶🏻
I liked their romance but I also loved the friendships and the secondary characters of this book
I need more of them playing DungeonPath together 🥺
This book’s gonna be one of the next asexual must read!
Riley’s journey was really important to read, I liked her character and her determination 😌
Simon is such a cutiepie and a supportive boyfriend 🫶🏻
I liked their romance but I also loved the friendships and the secondary characters of this book
I need more of them playing DungeonPath together 🥺
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Inked in Gray Press for this ARC.
Previously, I read a series of YA Romance that involves Dungeons and Dragons and realized that I really like watching nerds fall in love. It is refreshing to see a nerd that isn't a CEO of a Fortune 500 company who someone manages to find time to get washboard abs while working on only two hours of sleep. Simon -- our nerdy love interest -- is described as a chubby, but cute boy, who has an interest in helping Riley work through her math problems as he can see she is struggling greatly, and his way of explaining the concepts just works for her.
On the other hand, Riley does not fully embody the "I'm Not Like Other Girls Trope", but rather exists as her own being. For some readers it may feel frustrating, because Riley has some serious undiagnosed ADHD driving her brain, which makes her jump around a lot and struggle with school work. Her parents are not the most supportive either, holding her to an impossible standard and never advocating for her to receive accommodations. This leads to the crux of our main problems in Spikes, Dice, & Other Variables: through long term conditioning, Riley has been taught to not make a scene and not draw attention to herself, and to tamp down on advocating for her own needs and desires.
Thus Riley begins playing Dungeonpath by lying through her teeth about her love for the game, in order to wiggle into Simon's life to keep the math lessons going. Could she have straight up just asked for help? Yes, but that's not what teenagers do, especially if their family environment has made it impossible for them to ask for help. Despite her intentions, Riley decided to go all in on the endeavor and spent 72 hours down a rabbit hole of Dungeonpath to come as ready as she could for her first session. Although her best friends Adri and Cooper do not endorse her reasoning, they do support her joining the club and making new friends.
As this is a YA Romance, it wouldn't be complete without our love interests falling for each other and ending up together. Harper Kinsley's romance though, is not a traditional allosexual romance. See, when I first laid eyes on the content warning page, one term in particular stood out to me and that was aphobia. The summary hints a little at it, but unless you're familiar with asexuality, this will rock your world. Heck, for me who identifies as asexual I feel that this book would have been really important for me back in high school. I actually teared up while reading this novel, for Kinsley takes the reader through the journey of discovering what it is like to be asexual in a world full of sex.
Riley has always felt put off by romance and sex scenes in media, and now in her teenage years she is starting to feel the pressure from her peers about the idea of sex. When she makes a new friend, regardless of their gender, she focuses on getting to know them and nothing on what it could lead to. Unlike everyone else in her life. Romance is in the air, and everyone who is interested in it talks about it nonstop. But those interested in the more intimate details can steer the conversation into uncomfortable territory fast. From personal experience, it is so off putting how frequently I have been asked about wanting to have sex with someone when we are in the getting to know each other phase. Seeing my own experience reflected in this novel really struck a chord that I resonated with. Even Riley's best friend Adri continued to bring up the topic of sex with her love interest despite knowing she was uncomfortable with these details.
It broke my heart to hear Riley come to the conclusion that her friends who are both allosexual, will never be able to understand her feelings no matter how she tries to explain herself. I felt so seen in this moment, but even more so when Riley learned about the term asexuality and having it all click inside her head. While writing this review, I could not help but tear up at this -- this book is SO important for any baby asexual in high school still asking themselves the same questions. For that I am so grateful that Kinsley wrote this romance that includes an asexual character: representation is so important.
Despite me narrowing in on the asexual aspect of Spikes, Dice, & Other Variables, this is such a small portion of the story. This is a story of a teenager navigating the world as best they can, with the tools at their disposal. It's about finding your own party that sees you as you, and not forcing you to be someone you don't want to be.
My only gripe with this story is that Mitch, the resident bully, feels a little too cartoony evil and not as realistic as the other characters. Honestly though, it does happen to the best of us. There is always someone out there who wants to use others for their own selfish desires, and won't take no for an answer. All in all, this book was wonderful and I am so happy to see myself represented in a romance novel.
Previously, I read a series of YA Romance that involves Dungeons and Dragons and realized that I really like watching nerds fall in love. It is refreshing to see a nerd that isn't a CEO of a Fortune 500 company who someone manages to find time to get washboard abs while working on only two hours of sleep. Simon -- our nerdy love interest -- is described as a chubby, but cute boy, who has an interest in helping Riley work through her math problems as he can see she is struggling greatly, and his way of explaining the concepts just works for her.
On the other hand, Riley does not fully embody the "I'm Not Like Other Girls Trope", but rather exists as her own being. For some readers it may feel frustrating, because Riley has some serious undiagnosed ADHD driving her brain, which makes her jump around a lot and struggle with school work. Her parents are not the most supportive either, holding her to an impossible standard and never advocating for her to receive accommodations. This leads to the crux of our main problems in Spikes, Dice, & Other Variables: through long term conditioning, Riley has been taught to not make a scene and not draw attention to herself, and to tamp down on advocating for her own needs and desires.
Thus Riley begins playing Dungeonpath by lying through her teeth about her love for the game, in order to wiggle into Simon's life to keep the math lessons going. Could she have straight up just asked for help? Yes, but that's not what teenagers do, especially if their family environment has made it impossible for them to ask for help. Despite her intentions, Riley decided to go all in on the endeavor and spent 72 hours down a rabbit hole of Dungeonpath to come as ready as she could for her first session. Although her best friends Adri and Cooper do not endorse her reasoning, they do support her joining the club and making new friends.
As this is a YA Romance, it wouldn't be complete without our love interests falling for each other and ending up together. Harper Kinsley's romance though, is not a traditional allosexual romance. See, when I first laid eyes on the content warning page, one term in particular stood out to me and that was aphobia. The summary hints a little at it, but unless you're familiar with asexuality, this will rock your world. Heck, for me who identifies as asexual I feel that this book would have been really important for me back in high school. I actually teared up while reading this novel, for Kinsley takes the reader through the journey of discovering what it is like to be asexual in a world full of sex.
Riley has always felt put off by romance and sex scenes in media, and now in her teenage years she is starting to feel the pressure from her peers about the idea of sex. When she makes a new friend, regardless of their gender, she focuses on getting to know them and nothing on what it could lead to. Unlike everyone else in her life. Romance is in the air, and everyone who is interested in it talks about it nonstop. But those interested in the more intimate details can steer the conversation into uncomfortable territory fast. From personal experience, it is so off putting how frequently I have been asked about wanting to have sex with someone when we are in the getting to know each other phase. Seeing my own experience reflected in this novel really struck a chord that I resonated with. Even Riley's best friend Adri continued to bring up the topic of sex with her love interest despite knowing she was uncomfortable with these details.
It broke my heart to hear Riley come to the conclusion that her friends who are both allosexual, will never be able to understand her feelings no matter how she tries to explain herself. I felt so seen in this moment, but even more so when Riley learned about the term asexuality and having it all click inside her head. While writing this review, I could not help but tear up at this -- this book is SO important for any baby asexual in high school still asking themselves the same questions. For that I am so grateful that Kinsley wrote this romance that includes an asexual character: representation is so important.
Despite me narrowing in on the asexual aspect of Spikes, Dice, & Other Variables, this is such a small portion of the story. This is a story of a teenager navigating the world as best they can, with the tools at their disposal. It's about finding your own party that sees you as you, and not forcing you to be someone you don't want to be.
My only gripe with this story is that Mitch, the resident bully, feels a little too cartoony evil and not as realistic as the other characters. Honestly though, it does happen to the best of us. There is always someone out there who wants to use others for their own selfish desires, and won't take no for an answer. All in all, this book was wonderful and I am so happy to see myself represented in a romance novel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
This one caught my eye when I saw it on Netgalley, the ace and neurodivergent main character as well as the tabletop roleplaying aspect both appealed to me. I was glad to receive a copy and started reading it shortly after that. This was such a great read and I wished this book had been around when I was a teenager as I related a lot to Riley and it would've helped me so much back then.
This book is about Riley who loves volleyball, but to stay on the team she has to do well with her grades as well and that's where she struggles. When she meets Simon she has the idea to ask him for help with math and studying, so she joins the tabletop roleplaying he is part of so he will like her more. The two grow closer and Riley has to figure out how to handle things as she feels romantic feelings, but doesn’t want to have sex. While at the same time trying to keep her grades up so she can keep playing volleyball.
I really liked reading about Riley, she was such a relatable main character. I struggled a lot in high school too and some of her struggles felt very relatable and I also felt like I was broken and like I worked so hard, but it wasn’t enough. I do appreciated that Riley eventually does get some help and support, but her parents don't understand her and that was tough to read about. I think Riley is an ADHD'er, but this never actually gets stated in the book, but her learning struggles and concentration struggles point in that direction. I liked seeing her figure out she's ace and how much peace and clarity that gives her and how she eventually comes out to her friends as well.
I really liked the sweet romance between Simon and Riley. I liked seeing the two of them grow closer and get to know each other. There are some great scenes involving the two of them. I liked seeing Riley get into the tabletop roleplaying game, which was fun to read about. And it was nice seeing Simon try to learn more about volleyball. Both of them just felt so real and so did their relationship. There is a bit of conflict later on in the book, but I think it felt realistic how that got dealt with and got resolved.
This book has a bunch of great side characters, from Riley's best friends Adri and Cooper, then there is Riley's brother, the volleyball team and the tabletop roleplaying party of Renee and Finn. I liked reading about these characters and also liked how supportive everyone was. There are also some teachers and the volleyball coach that play a role in the story as well. There is also a lot of diversity and representation among the side characters, everything from hypermobility to a nonbinary side character, a lesbian side character and an autistic and I probably am forgetting a few more or some that are hinted at.
I just wish this book had been even longer, but that's just because I loved it so much. There were some things I would've liked to see and I just wanted to read more about these characters. I wondered whether Riley ever talks to the teacher who sits in during their club meetings about being ace. And I would've liked to read the scenes when Riley comes out to some of her friends, which now got skipped over. I also would've loved to see Riley figure things out about being neurodivergent. And at the same time I do think the ending was great and very fitting for the book.
This book was so hopeful and encouraging. I just loved the messages this book had about being yourself and figuring out who you are. And the supportive group of friends was just so awesome to read about.
To summarize: I really liked this book. It's a great YA novel about figuring out who you are with a hopeful and supportive message. Riley figures out she is ace in this book and I am pretty sure she's neurodivergent as well. There's a lot of representation and diversity in this book in the form of realistic and likable characters. I liked reading about Riley, she felt so relatable and I am so glad she had a great group of supportive characters around her. Her romance with Simon was so cute and I really liked seeing the two of them grow closer. I really liked the tone and vibe of this book. It was so relatable and hopeful and I really liked it.
This one caught my eye when I saw it on Netgalley, the ace and neurodivergent main character as well as the tabletop roleplaying aspect both appealed to me. I was glad to receive a copy and started reading it shortly after that. This was such a great read and I wished this book had been around when I was a teenager as I related a lot to Riley and it would've helped me so much back then.
This book is about Riley who loves volleyball, but to stay on the team she has to do well with her grades as well and that's where she struggles. When she meets Simon she has the idea to ask him for help with math and studying, so she joins the tabletop roleplaying he is part of so he will like her more. The two grow closer and Riley has to figure out how to handle things as she feels romantic feelings, but doesn’t want to have sex. While at the same time trying to keep her grades up so she can keep playing volleyball.
I really liked reading about Riley, she was such a relatable main character. I struggled a lot in high school too and some of her struggles felt very relatable and I also felt like I was broken and like I worked so hard, but it wasn’t enough. I do appreciated that Riley eventually does get some help and support, but her parents don't understand her and that was tough to read about. I think Riley is an ADHD'er, but this never actually gets stated in the book, but her learning struggles and concentration struggles point in that direction. I liked seeing her figure out she's ace and how much peace and clarity that gives her and how she eventually comes out to her friends as well.
I really liked the sweet romance between Simon and Riley. I liked seeing the two of them grow closer and get to know each other. There are some great scenes involving the two of them. I liked seeing Riley get into the tabletop roleplaying game, which was fun to read about. And it was nice seeing Simon try to learn more about volleyball. Both of them just felt so real and so did their relationship. There is a bit of conflict later on in the book, but I think it felt realistic how that got dealt with and got resolved.
This book has a bunch of great side characters, from Riley's best friends Adri and Cooper, then there is Riley's brother, the volleyball team and the tabletop roleplaying party of Renee and Finn. I liked reading about these characters and also liked how supportive everyone was. There are also some teachers and the volleyball coach that play a role in the story as well. There is also a lot of diversity and representation among the side characters, everything from hypermobility to a nonbinary side character, a lesbian side character and an autistic and I probably am forgetting a few more or some that are hinted at.
I just wish this book had been even longer, but that's just because I loved it so much. There were some things I would've liked to see and I just wanted to read more about these characters. I wondered whether Riley ever talks to the teacher who sits in during their club meetings about being ace. And I would've liked to read the scenes when Riley comes out to some of her friends, which now got skipped over. I also would've loved to see Riley figure things out about being neurodivergent. And at the same time I do think the ending was great and very fitting for the book.
This book was so hopeful and encouraging. I just loved the messages this book had about being yourself and figuring out who you are. And the supportive group of friends was just so awesome to read about.
To summarize: I really liked this book. It's a great YA novel about figuring out who you are with a hopeful and supportive message. Riley figures out she is ace in this book and I am pretty sure she's neurodivergent as well. There's a lot of representation and diversity in this book in the form of realistic and likable characters. I liked reading about Riley, she felt so relatable and I am so glad she had a great group of supportive characters around her. Her romance with Simon was so cute and I really liked seeing the two of them grow closer. I really liked the tone and vibe of this book. It was so relatable and hopeful and I really liked it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Read: August 24th - September 3rd
Format: E-Book
Rating: 3.5 Star
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The way I JUMPED on this book when I saw it. I love volleyball (thanks, Haikyuu and past weekend family game days), I ADORE D&D, and was happy to see a non-typical love interest (chubby nerds need love too!!). I'm also 90% certain Riley is ADHD, even if she never gets a diagnosis.
The cast of characters in this is great. Each of them have their own personality, their own struggles, their own way of approaching life. Even the characters that I want to kick in the shin. I also always appreciate YA books that depict truly caring and helpful adults/teachers, even if they don't always approach things the best at first.
I think the reason this is more of a 3-leaning-star than 4-leaning is because although it has a lot of aspects I like, I can also tell that it was originally planned as a novella, which the author says in the acknowledgements at the end. The TTPRG/nerdy aspects don't really feel realized. Volleyball gets more love, but even then, it felt like it could huge a few more pages dedicated to it. I don't think either are done badly, just that for my personal enjoyment, I wanted more from it.
There was definitely far more focus on Riley's ace identity and her struggles with academics. Which that's fine. That's going to resonate with a lot of people, and I do think it was done well (though this is from the perspective of a non-ADHD cishet woman). It's just that the thinks that had me hyped diving in felt more like dress setting.
I definitely recommend this to people who want to see queer and neurodiverse high school rep, but for people going in for the nerd x jock-becoming-nerdish story, do know it gets less highlighted than the cover and title suggest.
Format: E-Book
Rating: 3.5 Star
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The way I JUMPED on this book when I saw it. I love volleyball (thanks, Haikyuu and past weekend family game days), I ADORE D&D, and was happy to see a non-typical love interest (chubby nerds need love too!!). I'm also 90% certain Riley is ADHD, even if she never gets a diagnosis.
The cast of characters in this is great. Each of them have their own personality, their own struggles, their own way of approaching life. Even the characters that I want to kick in the shin. I also always appreciate YA books that depict truly caring and helpful adults/teachers, even if they don't always approach things the best at first.
I think the reason this is more of a 3-leaning-star than 4-leaning is because although it has a lot of aspects I like, I can also tell that it was originally planned as a novella, which the author says in the acknowledgements at the end. The TTPRG/nerdy aspects don't really feel realized. Volleyball gets more love, but even then, it felt like it could huge a few more pages dedicated to it. I don't think either are done badly, just that for my personal enjoyment, I wanted more from it.
There was definitely far more focus on Riley's ace identity and her struggles with academics. Which that's fine. That's going to resonate with a lot of people, and I do think it was done well (though this is from the perspective of a non-ADHD cishet woman). It's just that the thinks that had me hyped diving in felt more like dress setting.
I definitely recommend this to people who want to see queer and neurodiverse high school rep, but for people going in for the nerd x jock-becoming-nerdish story, do know it gets less highlighted than the cover and title suggest.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It seems I’m on a roll with YA debut novels because this is the second book in a row I thoroughly enjoyed. I haven’t read a story with so much representation, and although it might not be for everyone, I enjoyed it a lot. I love all the diverse characters. It highlights an important message that you may be known for one thing, but it doesn’t define who you are as a person.
I was familiar with the word “asexual,” but I don’t think I fully understood it until now. The story does a great job of painting a picture of what it’s like to be asexual and to learn about one’s likes and, mostly, dislikes. Riley is also learning more about herself and discovering who she is as a person. Being inside her head gives us a better understanding of the turmoil she goes through.
Riley and Simon are so stinking adorable. Their mutual crush on each other makes them awkward, but in the most endearing way. It’s like witnessing someone’s first love in their eyes. The way the romance is portrayed is so different from what I’m used to reading in other YA books. Riley’s hesitation to take action toward developing a relationship with Simon, because of her personal feelings about love and expressing them, is so refreshing. I think a lot of teens would appreciate that it’s okay to take things slow and not be sure how to approach a relationship. It can be scary, especially when it’s your first time doing any of this, and seeing someone go through it would definitely make me feel much better, like maybe I’m not alone.
I’m looking forward to more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I was familiar with the word “asexual,” but I don’t think I fully understood it until now. The story does a great job of painting a picture of what it’s like to be asexual and to learn about one’s likes and, mostly, dislikes. Riley is also learning more about herself and discovering who she is as a person. Being inside her head gives us a better understanding of the turmoil she goes through.
Riley and Simon are so stinking adorable. Their mutual crush on each other makes them awkward, but in the most endearing way. It’s like witnessing someone’s first love in their eyes. The way the romance is portrayed is so different from what I’m used to reading in other YA books. Riley’s hesitation to take action toward developing a relationship with Simon, because of her personal feelings about love and expressing them, is so refreshing. I think a lot of teens would appreciate that it’s okay to take things slow and not be sure how to approach a relationship. It can be scary, especially when it’s your first time doing any of this, and seeing someone go through it would definitely make me feel much better, like maybe I’m not alone.
I’m looking forward to more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This novel was great, in a very simple and uncomplicated way. I enjoyed it from start to finish, it was easy-reading, and there were some really wonderful moments. This is another novel (like Loveless) that seems to double as an Introduction To Asexuality for anyone who doesn’t know what that is, and I think this is an important thing to have more of floating around out there (even if it’s a bit superficial in some ways). A few parts of the story dragged, particularly if you don’t need the explanations, but overall it flows well and works. I would recommend this to anyone, but particularly the (actually) YA crowd.
I liked the characters a lot, both the central protagonist and the side characters. She acted like an insufferable child at a few points, but that’s literally the character so it tracked and its all good. The jerks are jerks, the friends are quirky and supportive, and there is an overall theme of talking to your teachers if you have problems (some folks may have mixed feelings on this one but I think its decent advice some people overlook).
There is some D&D action (because that’s obviously what’s being played here lol) that will make D&D fans happy, but only a little bit so don’t worry about being alienated if you don’t care about D&D. The same applies to volleyball actually, and it balances out.
There are a few points I would have liked more resolution on….but that’s life I suppose, and highschool certainly doesn’t wrap things up in a perfect bow for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
I liked the characters a lot, both the central protagonist and the side characters. She acted like an insufferable child at a few points, but that’s literally the character so it tracked and its all good. The jerks are jerks, the friends are quirky and supportive, and there is an overall theme of talking to your teachers if you have problems (some folks may have mixed feelings on this one but I think its decent advice some people overlook).
There is some D&D action (because that’s obviously what’s being played here lol) that will make D&D fans happy, but only a little bit so don’t worry about being alienated if you don’t care about D&D. The same applies to volleyball actually, and it balances out.
There are a few points I would have liked more resolution on….but that’s life I suppose, and highschool certainly doesn’t wrap things up in a perfect bow for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I think this book is the equivalent of a warm hug; so charming, lighthearted, and emotionally driven. What I liked most about this one was how gentle the pacing was and how the author managed to insert the feeling of this unidentified weight, whether it’s rooted in our own personal worries in life or lots of stuff that makes our heads spin, as depicted by the characters in this.
Riley’s character feels authentic, genuine, and relatable; she’s so well-written! I resonated with her character at times. So did Simon; he’s wonderful, sensible, and a wise person. Not only them, but almost everyone in this story, including Riley and Simon’s friend groups were lovable. The found family trope will always get me! I also appreciate how diverse the characters were. Can’t get enough of them.
Learning and discovering about our sexuality, gender, and identity as a person should not be a forbidden discourse. Hence one of my favorite quotes from this is: “You are not broken because the world refuses to make space for you.”
Though it was not necessarily a book that everyone can relate to, I think this one was well-written enough to feel emotionally connected with the characters and hear their story, at least. Because the world is indeed so beautiful, and one of these things is adorned by beautiful human beings.
Thank you to Harper Kinsley, NetGalley, and Inked in Gray Press for this arc!
Riley’s character feels authentic, genuine, and relatable; she’s so well-written! I resonated with her character at times. So did Simon; he’s wonderful, sensible, and a wise person. Not only them, but almost everyone in this story, including Riley and Simon’s friend groups were lovable. The found family trope will always get me! I also appreciate how diverse the characters were. Can’t get enough of them.
Learning and discovering about our sexuality, gender, and identity as a person should not be a forbidden discourse. Hence one of my favorite quotes from this is: “You are not broken because the world refuses to make space for you.”
Though it was not necessarily a book that everyone can relate to, I think this one was well-written enough to feel emotionally connected with the characters and hear their story, at least. Because the world is indeed so beautiful, and one of these things is adorned by beautiful human beings.
Thank you to Harper Kinsley, NetGalley, and Inked in Gray Press for this arc!
September 24, 2026
This book would've changed my life if I'd read it as a teenager. As an adult, it healed a little part of me. I cried several times while reading this one, which isn't something I do often. I am so glad this book exists and am genuinely thankful to the author for writing it. Representation matters and this book has so much of it!
Things I liked:
The characters: the party, and Riley's friend group
Riley: She's a flawed, real character just doing her best.
Simon: What a beautiful sunshiny cinnamon roll.
All the queer rep! Ace rep! Pan rep! Enby rep! Sapphic rep! Bisexual rep!
Chronic illness rep!
Autism rep!
TTRPG
Volleyball
The antagonist: (I didn't like him) but I think the author did a fantastic job of writing him. I think many of us have experienced a Mitch at some point in our lives.
A couple things I wished there was more of:
Volleyball- there was a lot of volleyball talk and mentions of practice, but I'd have loved to be "in the game" more
Dungeon Path- I wish we had a bit more in game time here too. The small bit we got to see of their campaign was so fun, and I think it would've been neat to see Riley learning more about the game and more about herself through the game.
Spikes, Dice and Other Variables is what I like to call a hug book. Which is a book that is so good that you can't help but hug it after you've read the last page.
All the stars, all the feelings I hope this book finds everyone who needs it and even those who don't.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC!
Spikes, Dice, and Other Variables is an extremely enjoyable book, a perfect contemporary novel exploring high school love, friendship and coming to terms with one's sexuality.
Riley's asexuality is one of the main themes of the story, and I think it was one of the best portrayals of a young alloromantic asexual girl coming to terms with her sexuality I've seen in literature. The inner turmoil, the way Riley just felt out of place, just the way her feeling were explored, the reactions of people when she shared her fears of never experiencing what she felt was a necessary part of dating - all of this was written so beautifully and with so much care, it really made this book such an important piece of ace literature, especially for young asexuals. And it must be said that Riley's other problems - the conflict with her parents and her grades - balanced the book in a way that made it an overall fantastic read.
What also stands out about SDOV is the way the plot is not all over the place and stays very realistic, mostly with how it treats the major conflict of the book - Mitch's flirting. It's written at first subtly, but with a clear spot in the story, and gradually progresses. And while the book has the structure that can be expected from a young adult romance, it still works with it very well.
Spikes, Dice, and Other Variables is an extremely enjoyable book, a perfect contemporary novel exploring high school love, friendship and coming to terms with one's sexuality.
Riley's asexuality is one of the main themes of the story, and I think it was one of the best portrayals of a young alloromantic asexual girl coming to terms with her sexuality I've seen in literature. The inner turmoil, the way Riley just felt out of place, just the way her feeling were explored, the reactions of people when she shared her fears of never experiencing what she felt was a necessary part of dating - all of this was written so beautifully and with so much care, it really made this book such an important piece of ace literature, especially for young asexuals. And it must be said that Riley's other problems - the conflict with her parents and her grades - balanced the book in a way that made it an overall fantastic read.
What also stands out about SDOV is the way the plot is not all over the place and stays very realistic, mostly with how it treats the major conflict of the book - Mitch's flirting. It's written at first subtly, but with a clear spot in the story, and gradually progresses. And while the book has the structure that can be expected from a young adult romance, it still works with it very well.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5/5 - This book was so charming and sweet. It was the perfect young adult coming of age story. The main character, Riley's journey to discovering herself as she develops feelings for someone for the first time was such a delight. I loved her story. Every part of it. It wasn't just romance or self discovery that was amazing, it was also about self acceptance and friendship - finding people you fit in with and trust and can be yourself around. And Riley finding that made me so so happy. Her and Simon were so cute together, every scene with them shone with how well they got along and liked each other. The conflicts and angst she went through with her friends and her parents were also enthralling. I did hate her parents for a bit, but it just felt so authentically teen to have that kind of conflict. I also did find that the bully character felt a little too comical in the bully behavior, but it had a reason in the narrative for the characters self growth and standing up for themselves so I didn't mind so much. Another thing is I want more Ellie! And more of them playing the dungeon game, haha. All in all this was such a wonderful story. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A YA Book Full Of Heart That Combines The World Of Volleyball And TTRPG, I Was Hooked From The Very First Page.
The Story Is Set In An Immersive World Full Of Real & Authentic, Vibrant Characters That Sucks You In Deep. I Loved Riley And Simon A Lot And Their Friend Group Was So Warm And Accepting. The Are And Pan Rep In The Book Is Fantastic And As A Neurodivergent Reader, I Thought That Riley's Undiagnosed ADHD Was Written Really Well And Showcased Riley's Strengths Instead Of Just Purely Focusing On Her Struggles. The Friend Group's Banter Was Really Funny And I Liked How The Book Explained The Knowlege Of The Worlds Of Netball And TTRPG In An Easily Accessible Way To A Total Newbie To Both Worlds. The Scene Where Simon Helps Riley Choose Books In The Library Was Just Pure Joy.
Thank You To NetGalley And The Publisher For The ARC.
The Story Is Set In An Immersive World Full Of Real & Authentic, Vibrant Characters That Sucks You In Deep. I Loved Riley And Simon A Lot And Their Friend Group Was So Warm And Accepting. The Are And Pan Rep In The Book Is Fantastic And As A Neurodivergent Reader, I Thought That Riley's Undiagnosed ADHD Was Written Really Well And Showcased Riley's Strengths Instead Of Just Purely Focusing On Her Struggles. The Friend Group's Banter Was Really Funny And I Liked How The Book Explained The Knowlege Of The Worlds Of Netball And TTRPG In An Easily Accessible Way To A Total Newbie To Both Worlds. The Scene Where Simon Helps Riley Choose Books In The Library Was Just Pure Joy.
Thank You To NetGalley And The Publisher For The ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars rounded to 4. Full review to come!
Full thoughts:
Thank you to the publishers for an early look at SPIKES, DICE, AND OTHER VARIABLES, a YA contemporary romance with undiagnosed ADHD representation based on the author’s personal experience!
When Riley, a star volleyball player with ADHD, is on the brink of failing math, she finds help with the shy nerd in her class, Simon. Riley joins his TTRPG club to win him over but slowly finds herself falling for him AND his role-playing community.
SPIKES, DICE, AND OTHER VARIABLES is a sweet coming-of-age story with a moving character arc. I really loved seeing Riley fall for Simon and discover her asexuality. It felt real and affirming.
However, I did struggle with the plot’s premise. Even after Simon volunteers to tutor her, Riley is convinced that she needs to pretend to love D&D and join his club in order to “win him over”. Of course, this lie eventually comes back to bite her and it’s so unnecessary! I’ve never played D&D but I didn’t mind the focus on the game. I just wish there had been a different approach to the plot.
I also wanted to see more of Simon! I feel like we almost never see fat love interests in YA (or adult fiction for that matter)! I couldn’t tell you how much I needed this representation and the first time I saw the cover my heart practically glowed. But I feel like he gets the short end of the stick in this story. SPIKES is primarily about RIley’s development and his characterization is definitely second to hers. I didn’t feel like there was enough time spent with HIS emotions and reactions to the plot shenanigans. I wish this book had been a dual POV so we could really hear his voice.
I enjoyed SPIKES and I will continue following the author’s future writing. I’m glad teens will get to read Riley’s story to expand their worldviews and/or relate to her story. However, I’m personally left wanting more…
Full thoughts:
Thank you to the publishers for an early look at SPIKES, DICE, AND OTHER VARIABLES, a YA contemporary romance with undiagnosed ADHD representation based on the author’s personal experience!
When Riley, a star volleyball player with ADHD, is on the brink of failing math, she finds help with the shy nerd in her class, Simon. Riley joins his TTRPG club to win him over but slowly finds herself falling for him AND his role-playing community.
SPIKES, DICE, AND OTHER VARIABLES is a sweet coming-of-age story with a moving character arc. I really loved seeing Riley fall for Simon and discover her asexuality. It felt real and affirming.
However, I did struggle with the plot’s premise. Even after Simon volunteers to tutor her, Riley is convinced that she needs to pretend to love D&D and join his club in order to “win him over”. Of course, this lie eventually comes back to bite her and it’s so unnecessary! I’ve never played D&D but I didn’t mind the focus on the game. I just wish there had been a different approach to the plot.
I also wanted to see more of Simon! I feel like we almost never see fat love interests in YA (or adult fiction for that matter)! I couldn’t tell you how much I needed this representation and the first time I saw the cover my heart practically glowed. But I feel like he gets the short end of the stick in this story. SPIKES is primarily about RIley’s development and his characterization is definitely second to hers. I didn’t feel like there was enough time spent with HIS emotions and reactions to the plot shenanigans. I wish this book had been a dual POV so we could really hear his voice.
I enjoyed SPIKES and I will continue following the author’s future writing. I’m glad teens will get to read Riley’s story to expand their worldviews and/or relate to her story. However, I’m personally left wanting more…
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As someone who was a very anxious, asexual and a teenage 'disaster' not very long ago, I think that this book is very important.
The writing was at times light, but whenever breaching an important topic; it was treating it with utmost care and seriousness.
Characters were absolutely lovable (well most of them... iykyk) I loved their diversity and how they each got their own struggles.
I really appreciate how the topic of asexuality and being a 'failure' were portrayed. I cried more than once, because of how relatable it was.
Overall I was a really good book and I cannot wait to get it on my shelf.
The writing was at times light, but whenever breaching an important topic; it was treating it with utmost care and seriousness.
Characters were absolutely lovable (well most of them... iykyk) I loved their diversity and how they each got their own struggles.
I really appreciate how the topic of asexuality and being a 'failure' were portrayed. I cried more than once, because of how relatable it was.
Overall I was a really good book and I cannot wait to get it on my shelf.
August 18, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and inked in gray press for the eARC of this book!
This book was perfect for me, I have been looking for more books with ace characters for a while and I’ve finally found one! I related so much to the main character and what she was going through and I felt the book handles in really well. What I liked best was that it wasn’t made out to be how everyone feels and it explained that asexuality can be different for different people.
I am so grateful to the author for writing this book and I loved the fact it was own voices. If you or anyone you know thinks they are asexual, read this book!
This book was perfect for me, I have been looking for more books with ace characters for a while and I’ve finally found one! I related so much to the main character and what she was going through and I felt the book handles in really well. What I liked best was that it wasn’t made out to be how everyone feels and it explained that asexuality can be different for different people.
I am so grateful to the author for writing this book and I loved the fact it was own voices. If you or anyone you know thinks they are asexual, read this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“I want every part of me to be enough.”
This is an honest eARC review (thank you to NetGalley and Inked in Gray Press) AND THIS BOOK IS AMAZING!
I can rarely see myself in a character in books. But I saw myself in Riley so quickly and I fell in love so quickly. Her spunk, her sass, her determination. But I didn't just fall in love with Riley. I fell for Simon and his awkward but confident personality. They are such amazing leads and you will love them!
It's so exciting to see more ace and disability representation, and I've loved everything I've read from this author! I'm so ready to read it again when it comes out!
This is an honest eARC review (thank you to NetGalley and Inked in Gray Press) AND THIS BOOK IS AMAZING!
I can rarely see myself in a character in books. But I saw myself in Riley so quickly and I fell in love so quickly. Her spunk, her sass, her determination. But I didn't just fall in love with Riley. I fell for Simon and his awkward but confident personality. They are such amazing leads and you will love them!
It's so exciting to see more ace and disability representation, and I've loved everything I've read from this author! I'm so ready to read it again when it comes out!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5 out of 5 stars
YA Sports Romance - Volleyball
Riley is struggling to keep her math grades up so she can play volleyball, she meets Simon in her math class and gets the idea to join his Dnd club in order to get him to tutor her. Riley starts to discover more about herself as her friendship with Simon grows into something more.
This was a quick read for me, I love volleyball and I have always wanted to play a roleplaying game so I was vibing with this book a lot. I think I will reread this book again when it comes out.
YA Sports Romance - Volleyball
Riley is struggling to keep her math grades up so she can play volleyball, she meets Simon in her math class and gets the idea to join his Dnd club in order to get him to tutor her. Riley starts to discover more about herself as her friendship with Simon grows into something more.
This was a quick read for me, I love volleyball and I have always wanted to play a roleplaying game so I was vibing with this book a lot. I think I will reread this book again when it comes out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Such good representation in this book, including ADHD and autism, asexuality, and positive fat rep. Loved the characters and easily related to them. The author captured the struggle of feeling different perfectly as the main character comes to terms with her ace identity. And oof, the soul-crushing despair of adults around you not seeing how hard you are trying to apply yourself to your studies. As a late diagnosed ADHDer, I felt that harrrrd. Loved the found family vibes and the ending was PERFECT.
Thank you NetGalley and Inked in Gray Press for the gifted copy!
Thank you NetGalley and Inked in Gray Press for the gifted copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC REVIEW!!! Spike, Dice, & Other Variables by Harper Kinsley
Release Date: Sept 15 2026!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
This book was so cute!! I loved the D&D theme added into the story!! It makes me miss playing D&D. I relate so much to Riley. I see myself in her in some aspects! Simon and Riley are almost like two peas in a pod even though they have different personalities they fit together like a puzzle piece.
This book does include topics but just talked about nothing actually happens.
Release Date: Sept 15 2026!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
This book was so cute!! I loved the D&D theme added into the story!! It makes me miss playing D&D. I relate so much to Riley. I see myself in her in some aspects! Simon and Riley are almost like two peas in a pod even though they have different personalities they fit together like a puzzle piece.
This book does include topics but just talked about nothing actually happens.
September 22, 2026
Heartwarming without being unrealistic or overly sweet, this was a great romance featuring asexual rep with a backbone of strong supportive friendship groups and families that ranged from highly functional to mildly dysfunctional. I think it showed a good mix of showing the divisions between high school groups without overemphasizing them. And the romance was gentle and realistic, both in its successes and in it challenges.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm so happy we have another queer YA romance that this time focuses on the jock with undiagnosed ADHD, who slowly comes to terms with the fact that she's asexual and that that's totally okay (and even cool).
Simon was very sweet and the whole D&D Club (all 3 of them 😂) are the best!
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC!
Simon was very sweet and the whole D&D Club (all 3 of them 😂) are the best!
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is one of my favorite YA reads of 2026 so far! Riley just wants to pass math so she can play volleyball. She enlists the help of her classmate Simon, and joins his ttrpg group in an effort to get to know him better.
This book gives similar vibes to Kristy Boyce's Dungeons and Drama series - but with an ace MC!
This book features all sorts of LGBTQ+ rep as well as autism rep. Riley, with her undiagnosed ADHD and family that didn't understand her, was incredibly relatable.
This is a cute little story featuring found family and Riley learning more about herself along the way. A very solid debut, and I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next! Thank you very much to NetGalley and Inked in Gray for the opportunity to read and provide my honest review.
This book gives similar vibes to Kristy Boyce's Dungeons and Drama series - but with an ace MC!
This book features all sorts of LGBTQ+ rep as well as autism rep. Riley, with her undiagnosed ADHD and family that didn't understand her, was incredibly relatable.
This is a cute little story featuring found family and Riley learning more about herself along the way. A very solid debut, and I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next! Thank you very much to NetGalley and Inked in Gray for the opportunity to read and provide my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Raw, heartfelt, and riotously funny, Harper Kinsley's debut novel is a sensitive and real portrayal of queer self-discovery, the perils of the neurodivergent high school experience, and the communities that carry us through it all. I couldn't help but root for Riley and Simon, and I know these characters will stick with me for a long time.
Want to Read
July 3, 2026Aww the MMC looks like one of my OCs when he was in high school, so cute!
![Profile Image for Nonagesimus Reads [Em].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1785771992i/164257338._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was so good omg
Did Not Finish
August 2, 2026Mentioned The Percy Jackson books, Rick Riordan has taken a both sides stance on Palestine in the past, so personally I don’t support him and won’t support books that mention him after that time.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Victory editing for the arc!
I initially picked this book up after hearing about the representation in it and I’m so glad I did as this has become one of my favourite books!
The characters are so likeable and I absolutely loved getting to know them all throughout this book. Riley is one of my favourite fmc’s ever and her own story felt so relatable to my own. Seeing her discover more about herself throughout the book was so beautiful and I loved how realistic the portrayal was (genuinely the best I’ve read!) which is a huge credit to the author. Both her and Simon have such a beautiful connection and I love the pace at which it developed into something more. They had so much care and support for one another and I loved how each of their own personal stories was woven into their relationship.
The side characters were amazing too and all had such strong personalities. It was so easy to get to know all of them and I’m not sure if this is a series or not but I’d really love to see more of them all in future books! The connections they had with their friends were so strong and it was so nice to see such genuine connections throughout the book. It gave the whole book such a strong found family and I loved how they never hesitated to welcome Riley and her friends into their group. I also loved Simon’s relationship with his sister and the way she was portrayed as it felt so realistic and brought a lot to the story.
This is exactly the kind of book I needed as a teen as it would’ve made me feel so much more understood and less alone in the way I felt and I’m so glad that more diverse books are being published nowadays. This was the exact book I needed to read and I’m so thankful to the author for allowing me to feel so seen through their work. I highly recommend this book and would definitely read it again after its release! I’ll for sure be following this author for any future releases as she’s instantly become a new favourite of mine!
I initially picked this book up after hearing about the representation in it and I’m so glad I did as this has become one of my favourite books!
The characters are so likeable and I absolutely loved getting to know them all throughout this book. Riley is one of my favourite fmc’s ever and her own story felt so relatable to my own. Seeing her discover more about herself throughout the book was so beautiful and I loved how realistic the portrayal was (genuinely the best I’ve read!) which is a huge credit to the author. Both her and Simon have such a beautiful connection and I love the pace at which it developed into something more. They had so much care and support for one another and I loved how each of their own personal stories was woven into their relationship.
The side characters were amazing too and all had such strong personalities. It was so easy to get to know all of them and I’m not sure if this is a series or not but I’d really love to see more of them all in future books! The connections they had with their friends were so strong and it was so nice to see such genuine connections throughout the book. It gave the whole book such a strong found family and I loved how they never hesitated to welcome Riley and her friends into their group. I also loved Simon’s relationship with his sister and the way she was portrayed as it felt so realistic and brought a lot to the story.
This is exactly the kind of book I needed as a teen as it would’ve made me feel so much more understood and less alone in the way I felt and I’m so glad that more diverse books are being published nowadays. This was the exact book I needed to read and I’m so thankful to the author for allowing me to feel so seen through their work. I highly recommend this book and would definitely read it again after its release! I’ll for sure be following this author for any future releases as she’s instantly become a new favourite of mine!
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