Hitchhiking With Daisy : A Novel

by Raluca M. Matara

Twyla Blake Daniels has been running for more years than she wants to admit. From her violent ex. From her father’s genes. From the wreckage of a life she never wanted. Love isn’t part of the plan anymore... how could it be, when surviving is all she can focus on? She needs to keep running. It kept her alive so far.

Until she meets Daisy Winslow.

Daisy "The Player" Winslow has earned her nickname in more ways than one. Although, being the reigning champion of multiple international video games tournaments is probably what made her famous. Video games and women. That's what Daisy likes, and she likes them both the same easy to win and fast to burn. It’s always been simple. Uncomplicated.

Until Twyla.

A single night together wasn’t supposed to mean anything. But now Daisy can’t stop thinking about the woman who got away, while Twyla can’t decide if Daisy is a risk worth taking, or the one person who might finally make her stop running.

Genres: LGBT

397 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication November 2, 2026

About the author

Raluca M. Matara writes romance and women’s fiction that celebrate diversity and center LGBTQ+ identities—with a special focus on sapphic love.

A Romanian who publishes exclusively in English (she blames her brain’s default settings), Raluca occasionally genre‑hops when a story demands a different canvas—always with authentic emotion and strong character arcs.

When she’s not writing, you can find her working on a new drawing, devouring books, or at her nine‑to‑five corporate job.

Happily partnered, she believes the best love stories are lived first and written second.

Reviews

[Lirissa]

I received an early arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Overall really enjoyed it, it is a romance novel with a splash of thriller that makes it a unique and exciting read.

Ok wow. Was not expecting such an emotional roller coaster as the reader for this one!

Read all the trigger warnings before picking up this book, make sure you are ok with ALL of them, it is heavy with lots of trauma.

The toxic lesbians who’re really shouldn’t be together but can’t resist each other trope (is there a name for this?) is crazy. Like screaming at the book they should go their separate ways get therapy and not see each other for a good few years crazy. But weirdly it works once the book is done?

The thriller/mystery part I wished was a strong presence in the book, it is great but having more of a focus on it would make it more unique.

The spice be spicing, but I think some readers will be left unsatisfied depending on which character you lean into. I don’t want to share spoilers because it is still early, but the book is dual POV but there is a main character and the spice also revolves around her mainly.

There is room for one last round of strong editing, grammar and some pacing that can be improved. Since there is a few more months to publish I hope this is the plan.

Not going to lie. I almost dnfed about 200 pages in because of the MCs behaviour (the games…), but I read on and am really glad I did.

New to me author so interested in read other books now too!

[Brigitte]

I didn’t know what to expect from this book. I thought it was some dark romance judging by it’s cover. And the description of gamer meets hurt lady. But it was nothing like that. Daisy is a lesbian who lost her parents in a car crash when she was eighteen. Her brother Liam was 10 at the time. She fought to become his legal guardian and quit her nurse school to become a professional gamer. It is also at an event where she meets Twyla. She usually picks up girls from events for one night. She even sets an alarm at 3am to kick them out (how rude!).
It goes the same with Twyla. She claims she wanted to leave herself anyway. Also only looking to scratch an itch. But was it that for them? The awesome night they shared together is playing through Daisy’s mind when she leaves from Texas to Seattle to attend her brother’s graduation ceremony. It is on the road where she meets Twyla again. Twyla is also on her way to her mother’s house. Twyla comes from a terrible marriage where her husband Jake physically and mentally abused her. She tried to escape him multiple times but everytime he was able to track her down again. Now she’s free, although not really. She has night terrors and severe panic attacks during the day and certain things can throw her back into a moment from her violent past. On top of that, she found out she carries the Huntington Disease gene. Her father already is suffering from it. She is in no shape to start a relationship.
Nevertheless Daisy takes Twyla in when her car breaks down and they try to travel to Seattle together. What follows is a pull and push love story that evolves between them.
I thought it was a nice romance between them. It was a bit overdone with all the presents Daisy is organizing for Twyla, come on, she doesn’t care about your wealth. She just wants your love, your warm and stable arms to carry her through her panic, and oh yeah your body..
It gets a bit thriller-like when the ghosts from the past are suddenly not ghosts… was not really fitting but oh well.
I thought the terror Twyla felt were well written. It reminded me a bit of The Lay of You from Corrie McKay, that also deals with panic attacks and violence. And the way Daisy was handling it all was so sweet and lovely. It’s everything you wish for in a partner.

And yeah, there’s also a good amount of hot spice and praise for the bisexual representation!

Thanks to #NetGalleyUK for the #ARC.

[Danielle Watts]

This was an emotional rollercoaster. And what a journey it was. Both the FMCs had some pretty heavy baggage. Please read the trigger warnings before diving into the beautiful story.

I really enjoyed getting to know both Daisy and Twyla. They come from very different backgrounds and learning about their past was great but also heartbreaking. I won't say more than that as I don't want to give anything away.

Daisy comes off as this promiscuous woman who doesn't care and has no feelings but that couldn't be further from the truth. She loves with her whole heart and then some. She's sarcastic and can be harsh but it's all her way of trying to protect herself. Which, once you read this, you'll understand why.

Twyla seemed like she was just out for a good time. And sure, it started out like that. She's trying to get as far away from her past life as she possibly can. She is incredibly resilient and has a big heart. She just weasels her way into your heart, just ask Daisy, she knows.

When their paths cross, they both think it's just for a night and nothing more. The universe had other plans. Once they are thrown together, they do nothing but butt heads. Eventually, being around each other forces them to realize their true feelings. The trip to getting to that point is eventful to say the least. These two definitely make you feel all the things for them. Happy, sad, heartbroken, excited and so much more. They are both so resilient and strong. And I absolutely loved them!

Add this to your TBR asap. It's available now for preorder. You won't want to miss out on this one!

[Kristy]

4⭐️ I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC directly from the author.
Based on the cover I was expecting a dark romance novel, and yes there are some heavier themes and some thriller vibes but the romance was delightful.
Daisy, butch lesbian professional gamer and “player” meets Twyla, a bi femme with a complicated past, in what was meant to be a one night stand. But when Twyla’s car breaks down she catches a ride with Daisy and they’re unexpectedly thrown back together. Both characters are very likeable and sometimes frustrating and I was rooting for them the whole time! Twyla is resilient and strong, Daisy is fiercely protective and has a lot of love to give.
Over the book we learn more about each characters past and their traumas, including CPTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, parental loss, genetic disease; and I have to say how well the author’s handles these themes with respect and knowledge.
The book is dual POV and first person. A good mixture of angst and romance with some swoon-worthy moments and spice. Overall a very enjoyable read and highly recommend adding this to your TBR!
Thank you again Raluca for the ARC!

[LezLibros]

This book is a pretty emotionally heavy read (TW spousal abuse). Twyla is trying to overcome some pretty horrific trauma, and The romance between Daisy and Twyla is secondary to that but I think that is really the heart of the story. Honestly, it’s hard to like Twyla at the beginning of the book, but as her story unfolds through her nightmares and memories, you start to understand just how “damaged” she is, and why, and appreciate her character growth. Daisy is easier to like, but she is also carrying a lot of pain and loss. What I love about this book is that both Daisy and Twyla are imperfect, but that’s what brings them together. Daisy is so tender with Twyla, and Twyla’s love for Daisy ultimately helps her see the strength in herself. This is a story about healing, hope, and unconditional love, and that really brings the book together in a satisfying and positive way. I appreciate the author’s emphasis on the importance of therapy, and explaining the ins/outs of CPTSD. Overall, a well written book with an ending you won’t see coming!

[Sienna Zini]

Whoa, what a roller coaster this was. I know the author, I know she’s good, but she keeps getting better. I’m not sure which of her characters I liked best. They’re so different, and yet so perfectly matched. So I’m going to say both, because why choose, right?
I won’t spoil the story because you need to enjoy every single second of it. But, as always in Matara’s books, it’s incredibly layered. You’ll laugh, cry, and get a little mad at the characters. You'll definitely root for them.
This time the themes are heavier, but they are handled perfectly. It’s a dark romance in its own right, but the MFCs are not the reason why.
So, in three simple words: I loved it. This is definitely a book I will re-read multiple times.

[Jen Betchie]

I don’t even know where to start with this book! It’s such a wild ride and keeps you hooked from the beginning! You’ll love and hate the characters in the same breathe as you scream at them to stop being dumb, but also cry for them as you feel their pain and trauma guiding their decisions. The complex trauma the characters carry in the story is so well written and authentic to what many survivors experience. It doesn’t paint them as a victim, healing isn’t linear or easy, and there are some things even ‘true love’ can’t fix. It’s real and raw and powerful. I loved this book so much and I can’t wait for it to be out in the world for others to enjoy!

Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book to read and review!

[Sam]

This book starts with a trigger warning about domestic violence, if this is triggering for you, make sure to listen to it.
I’ve never seen a more relevant trigger warning.
I believe the trigger warning says the violence is off page, while this is true in a sense, it also isn’t. Our main character is constantly reliving/ having nightmares about the violence.

It’s an emotional story and I am not sure I like the way the story is being told. The way our main character learns to deal with the emotional scars and trauma is written well, with care. The rest of it sist a bit weird me,I can’t put my finger on why.

This is a heartbreaking story about domestic violence and overcoming the aftermath. It won’t be for everyone, certainly not an easy light hearted read, but it’s a decent read.

[Mar]

Hitchhiking with Daisy was a rollercoaster of a read. It got incredibly intense at times, but I thought it handled its survivor storyline with a lot of care.

The healing arc was easily my favorite part. I became completely invested in Twyla and in watching her navigate what had happened to her and begin figuring out what moving forward could look like. The story allowed that process to matter rather than treating romance as an easy solution, which made the emotional payoff much more satisfying.

There were definitely moments when this book had my stress levels considerably high, but the intensity felt worthwhile because I cared so much about where Twyla ended up.

An intense and sometimes difficult read, but ultimately a hopeful one.

[Vicky Chapman]

I loved this story so much - it's now my favourite book by Raluca.
I was hooked from the start - eager to learn more about both MCs.
I love seeing bi rep in a sapphic story, and Twyla also being a bookworm made this bi bookworm very happy! And I just adore our gamer girl Daisy!
There are triggers within this story so do check before starting.
The characters are well written, and it really felt like I was on this journey with them - I laughed,I cried, there are difficult topics covered but handled beautifully.
I felt so honored that Raluca had me as part of her early arc team, thank you so much

[Lady Olenna]

The story started with cliche trope after cliche trope (not going to outline because it will spoil the fun 😆) I am thankful the author reigned it in at some point and the main character’s flaws/quirks started to show and take the attention off of lust.

I’d like to add that, I really enjoyed the first chapter’s introduction to one of the main characters. It plopped the reader smack in the middle of something which makes the reader curious to find out more.

In addition, the bulk of the conflict was relatable to e-ve-ry woman, directly or indirectly, which gave the story some heft in the intrigue and suspense department.

Overall, I enjoyed Hitchhiking with Daisy.

[Emily]

I really wanted to get into this one because the premise sounded like something I would love. Sapphic romantic suspense, forced proximity, a road trip, danger, and spice? Normally I am absolutely here for all of that.

Unfortunately, this one just never fully grabbed me. I had a hard time connecting with the story and found myself struggling to stay invested in Twyla and Daisy’s relationship. There were definitely parts I enjoyed, and I liked the darker suspense elements, but overall it just wasn’t a book that stuck with me after I finished it.

Not a bad read by any means, just not really for me. Three stars.

[Donna Reed]

Thankyou for the opportunity  to ARC. I have not read about esport before, but the interaction  was fast paced and competitive.  After a one night stand  Daisy needs to drive across country to Seattle  for her brother's graduation. As the clever title suggests, Daisy picks up a Hitch hiker. There is so much about girl gamers that it's a fascinating  tale. There's also the added levels of anxiety and the Huttington gene. Recovery from Domestic abuse can take its time but Raluca has tender writing through the trauma and romance. Worth the read.

[Lori]

I was lucky enough to receive an early ARC of this book from the author and I loved it. The writing is fluid and Twyla and Daisy are well-rounded and complex characters. The alternating first person points of view give plenty of insight into each of the main characters. They've both been through so much in their lives. I was fully invested in Twyla and Daisy's journey. This will be one of my favorite reads of the year.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[May ✿]

I couldn’t put this book down for long! I felt entertained the entire time

Twyla and Daisy had the chemistry, undeniable attraction, and they were able to keep me hooked from the beginning. They each had their own struggles and I loved seeing their relationship grow!

I found that this book did such a good job handling the heavy topics and keeping that a big part of their stories, it got its message across perfectly that despite what you go through and how much you go through, you can always find happiness somewhere and give them hope!

[Xiaoqing]

This is the first book I ever read from the author and I like it very much! It is not a easy one to read, with heavy topics such as domestic violence, the cursed Huntington's disease (HD) genes, and tragic death of parents. But the story is addictive, the characters vivid and admirable, and the happy ending makes the book feel lighter. It also highlighted the importance of trust and honest communication!

[J. Tobias]

This book grabbed me from the start. What an emotional roller coaster. It made me angry, sad, excited, amused, and very entertained. The characters are so well written that you become easily immersed in their lives and story. I loved the dismissal. I loved the chase. I loved the anticipation. I loved the angst. I loved yet hated the wait to find out. Would she catch her?

Thank you to Raluca for allowing me to read an ARC of this amazing book.

[Shannon Ritts]

I very quickly I fell in love with Daisy & Twyla’s whitty banter and back and forth. I couldn’t route more for them as a couple. It warmed my heart how soft Daisy was with Twyla with everything she has gone through just made me love Daisy so much more. The writing was well paced, I think if anything the climax at the end happened a bit too fast and felt a little rushed but other than that I really enjoyed this story.

[Pheonix]

I really loved the storyline for the most part. The slow burn. Enemies to lovers. Love those. But the little hints happening throughout, and then the big reveal felt like they were just thrown in for the sake of having a crazy twist. It didn’t feel like it was meant to be a part of the story and could have been removed entirely or incorporated better.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[rawFM]

3.75⭐️

After reading the book blurb I was intrigued by what this story was about.

I enjoyed getting to know Twyla and Daisy as they got to know each other and their individual stories were revealed. I liked how their relationship evolved. It was refreshing to see two characters have to put in the work to have a romantic relationship and not just instantaneous love after one encounter. The pay off of getting to see the genuine interaction between Twyla and Daisy and seeing how they have grown to care for each other, not just tease and anger one another was worth it.

The story itself definitely caught me by surprise and I wasn’t expecting the ending. This one definitely dealt with some heavy topics and situations (TW: domestic violence, CPTSD).

Overall I enjoyed the story and the journey I got to take with these characters.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC.

[ChapterChaser1]

This book was a lot of fun, I really enjoyed seeing how hard both characters tried to hate each other.
Very good character development for both characters, I really enjoyed the side ones too.

I enjoyed the storyline, a real reality at times in our world. This book has some raw moments, hard to read but also very needed in my opinion. This book could help others open their eyes and not put up with violence or abuse.