Rowan

by Ila Golden

Exam nerves suck. Exam nerves that cause dog brain, even worse. Rowan would never wish away his species dysphoria, but at times like this he definitely wishes it didn’t cause him so many problems all the time.

Worse still the friends who’ve no idea the dog side of him even exists are starting to question his behaviour. Okay, sure, maybe right now they think it’s to do with his blood clots, but how long can he really stop them from finding out? And then what? He wants to trust they’ll roll with it and be there for him, but he’s been burned before. There’s no way he can go through that again.

So right now he’s willing to accept any help going. Anyone with any suggestions to help with his exam nerves and get his dog brain under control is welcome. No matter how creepy they appear to be.

Then again maybe it’s just his distrust of new doctors making her seem that way. And the advice she’s giving appears to be helping. So maybe… just maybe… things will turn out alright in the end…

393 pages, ebook

Published December 6, 2022

About the author

Mixing the pot of magic and realism, Ila Golden is an author of mature young adult fantasy, with a focus on personal relationships and identity exploration. They started creating their unique stories as a child, telling them to their younger brother on long car journeys. As they grew up and matured into a young adult, writing also became an outlet for them to explore their own burgeoning sense of identity, although it would take until their early 30s for them to have the strength and confidence needed to fully realise the unique individual they were always meant to become.

In their spare time Ila enjoys watching a variety of shows and playing video games with their partner, along with taking care of their elderly gerbil Zel-Bell.

If you have enjoyed any of Ila Goldens books please consider leaving a review.

Reviews

[William Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Neva Aton universe continues with another fantastic read in Rowan. Learning more about the character after he was so charming in Toby, meant it was more and more enjoyable to spend time with him. Ila Golden has once again wrapped up a compelling narrative with wonderful well written, likeable characters as the world of Neva Aton expands and grows further. I cannot wait for the next story in the series to see what happens next for all of these wonderful characters from a brand new perspective. Ila has broken my heart all over again with what happens in the story and hope to find out more in the next series what happens to the characters here.

[Kelly Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rowan (What Makes Me, Book 2), by Ila Golden, is a fascinating look at a teenager with species dysphoria who has a loving family, good friends, and a boyfriend. Nevertheless, he falls victim to more than one person who seek to exploit him for their own evil purposes. This is a unique and compelling story skillfully told with compassion and a bit of magical realism by Author Golden!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the way Rowan’s story made me think about dysphoria and other issues in ways I’d never considered. Throughout the book, he struggles to complete his school examinations. I liked how supportive his family and friend circle were. This is a hard story to read in places. The strong writing and heartwarming scenes with Rowan’s friends and parents provide a warm counterbalance. I really enjoyed this, and love author Ila Golden’s writing. 5/5 stars.