Reviews

I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Anything But Fine was a really cute book. In it, you will meet Luca and he's pretty good at what he does: Ballet. Well, he was until he had an unfortunate accident that actually ends his career and dream. Ballet is all he knows and he's not quite sure what to do with his life now. It also doesn't help that he lost his school scholarship since he is no longer dancing.

Before he meets Jordan, he's not really excited to go to a new school. Especially without all his friends. Things definitely change for the better after Jordan though. So, it's safe to say he's a little excited about a new school due to a possible new crush.

Now the characters were pretty likable throughout the book. I also really liked how it was set in Australia because of the accents. Okay, I liked it for other reasons, but the accents will always be a huge plus for me. I also really enjoyed the friendships being developed over the romantic ones. Not that I hated or dislike Luca and Jordan being together. I totally liked them. Possibly loved. I just really enjoyed the friendships more.

In the end, I'm really happy that I got the chance to jump into this. The narrators did such a good job and definitely made me want to keep listening. Not sure if Tobias has another book coming out but I will be on the lookout for sure.

jjroetman's review against another edition

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4.25

features a third act get together followed by immediate third act breakup and subsequent reunion

mahshid_aa's review against another edition

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lighthearted fast-paced

Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.5

smalltownbookmom's review against another edition

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4.0

I've been really looking forward to this Australian queer YA romance between Luca, a ballet dancer and his bisexual crush Jordan and it exceeded all expectations!

Luca meets Jordan in the physical therapists office after having a terrible accident that ends his dreams of professional ballet. The two develop a secret romance as Jordan is newly exploring his sexuality and the possibility he's bisexual but as a popular jock at school is very nervous about coming out to his parents and friends. Whereas Luca is openly gay with a supportive father but has to learn how to be patient with Jordan as his first boyfriend.

Not only was the romance between Luca and Jordan super sweet, Luca also has such strong relationships with his single father and his new Muslim friend Amina. I loved how Luca grew closer to both his dad and Amina and learned to be a better friend.

Great on audio narrated by Matthew Backer, with an author interview between the Tobias and Matthew included at the end. This debut coming of age queer love story was truly beautiful. Full of heart, humor and so many tender moments I can't recommend it enough. Much thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for my advance listening copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.