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cassie7e's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Love having a black ace (and biromantic!) character! I recommend this for young aces or anyone who likes a young-adult-figuring-themselves-out story. It's useful if a lot of these concepts are new, and I seem to be the only ace reader who didn't hate this book. But it wasn't fantastic either. I think I would have loved this book if I found it while I was a teen/still in college. It works as an introduction to asexuality (and having a separate romantic orientation!) but doesn't delve into what that means for navigating relationships.
For an ace book that starts off commiserating with ace readers about how unrelatable being attracted to random people is, we still get instalove the second Alice lays eyes on Takumi. Aside from confusing Alice and making her question her identity, the book doesn't really explore how ace people can have varied experiences and still be ace. The text also doesnt seem to understand that romantic crushes aren't the same as finding someone so hot your face melts (which is what appears to happen here, and is so unrelatable to me that I wondered from the start if the author even knew what she was talking about). I wanted Alice's romantic side to be the focus but instead she is constantly questioning her sexual relationships, and jumps right into a situationship with Takumi that certainly reads as romantic to me (I mean, sharing a bed with your crush who keeps saying they like you??) but is only called a friendship by both parties for way too long. Instead of us getting to witness the development of their intimacy and actually see any chemistry, major breakthroughs in vulnerability and fun activities happen *off page*. Which is especially jarring since the narration carries on with the same tone and pace whether an hour has passed or apparently months. It made it really hard to track the progression of the story or believe in the emotional arcs.
So if Alice's romantic experiences aren't the focus, is asexuality in relationship explored? Not really. Alice is too immature and fearful to share with Margot that she's ace, which is appropriate for her age and insecurity. However the book doesn't distinguish between Margot's need for sexuality in her relationship from her judgement of Alice's lack of sexual engagement. Similarly there's not a discussion with Takumi about how he (who is not ace) will feel fulfilled in a relationship with Alice, who doesn't care about sex at all, nor want to have sex ever again even though she has at least once enjoyed herself. (Honestly I think most of Alice's hangups around sex come from sleeping with people she didn't even like, and who didn't care about her pleasure, but the book doesn't acknowledge that aspect of her past either.)
There's also a lot of friendship drama as Alice and Feeny (sp?) hurt each other without either entirely being in the wrong, and both refusing to talk about it. This is also developmentally realistic (fits my experience of teen girls in college) and maddening. But I appreciate that the book doesn't use this as an excuse to break the friendship and they do work through it. Prominent is an underlying fear of friends who are like family being fine without you, not needing you as much as you need them because they have their partner. (What if we normalized expansive relationship formats beyond the couple/nuclear family instead of putting people - especially aros and aces - in situationships with coupled friends? 👀) The book could have more intentionally explored reassurance within friendships and have the characters reckon with the priorities they put on their friendship vs romantic relationships. There's an opportunity here to show how deep and reliable friendships can be that is just missed.
As a fully fledged adult, what this book explores is not new or nuanced for me, and how people form and maintain complex relationships is far more interesting. This book is not that.
For an ace book that starts off commiserating with ace readers about how unrelatable being attracted to random people is, we still get instalove the second Alice lays eyes on Takumi. Aside from confusing Alice and making her question her identity, the book doesn't really explore how ace people can have varied experiences and still be ace. The text also doesnt seem to understand that romantic crushes aren't the same as finding someone so hot your face melts (which is what appears to happen here, and is so unrelatable to me that I wondered from the start if the author even knew what she was talking about). I wanted Alice's romantic side to be the focus but instead she is constantly questioning her sexual relationships, and jumps right into a situationship with Takumi that certainly reads as romantic to me (I mean, sharing a bed with your crush who keeps saying they like you??) but is only called a friendship by both parties for way too long. Instead of us getting to witness the development of their intimacy and actually see any chemistry, major breakthroughs in vulnerability and fun activities happen *off page*. Which is especially jarring since the narration carries on with the same tone and pace whether an hour has passed or apparently months. It made it really hard to track the progression of the story or believe in the emotional arcs.
So if Alice's romantic experiences aren't the focus, is asexuality in relationship explored? Not really. Alice is too immature and fearful to share with Margot that she's ace, which is appropriate for her age and insecurity. However the book doesn't distinguish between Margot's need for sexuality in her relationship from her judgement of Alice's lack of sexual engagement. Similarly there's not a discussion with Takumi about how he (who is not ace) will feel fulfilled in a relationship with Alice, who doesn't care about sex at all, nor want to have sex ever again even though she has at least once enjoyed herself. (Honestly I think most of Alice's hangups around sex come from sleeping with people she didn't even like, and who didn't care about her pleasure, but the book doesn't acknowledge that aspect of her past either.)
There's also a lot of friendship drama as Alice and Feeny (sp?) hurt each other without either entirely being in the wrong, and both refusing to talk about it. This is also developmentally realistic (fits my experience of teen girls in college) and maddening. But I appreciate that the book doesn't use this as an excuse to break the friendship and they do work through it. Prominent is an underlying fear of friends who are like family being fine without you, not needing you as much as you need them because they have their partner. (What if we normalized expansive relationship formats beyond the couple/nuclear family instead of putting people - especially aros and aces - in situationships with coupled friends? 👀) The book could have more intentionally explored reassurance within friendships and have the characters reckon with the priorities they put on their friendship vs romantic relationships. There's an opportunity here to show how deep and reliable friendships can be that is just missed.
As a fully fledged adult, what this book explores is not new or nuanced for me, and how people form and maintain complex relationships is far more interesting. This book is not that.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Acephobia/Arophobia
Moderate: Sexual harassment
Minor: Racism, Vomit, and Alcohol
jess_always_reading's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.75
I tried so hard to like this one. The story was interesting, some cool characters, but overall I'm just not a fan. I think the writing style just isn't for me, it comes across as very juvenile (it's giving first fanfiction) and Alice's character was frustratingly childish and self-centred. There was so much that could have been explored better but was sailed through with no mention or only a brief one.
One thing I was happy to see was the depiction of therapy and a therapeutic relationship was actually very realistic (I'm a social worker) kudos for that, it's rare!
One thing I was happy to see was the depiction of therapy and a therapeutic relationship was actually very realistic (I'm a social worker) kudos for that, it's rare!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Acephobia/Arophobia, and Sexual harassment
badbadwolf's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Body shaming, Bullying, Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Racism, Toxic relationship, Grief, Acephobia/Arophobia, Toxic friendship, Alcohol, and Sexual harassment
whiteflowerose's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Biphobia, Body shaming, Bullying, Misogyny, Racism, Toxic relationship, Acephobia/Arophobia, Gaslighting, and Sexual harassment
warlocksarecool21's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Overall, Let’s Talk About Love was a sweet story about growing up and learning how to navigate relationships. I had some mixed feelings about some things in this book but I did like it. The strongest part of this story for me was Alice. I thought she was a fun character and her problems were very realistic and relatable for young adults. I liked the balance between Alice’s steadfastness in knowing what she wants for herself (in both her career and relationships) and her learning to be okay with doing things that might upset others. I really appreciated the asexual rep, a lot of Alice’s experiences with being ace are very similar to my own. All this to say, Alice is a very real and sweet character. (Updating this a little to make a comment inspired by a very angry and insecure review I saw: Not every asexual person is the same. If Alice’s experiences don’t match your experiences being asexual that’s ok, it’s not for you but it doesn’t mean it’s bad representation.)
Now, for the parts I had issues with. I will preface that I did really like her relationship with Takumi, they were really cute and sweet together. I did wish more time was given to address some of the conflicts they had (Mainly, her expecting him to be perfect, and Takumi figuring out what a relationship would look like for them. ). They were talked about, but it happened very quickly so it was a little dissatisfying. I did enjoy the rest of their relationship though.
I had minor issues with the writing style but I was able to look past it. The technical skill was there I just didn’t vibe with all of the humor and pop culture references. It was very reminiscent of Tumblr culture several years ago (when this book was written) that didn’t completely come across now. Not that it aged poorly in a problematic sense but some of the references/jokes (and there were a lot) just weren’t funny to me 😂. But if you really like that style of humor it might be for you.
My biggest issue was regarding Alice’s friends (Feenie and Ryan) she deserves so much better ðŸ˜ðŸ˜. Their whole situation was so unhealthy and toxic at times and I just didn’t like their friendship. Alice’s individual dynamic with Ryan was fine but I did not like Feenie. To me, Feenie did not treat Alice that well?. I think Feenie acted really unfairly and that there was a double standard when it came down to how each one of them was allowed to act. The main issue was how possessive Feenie got when Alice started being friends with Takumi.It just felt so toxic to me that Feenie was allowed to live her own life and do whatever she wanted but when Alice decided to branch out and make new friends (because she was tired of being a 3rd wheel) Alice was being unreasonable and selfish?? Make it make sense. And then when the whole thing was resolved most of the onus fell on Alice and she had to take accountability for Feenie’s insecurity but Feenie couldn’t acknowledge the hurt she caused. She even continued being possessive in their little reconciliation scene when she said that she needs Alice because she’s the only person who can make her calm (like girl that’s not healthy). . It was not handled well and I did not like their friendship. Basically, I don’t think the conflict resolution was done very well in this book and it did make me rate it lower than I was hoping.
That being said, I did enjoy this book, I liked Alice and Takumi. There were a few too many issues for me to want to rate it higher but it’s a cute book and worth the read.
Now, for the parts I had issues with. I will preface that I did really like her relationship with Takumi, they were really cute and sweet together. I did wish more time was given to address some of the conflicts they had (
I had minor issues with the writing style but I was able to look past it. The technical skill was there I just didn’t vibe with all of the humor and pop culture references. It was very reminiscent of Tumblr culture several years ago (when this book was written) that didn’t completely come across now. Not that it aged poorly in a problematic sense but some of the references/jokes (and there were a lot) just weren’t funny to me 😂. But if you really like that style of humor it might be for you.
My biggest issue was regarding Alice’s friends (Feenie and Ryan) she deserves so much better ðŸ˜ðŸ˜. Their whole situation was so unhealthy and toxic at times and I just didn’t like their friendship. Alice’s individual dynamic with Ryan was fine but I did not like Feenie. To me, Feenie did not treat Alice that well?. I think Feenie acted really unfairly and that there was a double standard when it came down to how each one of them was allowed to act. The main issue was how possessive Feenie got when Alice started being friends with Takumi.
That being said, I did enjoy this book, I liked Alice and Takumi. There were a few too many issues for me to want to rate it higher but it’s a cute book and worth the read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Acephobia/Arophobia
Minor: Racism and Sexual harassment
mari1532's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
#23for23 (Learn more: https://www.23for23.net/)
I checked this audiobook out of my library.
Brief Synopsis: Alice is going to have the best summer. Eating great food, working her cozy job at the library, watching television, and spending time with her girlfriend...except she doesn't have a girlfriend anymore. After Alice tells her girlfriend that she's asexual, Alice finds herself no longer in a relationship. With a broken heart, she enters the summer with no thoughts toward anything other than going to work and avoiding people. Then she meets her new coworker, Takumi, and suddenly the summer seems full of terrifying possibilities for Alice.
Thoughts: I loved the romance between Alice and Takumi throughout this book. The way that they care for each other and build a connection with one another was so heartwarming to watch and a joy to read. I also really appreciated Alice's growth within her asexuality and how Takumi and she were able to navigate the meaning of that within their romance.
I also love that the place where Alice and Takumi fall for each other is a library. It's a perfect combination of some of my favourite things romance and books.
The only thing I did not like about this book is Alice's relationship with her best friends, Feenie and Ryan, who are in a partnership with each other. I felt that Feenie and Alice's relationship was a little toxic. They had a lot of history together and I do not doubt that at some point they were very close and had a lot of love for each other. However, when Feenie is upset that Alice is forming a relationship with Takumi being jealous, rather than supportive it rubbed me the wrong way. I also felt that the resolution of that tension was not entirely satisfying.
This is a great romance with asexual representation. I would recommend this book.
I checked this audiobook out of my library.
Brief Synopsis: Alice is going to have the best summer. Eating great food, working her cozy job at the library, watching television, and spending time with her girlfriend...except she doesn't have a girlfriend anymore. After Alice tells her girlfriend that she's asexual, Alice finds herself no longer in a relationship. With a broken heart, she enters the summer with no thoughts toward anything other than going to work and avoiding people. Then she meets her new coworker, Takumi, and suddenly the summer seems full of terrifying possibilities for Alice.
Thoughts: I loved the romance between Alice and Takumi throughout this book. The way that they care for each other and build a connection with one another was so heartwarming to watch and a joy to read. I also really appreciated Alice's growth within her asexuality and how Takumi and she were able to navigate the meaning of that within their romance.
I also love that the place where Alice and Takumi fall for each other is a library. It's a perfect combination of some of my favourite things romance and books.
The only thing I did not like about this book is Alice's relationship with her best friends, Feenie and Ryan, who are in a partnership with each other. I felt that Feenie and Alice's relationship was a little toxic. They had a lot of history together and I do not doubt that at some point they were very close and had a lot of love for each other. However, when Feenie is upset that Alice is forming a relationship with Takumi being jealous, rather than supportive it rubbed me the wrong way. I also felt that the resolution of that tension was not entirely satisfying.
This is a great romance with asexual representation. I would recommend this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Acephobia/Arophobia and Alcohol
Moderate: Sexual harassment
Minor: Sexual content
rafacolog's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Acephobia/Arophobia, and Sexual harassment
brerreads's review
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
This book is fantastic representation for asexual folks. It’s explains the struggle asexuals face within the community as well as with dating. The characters are also written so well, all so human with their own quirks and flaws.
Content Warnings
Minor: Sexual harassment
lqvekanthony's review
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Racism, Sexual assault, Acephobia/Arophobia, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Biphobia and Cursing
kirstenf's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Moderate: Acephobia/Arophobia and Sexual harassment
Minor: Infidelity, Racism, and Sexual content