Reviews with content warning for Panic attacks/disorders - Cassandra in Reverse

"My theory is that my brain is like a lazy IT department, and every time there's a problem with the electrics it just panics and pulls the plug out at the wall. Switch her off, switch her back on again: see if that helps."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and MIRA in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***

There was just something about the blurb of Cassandra In Reverse that caught my attention immediately. I love a story with a time travel element, and I also have a weak spot for quirky and unique characters... Cassandra Dankworth sounded like a character with so much potential, and I simply HAD to meet her and get to know her story. I'm so glad I did, because I ended up having an absolute blast with this book.

There is a lot to love in this book, but there is no doubt whatsoever that main character Cassandra Dankworth is the true star of the show. I warmed up to her immediately, and I had an absolutely brilliant time seeing the world through her eyes. I thought that the autism portrayal was expertly done, and I loved the message behind this story that people with autism might think and function differently than what you are used to, but differently doesn't mean less in any way. Cassandra's character growth and road to self-acceptance is well developed and realistically portrayed... If you can take the whole sci-fi aspect with the time travel with a grain of salt of course. There is one thing for sure: Cassandra is a character that will stay with me for a long time, and she is one I wish I could meet up with in real life.

What I also loved was the focus on Greek (and Roman) mythology, and how the gods/characters were incorporated into the plot. The references to the different myths fitted the story very well, and it also helped give more insight in Cassandra's character at the same time. Another major element in Cassandra In Reverse is the time travel of course. While you usually see time travel in science fiction books, I think that this story reads mostly like a contemporary where time travel is only casually included in the plot. Sci-fi fans might be disappointed by the lack of focus on how the time travel actually works, but I personally didn't mind as I found the balance to be just right.

There is some romance and even a love triangle included in Cassandra In Reverse, but I don't think the main focus of this story is on the romance itself. Instead, it reads more like contemporary fiction about a character trying to find her true self and accept the way she is. The story puts a spotlight on autism, family issues, work relations and the fact that time is fickle and a small change might have consequences you could have never foreseen.

All in all, I don't think it comes as a surprise when I say that I had a fantastic time with this story. If you enjoy a well written contemporary with an unique main character, excellent autism representation and a touch of time travel and romance, you HAVE to add Cassandra In Reverse to your wishlist. Trust me, you will regret not meeting up with her!

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