A review by kelseysreads
Like Happiness by Ursula Villarreal-Moura

4.0

I enjoyed this one. I think some reviewers were disappointed it didn't go somewhere with a clear moral or resolution, but the relationship and the book are both messy and I don't think I was expecting something easy. Villarreal-Moura does a great job of showing us the multi-layered power dynamics at play, how it isn't abusive but certainly isn't equal, how Mateo is a man child in need of constant reassurance but only on his terms. All of this makes for a very complicated and sympathetic story. I was frustrated with Tatum, but I think that was the point. She gives Mateo too much credit, and even as an adult when she is settled with her partner, there is still that aspect of hero worship. Exploring the relationship from the start shows us how and why she still feels that way, even to the extent of not believing Mateo's accuser at first. I think this is an excellent addition to the "me too" canon of novels, as it shows how grey life is, how we want so badly to be loved and to think the best of those we idolize. Is it right? Villarreal-Moura isn't passing judgment, so it's up to you.