A review by olivialandryxo
The Girls I've Been by Tess Sharpe

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I read Sharpe’s novel Far From You last year and loved it, so I was excited to read her newest release. The Girls I’ve Been is a fast-paced thriller with a sapphic couple front and center. I absolutely loved it. I was intrigued from the very first page, and sped through it because I desperately wanted to know what happened next. I was kept on my toes the entire time I read, and never knew what to expect.

Nora was a complex yet realistic and relatable protagonist. I loved her, Iris, and Wesley. Their friendship was amazing, as was Nora and Iris’ romance. Also, major props to Iris for being so resilient and clever while on her period, because I could never. These two are the most badass girls I’ve seen outside of a fantasy book, hands down. The fact that they’re dating makes it even better. *chefs kiss*

The story features two timelines: one in present day where the three teens end up hostages in an armed bank robbery, and one exploring Nora’s past as she grew up frequently moving and helping her mother with various cons. The former takes place over about twelve hours, with a few chapters at the end of the book detailing what occurred in the following weeks. Both were intriguing, and they were managed well, balanced perfectly. Neither one ever seemed to overpower the other.

I don’t read many thrillers, but Sharpe’s are among the best I’ve read and this one is undoubtedly my favorite. I’ll definitely be reading more from her in the future, and trying other authors as well. My interest in the genre has certainly been renewed.

Representation:
  • bisexual protagonist
  • sapphic love interest with endometriosis
  • sapphic romance (f/f)
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