A review by ace_ofhearts
Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hall

emotional lighthearted tense

• 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

This was a really great read — and I can't stress how well Hall handles interpersonal relationships, complex emotions, how those emotions drive the plot, etc. This is simply great writing. 

As a side note, as a lesbian hoping for a lil taste of wlw romance, I didn't realize till many chapters in that both love interests were men. My bad for not reading the synopsis, but when I heard 'bisexual woman and two love interests' I really thought one would be a woman. Oh well, I still totally loved the beautifully crafted romances. 

This story is also perfect for anyone who loves the Great British Baking Show. And I loved the relationships between Rosaline and her daughter Amelie and ex-girlfriend Auntie Lauren. The book has such a cozy homey vibe thanks to them. 

This book also touches on sexual assault, fetishizing queer women/bi women, classism, and choosing your family — and it handles each of these complicated topics very thoughtfully and skillfully. 

I'm always gonna be excited to read Hall novels that's for sure.