A review by amissabellator
The Heart Principle, by Helen Hoang
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
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
4.5
Another really phenomenal read from Helen Hoang! She's a master of romance, and with this intimate and powerful look at interpersonal relationships and autistic burnout she has added one more jewel to her crown.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Toxic relationship, Bullying, Chronic illness, Death of parent, Emotional abuse, Grief, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, and Terminal illness
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts, Cancer, Cursing, Gaslighting, and Death
Minor: Alcohol, Medical content, and Body shaming
The text follows Anna Sun - a woman who is diagnosed with autism with low-support needs - (and, to a lesser extent, Quan Diep - a man who has recently overcome personal illness ()) as they fall in love. This includes graphic depictions of sex and sex acts, in line with the previous installments in the series. However, this story also includes a family medical emergency storyline () and goes into detail about burnout, toxic families, and mental health struggles. It also talks about expectations, both physically () and emotionally ().