A review by bookish_selkie
Crocodile Tears by Ali K. Mulford

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-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

4.0

Crocodile Tears is the latest installment in the Prickle Island Zoo series by Ali K. Mulford. This story follows Dove, who is furious to discover that her childhood friend Deacon is back in her life. Once the best of friends, Deacon became a famous movie star and they lost touch. When Deacon’s new movie takes him to the zoo, Dove and Deacon are forced to reconnect. As they work with the zoo animals, can Deacon and Dove get back to who they once were? 

I love this series! Any trip to Prickle Island Zoo is a joyful and delightful time. Mulford writes the best sibling relationships and I loved the cameos of all the previous stories. I especially loved seeing Hannah & Hawk and Frankie & Finch. Dove has such strong bonds to the zoo and to her family, which makes her feel protective of them when Deacon arrives. Deacon is a golden retriever kind of guy, who has made some bad life decisions due to his advisers. Prickle Island Zoo works its magic and he starts to realize that there’s more to life than fame. Mulford writes outstanding queer rep, including demisexuality. 

Readers who love complex sibling relationships, former-friends-to-lovers, and adorable zoo animals should check out Crocodile Tears. I love this series and can’t wait to read the next installment!     

Thank you to Ali K. Mulford for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.