A review by aromanticreadsromance
The Fall of Whit Rivera by Crystal Maldonado

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

One of my new favorite young adult books! This is a book you should pick up in the fall or in the winter when you wish it were still fall. It feels so light and airy while also dealing with some heavier themes, like chronic illness (specifically PCOS; OwnVoices); medical fatphobia, trauma, and gaslighting; and ableism. The writing style brought me back to the best of high school and adolescence (if there is such a thing).

Whit is a fierce advocate for her autistic sister, Lily (even if it sometimes borders on babying, which Lily adamantly pushes back against). I loved her relationship with her abuela and two best friends. I felt for her when she worked so hard for something but isn’t able to enjoy the fruits of her labor for reasons beyond her control. Isaiah is so supportive and a terrific love interest.

Read this for Puerto Rican and bisexual representation!