A review by literaryintersections
Girls with Bad Reputations by Xio Axelrod

emotional funny tense medium-paced
  • 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

4.5

I absolutely love the Lilly's series. Xio has made a great cast of women, who grow in unity and support of each other throughout both books. Seeing them champion each other, learn about each other, try to be the best they can be to each other really makes these books. It's what I loved the most about Girl With Stars in Her Eyes. BUT THIS BOOK????? Ty and Kayla SHONE. 

Kayla - a badass drummer who is battling internal and family expectations of what excellence means. I loved seeing a rich, bougie, Black family! And then Ty who is a Black, bisexual, truck driver trying to pick up the pieces from white supremacy and weaponized white woman tears impacting his school career. He is pushing back on expectations of what it means to be a Black man, as someone who is bisexual and writes poetry. Shining light on the multitudes of Black men!!!!!! And he wears utility kilts.... I just. 

They are so hot together, so swoony together, so sweet together. Their slow burn and support of each other. Plus don't even get me started on Ty's grandpa!!!!!!! I loved him and their relationship. Overall this book is a slam dunk! 
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