What a delightful read. Though plot driven, for me this book was all about the characters. London is vulnerable and brave, feels awkward about their body yet knows exactly what they want in the bedroom, so calm and sure yet (unfairly) burdened by coming out as nonbinary. One thing I really liked was that the author didn’t tell us London’s birth sex until well into the book, and when they did, it was in the context of bodies being bodies. It forces the reader to confront their own biases in trying to picture London. And then there’s Dahlia. Vivacious yet small, daring yet meek, effervescent Dahlia sees London for exactly who they are and vice versa, and it’s a beautiful thing to watch unfold. I loved the way Anita drew us into the characters and their backstory, their differences and similarities, and their insecurities. It made the chemistry believable and their relationship worth rooting for. Definitely recommend!

Short summary: Dahlia and London are competitors on a cooking show. Recently divorced, Dahlia is cash-strapped and needs to win but as soon as she arrives, she can’t stop engaging with London. London is the first openly nonbinary contestant on the show and a fine cook to boot, but is immediately distracted by Dahlia’s wild mane. As the competition heats up, the two start to realize there’s a greater prize than winning the show.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐