Scan barcode
quhinnsinqueeries's review against another edition
4.0
Lives up to its name, a book full of queer joy and also uniquely queer anxieties. Falling in love not only where and when you shouldn't, but finding yourself with the help of someone who loves you.
Does contain explicit content which I fondly consider to follow the fanfiction system of sexual encounters.
You get to follow the growth of our MC as he struggles with his own fear and anxieties and the guilt associated with having problems in front of someone who is less privileged than you.
I do wish there had been a bit more culture shine through, and while you do get little glimpses and nods it's only that. The story seems a little weak when trying to show Desta's love for Ethiopia grow, but it's more his falling for Elias that colors it. We get a few scenes where you can see it's trying to be shown, but just a bit more of why the characters love the country so much beyond what is stated as an almost obligatory patriotism.
All in all a very cute story. I was able to get through the fact it's written in first person which is normally a Hard No for me. That in and of itself is a testament for the story.
Does contain explicit content which I fondly consider to follow the fanfiction system of sexual encounters.
You get to follow the growth of our MC as he struggles with his own fear and anxieties and the guilt associated with having problems in front of someone who is less privileged than you.
I do wish there had been a bit more culture shine through, and while you do get little glimpses and nods it's only that. The story seems a little weak when trying to show Desta's love for Ethiopia grow, but it's more his falling for Elias that colors it. We get a few scenes where you can see it's trying to be shown, but just a bit more of why the characters love the country so much beyond what is stated as an almost obligatory patriotism.
All in all a very cute story. I was able to get through the fact it's written in first person which is normally a Hard No for me. That in and of itself is a testament for the story.
m_l_valentine's review
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
informative
inspiring
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? No
4.0
bunny27's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
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? It's complicated
5.0
mtjb's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
colorfulleo92's review against another edition
5.0
Finding joy is fitting title as it was a joy to listen to. A very good m/m romance, cute, beautiful and a compelling story line that has depts to it. Would really like to read more by Adrianna Herrera in the future.
bhbradan1's review against another edition
5.0
I adore this book; a true romance. Full of wholesome love and kindness
missysreadingcorner's review against another edition
5.0
A Good HEA
I loved Desta and Elias. Once again I love the attention to detailed paid about life within Ethiopia. I’m glad they got their happy ending because I was worried for a minute there.
I loved Desta and Elias. Once again I love the attention to detailed paid about life within Ethiopia. I’m glad they got their happy ending because I was worried for a minute there.
chrisiant's review
emotional
lighthearted
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.5
Schmoopy queer romance but with some interesting complicating factors (international romance, navigating homophobia in Ethiopia, etc.)
hijinx_abound's review
4.0
I adore her writing. Her characters are clear and have such depth.
This book also gave me a look into Ethiopia. The descriptions of the land and it’s people were gorgeous.
This book also gave me a look into Ethiopia. The descriptions of the land and it’s people were gorgeous.