Rating: 4 out of 5.

I loved this book so much!! Miles recently came out as trans, prompting his football star boyfriend Shane to break up with him. Miles is determined to get Shane back and beat his archnemesis in the Midwest’s biggest classical piano competition, all before the end of the year. To that end, Miles begins taking lessons with a new, terrifying piano teacher who tells him that he’s playing like he doesn’t know who he is. What? As Miles struggles with all the changes in his life, he meets new kid Eric. Eric is a talented cartoonist that is comfortable in his own skin and seems to get Miles, something Miles is not used to since he came out. After pretending to be a couple to get invited to a popular couples-only Valentine’s Day party, Miles and Eric’s fake kiss turns into something real. But this doesn’t fit into Miles plans, and besides, there has to be a catch as to why Eric likes him. Right?

I loved Miles and Eric and their budding relationship took me back to my high school days when I was not very cool or confidant in my own skin, and always looked for a catch when someone expressed interest in me. The story is so relatable, painful and heartfelt that I just wanted to wrap my arms around Miles and let him know to hang in there and trust himself. It’s cliché, I know, but it does get better and time, age and distance does make things a bit easier to deal with. Well, mostly. Aren’t we all awkward 16 year olds now and then, even into our adulthood? It was a joy to follow Miles on his journey to redefine his relationship with Shane, himself, and his family.

The way this book lovingly describes music and art, it’s clear the author has a life-long affinity for them both. Having loved them my entire life as well, it was a pleasure to read a book steeped in the richness both give our lives. This book is great for all ages, especially if you’ve ever had a crush, been crushed, or wanted to beat the bully just once. I can’t recommend it enough and wish I could read it for the first time again.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press, Wednesday Books. All opinions are my own.