Always The Almost
– Edward Underhill –
Wednesday Books
Published 14 February 2023
♥♥♥♥♥
Always the Almost is an uplifting and heartwarming YA novel.
Miles Jacobson has two main goals for this year. Win back his ex and finally beat his rival at the state piano competition. Coming out as trans changed a lot of things for Mile, like losing his boyfriend. His new piano teacher tells him he has to know who he is before he can really connect with his music, but he does know who he is. That’s why he came out as trans, right? When Miles meets the new boy, Eric Mendez, Eric accepts Miles exactly for who he is.
Always the Almost is a real joy to read. It’s positive and fun and despite some of the emotional landmines Miles is working around in his head, he remains positive. All the characters, from quirky and delightful Eric to Miles’ supportive (if awkward) parents are awesome. There’s some delicious justice at the end and Miles figures out accepting himself if the key to it all. There were a few tense moments when Miles isn’t sure which boy is the right one for him, but we readers know Eric and Miles make the perfect pair.
Music, drawing, family, friendship and romance all wrapped up in a delightful bundle. Could you ask for more?
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
More information
Category: Young adult fiction
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Themes: Music, drawing, LGBTQIA+, Transgender, family, relationships, romance.
Reading age guide: Ages 12 and up.
Published: 14 February 2023 by Wednesday Books
Format: Hardcover, ebook, audiobook. 320 pages.
ISBN: 9781250835208
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