Girls Like Girls Review

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Publish Date: May 30, 2023

Synopsis

It’s summertime and 17-year-old Coley has found herself alone, again. Forced to move to rural Oregon after just losing her mother, she is in no position to risk her already fragile heart. But when she meets Sonya, the attraction is immediate.

Coley worries she isn’t worthy of love. Up until now, everyone she’s loved has left her. And Sonya’s never been with a girl before. What if she’s too afraid to show up for Coley? What if by opening her heart, Coley’s risking it all?

They both realize that when things are pushed down, and feelings are forced to shrivel away, Coley and Sonya will be the ones to shrink. It’s not until they accept the love they fear and deserve most, that suddenly the song makes sense.

Based on the billboard-charting smash hit song and viral music video GIRLS LIKE GIRLS, Hayley Kiyoko’s debut novel is about embracing your truth and realizing we are all worthy of being loved back.

Review

Girls Like Girls by Hayley Kiyoko is a quick and engaging read that captures the experience of coming of age and coming out in a small town. Coley, the main character, is dealing with the recent loss of her mother and struggling to come to terms with her sexuality. When she meets Sonya, she is immediately drawn to her but worried about risking her already fragile heart. As they navigate their feelings for each other, Coley and Sonya must learn to accept themselves and each other.

Kiyoko’s writing style is simple and straightforward, making the book easy to read and follow. She captures the emotions and experiences of first love and coming out in a relatable way that will resonate with many readers. The development of Coley’s relationships with the side characters was particularly well done, and it added depth to the story.

However, the book does have its flaws. Sonya, the love interest, felt under-developed at times, which made it difficult to fully invest in her character. The pacing of the story could also have been better, with some sections feeling repetitive or rushed. Additionally, the ending felt unfinished, leaving several questions unanswered.

Overall, Girls Like Girls is a good debut effort from Hayley Kiyoko, with relatable characters and emotions that will resonate with many readers. While there are some flaws, it is an enjoyable and quick read that captures the experience of coming of age and coming out in a small town.