This is such a raw portrayal of grief that I could really relate to, where after a tragedy the main character has simply packed a bag and left, before starting college as if nothing had happened. Staying there over Christmas with the best friend and lover she abandoned, Marin has to finally confront her grief.

I liked that this wasn't a romance focused book, and the way Marin and Mabel had to reflect over their past relationship now Mabel is in a new one felt really realistic, and the outcome made sense to me. I didn't go into this story knowing it was Queer, so this was a welcome surprise.

This has that Bleachers "Merry Christmas, Please Don't Call" vibe of college dorms, snowy winters and discussions over hastily cooked food that really made the story great, and made me emotionally connect with the story and characters.