My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5

Hey, fellow book lovers! As I am freezing today on Cape Cod, Its the perfect day to stay inside with a book. Today, I’ve got the scoop about Camille Kellogg’s debut rom-com, “Just as You Are.” This enemies-to-lovers tale promises a mix of wit, friendship, and a hearty dose of queerness. Buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of Liz Baker, where friendship, laughter, and workplace drama unfold.

I’m giving this one a solid 3.5 stars my friends, and here’s the reason why…

So first of all, the premise is fresh and exciting. Liz Baker and her 3 roommates find themselves navigating the tumultuous waters of the Nether Fields, a queer magazine on the brink of closure until it’s rescued at the very last minute by two wealthy lesbians. Enter Daria Fitzgerald, the minority investor with budget-slashing tendencies who has all but told everyone that purchasing the magazine is a mistake. The stage is set for a clash of personalities that promises both sparks and laughs.

Now, let’s talk about the the rest of the cast of charaters. Liz is a relatable protagonist with a quick wit and a sharp tongue, who speaks before thinking at times. Daria, on the other hand, starts off as the despised investor and boss but reveals a softer side as the story unfolds. The chemistry between Liz and Daria is undeniable, and Kellogg does a commendable job of building tension and anticipation. However, here’s where my main gripe lies – the characters often seem to get in their own way. The constant back-and-forth, the misunderstandings, it becomes a tad frustrating, pulling away from the overall enjoyment of the story.

One of the book’s strong suits is its celebration of queer culture, chosen family, and the complexities of falling in love against your better judgment. Fans of Pride and Prejudice may be able to see the inspiration from the classic as it adds a delightful layer of nostalgia for fans of classic romances, and the incorporation of modern queer themes gives it a contemporary twist.

However, I couldn’t fully buy into the forgiveness arcs after certain betrayals. Let’s be honest friends, none of us would be that forgiving. It felt a bit too convenient and unrealistic, given the magnitude of the actions. I’m all for forgiveness in rom-coms, but this one left me raising an eyebrow.

Despite these qualms, “Just as You Are” is an enjoyable read. The humor is on point, the few steamy scenes are well-written, and the overall vibe is heartwarming. If you can overlook the characters occasionally tripping over their own feet, you’re in for a treat.

So, grab your favorite blanket and a delicious snack, and see what you think of Liz and Daria. “Just as You Are” offers a sweet escape into a LGBTQIA+ romance that will leave you smiling, despite the occasional stumbles along the way. Cheers to Camille Kellogg for delivering a rom-com that’s just as charming as it is flawed!