Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 10 Up--The latest two additions to this collection will appeal to readers of queer romance and anyone interested in smart, realistic romantic fiction. One book is about Dungeons and Dragons players from across the gender spectrum. Another is about a young lesbian struggling with her weight while she works in a lingerie store. Her challenges at the mall will feel all too real to anyone who has worked retail. Writing quality for both books is phenomenal; relatable references and nuanced characters populate the layered text. Themes include anxiety management, finding community, the freedom of vulnerability within the safe confines of role-play. Both books have a happily-ever-after ending for their queer protagonists. Losing Hit Points has back matter about Dungeons and Dragons. Occasional details, like a visit to Tim Horton's, obliquely remind readers of the series Canadian origins. VERDICT These books will find interested readers even beyond those looking for hi-lo titles.
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A lovely story of learning to chart your own course. Mina is excited about starting work as a sales associate at Luscious Lingerie, but she soon discovers that her overly excitable boss is putting her through "a trial by fire." Maybe Mina will do better in a different department? Another thing that makes the merchandising team much better than the sales department for bisexual Mina is the presence of her co-worker Lexie Hayes, a beautiful, popular girl she went to school with who gives her butterflies. Mina's relationship with Lexie evolves as they flirt and get to know each other; it turns out Lexie is bi as well. If only Mina's life could just revolve around Lexie! Alas, while she's trying to find her own path, her family pressures her about both her future and her body. Between her Greek immigrant relatives talking about finding her a husband (or wife) from the village in the old country and a guy from work hitting on her at a party, things are complicated. And just when she thinks she's got it all figured out, Lexie starts calling in sick at work right after meeting Mina's parents. Mina is a body-positive fat girl who's considering whether she might actually be pansexual. She's a delightful main character, exploring all facets of growing up and becoming one's own person. A fast-paced story for reluctant readers with an endearing protagonist to root for. (Fiction. 13-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
