Han and Kenny are best friends and flatmates. They’ve known each other for decades, so when 1) Han loses the job that is meant to be sponsoring his green card, and 2) Kenny finally splits with his abusive girlfriend, the two decide to fake-marry for Han’s citizenship. Only the fake relationship opens a whole host of real feelings.

This one was really, really cute. It deals with a ton of heavy topics – immigration, parental neglect, addiction, domestic violence, pregnancy/abortion, coming out, autism, death of a parent – but weaves them in between sweetness, humor, and a general sense of community. There is heavy emphasis on Mexican culture and queer culture, which I really loved as a queer person who grew up in a heavily-Mexican-influenced part of the world (south Texas). The feelings that develop between Han and Kenny feel real, not even slightly contrived despite the fake-marriage trope, and very hot at times. (There are several explicit scenes, including one with light kink, so keep that in mind if you chose to read this.)

I think my favorite thing about this story was the way it subverted so many stereotypes. The abusive ex-girlfriend didn’t believe she could be abusive because she worked at a shelter for abused women. The autistic character enjoyed touch under the right circumstances. There’s mention that someone who is a sub in a sexual partnership is not necessarily a bottom, which I appreciated. Then there was Leti, one of Han’s cousins – they’re a drag performer who uses they/them pronouns, and there’s never a single indication one way or another of their “biological sex.” Woohoo for true nonbinary rep!!!!!

Altogether, a fab book to read. Don’t let the cover fool you. The art makes this look like a YA book, makes it look a bit silly/young. It’s very adult in content, though. Sure, there’s plenty of humor, but this book has a LOT to say.