A review by analenegrace
You're the Problem, It's You by Emma R. Alban

emotional funny hopeful tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Thanks so much to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-arc of this book! 

My book club read the first book when it first came out, and I loved it. I was so excited to get an ARC of the second one! 

We were introduced to Bobby and James in the epilogue of the first book, and I was so excited to see how Alban would handle the Lavender Marriage trope—and I think she slayed it! 

Bobby was such a kind soul who was really struggling mentally as the book began, and I felt for him so much as he tried to find his place in society as a gay second son. His relationship with Beth and Gwen, as perhaps their greatest champion, was such good gay/lesbian solidarity, and I Loved it!! James was a more complicated character who was initially complicit in society but grew so much as a person. 

Gwen and Beth's attempts to set them up were so cute and funny, and I really liked how the book flowed with the different events of the season. 

The blackmail plot kept the book interesting and complicated, creating much-needed tension. 

Finally, the epilogue was amazing, and I loved how
children
were teased throughout and actually came to fruition.