Tag: Orlagh Collins

17-year-old Vetty Lake is bisexual and has been hiding herself away for the last four years, ever since her Mum died and her family moved across the country to grieve. But when they’re finally ready to move back to London and she gets to
reunite with her childhood best friend, Pez, she’s determined to start living her true, authentic self. But coming back to London has made her realise just how different Pez really is, not to mention everything else…

This, the sophomore novel of Collins, was a truly emotive piece of writing. The prose was gorgeous and the development of Vetty as our main character from beginning to end was a privilege to be a part of. The author tackles important issues like the struggle of being bisexual and how it often feels like you’re trapped between two different things. This was a bit slow to start, but once the story really started to unfold it became quite an engaging book. With strong characters, Collins does not shy away from serious topics, so much so that it’s impossible for her characters not to resonate with you. They all had well-developed, contrasting personalities. This was a really enjoyable read, with a stunning coming-of-age storyline at the heart of the book and a powerful message about learning to love yourself as you are and being confident in all aspects of you – both positive and negative.

Ross Kelly