What do you think?
Rate this book
Her Golden Coast
“A razor-sharp insight into San Francisco’s tech scene…” – Kia Abdullah, Author of TIMES BESTSELLER Those People Next Door
“The romance is genuine and profound…” – Osman Haneef, Author of The Verdict
One is meek. The other brash. Can two broken souls find a place they belong?
San Francisco, 2007. Laurie Lamont craves security. Having survived an abusive father and snared a job as admin for a Silicon Valley startup, the twenty-something stays focused on the three H’s – home, husband, and healthcare. But when she discovers her would-be spouse is secretly in love with another man, Laurie fears her dreams are destined to crumble.
Malini “Mal” Kumar is unapologetically herself. Loud, outspoken, and direct, the bold Indian woman flees her controlling family and their plan to force her into an arranged marriage. Facing a tough real estate market, the fiercely independent woman accepts a roommate offer from a female techie she barely knows.
Thrown by unfamiliar feelings, Laurie falls for Mal’s extraordinary strength, while Mal finds herself captivated by Laurie’s loving kindness.
With social forces conspiring against them, can these emotional opposites find their forever?
Returning to the boom-and-bust era of turn-of-the-21st-century California, author Anat Deracine delivers a thought-provoking tale of unanticipated love. With gorgeous, lyrical prose, she explores the beauty and terror of sapphic awakening at a time when same-sex marriage was illegal and women were afterthoughts in the toxic tech-bro-dominated world of the emerging online economy.
Her Golden Coast is an uplifting work of LGBTQ+ historical fiction. If you like strong queer characters, well-crafted turns of phrase, and deep themes of liberation, then you’ll adore Anat Deracine’s story of unexpected opportunity.
Buy Her Golden Coast to follow a road less traveled today!
“The romance is genuine and profound…” – Osman Haneef, Author of The Verdict
One is meek. The other brash. Can two broken souls find a place they belong?
San Francisco, 2007. Laurie Lamont craves security. Having survived an abusive father and snared a job as admin for a Silicon Valley startup, the twenty-something stays focused on the three H’s – home, husband, and healthcare. But when she discovers her would-be spouse is secretly in love with another man, Laurie fears her dreams are destined to crumble.
Malini “Mal” Kumar is unapologetically herself. Loud, outspoken, and direct, the bold Indian woman flees her controlling family and their plan to force her into an arranged marriage. Facing a tough real estate market, the fiercely independent woman accepts a roommate offer from a female techie she barely knows.
Thrown by unfamiliar feelings, Laurie falls for Mal’s extraordinary strength, while Mal finds herself captivated by Laurie’s loving kindness.
With social forces conspiring against them, can these emotional opposites find their forever?
Returning to the boom-and-bust era of turn-of-the-21st-century California, author Anat Deracine delivers a thought-provoking tale of unanticipated love. With gorgeous, lyrical prose, she explores the beauty and terror of sapphic awakening at a time when same-sex marriage was illegal and women were afterthoughts in the toxic tech-bro-dominated world of the emerging online economy.
Her Golden Coast is an uplifting work of LGBTQ+ historical fiction. If you like strong queer characters, well-crafted turns of phrase, and deep themes of liberation, then you’ll adore Anat Deracine’s story of unexpected opportunity.
Buy Her Golden Coast to follow a road less traveled today!
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2024
19 people are currently reading
2476 people want to read
About the author
Anat Deracine
4 books51 followersAnat Deracine is the pen-name of the author of the Publishers Weekly and Kirkus-starred YA novel, “Driving by Starlight” (Macmillan, 2018). She writes on the themes of women’s friendships and relationships, and their struggles with oppressive social structures. Her short story, “The Divine Comedy of the Tech Sisterhood” highlights inequalities in the tech industry and was featured on the front page of Medium. She has also written several articles on writing craft, technology, and decolonization, for Publishers’ Weekly, Writer's Digest, Mslexia, The Writing Cooperative, and more. She has been featured in interviews and podcasts on writing craft, gender and feminism, as well as on diversity issues in the tech industry, where she currently works as an executive.
Full list of publications: https://www.anatderacine.com/media
◆ Driving by Starlight (Macmillan, 2018)
◆ The Divine Comedy of the Tech Sisterhood (Code like a Girl)
◆ Why do you believe you’re a woman? (An Injustice!)
◆ Authors can be agents of hope (Publishers Weekly)
◆ The agony and the ecstasy of switching genres (Pipeline Artists)
◆ Give a woman a mask and she’ll take you somewhere new (Mslexia)
◆ Publishing is a wedding, writing a marriage (The Writing Cooperative)
◆ How to be edited without losing your voice (Writers’ Digest)
◆ Writing Female Friendship (Kobo)
◆ 5 A’s of Decolonized Editing (Book Trust)
Full list of publications: https://www.anatderacine.com/media
◆ Driving by Starlight (Macmillan, 2018)
◆ The Divine Comedy of the Tech Sisterhood (Code like a Girl)
◆ Why do you believe you’re a woman? (An Injustice!)
◆ Authors can be agents of hope (Publishers Weekly)
◆ The agony and the ecstasy of switching genres (Pipeline Artists)
◆ Give a woman a mask and she’ll take you somewhere new (Mslexia)
◆ Publishing is a wedding, writing a marriage (The Writing Cooperative)
◆ How to be edited without losing your voice (Writers’ Digest)
◆ Writing Female Friendship (Kobo)
◆ 5 A’s of Decolonized Editing (Book Trust)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 20, 2025
Her Golden Coast by Anat Deracine painted a realistic portrait of important points in recent US history, particularly within the tech sector in San Francisco during the 2000s. This slice of life spanned several years and gave us insight into the bro-culture of tech giants and the bleakness of women's roles in the male-dominated field.
The account covered several things I have had the privilege of forgetting about, such as pre-marriage equality in California, the election of President Obama, the recession, the housing bust, the rise and fall of toxic tech culture, the Occupy Movement, and more. Our two mains were from very different worlds that converged at a technology company called Unicorn, aptly named for the times.
Laurie came from an abusive father and poverty. Mal came from a strict family with cultural expectations. Both seemed to have given up on their artistic pursuits while trying to overcome their respective personal struggles. They had different personalities but became friends and roommates.
This was the slowest of slow burns, with very little romance, but it was a compelling story. Over time, they learned significant things about themselves and each other and realized what they meant to each other.
I enjoyed this look back at our country and how these two navigated the times and the differences that made them both secretly feel like they didn't belong.
One main eventually self-identified as neurodivergent when the term came to light.
The writing was engaging and clean. 4.5 stars rounded up. I recommend this book. I am also interested in reading more from Anat Deracine.
#neurodivergent #birep #HEA #dysfunctionalfamily #tech #SanFrancisco #California
I received this ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
The account covered several things I have had the privilege of forgetting about, such as pre-marriage equality in California, the election of President Obama, the recession, the housing bust, the rise and fall of toxic tech culture, the Occupy Movement, and more. Our two mains were from very different worlds that converged at a technology company called Unicorn, aptly named for the times.
Laurie came from an abusive father and poverty. Mal came from a strict family with cultural expectations. Both seemed to have given up on their artistic pursuits while trying to overcome their respective personal struggles. They had different personalities but became friends and roommates.
This was the slowest of slow burns, with very little romance, but it was a compelling story. Over time, they learned significant things about themselves and each other and realized what they meant to each other.
I enjoyed this look back at our country and how these two navigated the times and the differences that made them both secretly feel like they didn't belong.
One main eventually self-identified as neurodivergent when the term came to light.
The writing was engaging and clean. 4.5 stars rounded up. I recommend this book. I am also interested in reading more from Anat Deracine.
#neurodivergent #birep #HEA #dysfunctionalfamily #tech #SanFrancisco #California
I received this ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
January 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ Low-ish Spice
Slow to Medium Paced
Character Driven
F/F Romance is slowww to get to (and ultimately not the main focus of the book)
Content warnings at the bottom 👇🏻
Admittedly, at the beginning of the book I found myself confused by all the tech jargon. I do not work in a tech field, so I was concerned this lack of knowledge on my part would affect my ability to appreciate this book. I stuck it out though, and I ended up enjoying Her Golden Coast quite a bit.
I felt the main character, Laurie, was detached from the narration for the majority of the book. She was there, but she wasn’t there. With the rest of the content of this book, I found this worked well with the plot. That combined with my tech ineptitude meant I felt more in Laurie’s shoes than I would have thought.
At the beginning, I really appreciated and admired Mal. I even wrote in my reading journal “I wish I was more like Mal” since I related more to Laurie. But seeing Laurie’s journey, I was ultimately more inspired by her and hopeful toward my own journey.
Also, all the men in this book are absolutely insufferable, truly.
Also also, I felt nostalgic for that time period (the 2000s) while reading, which is always a bonus for me!
Overall, I recommend for those who enjoy character driven novels and don’t mine low-spice, low-romance. Bonus if you are interested in the San Fran tech scene during the 2000s.
Thank you NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.
.
.
.
.
.
Content Warnings Below.
Beware of potential spoilers!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Content Warnings (note these are what I noticed during my read and may not be all inclusive): sexual harassment, stalking, sexually explicit content
🌶️ Low-ish Spice
Slow to Medium Paced
Character Driven
F/F Romance is slowww to get to (and ultimately not the main focus of the book)
Content warnings at the bottom 👇🏻
Admittedly, at the beginning of the book I found myself confused by all the tech jargon. I do not work in a tech field, so I was concerned this lack of knowledge on my part would affect my ability to appreciate this book. I stuck it out though, and I ended up enjoying Her Golden Coast quite a bit.
I felt the main character, Laurie, was detached from the narration for the majority of the book. She was there, but she wasn’t there. With the rest of the content of this book, I found this worked well with the plot. That combined with my tech ineptitude meant I felt more in Laurie’s shoes than I would have thought.
At the beginning, I really appreciated and admired Mal. I even wrote in my reading journal “I wish I was more like Mal” since I related more to Laurie. But seeing Laurie’s journey, I was ultimately more inspired by her and hopeful toward my own journey.
Also, all the men in this book are absolutely insufferable, truly.
Also also, I felt nostalgic for that time period (the 2000s) while reading, which is always a bonus for me!
Overall, I recommend for those who enjoy character driven novels and don’t mine low-spice, low-romance. Bonus if you are interested in the San Fran tech scene during the 2000s.
Thank you NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.
.
.
.
.
.
Content Warnings Below.
Beware of potential spoilers!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Content Warnings (note these are what I noticed during my read and may not be all inclusive): sexual harassment, stalking, sexually explicit content
July 28, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, for an ARC of this book (out Aug 15)
As much as it pains me to consider this historical fiction, since it's set at this weird turn of the century boom in Silicon Valley, a time of techbros and startups being so rampant, I must admit that as much as I dislike it, the 2000s are indeed a time of historical fiction.
It's hard for me to contain my enthusiasm as a millennial South Asian person working in tech in a predominantly white country for a story where one of the main characters is a very successful and enigmatic Indian woman who enjoys dominating Silicon Valley startups filled with men. Malini (Mal) Kumar is a fantastic character and deeply enigmatic to the reader. We observe her through Laurie's extremely empathetic lens, who is the point of view character. Both women are trying to make careers in predominantly male-heavy companies and environments and both are trying to mould the idea of marriage and love to something they can digest and embrace while being hounded by their families to just take the traditional path and not think too much about it.
Laurie struggles with the idea of being "just an admin" in a culture that raises up technical people, mostly men, above all else, and tosses around new buzzwords every month. Her attempts to find her people and fit in somewhere without feeling lesser than are relatable to most people, but her nature is one of deep empathy and "people skills", which really makes her compelling as a character who always feels on the periphery of her own life.
Mal is focused, driven, a mystery to everyone and completely secure in who she is, or so Laurie thinks as they form a bond despite being of such opposing temperaments, social and financial backgrounds, cultures, and salaries despite living in the same rent-controlled apartment and sometimes working at the same startup. Tech bros like to quote Mal as she leads teams of them into successes while diminishing or being patronizingly encouraging of Laurie in her role as the herder of geniuses and yet, the connection the two have feels authentic, engaging and supportive.
I absolutely loved these characters and this snapshot of a time in tech when startup culture was booming and people were exploring and working out their identities and intersectionality. Absolutely brilliant!
As much as it pains me to consider this historical fiction, since it's set at this weird turn of the century boom in Silicon Valley, a time of techbros and startups being so rampant, I must admit that as much as I dislike it, the 2000s are indeed a time of historical fiction.
It's hard for me to contain my enthusiasm as a millennial South Asian person working in tech in a predominantly white country for a story where one of the main characters is a very successful and enigmatic Indian woman who enjoys dominating Silicon Valley startups filled with men. Malini (Mal) Kumar is a fantastic character and deeply enigmatic to the reader. We observe her through Laurie's extremely empathetic lens, who is the point of view character. Both women are trying to make careers in predominantly male-heavy companies and environments and both are trying to mould the idea of marriage and love to something they can digest and embrace while being hounded by their families to just take the traditional path and not think too much about it.
Laurie struggles with the idea of being "just an admin" in a culture that raises up technical people, mostly men, above all else, and tosses around new buzzwords every month. Her attempts to find her people and fit in somewhere without feeling lesser than are relatable to most people, but her nature is one of deep empathy and "people skills", which really makes her compelling as a character who always feels on the periphery of her own life.
Mal is focused, driven, a mystery to everyone and completely secure in who she is, or so Laurie thinks as they form a bond despite being of such opposing temperaments, social and financial backgrounds, cultures, and salaries despite living in the same rent-controlled apartment and sometimes working at the same startup. Tech bros like to quote Mal as she leads teams of them into successes while diminishing or being patronizingly encouraging of Laurie in her role as the herder of geniuses and yet, the connection the two have feels authentic, engaging and supportive.
I absolutely loved these characters and this snapshot of a time in tech when startup culture was booming and people were exploring and working out their identities and intersectionality. Absolutely brilliant!
July 30, 2024
Like some other reviews I've read, I struggled to get into this as it was quite confusing, and the FMC seemed quite detached from the narrative.
However, as things progressed, I grew to like the story. It wasn't one of my all-time favourites, but it felt realistic. I could relate to quite a lot in the story, actually, such as struggling with my sexuality and feeling inadequate because of my job title and status.
I didn't like Laurie much until towards the end because she seemed a bit narrow-minded. However, I did quite like the romance - it felt raw and believable, which was nice because I haven't read many good sapphic romances.
Also, revisiting the 00s as someone born in the late 90s was fun. It was also somewhat political in its analysis of tech culture vs. the struggling American economy, but this didn't take away from the story.
Overall, it's a good lit fic book from a promising author, one that I'd recommend even though it's not my usual genre.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC
However, as things progressed, I grew to like the story. It wasn't one of my all-time favourites, but it felt realistic. I could relate to quite a lot in the story, actually, such as struggling with my sexuality and feeling inadequate because of my job title and status.
I didn't like Laurie much until towards the end because she seemed a bit narrow-minded. However, I did quite like the romance - it felt raw and believable, which was nice because I haven't read many good sapphic romances.
Also, revisiting the 00s as someone born in the late 90s was fun. It was also somewhat political in its analysis of tech culture vs. the struggling American economy, but this didn't take away from the story.
Overall, it's a good lit fic book from a promising author, one that I'd recommend even though it's not my usual genre.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC
July 21, 2024
I found 'Her Golden Coast' to be a page turner, full to the brim with vivid imagery. This contemporary narrative masterfully captures the essence of fated lovers amid the dynamic landscape of Silicon Valley's cycles of boom and bust. The novel seamlessly intertwines a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, creating a truly captivating tale.
August 8, 2024
Her Golden Coast is one of the best books I have read in a while. It is a contemporary narrative which perfectly captures the life of two women in the Silicone Valley. Laurie is organised, self-sufficient and kind to the bone. Mal is unapologetically herself, loud, direct and seemingly certain. Although Mal is incredibly wealthy, she moves in with Laurie to help her stay in her rented flat. The two are polar opposites but Laurie falls for Mal’s extraordinary strength, and Mal falls for Laurie’s unwavering kindness. The book follows their lives through Laurie’s lens as they navigate the terror and beauty that come with accepting your sexuality.
The book itself is beautifully written, with the societal implications of being a woman and queer (and also a person of colour for Mal) covered accurately and realistically. The writing itself is stunning, almost poetic. These things, and so much more I cannot put into words, made this an incredibly enjoyable read.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book itself is beautifully written, with the societal implications of being a woman and queer (and also a person of colour for Mal) covered accurately and realistically. The writing itself is stunning, almost poetic. These things, and so much more I cannot put into words, made this an incredibly enjoyable read.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2024
1.5/5⭐️(rounded up on the scale) 1/5🌶️
This sapphic romance begins in 2007 (this being classified as 'historical fiction' broke my millennial heart) during the silicon valley boom of the early 2000's. Laurie and Mal are polar opposites that eventually become friends and then lovers.
From the very beginning of the book, I struggled to navigate the storyline. Laurie was not likeable, like at all. I hail from similar beginnings as Laurie, but found her hard to relate to. She read as bitter and having a proverbial chip. Mal was so closed off and aloof that she read as robotic and rude. The lack of chemistry between Mal and Laurie was maddening, "What do you want from me Mal? A declaration?" Yes. Please. Good Gravy. Gimme something. I wanted so badly to love their love story. It just wasn't there for me. This was a slowwwwww burn. To the degree that I didn't find the romance aspect believable when it finally occurred. Did I believe they were best friends? Yes. Did I think it was a soulmate match? Absolutely not.
Things that I felt the novel did well:
-The depiction of the 2007-2009 economic recession and the culture. Having lived in this time around the same age as the FMCs, I found the descriptions of the events familiar and accurate to my lived experience. The parties and the tech bros in the beginning of the book were humorously accurate.
-The concept of found family, particularly when there are strained biological familial ties.
-The cover is pretty!
-Exploration of how socioeconomic background and cultural differences can positively and negatively shift relationships.
-The themes of comphet and the lesbian experience (through the lense of community.) I felt like Mal and Laurie were more of a family/sisterhood and that the exploration of Laurie's terrible dating history was very comphet based. (The boyfriends gave me the ick.)
Expected Publish Date: August 15, 2024
A big thank you to NetGalley and Mayavin Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Reviews posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
This sapphic romance begins in 2007 (this being classified as 'historical fiction' broke my millennial heart) during the silicon valley boom of the early 2000's. Laurie and Mal are polar opposites that eventually become friends and then lovers.
From the very beginning of the book, I struggled to navigate the storyline. Laurie was not likeable, like at all. I hail from similar beginnings as Laurie, but found her hard to relate to. She read as bitter and having a proverbial chip. Mal was so closed off and aloof that she read as robotic and rude. The lack of chemistry between Mal and Laurie was maddening, "What do you want from me Mal? A declaration?" Yes. Please. Good Gravy. Gimme something. I wanted so badly to love their love story. It just wasn't there for me. This was a slowwwwww burn. To the degree that I didn't find the romance aspect believable when it finally occurred. Did I believe they were best friends? Yes. Did I think it was a soulmate match? Absolutely not.
Things that I felt the novel did well:
-The depiction of the 2007-2009 economic recession and the culture. Having lived in this time around the same age as the FMCs, I found the descriptions of the events familiar and accurate to my lived experience. The parties and the tech bros in the beginning of the book were humorously accurate.
-The concept of found family, particularly when there are strained biological familial ties.
-The cover is pretty!
-Exploration of how socioeconomic background and cultural differences can positively and negatively shift relationships.
-The themes of comphet and the lesbian experience (through the lense of community.) I felt like Mal and Laurie were more of a family/sisterhood and that the exploration of Laurie's terrible dating history was very comphet based. (The boyfriends gave me the ick.)
Expected Publish Date: August 15, 2024
A big thank you to NetGalley and Mayavin Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Reviews posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
October 23, 2024
The longest slow burn in the history of existenceee, some real friends to lovers shit. This book was so cute and very nostalgic set in the mid 2000s. I really loved both of the main characters and you can tell they were based off real people the author genuinely knew and loved. I enjoyed the dichotomy of them working in tech but both deep down being very creative people and encouraging that in each other. There is a third act breakup of sorts but in a way that is very authentic to the characters, and y he ending was so wholesome. Honestly I wished this book was longer!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
I was sold when I discovered this book is a sapphic romance set in late 2000s (and onwards) and set in Techlandia, aka San Francisco. And it did not disappoint. Despite not working in that industry or that location, I was the same age as the main characters at that time and so felt very nostalgic about many elements and references. If readers are expecting a traditional contemporary romance, this is not it, although there are tropes tucked away - strangers to friends to lovers, workplace romance(ish), mutual pining - but really the majority of the book reads like contemporary fiction dancing around topics such as misogyny, classism, sexuality and more. This was not a bad thing for me but for others expecting more of a linear, uncomplicated romance, this may not deliver. Greatly appreciated the representation in this book - queer, trans, fibroids, neurodivergence - and will be keeping my eye on this author. 4.5 stars.
I was sold when I discovered this book is a sapphic romance set in late 2000s (and onwards) and set in Techlandia, aka San Francisco. And it did not disappoint. Despite not working in that industry or that location, I was the same age as the main characters at that time and so felt very nostalgic about many elements and references. If readers are expecting a traditional contemporary romance, this is not it, although there are tropes tucked away - strangers to friends to lovers, workplace romance(ish), mutual pining - but really the majority of the book reads like contemporary fiction dancing around topics such as misogyny, classism, sexuality and more. This was not a bad thing for me but for others expecting more of a linear, uncomplicated romance, this may not deliver. Greatly appreciated the representation in this book - queer, trans, fibroids, neurodivergence - and will be keeping my eye on this author. 4.5 stars.
January 4, 2025
thank you to the publisher and netgalley for supplying an arc!
i struggled a bit with getting into this, i found the writing style hard to understand at first. however i started growing to understand and enjoying the story after about five chapters.
as someone born in the early 2000s and currently studying in the tech industry, i found the historical background this was set in to be very interesting. i enjoyed seeing the progression of mal and laurie’s relationship and their character growth. i liked that both characters had flaws and were kind of unlikable in some ways. i would have loved to see more romance between mal and laurie, the slow burn’s payoff was so short! i also really liked tara’s character and how mal and laurie supported her, it was very sweet.
i struggled a bit with getting into this, i found the writing style hard to understand at first. however i started growing to understand and enjoying the story after about five chapters.
as someone born in the early 2000s and currently studying in the tech industry, i found the historical background this was set in to be very interesting. i enjoyed seeing the progression of mal and laurie’s relationship and their character growth. i liked that both characters had flaws and were kind of unlikable in some ways. i would have loved to see more romance between mal and laurie, the slow burn’s payoff was so short! i also really liked tara’s character and how mal and laurie supported her, it was very sweet.
November 14, 2024
I got this as a goodreads giveaway. I felt that this book was interesting and entertaining but definitely slow in some areas. I like the characters and the character building and I also loved the growth of their relationship. It was definitely entertaining but not the best.
March 13, 2025
yeah so let’s just jump into five different timelines within one page! reading this book was like pulling teeth and im so glad it’s over now
August 3, 2024
Thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC via NetGalley.
Set in San Francisco before the 2008 Great Recession and moving through the next few years, the novel, ostensibly a Sapphic romance, uses the tech industry and anti-capitalist organizing made visible by Occupy Wall Street, as a backdrop and a metaphor.
Laurie, who comes from a poor family in upstate NY, moved to San Francisco to escape the dysfunction she grew up with. She takes a job at a dot com startup as the admin assistant to the founder. When the book opens she's dating a man who insists on bringing along his male college friend on some of their dinner dates. One evening, the friend brings his own date, Mal, a female tech engineer, who speaks an unacknowledged truth the the two men are in love with one another.
Laurie is forced to deal with the truth, breaks up with her boyfriend, and slowly befriends Mal, taking her in as a roommate. Most of the book then chronicles their growing friendship and closeness as well as Laurie's short affair with a woman and two relationships with men. All the while she refuses to acknowledge that she is falling in love with Mal.
Mal comes from a family of immigrants from India, a family that has expressed their disappointment in her her whole life. But Mal expresses little emotion, even when it comes to her friendship and growing feelings for Laurie.
Trope-wise, this is a slow-burn, friends to lovers romance written entirely from Laurie's POV, almost in places as a stream of consciousness. But it is so much more. The writing is strong and the metaphorical backdrop is so well done. The author writes Laurie's character arc beautifully while including a portrait of Mal's neurodiverse personality.
Highly recommended.
Set in San Francisco before the 2008 Great Recession and moving through the next few years, the novel, ostensibly a Sapphic romance, uses the tech industry and anti-capitalist organizing made visible by Occupy Wall Street, as a backdrop and a metaphor.
Laurie, who comes from a poor family in upstate NY, moved to San Francisco to escape the dysfunction she grew up with. She takes a job at a dot com startup as the admin assistant to the founder. When the book opens she's dating a man who insists on bringing along his male college friend on some of their dinner dates. One evening, the friend brings his own date, Mal, a female tech engineer, who speaks an unacknowledged truth the the two men are in love with one another.
Laurie is forced to deal with the truth, breaks up with her boyfriend, and slowly befriends Mal, taking her in as a roommate. Most of the book then chronicles their growing friendship and closeness as well as Laurie's short affair with a woman and two relationships with men. All the while she refuses to acknowledge that she is falling in love with Mal.
Mal comes from a family of immigrants from India, a family that has expressed their disappointment in her her whole life. But Mal expresses little emotion, even when it comes to her friendship and growing feelings for Laurie.
Trope-wise, this is a slow-burn, friends to lovers romance written entirely from Laurie's POV, almost in places as a stream of consciousness. But it is so much more. The writing is strong and the metaphorical backdrop is so well done. The author writes Laurie's character arc beautifully while including a portrait of Mal's neurodiverse personality.
Highly recommended.
September 14, 2024
(3.75 Stars)
I requested this on a whim and wasn't sure what to expect, and after finishing it I'm still unsure what I thought of it. But I did like it! Though I'm not sure this would qualify as literary fiction to most it did feel like it to me.
While I know little about the subject to speak on its accuracy, it felt like an immersive look at life in San Francisco in 2007, particularly within the tech scene and more specifically what it was like for queer women during this time.
I really wasn't sure what to make of Laurie or Mal and found them both to be sort of elusive. This is particularly the case for Mal, I could never get a good read on her but from the synopsis, it was clear that Mal did have an attachment to Laurie even if it didn't always seem like it. I do just think we could have had a little more romance between these two, we had to sit through them both being with annoying men so It would've been nice to enjoy them as a couple for a little longer.
I really liked the relationship that they built with Tara, it was a nice addition to see how Mal and Laurie would unite for her even when things were strained between them.
All in all, this was a really pleasant surprise and I will be curious to see what kind of book Anat writes next.
Thank you to Netgalley, Anat Deracine and Mayavin Publishing for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I requested this on a whim and wasn't sure what to expect, and after finishing it I'm still unsure what I thought of it. But I did like it! Though I'm not sure this would qualify as literary fiction to most it did feel like it to me.
While I know little about the subject to speak on its accuracy, it felt like an immersive look at life in San Francisco in 2007, particularly within the tech scene and more specifically what it was like for queer women during this time.
I really wasn't sure what to make of Laurie or Mal and found them both to be sort of elusive. This is particularly the case for Mal, I could never get a good read on her but from the synopsis, it was clear that Mal did have an attachment to Laurie even if it didn't always seem like it. I do just think we could have had a little more romance between these two, we had to sit through them both being with annoying men so It would've been nice to enjoy them as a couple for a little longer.
I really liked the relationship that they built with Tara, it was a nice addition to see how Mal and Laurie would unite for her even when things were strained between them.
All in all, this was a really pleasant surprise and I will be curious to see what kind of book Anat writes next.
Thank you to Netgalley, Anat Deracine and Mayavin Publishing for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2024
This is the love story I wish I could have read when I came out, to know that this kind of connection existed.
I cannot express in words how this book made me feel, I laughed, I cried, and definitely I yelled at my Kindle impatiently waiting for the MC’s to fall in love.
This story follows the Tech crash in 2009, and the Women who worked in a male dominated industry and had to navigate all the challenges that come with their various roles.
There were so many different important topics addressed in this book, it covers politics, activism, neurodivergence, toxic family environments, and it’s a very eloquent and beautifully written slooooow burn love story.
It took me awhile to finish this book, not because I didn’t want to read it, but because I didn’t want it to end, I wanted to savor every word, I’m pretty sure this book changed my brain chemistry, it’s the love story and representation I wish I would have seen when I was younger. This is 100% among my favorite books of the year, I enjoyed it so much, and I am kind of sad it ended, but I’m so happy I found it! 5 ⭐️’s
Thank you Anat Deracine for writing this wonderful story and sharing it with us.
I received an advance review copy at no personal cost and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I cannot express in words how this book made me feel, I laughed, I cried, and definitely I yelled at my Kindle impatiently waiting for the MC’s to fall in love.
This story follows the Tech crash in 2009, and the Women who worked in a male dominated industry and had to navigate all the challenges that come with their various roles.
There were so many different important topics addressed in this book, it covers politics, activism, neurodivergence, toxic family environments, and it’s a very eloquent and beautifully written slooooow burn love story.
It took me awhile to finish this book, not because I didn’t want to read it, but because I didn’t want it to end, I wanted to savor every word, I’m pretty sure this book changed my brain chemistry, it’s the love story and representation I wish I would have seen when I was younger. This is 100% among my favorite books of the year, I enjoyed it so much, and I am kind of sad it ended, but I’m so happy I found it! 5 ⭐️’s
Thank you Anat Deracine for writing this wonderful story and sharing it with us.
I received an advance review copy at no personal cost and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2024
This read is therapy – such a fast, fun indulgence! Deracine has a witty way of capturing both the glamour and horror of the tech world on the surface, then digging deeper with surprising lessons for any woman who's lived or worked in a challenging environment.
"for every woman whoever thought she was in it alone and who is still learning to ask for help" – this was the dedication at the start of the book and perfectly describes the lightness I walked away with.
Having lived in silicon valley, I found myself oscillating between nostalgia and ick. Ultimately the book is about healing, and it was quite uplifting to watch the characters evolve out of their traumas. It's been awhile since a fast read was able to nail such range of emotion. Thank you Deracine.
P.S. I also recommend Deracine's past work "The Divine Comedy of the Tech Sisterhood", which is freely available in written and audiobook format on Medium.
"for every woman whoever thought she was in it alone and who is still learning to ask for help" – this was the dedication at the start of the book and perfectly describes the lightness I walked away with.
Having lived in silicon valley, I found myself oscillating between nostalgia and ick. Ultimately the book is about healing, and it was quite uplifting to watch the characters evolve out of their traumas. It's been awhile since a fast read was able to nail such range of emotion. Thank you Deracine.
P.S. I also recommend Deracine's past work "The Divine Comedy of the Tech Sisterhood", which is freely available in written and audiobook format on Medium.
October 1, 2024
The story between the characters was endearing and believable, with all the decisions between them being true to their characters.
The prose was much more dense and poetic than most of the books I've read in the past year. The only book that comes to mind that was more poetic was This is How We Lose the Time War. I especially liked when Mal read her literary passages as it just took another step up, and Mal got to reference the 'pretty people being stupid' sells books.
I enjoyed reading Her Golden Coast and would recommend it if you need something cathartic.
The prose was much more dense and poetic than most of the books I've read in the past year. The only book that comes to mind that was more poetic was This is How We Lose the Time War. I especially liked when Mal read her literary passages as it just took another step up, and Mal got to reference the 'pretty people being stupid' sells books.
I enjoyed reading Her Golden Coast and would recommend it if you need something cathartic.
December 2, 2024
I really enjoyed the author's story telling and style.
At the start I didn't know what to make of this book. The writing style almost reminded me of Sally Rooney, and it took me a moment to adapt. With the writing style being more poetic than I anticipated. After finishing the book I can genuinely say I really enjoyed it.
The book is set in San Franciso during the financial highs and lows of the tech boom. A time period which I lived through but never experienced in this way. It felt realistic and immersive without being dramatic or hard to understand.
I also loved the cast of characters, both the leads Laurie and Mal grew on me more and more as they developed and their history emerged. It felt like a grown up coming of age story.
I'm really interested to see what the author does next and will definitely be in line to read the next one.
A high 4*
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and published for the ARC.
At the start I didn't know what to make of this book. The writing style almost reminded me of Sally Rooney, and it took me a moment to adapt. With the writing style being more poetic than I anticipated. After finishing the book I can genuinely say I really enjoyed it.
The book is set in San Franciso during the financial highs and lows of the tech boom. A time period which I lived through but never experienced in this way. It felt realistic and immersive without being dramatic or hard to understand.
I also loved the cast of characters, both the leads Laurie and Mal grew on me more and more as they developed and their history emerged. It felt like a grown up coming of age story.
I'm really interested to see what the author does next and will definitely be in line to read the next one.
A high 4*
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and published for the ARC.
August 11, 2024
In the beginning I had a bit of a hard time to get into the plot and the characters but the struggle was absolutely worth it!
I liked the side infos about things that happened along the timeline, reminding me of moments I had already forgotten.
The chemistry between the main characters and the development from roommates to friendship to love was very enjoyable to read.
It was exciting to see how they learn about and see each others struggles and how to help and support in a suitable way.
I liked the side infos about things that happened along the timeline, reminding me of moments I had already forgotten.
The chemistry between the main characters and the development from roommates to friendship to love was very enjoyable to read.
It was exciting to see how they learn about and see each others struggles and how to help and support in a suitable way.
October 8, 2024
Her Golden Coast is full of poetic descriptions of Silicon Valley at its most absurd, providing witty and sometimes cutting satire through the perspective of two very relatable women as they navigate a world of tech bro startups replete with over-the-top office parties and conspicuous consumption in the late 2000s. What I appreciate most about this book is its focus on the human element. It highlights the financial and mental chasm the boom times created between the techie haves and the have nots of San Francisco, doing so with great humor while also being sensitive to its characters. It also has a lot to say about the definition of family and gender roles in a culture that prided itself on changing the world while very much maintaining traditional social hierarchies, but it does so in an empathetic and relatable way. Overall, a very entertaining and thought-provoking read. Highly recommend.
October 13, 2024
I won this in a giveaway I entered on a weird whim. I hate romance, openly, but I adored this book. At the 60% point I gasped aloud and knew I was screwed, though the fact I started this at like 4 pm and finished it at 8, even stopping my podcasts and video games to keep reading.... This is such a moving book and I love the characters and the messages of family and connection. It's just a good heart warming read.
September 11, 2024
I loved how every moment was so well thought out and never felt rushed. The reality of emotions was palpable! Truly Beautiful. The topic of grief in losing a parent was tenderly discussed. I would read this one again.
July 19, 2024
Five stars for pure excitement! Loved Anat's first book and can't wait to read this one.
August 28, 2024
This is a slow-burn romance set in the tech industry during the years around the 2008 financial crisis. Recent history is interwoven with the lives of Laurie and Mal, creating story arcs based on common tropes like women in a mainly male professional environment, poor girl/rich girl or race. Despite this does not sound very exciting, this novel works extremely well. The writing is engaging and funny and the pacing is just about right. Easily one of the best books I read this year!
September 5, 2024
I by chance had an opportunity to read this book prior to mainstream publication (out on the 15th Aug) thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this. Not knowing the author but I liked the premise of the book so started this and absolutely enjoyed this. I would say that I was unsure if this was for me for likely the first 30% of the book however I am glad I continued. Laurie the main character at first seems at stages very detached, almost emotionless, just like she is on the outside all the time. We go through the stages of relationships, work and elements of the mid 2000 to early 2010s including presidents, pride, health and tech. Don’t let the tech element put you off it is more a sidestep not a front aspect of the tale. As the story progresses Laurie becomes so much more self assured, still hesitant but knows to a degree what or I should say who she wants. This is a slow burn of epic proportions which turns into something very worth while, it maybe frustrating as communication and fear do play a factor but honestly refreshing for a queer story that is not focused on the coming out journey or being scared of acceptance, but much more focused on an grown women living and breathing her story naturally. Do read and I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
Read
August 30, 2024Sadly this was a DNF for me. I was extremely interested in starting this book and I was hoping for a great sapphic romance. Sadly the writing style was very hard for me to get into and I didn’t feel any chemistry between the two love interests.
September 18, 2024
This book was beautiful and I loved it; it kept me up reading late two nights in a row as I flew through it. It felt so true to the SF tech scene of the time, and I also loved the will-they-wont-they throughout. Characters felt familiar and super compelling.
May 11, 2025
This was just okay for me.
December 18, 2025
ARC
eARC recieved from NetGalley.
Her Golden Coast takes us through the early days of Silicon Valley's tech boom, set against the backdrop of 2007 SFC.
What made this novel a very engaging read was the depiction of a time when startups were finding their footing, and the people working for them were too. It's a tale of love woven with self-discovery.
Both our protagonists - Laurie & Malini (Mal) - come from somewhat dysfunctional families, and while they don't reveal much of their pasts to each other, the fact that we readers know about it makes their romance genuine and poignant.
The writing is straightforward yet powerful. While some moments felt Bollywood-esque (especially the part with Mal's family towards the end), I can't complain.
eARC recieved from NetGalley.
Her Golden Coast takes us through the early days of Silicon Valley's tech boom, set against the backdrop of 2007 SFC.
What made this novel a very engaging read was the depiction of a time when startups were finding their footing, and the people working for them were too. It's a tale of love woven with self-discovery.
Both our protagonists - Laurie & Malini (Mal) - come from somewhat dysfunctional families, and while they don't reveal much of their pasts to each other, the fact that we readers know about it makes their romance genuine and poignant.
The writing is straightforward yet powerful. While some moments felt Bollywood-esque (especially the part with Mal's family towards the end), I can't complain.
June 9, 2025
Unfortunately a DNF for me. Great setting against the tech boom era. Great idea for a storyline although was hoping more for a story about the struggles women face in the tech world than a sapphic romance. I found the writing very flat and soulless, the prose lacking, and the characters lifeless. In all, just too boring to keep me going.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews