What do you think?
Rate this book
Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go
Lauren Ashburn left a promising job to help her family in Vermont take care of her dying father. Now that he’s gone, Lauren has every intention of returning to her old life—the vibrant, successful one her father had always expected her to have. But Lauren discovers that she feels adrift without his strict guidance.
Georgia Solomon designs homes for others. But as a bisexual autistic woman, she rarely feels at home herself. When her best friend dies suddenly, leaving her alone with their young daughter, her little slice of happiness vanishes. Now Georgia finds herself struggling to navigate a world that doesn’t understand her at all.
Lauren and Georgia clash at a disastrous work meeting, but Georgia’s daughter Hannah pulls them together despite themselves. As they discover new possibilities and priorities for the future, can they make room for love? Or will they have to leave each other behind—in order for them both to move forward?
Georgia Solomon designs homes for others. But as a bisexual autistic woman, she rarely feels at home herself. When her best friend dies suddenly, leaving her alone with their young daughter, her little slice of happiness vanishes. Now Georgia finds herself struggling to navigate a world that doesn’t understand her at all.
Lauren and Georgia clash at a disastrous work meeting, but Georgia’s daughter Hannah pulls them together despite themselves. As they discover new possibilities and priorities for the future, can they make room for love? Or will they have to leave each other behind—in order for them both to move forward?
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2021
4 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Kay Acker
2 books18 followersKay Acker grew up in northern Alabama and lives in southern Vermont. She and her wife play tabletop games with friends, hike on easy trails, and enjoy the daily antics of two cats. When Kay found a lesbian romance novel at the local library for the first time, she hid it in her room until well after the due date. She now borrows, reads, and writes queer books openly.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 20, 2021
This was a good one. After a busy week, that left me exhausted and falling asleep while attempting to read, Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go was the book I needed to keep me awake. I heard good things about this book from my fellow reviewer friends and I’m happy to say that I agree. I don’t know where Bella keeps finding all these great new authors, they must have a magical wardrobe that they pull them out of, well however they find them, it sure is impressive.
This didn’t feel like the average romance story, and I loved that fact. I get bored from the same old and this felt like the breath of fresh air I didn’t know I needed. I was glad to be reading a book with a main character, and a main secondary character, that had autism. I want my books to be diverse and as an aunt to a teenage boy who has autism, I’ve noticed how lacking characters on the spectrum are in WLW fiction. From my personal experiences with my nephew, I thought Acker’s writing of her characters was well done with realism and honesty. In fact, I thought parts of this book hit a little close to home being about a main character coming home and changing her life, to take care of a dying parent. The same thing that happened to me and it even took place in my home state of Vermont. That is something else I have to give Acker credit for because her setting felt true. Every once in a while an author will set a book in Vermont, but most have a Hollywood version of what they think Vermont is supposed to be. It was obvious to me that Acker actually knew what Vermont was like since she captured both the pros and the cons of living here.
Since I covered the setting and well done characters, you are probably wondering about the romance. The romance is slow burn and really about the characters being friends first, before anything more. I liked the pace and thought it felt true to who the characters were. Anything faster paced would have felt very inauthentic. I was also happy with the bit of spark that the sex scenes gave their relationship. While I think the characters really clicked together, they didn’t have a lot of sexual chemistry build-up. So the sex scenes really gave their relationship, and the characters, this passion that was otherwise missing.
My only complaint is that I wanted more time for the ending. The big angsty moment happened too late in the book so it rushed the ending. I’ve decided this year that anyone who has the big angst moment at 90% or later, I’m going to automatically take a star off for affecting my enjoyment. I’m sick of rushed ending so I’m taking a stand in 2021. Luckily, this book’s angst moment happened just a few percentage points before that cut-off, but the problem was that it was still late enough to rush the ending. Every romance fan I know (including myself) loves a good HEA of at least HFN. Let us enjoy the HEA moment and please don’t rush it on is. If you have to have a quick ending at least give us an epilogue. I think this book would have really benefited from having one.
While this had the bump at the end (which I’m chalking up to just being a newbie bump) the rest of this book was a well done romance. I really enjoyed this read and the overall feel of the book. This is an impressive debut book and I will absolutely read the next book Acker puts out.
A copy was given to me for a review.
This didn’t feel like the average romance story, and I loved that fact. I get bored from the same old and this felt like the breath of fresh air I didn’t know I needed. I was glad to be reading a book with a main character, and a main secondary character, that had autism. I want my books to be diverse and as an aunt to a teenage boy who has autism, I’ve noticed how lacking characters on the spectrum are in WLW fiction. From my personal experiences with my nephew, I thought Acker’s writing of her characters was well done with realism and honesty. In fact, I thought parts of this book hit a little close to home being about a main character coming home and changing her life, to take care of a dying parent. The same thing that happened to me and it even took place in my home state of Vermont. That is something else I have to give Acker credit for because her setting felt true. Every once in a while an author will set a book in Vermont, but most have a Hollywood version of what they think Vermont is supposed to be. It was obvious to me that Acker actually knew what Vermont was like since she captured both the pros and the cons of living here.
Since I covered the setting and well done characters, you are probably wondering about the romance. The romance is slow burn and really about the characters being friends first, before anything more. I liked the pace and thought it felt true to who the characters were. Anything faster paced would have felt very inauthentic. I was also happy with the bit of spark that the sex scenes gave their relationship. While I think the characters really clicked together, they didn’t have a lot of sexual chemistry build-up. So the sex scenes really gave their relationship, and the characters, this passion that was otherwise missing.
My only complaint is that I wanted more time for the ending. The big angsty moment happened too late in the book so it rushed the ending. I’ve decided this year that anyone who has the big angst moment at 90% or later, I’m going to automatically take a star off for affecting my enjoyment. I’m sick of rushed ending so I’m taking a stand in 2021. Luckily, this book’s angst moment happened just a few percentage points before that cut-off, but the problem was that it was still late enough to rush the ending. Every romance fan I know (including myself) loves a good HEA of at least HFN. Let us enjoy the HEA moment and please don’t rush it on is. If you have to have a quick ending at least give us an epilogue. I think this book would have really benefited from having one.
While this had the bump at the end (which I’m chalking up to just being a newbie bump) the rest of this book was a well done romance. I really enjoyed this read and the overall feel of the book. This is an impressive debut book and I will absolutely read the next book Acker puts out.
A copy was given to me for a review.
March 7, 2021
3.75 stars. A solid debut with excellent character development. The main characters are both at a difficult point in their lives where they are forced to make changes that will affect their future. This is a sweet romance of the non-fluffy kind, which kept me completely engaged throughout the book, I would have liked some more text at the end though.
Lauren and Georgia meet during work under pretty bad circumstances and Georgia immediately dislikes Lauren because of it. However, they meet again at a grief recovery support group and they form a connection through Hannah, Georgia’s daughter.
Georgia lost her co-parent and best friend Kyle and now has to take care of Hannah by herself, which is not easy as they both are autistic. Kyle was the one they could depend upon when things got too much for them to handle. Besides struggling with the loss of Kyle, Georgia now also has to deal with his meddling family. Lauren lost her dad, who she tried her whole life to get approval from, but never got. As her whole life was devoted to impressing her father she’s missing direction in her life now he’s gone. Both are dealing with loss and grief, and with questions about their future, but they deal with it in totally different ways, which shows the attention to the different characters.
The characters and their connections steal the spotlight. Acker included two autistic characters and she not only payed attention to them displaying different types of autism, but she also showed how ignorant people still can be towards this disorder. I’m by no means an expert on autism, but it felt authentic. I do have to note that several of the other characters, and especially Lauren, also often appeared to miss some general social cues. In fact, I wondered a couple of times if Lauren was on the spectrum as well.
Lauren is really sweet and communicative with Georgia, which is striking as she’s not the easiest person to deal with, or the most communicative, but she is perfectly in touch with Georgia’s state of mind. Lauren even develops a connection with Hannah despite Lauren not liking kids and Hannah not easily bonding with people. It turns out that a cute cat and an Axolotl can perform miracles :)
The book is written in the third person with POVs of Lauren and Georgia. It’s pretty low angst, the text flows nicely and the pace is on the slow side, but it fits the book so it didn’t bother me. I have one remark about the ending though. There is a conflict, which is (too) late in the book and I didn’t understand the behavior of the characters, at once they stopped communicating. It felt forced and when the conflict was solved the book almost immediately ended, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied. I really could have used at least an epilogue to see how they were doing together and how their lives turned out.
In summary, a very good debut book with well-developed characters and an interesting storyline. I look forward to reading more by Acker in the future.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lauren and Georgia meet during work under pretty bad circumstances and Georgia immediately dislikes Lauren because of it. However, they meet again at a grief recovery support group and they form a connection through Hannah, Georgia’s daughter.
Georgia lost her co-parent and best friend Kyle and now has to take care of Hannah by herself, which is not easy as they both are autistic. Kyle was the one they could depend upon when things got too much for them to handle. Besides struggling with the loss of Kyle, Georgia now also has to deal with his meddling family. Lauren lost her dad, who she tried her whole life to get approval from, but never got. As her whole life was devoted to impressing her father she’s missing direction in her life now he’s gone. Both are dealing with loss and grief, and with questions about their future, but they deal with it in totally different ways, which shows the attention to the different characters.
The characters and their connections steal the spotlight. Acker included two autistic characters and she not only payed attention to them displaying different types of autism, but she also showed how ignorant people still can be towards this disorder. I’m by no means an expert on autism, but it felt authentic. I do have to note that several of the other characters, and especially Lauren, also often appeared to miss some general social cues. In fact, I wondered a couple of times if Lauren was on the spectrum as well.
Lauren is really sweet and communicative with Georgia, which is striking as she’s not the easiest person to deal with, or the most communicative, but she is perfectly in touch with Georgia’s state of mind. Lauren even develops a connection with Hannah despite Lauren not liking kids and Hannah not easily bonding with people. It turns out that a cute cat and an Axolotl can perform miracles :)
The book is written in the third person with POVs of Lauren and Georgia. It’s pretty low angst, the text flows nicely and the pace is on the slow side, but it fits the book so it didn’t bother me. I have one remark about the ending though. There is a conflict, which is (too) late in the book and I didn’t understand the behavior of the characters, at once they stopped communicating. It felt forced and when the conflict was solved the book almost immediately ended, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied. I really could have used at least an epilogue to see how they were doing together and how their lives turned out.
In summary, a very good debut book with well-developed characters and an interesting storyline. I look forward to reading more by Acker in the future.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2021
Everyone deals with grief differently.
It is a coincidence for me to have read two books in a row that revolves around neurodiverse characters dealing with loss. It is a good topic to write about because bereavement affects people on the spectrum differently. I like how the writing styles between this and Dal Segno are so different that it isn’t comparable. This is far less contemplative but quite realistic (to me) in the way Georgia and her daughter, Hannah, both on the spectrum, reacted to the very recent and sudden loss of Georgia’s best friend and co-parent, Kyle. Emotions of grief are involved but unexpressed to others mostly and the way Georgia felt like she was losing control of her life seems accurate. In a good way, Lauren filled a void for Georgia and played a big part in the healing process of mother and daughter. At the same time, this book is overwhelming because Lauren had to manage her own mixed feelings about her late father and parts of the book made me feel like Lauren herself is neurodiverse but I’m not sure.
I have seen a few good reviews on Goodreads and I agree that Acker writes well. One of the main things I look out for in a romance novel is of course, the romance. I think Acker handled that rather nicely as well. The chemistry between Georgia and Lauren was good.
But I didn’t like every part of the book. I get a bit iffy sometimes when romance novels involve children because they sometimes work, they sometimes don’t, for me. I understand completely that not everybody likes children but when one character who doesn’t, hooks up with a character who has one of their own, I always have a nagging feeling that it is a recipe for disaster. And I believe Lauren verbalised her opinion about children in general more than once. So, I’m really hesitant about that part.
Otherwise, I think it’s a good debut that is in my opinion, almost four stars.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It is a coincidence for me to have read two books in a row that revolves around neurodiverse characters dealing with loss. It is a good topic to write about because bereavement affects people on the spectrum differently. I like how the writing styles between this and Dal Segno are so different that it isn’t comparable. This is far less contemplative but quite realistic (to me) in the way Georgia and her daughter, Hannah, both on the spectrum, reacted to the very recent and sudden loss of Georgia’s best friend and co-parent, Kyle. Emotions of grief are involved but unexpressed to others mostly and the way Georgia felt like she was losing control of her life seems accurate. In a good way, Lauren filled a void for Georgia and played a big part in the healing process of mother and daughter. At the same time, this book is overwhelming because Lauren had to manage her own mixed feelings about her late father and parts of the book made me feel like Lauren herself is neurodiverse but I’m not sure.
I have seen a few good reviews on Goodreads and I agree that Acker writes well. One of the main things I look out for in a romance novel is of course, the romance. I think Acker handled that rather nicely as well. The chemistry between Georgia and Lauren was good.
But I didn’t like every part of the book. I get a bit iffy sometimes when romance novels involve children because they sometimes work, they sometimes don’t, for me. I understand completely that not everybody likes children but when one character who doesn’t, hooks up with a character who has one of their own, I always have a nagging feeling that it is a recipe for disaster. And I believe Lauren verbalised her opinion about children in general more than once. So, I’m really hesitant about that part.
Otherwise, I think it’s a good debut that is in my opinion, almost four stars.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2021
When I saw other people reviewing this as an ARC, I knew I had to pre-order it. It finally released today, and I leaped right in to devour this unique wonder.
I related a lot to both main characters in this one, both are interesting and unique in the way they interact with the world and each other. They have unique personality traits and quirks, but they aren't outrageous or anything. Just slightly different enough from the norm. It never felt exaggerated for entertainment, and it also didn't go into overly dramatic or angsty territory, either. It's a slow burn love interest, with both women being tentative about the relationship because of their own backgrounds and histories coming in to play with how they are looking at the potentials in this new exciting and scary relationship. Both were fully fleshed out people, with lives and backstories to make them whole and unique.
Hannah, Georgia's daughter was adorable, smart and matter-of-fact too. I related a lot to her obsession with Axolotl's aka Mexican Walking Fish. I had one as a pet from a young age, who lived for YEARS - her name was Simone BTW. lol.
Georgia has autism, as does her 7 year old daughter, Hannah. This is mentioned fairly casually by the daughter and not seen as a big deal by love interest, Lauren. Who, if I'm honest, reminded me a lot of myself. I should add - I am on the spectrum, too.
I, like a lot of women, went under the radar throughout school and most of my adult life - simply because autism in girls presents so very differently than from boys who all the research is about - and social conditioning often has us masking and hiding various traits and having our larger issues be misdiagnosed as anxiety or OCD, or other mental disorders.
While it is never stated if Lauren has autism herself, I couldn't help but relate very much to her personality wise and notice a lot of spectrummy things she did, that I find myself doing. Such as being a bit too blunt at times, and having a pessimistic streak, etc. Her work life in particularly I really related to, with her not getting the right information to do the job properly, but once she had all the information from Georgia in exactly what her company wanted, she was able to succeed without the barriers being put up by her manager and other work mates who weren't communicating precisely enough for her to understand... Totally been there, done that!
Equally with Georgia I related to her inability to connect with people, being emotional, burning bridges with people who lied or those who just didn't do anything to understand her or her daughter. I definitely found myself siding with her against the inlaws antics.
There is a black moment, and it annoys me that it came at about the 89% mark and didn't get resolved til 98%. It made sense in some ways to the women's personalities. Lauren thinking she has to be and do more outside of her hometown, although never really sure what she wants and being indecisive and letting her issues with her dad still control her. Georgia freaks out about change, and the huge decision Lauren makes without her input, or considering how it affects her and Hannah. Both understandable reactions. But I would have liked to see it come sooner, to get more time in the resolution and see how they plan for the future. An epilogue would have been wonderful, and seemed sadly missing. I just wanted a bit more. But a recommended read.
I related a lot to both main characters in this one, both are interesting and unique in the way they interact with the world and each other. They have unique personality traits and quirks, but they aren't outrageous or anything. Just slightly different enough from the norm. It never felt exaggerated for entertainment, and it also didn't go into overly dramatic or angsty territory, either. It's a slow burn love interest, with both women being tentative about the relationship because of their own backgrounds and histories coming in to play with how they are looking at the potentials in this new exciting and scary relationship. Both were fully fleshed out people, with lives and backstories to make them whole and unique.
Hannah, Georgia's daughter was adorable, smart and matter-of-fact too. I related a lot to her obsession with Axolotl's aka Mexican Walking Fish. I had one as a pet from a young age, who lived for YEARS - her name was Simone BTW. lol.
Georgia has autism, as does her 7 year old daughter, Hannah. This is mentioned fairly casually by the daughter and not seen as a big deal by love interest, Lauren. Who, if I'm honest, reminded me a lot of myself. I should add - I am on the spectrum, too.
I, like a lot of women, went under the radar throughout school and most of my adult life - simply because autism in girls presents so very differently than from boys who all the research is about - and social conditioning often has us masking and hiding various traits and having our larger issues be misdiagnosed as anxiety or OCD, or other mental disorders.
While it is never stated if Lauren has autism herself, I couldn't help but relate very much to her personality wise and notice a lot of spectrummy things she did, that I find myself doing. Such as being a bit too blunt at times, and having a pessimistic streak, etc. Her work life in particularly I really related to, with her not getting the right information to do the job properly, but once she had all the information from Georgia in exactly what her company wanted, she was able to succeed without the barriers being put up by her manager and other work mates who weren't communicating precisely enough for her to understand... Totally been there, done that!
Equally with Georgia I related to her inability to connect with people, being emotional, burning bridges with people who lied or those who just didn't do anything to understand her or her daughter. I definitely found myself siding with her against the inlaws antics.
There is a black moment, and it annoys me that it came at about the 89% mark and didn't get resolved til 98%. It made sense in some ways to the women's personalities. Lauren thinking she has to be and do more outside of her hometown, although never really sure what she wants and being indecisive and letting her issues with her dad still control her. Georgia freaks out about change, and the huge decision Lauren makes without her input, or considering how it affects her and Hannah. Both understandable reactions. But I would have liked to see it come sooner, to get more time in the resolution and see how they plan for the future. An epilogue would have been wonderful, and seemed sadly missing. I just wanted a bit more. But a recommended read.
March 21, 2021
Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go by Kay Acker is one of Bella Debut Novels. I like to give first time authors a chance, and am really glad when the book is a good one. That is a sign that many more fine books from same author are yet to come. And this debut is a good one.
Characterization is the author's strongest point. The main characters, Lauren and Georgia, are two real to life people with real-life problems. Acker did a great job with them, as well as with secondary characters -- the child character of Georgia's daughter Hannah especially stands out.
The only downside is the rushed ending, a type of ending which is insufficiently satisfying for my liking. It is such a shame. One more chapter would have made this book much more complete and nearly five-star material.
Overall, this is a solid novel which definitely did not feel like a debut. I will make sure to check out the next book from Kay Acker.
3.75 stars
March 21, 2021
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
Characterization is the author's strongest point. The main characters, Lauren and Georgia, are two real to life people with real-life problems. Acker did a great job with them, as well as with secondary characters -- the child character of Georgia's daughter Hannah especially stands out.
The only downside is the rushed ending, a type of ending which is insufficiently satisfying for my liking. It is such a shame. One more chapter would have made this book much more complete and nearly five-star material.
Overall, this is a solid novel which definitely did not feel like a debut. I will make sure to check out the next book from Kay Acker.
3.75 stars
March 21, 2021
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
March 19, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Leaving’s Not the Only Way to Go by Kay Acker. This is Acker’s debut novel, but you would never know it by how well the book is written.
This is the story of Georgia, Lauren, and Georgia’s daughter Hannah. Both Lauren and Georgia are in the midst of the grieving process when they first meet through their work. Lauren has recently lost her father. Georgia is trying to recover from the loss of Hannah’s father, who also happened to be her best friend. Their workplace meeting doesn’t go very well, but the two keep bumping into each other and Hannah helps to draw the two women together.
This is my favorite kind of tale…a character driven story. The author did an excellent job creating and developing these people, especially Georgia and Hannah. Both have high functioning autism, and the author wrote their characters perfectly. My wife and I have raised an autistic child (He is actually a fine young man now, but he will always be our baby.) so I’m aware of some of the challenges people on the spectrum can face, such as heightened sound sensitivity, texture problems with food and clothing, and problems being around crowds. I actually stopped reading once to show my wife a passage where Hannah had to put ear plugs in her ears because her extended family insisted on singing “Happy Birthday” to her. Our son has hated that since he was a toddler, but our family insists on singing the song too. This realism made it easy for me to connect with these characters.
The premise of the novel is great, the romance is beautiful, the small town setting is perfect for the story, and the realistic characters made this book a joy to read. I only have one criticism with this book. The ending is a bit rushed and leaves some things unfinished. I really wish there was an epilogue to this story. Considering how much I love the rest of the book, though, this is a minor irritant. Overall, I’m very impressed with this author’s writing, and I definitely will be looking for more of her work.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This is the story of Georgia, Lauren, and Georgia’s daughter Hannah. Both Lauren and Georgia are in the midst of the grieving process when they first meet through their work. Lauren has recently lost her father. Georgia is trying to recover from the loss of Hannah’s father, who also happened to be her best friend. Their workplace meeting doesn’t go very well, but the two keep bumping into each other and Hannah helps to draw the two women together.
This is my favorite kind of tale…a character driven story. The author did an excellent job creating and developing these people, especially Georgia and Hannah. Both have high functioning autism, and the author wrote their characters perfectly. My wife and I have raised an autistic child (He is actually a fine young man now, but he will always be our baby.) so I’m aware of some of the challenges people on the spectrum can face, such as heightened sound sensitivity, texture problems with food and clothing, and problems being around crowds. I actually stopped reading once to show my wife a passage where Hannah had to put ear plugs in her ears because her extended family insisted on singing “Happy Birthday” to her. Our son has hated that since he was a toddler, but our family insists on singing the song too. This realism made it easy for me to connect with these characters.
The premise of the novel is great, the romance is beautiful, the small town setting is perfect for the story, and the realistic characters made this book a joy to read. I only have one criticism with this book. The ending is a bit rushed and leaves some things unfinished. I really wish there was an epilogue to this story. Considering how much I love the rest of the book, though, this is a minor irritant. Overall, I’m very impressed with this author’s writing, and I definitely will be looking for more of her work.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
April 11, 2021
Impressive debut delivering a slow burn romance with characters who were a refreshing change from the usual romance novels we read.
Georgia is an architect on the autism spectrum and has a daughter, Hannah, who is also autistic. Losing her best friend and Hannah’s father has left Georgia feeling lost and overwhelmed. She and Hannah have coping techniques to manage their daily routines but Kyle’s death has left Georgia feeling adrift. Lauren is a computer programmer who is also dealing with the loss of a father she has spent her life trying to please. Lauren is not identified as being on the autism spectrum but her inability to read emotions and her single minded logic reminded me of someone with Aspergers.
The first scene when Lauren meets Hannah and the two connect gave me all the feels and I knew I was going to enjoy this read. These characters felt so real, honest and sincere. I loved how Hannah was a buffer between the women during their early and often awkward moments together. Georgia and Lauren become friends first and eventually lovers. The romantic attraction is there but is often in the background as Georgia deals with her late co-parent’s family and Lauren spends a lot of time in her head, pondering the direction her life should take.
I wasn’t crazy about the ending but knew in my heart these three were meant to be together. The author made me wonder if Georgia and Lauren would ever find their HEA. As unsettling as the conflict is, the drama of it had me remembering exactly where I was when I read this portion of the novel. I so wanted Lauren to see she didn’t need to follow some misconceived dream to honour her father’s wishes but to accept that being the woman Georgia and Hannah needed in their lives was something concrete, something right for Lauren. That I remember exactly where I was (listening via TTS on a walk) speaks volumes to the emotional impact the ending of this novel had for this reader. Well done, Ms. Acker.
This is an author to watch and I look forward to reading her books in the future.
ARC received with thanks from Bella Books via NetGalley for review.
Georgia is an architect on the autism spectrum and has a daughter, Hannah, who is also autistic. Losing her best friend and Hannah’s father has left Georgia feeling lost and overwhelmed. She and Hannah have coping techniques to manage their daily routines but Kyle’s death has left Georgia feeling adrift. Lauren is a computer programmer who is also dealing with the loss of a father she has spent her life trying to please. Lauren is not identified as being on the autism spectrum but her inability to read emotions and her single minded logic reminded me of someone with Aspergers.
The first scene when Lauren meets Hannah and the two connect gave me all the feels and I knew I was going to enjoy this read. These characters felt so real, honest and sincere. I loved how Hannah was a buffer between the women during their early and often awkward moments together. Georgia and Lauren become friends first and eventually lovers. The romantic attraction is there but is often in the background as Georgia deals with her late co-parent’s family and Lauren spends a lot of time in her head, pondering the direction her life should take.
I wasn’t crazy about the ending but knew in my heart these three were meant to be together. The author made me wonder if Georgia and Lauren would ever find their HEA. As unsettling as the conflict is, the drama of it had me remembering exactly where I was when I read this portion of the novel. I so wanted Lauren to see she didn’t need to follow some misconceived dream to honour her father’s wishes but to accept that being the woman Georgia and Hannah needed in their lives was something concrete, something right for Lauren. That I remember exactly where I was (listening via TTS on a walk) speaks volumes to the emotional impact the ending of this novel had for this reader. Well done, Ms. Acker.
This is an author to watch and I look forward to reading her books in the future.
ARC received with thanks from Bella Books via NetGalley for review.
May 27, 2021
Excellent!
An architect, a programmer, an awesome kid, autism and bisexuality. Lauren is always pushing herself to be what her father expected her to be. She never got the appreciation she so longed for and now he past away. Georgia has to deal with the sudden loss of her best friend and co-parent. Without him, she is insecure and struggles to raise her daughter alone. A presentation to introduce new software goes completely wrong and Georgia has little faith in Lauren's skills. This is the beginning of a beautiful story about two unique women struggling with themselves and the outside world. The plot is excellent, the characters are lovable and easy to bond with. The emotions felt real, it’s well-written and the story flows fine. My one complaint is that the ending fell a bit rushed. An epilogue would be a better closure to the story. But other than that, I loved the concept, it kept me engaged.
An architect, a programmer, an awesome kid, autism and bisexuality. Lauren is always pushing herself to be what her father expected her to be. She never got the appreciation she so longed for and now he past away. Georgia has to deal with the sudden loss of her best friend and co-parent. Without him, she is insecure and struggles to raise her daughter alone. A presentation to introduce new software goes completely wrong and Georgia has little faith in Lauren's skills. This is the beginning of a beautiful story about two unique women struggling with themselves and the outside world. The plot is excellent, the characters are lovable and easy to bond with. The emotions felt real, it’s well-written and the story flows fine. My one complaint is that the ending fell a bit rushed. An epilogue would be a better closure to the story. But other than that, I loved the concept, it kept me engaged.
March 21, 2021
This is an impressive debut for Acker.
Lauren came home to her small town when her Dad’s health took a turn for the worse. Now he’s gone she’s looking at what her next steps should be, including deciding if she wants to stay in her demanding yet unsatisfying job. When demonstrating her company’s latest piece of discouraging software to an architectural firm, she meets Georgia.
Georgia works at the architecture firm designing homes. She has a lot to think about herself. She’s reeling from the unexpected death of her daughter’s father, Georgia’s best friend and work colleague, trying to navigate life as a bisexual autistic woman without his help and the last thing she needs is Lauren and her dreadful software in her life.
I found all three of the main characters (I’m counting Georgia’s daughter Hannah in this because her part in the book is so important) are written really well. You get to know who they are and why they are the way they are, and I thought Acker did a great job of portraying how their pasts impact their decision making and feelings about themselves. I don’t have much experience with autism, but from my limited knowledge I felt the portrayal of Georgia and Hannah was done well and I’m happy to see other reviewers with more experience feel this way. I also found most of the secondary characters to be interesting and well thought out too.
A book full of communication almost feels like a rarity nowadays, but this one has it, until it doesn’t. The gaps in communication do however fit with what we know about the characters, and I felt that this played really well. So whilst I was disappointed to find the 90% angst blow-up, it did at least make sense within the narrative.
As I often say when that 90% blow-up happens - I wanted more of them together. I wanted to see how they all worked together as a family, how Lauren integrated further into Georgia and Hannah’s lives and how Lauren began to feel about herself when she realised she could do anything she wanted with her life.
I’m definitely hoping the success of this one means that another book will be forthcoming for Acker and I’ll be looking out for it.
To be fair, I’m not sure this review does this book justice, but I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for an unusual romance with interesting characters.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lauren came home to her small town when her Dad’s health took a turn for the worse. Now he’s gone she’s looking at what her next steps should be, including deciding if she wants to stay in her demanding yet unsatisfying job. When demonstrating her company’s latest piece of discouraging software to an architectural firm, she meets Georgia.
Georgia works at the architecture firm designing homes. She has a lot to think about herself. She’s reeling from the unexpected death of her daughter’s father, Georgia’s best friend and work colleague, trying to navigate life as a bisexual autistic woman without his help and the last thing she needs is Lauren and her dreadful software in her life.
I found all three of the main characters (I’m counting Georgia’s daughter Hannah in this because her part in the book is so important) are written really well. You get to know who they are and why they are the way they are, and I thought Acker did a great job of portraying how their pasts impact their decision making and feelings about themselves. I don’t have much experience with autism, but from my limited knowledge I felt the portrayal of Georgia and Hannah was done well and I’m happy to see other reviewers with more experience feel this way. I also found most of the secondary characters to be interesting and well thought out too.
A book full of communication almost feels like a rarity nowadays, but this one has it, until it doesn’t. The gaps in communication do however fit with what we know about the characters, and I felt that this played really well. So whilst I was disappointed to find the 90% angst blow-up, it did at least make sense within the narrative.
As I often say when that 90% blow-up happens - I wanted more of them together. I wanted to see how they all worked together as a family, how Lauren integrated further into Georgia and Hannah’s lives and how Lauren began to feel about herself when she realised she could do anything she wanted with her life.
I’m definitely hoping the success of this one means that another book will be forthcoming for Acker and I’ll be looking out for it.
To be fair, I’m not sure this review does this book justice, but I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for an unusual romance with interesting characters.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2021
I enjoyed reading this slow burn romance that differed a little bit from most other romantic stories because two of the most important characters, Georgia and her daughter Hannah had autism. They were depicted realistically and in a way that made me feel connected to them. The other main character was Lauren. She also was a little different. Not many people are as brutally honest as she sometimes was, but she also was very likeable. I am not going to tell anything about the storyline. The blurb and other reviews give enough info about that I think.
I needed some time to get used to the writing in this book. In the beginning it the story rambled along for me but after I while I got used to that and the writing also got a bit smoother. This book by a new writer was a very nice surprise for me. I’ll certainly keep a look out for any new books by Kay Acker.
I needed some time to get used to the writing in this book. In the beginning it the story rambled along for me but after I while I got used to that and the writing also got a bit smoother. This book by a new writer was a very nice surprise for me. I’ll certainly keep a look out for any new books by Kay Acker.
March 26, 2021
Nothing to write home about here. At least I learned a few things about autism.
March 5, 2021
Bella Books have this amazing thing going on where they are always able to find new authors that come out with a strong debut, Kay Acker's Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go is no exception to this.
When I read the blurb I was expecting the main characters to not have suffered their loss yet, but for it to happen in the book. So I was a little confused when I started reading the book and both Georgia and Lauren already lost their loved ones. Lauren en Georgia cross paths in a professional environment, Georgia thinks Lauren is nothing but hot air, much like Lauren's boss. When they end up in the same grief counseling group she discovers that Lauren is also a bit of a closed-off grump. The next work meeting isn't any better and leaves Georgia fuming, Lauren didn't seem to be interested in their issues with the program at all. As it turns out Lauren was paying very close attention... At the next counseling group meeting, Georgia is standing with her daughter, Hannah, she spots Lauren and strikes up a conversation because she liked her the first time they met the week before. Hannah tells Lauren both she and her mom are autistic. From here forward a friendship is built and Lauren is super attentive and overall a very nice person. With Georgia and Hannah being autistic Lauren seems to really be able to tune into their needs. Both women still struggle with their grief and their interest in each other for maybe more than friendship, but not taking any risks won't get you any rewards...
I really like how Georgia and Hannah are both different in how they deal with their autism and everyday life. It's clear they are on different parts of the spectrum and it is good to read about this without it being a lecture. Lauren is a patient and understanding character and exactly what the other two need. I like how Lauren doesn't like any kids, but can't help but like Hannah. Throughout the book, I wondered if Lauren might also fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, the way she is written and behaves at times makes me think she is. The story is a sweet romance and there was some good communication going on until there wasn't. This is a shame, you could see the big drama event coming, even before the communication breaks down. And as per usual in WLW romances it happens too late, Around the 83% mark the big drama takes place and of course, it's a breakup and the reconciliation is dramatic and sweet, but it doesn't fit with the rest of the story really. I really enjoyed reading this up until the 70% or so mark, when the communication is gone and it all slowly falls apart. I know why authors have the big drama in their books, it's sort of a must I guess, but for this one, I think it would have been better without it, more realistic.
Overall, I'd consider this a very strong debut and I wouldn't hesitate to read another book by this author.
Oh an I love the cover design, makes perfect sense with the story :)
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
When I read the blurb I was expecting the main characters to not have suffered their loss yet, but for it to happen in the book. So I was a little confused when I started reading the book and both Georgia and Lauren already lost their loved ones. Lauren en Georgia cross paths in a professional environment, Georgia thinks Lauren is nothing but hot air, much like Lauren's boss. When they end up in the same grief counseling group she discovers that Lauren is also a bit of a closed-off grump. The next work meeting isn't any better and leaves Georgia fuming, Lauren didn't seem to be interested in their issues with the program at all. As it turns out Lauren was paying very close attention... At the next counseling group meeting, Georgia is standing with her daughter, Hannah, she spots Lauren and strikes up a conversation because she liked her the first time they met the week before. Hannah tells Lauren both she and her mom are autistic. From here forward a friendship is built and Lauren is super attentive and overall a very nice person. With Georgia and Hannah being autistic Lauren seems to really be able to tune into their needs. Both women still struggle with their grief and their interest in each other for maybe more than friendship, but not taking any risks won't get you any rewards...
I really like how Georgia and Hannah are both different in how they deal with their autism and everyday life. It's clear they are on different parts of the spectrum and it is good to read about this without it being a lecture. Lauren is a patient and understanding character and exactly what the other two need. I like how Lauren doesn't like any kids, but can't help but like Hannah. Throughout the book, I wondered if Lauren might also fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, the way she is written and behaves at times makes me think she is. The story is a sweet romance and there was some good communication going on until there wasn't. This is a shame, you could see the big drama event coming, even before the communication breaks down. And as per usual in WLW romances it happens too late, Around the 83% mark the big drama takes place and of course, it's a breakup and the reconciliation is dramatic and sweet, but it doesn't fit with the rest of the story really. I really enjoyed reading this up until the 70% or so mark, when the communication is gone and it all slowly falls apart. I know why authors have the big drama in their books, it's sort of a must I guess, but for this one, I think it would have been better without it, more realistic.
Overall, I'd consider this a very strong debut and I wouldn't hesitate to read another book by this author.
Oh an I love the cover design, makes perfect sense with the story :)
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
July 6, 2022
This is both the first book I've read by this author, and the first full length novel they have published (and only novel published, there is a short story in a short story collection).
I've a vague feeling that this is the kind of book that I might have otherwise found . . . either not exactly my type of book, or possibly one with a storyline I'd read too often. (Not exactly my type of book: annoying family is large plot point; most of the characters might have certain personality traits it might not be the easiest and/or fun thing to read; storyline read too often: a person returns "home" to take care of a sick and or ill family member -> not sure if I'd have like or not liked reading that type of story again, but it wasn't this story line actually, this is "post" that).
Right, so.
Lauren Ashburn had a career in, if I recall correctly, Philadelphia, when she got pulled back to her small home town in Vermont to . . . do something involving her dying father. The book is post-his death, so I'm not 100% certain why she specifically returned (the exact reasons given, maybe just that the father was dying, though the tidbits left here and there indicate that she was there 2 or so years before he died). She currently has a job in a software company in her home town. She's embarrassed by working for the company. Partially because it's a home town company (there's a lot of baggage about that, imposed by that now dead father), and because it is a relatively poorly run company, so much so that the project Lauren is working on is going poorly.
That specific project that Lauren is working on is to create a software program for an architect firm. Which I mention because that's how the book starts. Lauren presenting the software program with her boss. The presentation goes horribly. Not yet mentioned: Lauren encountered the other main character in the book, Georgia Solomon, who works at that architect place. Naturally, Georgia believes Lauren is incompetent based on this demonstration.
That night the two run into each other again when they end up at the same location. Not a bar, not a diner, or anything like that. Instead a place where a grief counseling event is taking place. For those who have recently lost someone. Before the two meet again, though, Lauren has something like a kind of meet cute with a young girl named Hannah. Who asks if Lauren has a cat (her shirt is covered with fur, there's a reason).
The kids and adults are in separate rooms, though, so Lauren meets Hannah out of the presence of Georgia, which is important because Hannah is Georgia's daughter. Once the two actually are in the same room, though, both wish the other was not there (Lauren is embarrassed by the presentation and the software she's connected to).
Right, so. Loved the characters, the cat, the axolotl, the storyline, etc. Great first book.
Rating: 5.0
July 6 2022
I've a vague feeling that this is the kind of book that I might have otherwise found . . . either not exactly my type of book, or possibly one with a storyline I'd read too often. (Not exactly my type of book: annoying family is large plot point; most of the characters might have certain personality traits it might not be the easiest and/or fun thing to read; storyline read too often: a person returns "home" to take care of a sick and or ill family member -> not sure if I'd have like or not liked reading that type of story again, but it wasn't this story line actually, this is "post" that).
Right, so.
Lauren Ashburn had a career in, if I recall correctly, Philadelphia, when she got pulled back to her small home town in Vermont to . . . do something involving her dying father. The book is post-his death, so I'm not 100% certain why she specifically returned (the exact reasons given, maybe just that the father was dying, though the tidbits left here and there indicate that she was there 2 or so years before he died). She currently has a job in a software company in her home town. She's embarrassed by working for the company. Partially because it's a home town company (there's a lot of baggage about that, imposed by that now dead father), and because it is a relatively poorly run company, so much so that the project Lauren is working on is going poorly.
That specific project that Lauren is working on is to create a software program for an architect firm. Which I mention because that's how the book starts. Lauren presenting the software program with her boss. The presentation goes horribly. Not yet mentioned: Lauren encountered the other main character in the book, Georgia Solomon, who works at that architect place. Naturally, Georgia believes Lauren is incompetent based on this demonstration.
That night the two run into each other again when they end up at the same location. Not a bar, not a diner, or anything like that. Instead a place where a grief counseling event is taking place. For those who have recently lost someone. Before the two meet again, though, Lauren has something like a kind of meet cute with a young girl named Hannah. Who asks if Lauren has a cat (her shirt is covered with fur, there's a reason).
The kids and adults are in separate rooms, though, so Lauren meets Hannah out of the presence of Georgia, which is important because Hannah is Georgia's daughter. Once the two actually are in the same room, though, both wish the other was not there (Lauren is embarrassed by the presentation and the software she's connected to).
Right, so. Loved the characters, the cat, the axolotl, the storyline, etc. Great first book.
Rating: 5.0
July 6 2022
March 24, 2021
So Sweet!
Lauren works for a software company that is woefully inadequate and ineffective. It’s poorly run and makes promise it can’t live up to, leaving Lauren to look the fool even though SHE knows what’s what. It’s a harsh reality for her as she left a good career to take care of her dying father. Now she feels stuck and has no energy to change things. Georgia designs homes, she’s a single mom to an austic daughter and she’s austic herself. Her daughter’s father has recently died leaving a hole in their lives. Georgia and Lauren meet at a disaster of a work meeting then later at a grief group. Lauren is taken with Georgia’s daughter and really by the woman herself. After Lauren goes over and above to make things right with her, Georgia finds herself equally intrigued.
This is a wonderful book filled with all sorts of emotions. I adored Hannah, Georgia’s daughter. She is adorable and lovable. Watching Georgia and Lauren’s growing attraction is a joy and delight. I liked watching them overcome their struggles and work together to make their dreams and hopes come true. This really well written story kept my attention throughout and left me feeling happy and contented at the end. I highly recommend this delightful story!
Lauren works for a software company that is woefully inadequate and ineffective. It’s poorly run and makes promise it can’t live up to, leaving Lauren to look the fool even though SHE knows what’s what. It’s a harsh reality for her as she left a good career to take care of her dying father. Now she feels stuck and has no energy to change things. Georgia designs homes, she’s a single mom to an austic daughter and she’s austic herself. Her daughter’s father has recently died leaving a hole in their lives. Georgia and Lauren meet at a disaster of a work meeting then later at a grief group. Lauren is taken with Georgia’s daughter and really by the woman herself. After Lauren goes over and above to make things right with her, Georgia finds herself equally intrigued.
This is a wonderful book filled with all sorts of emotions. I adored Hannah, Georgia’s daughter. She is adorable and lovable. Watching Georgia and Lauren’s growing attraction is a joy and delight. I liked watching them overcome their struggles and work together to make their dreams and hopes come true. This really well written story kept my attention throughout and left me feeling happy and contented at the end. I highly recommend this delightful story!
April 20, 2021
I'm truly impressed that this is Kay Acker's first book, and I now understand why the cute little axolotl is gracing the cover of said book. Georgia's character intrigued me, and Hannah totally won me over. Lauren... I had a harder time with because of all the negativity, but her interactions with little Hannah made it easier to like her.
Anyway... after reading this book, it just goes to show that you should always make the choices in life for yourself, not because of the expectations other people have for you. You'll just be miserable otherwise.
Anyway... after reading this book, it just goes to show that you should always make the choices in life for yourself, not because of the expectations other people have for you. You'll just be miserable otherwise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2021
This book is an ode to all the outsiders: those of us who aren’t social, or don’t react the way society deems appropriate. Lauren is a loner who just wants to to be happy. Georgia is an autistic woman with an autistic child trying to finder her place in society and her footing as a single mother. They become acquainted through a grief therapy group. Lauren has lost her father, and Georgia has lost her best friend/father of her daughter.
I think the high point for me was the characters and how, despite their awkwardness, they clicked and developed a connection. The story line was just okay, but honestly I wasn’t paying much mind, as I was too wrapped up in the characters and their interactions. I am not a touchy feely person, and this book celebrates those of us who never quite understand the best way to express emotion.
I think the high point for me was the characters and how, despite their awkwardness, they clicked and developed a connection. The story line was just okay, but honestly I wasn’t paying much mind, as I was too wrapped up in the characters and their interactions. I am not a touchy feely person, and this book celebrates those of us who never quite understand the best way to express emotion.
March 8, 2021
Georgia Solomon has dealt with autisticism all her life. Not only her own but her daughter Hannah’s as well. She was all right as long as her schedule didn’t get out of whack. That is what happened when her best friend Kyle passed away unexpectedly. Kyle was also Hannah’s dad but they’d never married. Instead they worked together and lived next door to each other. Over the years it’s been Kyle who helped Georgia deal with being a mother. Now she felt she was on her own.
Lauren Ashburn was dealing with the death of her father. They never really got along with her father, unable to give either her or her sister a small bit of praise, no matter how hard they tried. Now she was working for a company who had a contract building a program for the very company Georgia worked for.
Now after meeting each other through their jobs, they meet again. This time at Healing House, a group that helped their clients with the loss of a loved one.
This is one of the most compelling stories I’ve read when it comes to characters dealing with autism. Wonderful story.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
Lauren Ashburn was dealing with the death of her father. They never really got along with her father, unable to give either her or her sister a small bit of praise, no matter how hard they tried. Now she was working for a company who had a contract building a program for the very company Georgia worked for.
Now after meeting each other through their jobs, they meet again. This time at Healing House, a group that helped their clients with the loss of a loved one.
This is one of the most compelling stories I’ve read when it comes to characters dealing with autism. Wonderful story.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
March 16, 2021
I am in love with this book - it just has so many incredible aspects! For starters, the adorable axolotl on the cover; how could you refuse that smiling little face? On a slightly more serious note, the pages inside the cover are pretty fantastic too. Lauren is a slightly odd character who I can relate to in many ways, (other people are difficult, please just let me get on with my stuff, why are you always hassling me to be sociable, why can't things be nicely organised the way I like things, stop touching my precious things etc) and she is very well crafted with real depth. She is struggling after the death of her father, who she had a complicated relationship with and is feeling lost back in her home town. Georgia meets Lauren at a disastrous business meeting, and then again at a bereavement group - neither meeting goes particularly well but through the inadvertent intervention of Hannah, Georgia's daughter and Lauren's cat Turing, a careful friendship begins.
Both Georgia and Hannah have autism and Kay Acker writes about this very well, showing how both characters get to know people and navigate the world around them without some of the social signposts that other people take for granted. Hannah is an excellent character who won me over straight away, and not just with her love for and fascination with axolotls. Her relationship with Georgia and how they deal with their grief over the loss of Georgia's best friend and Hannah's father Kyle, is beautiful and heart-breaking to read. There were quite a few times when this book had me in tears but one section sticks out: "If she kept holding on to her grief, she’d have no hands free for Hannah to hold and none to reach out with."
The relationship between Lauren and Georgia develops at a very natural pace and is a delight to watch unfold. There are sex scenes on the page and again, they are so well written; both hot and sweet. Even before they get to that stage there is one incredible scene when Georgia returns home after a fancy work function, Lauren had stepped in as an emergency babysitter and Georgia takes off her shoes and socks in front of her. "The nylons were rolled gently down Georgia’s thighs, over her knees, down her calves, and abandoned on the floor. She started taking off her jewelry, her hands running over her fingers, her wrists, the back of her neck. Lauren wanted her own hands on that skin, gently baring the woman before her piece by piece." Nothing more happens in this scene but the tension in it is incredible makes the eventual release for Lauren, Georgia and the reader so much better.
This is Kay Acker's first book and I can't wait for her next novel (plus her short story in the Bella collection that is coming out sometime soon.) I'd highly recommend this book.
Both Georgia and Hannah have autism and Kay Acker writes about this very well, showing how both characters get to know people and navigate the world around them without some of the social signposts that other people take for granted. Hannah is an excellent character who won me over straight away, and not just with her love for and fascination with axolotls. Her relationship with Georgia and how they deal with their grief over the loss of Georgia's best friend and Hannah's father Kyle, is beautiful and heart-breaking to read. There were quite a few times when this book had me in tears but one section sticks out: "If she kept holding on to her grief, she’d have no hands free for Hannah to hold and none to reach out with."
The relationship between Lauren and Georgia develops at a very natural pace and is a delight to watch unfold. There are sex scenes on the page and again, they are so well written; both hot and sweet. Even before they get to that stage there is one incredible scene when Georgia returns home after a fancy work function, Lauren had stepped in as an emergency babysitter and Georgia takes off her shoes and socks in front of her. "The nylons were rolled gently down Georgia’s thighs, over her knees, down her calves, and abandoned on the floor. She started taking off her jewelry, her hands running over her fingers, her wrists, the back of her neck. Lauren wanted her own hands on that skin, gently baring the woman before her piece by piece." Nothing more happens in this scene but the tension in it is incredible makes the eventual release for Lauren, Georgia and the reader so much better.
This is Kay Acker's first book and I can't wait for her next novel (plus her short story in the Bella collection that is coming out sometime soon.) I'd highly recommend this book.
April 19, 2021
A different but wonderfully well-written and plotted novel. I loved how the story took me out of the comfort zone of a typical romance. The dialogue, the manner in which Georgia and Lauren bonded......so many aspects were unique. It reminded me how kindness and compassion can be so important in interpersonal interactions.
I look forward to reading more of this author's writing in future.
I look forward to reading more of this author's writing in future.
March 27, 2021
This was an interesting read because the main characters were atypical. Lauren Ashburn, computer programmer with a receptive heart and a loving family. Georgia Solomon, architect, with a daughter, an open heart yet feels uncomfortable with her self. Georgia's daughter Hannah is an important person in the story because she wants people in her life but is not always sure how to make that happen. The ending was a little disjointed in how it unfolded. An epilogue would have been good.
Autism is at the heart of this story. I have a nephew who is autistic. As I read, I found similarities between the characters and the life my brother and his family experience. I enjoy spending time my nephew. When I am with him, patience and love is the key.
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
Autism is at the heart of this story. I have a nephew who is autistic. As I read, I found similarities between the characters and the life my brother and his family experience. I enjoy spending time my nephew. When I am with him, patience and love is the key.
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
March 4, 2021
Georgia designs homes for a living although she doesn’t feels at home herself. She is autistic who struggles with the world understanding her. When she loses her friend she in task in raising her seven year old daughter Hannah who is also autistic.
Lauren is a computer programmer who meets Georgia when the new software doesn’t work and they clash. Lauren is mourning her father after taking care of him now that’s he gone she wants to go back to her life but she realize without him she lost despite the fact he pushes her to be great and she feels she fails him because he was never satisfied with her choices.
Georgia and Lauren start a friendship through Hannah because of the kindness she shows her. As they both grow closer they realize sometimes you need to open up to help each other through the tough times.
This was good read. The author did a great job portraying how autistic spectrum is and how it’s affects the person who has it.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Lauren is a computer programmer who meets Georgia when the new software doesn’t work and they clash. Lauren is mourning her father after taking care of him now that’s he gone she wants to go back to her life but she realize without him she lost despite the fact he pushes her to be great and she feels she fails him because he was never satisfied with her choices.
Georgia and Lauren start a friendship through Hannah because of the kindness she shows her. As they both grow closer they realize sometimes you need to open up to help each other through the tough times.
This was good read. The author did a great job portraying how autistic spectrum is and how it’s affects the person who has it.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
March 4, 2021
The perspectives of the main characters in this romance is very interesting. Georgia Solomon designs homes. She is also bisexual and high functioning in the autistic spectrum. She is raising her daughter Hannah on her own after the death of her co-parent. Hannah is seven and also autistic. Georgia clashes with Lauren Ashburn, a computer programmer, when the new designing software for her company fails to work. Lauren is one of the programmers trying to fix the issues. They meet later at a bereavement therapy group. Lauren is trying to get over the death of her father who always pushed her to be more and was never satisfied with her results.
Hannah's response to a kindness from Lauren starts the women on a path to friendship and a relationship. Georgia is trying her best to raise and protect her daughter but it is hard when not everyone understands that they can't pick up on social cues, tolerate change or enjoy certain foods like everyone else. Lauren has a hard time with people herself. Together they support each other with issues including families and work.
The author does a very good job at realistically portraying autism. Lauren and Georgia are great at trying to listen to and read each other. Many things need to be explicitly stated because miscommunication can easily happen. Hannah and the supporting characters add to the story but also to some conflicts. The book also has one of the funniest lines about bisexuals and hiking I've ever read. I will look forward to more books from the author. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC ebook in exchange for a honest review.
Hannah's response to a kindness from Lauren starts the women on a path to friendship and a relationship. Georgia is trying her best to raise and protect her daughter but it is hard when not everyone understands that they can't pick up on social cues, tolerate change or enjoy certain foods like everyone else. Lauren has a hard time with people herself. Together they support each other with issues including families and work.
The author does a very good job at realistically portraying autism. Lauren and Georgia are great at trying to listen to and read each other. Many things need to be explicitly stated because miscommunication can easily happen. Hannah and the supporting characters add to the story but also to some conflicts. The book also has one of the funniest lines about bisexuals and hiking I've ever read. I will look forward to more books from the author. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC ebook in exchange for a honest review.
July 6, 2021
The first 80% was really good but then it fell into the les-rom stereotype where so much angst would have been avoided if someone used 0.5% of normal communication common sense. Disappointing.
April 9, 2021
I wanted to like this book more than I actually ended up liking it. I loved the basic story: autistic woman who lost the one person who seemed to hold her together, who was also the father of her autistic child, meets woman who is being pushed into dealing with the death of her overbearing, emotionally distant father. Family issues and love follow. Great right?
There were a few things that didn't sit right with me and that's why I rated it only three stars. First, there were so many similes. Similes flowed like a raging river to the ocean. Or wherever rivers flow to. There were a lot of them. I also couldn't feel a lick of chemistry between the protagonists. I wanted to. I felt a flicker here and there but it just didn't happen for me. And the final conflict at the end came on quickly, didn't seem realistic to me, and was solved easily.
While those things bugged me, I loved the mother/daughter relationship between Georgia and Hannah. They made the book for me. There were also some good humorous exchanges and some emotional stuff that hit the mark.
This is a debut novel and I think some of the issues I had are common in first books for authors. When Ms. Acker's sophomore effort is available, I'll absolutely put it on my TBR.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
There were a few things that didn't sit right with me and that's why I rated it only three stars. First, there were so many similes. Similes flowed like a raging river to the ocean. Or wherever rivers flow to. There were a lot of them. I also couldn't feel a lick of chemistry between the protagonists. I wanted to. I felt a flicker here and there but it just didn't happen for me. And the final conflict at the end came on quickly, didn't seem realistic to me, and was solved easily.
While those things bugged me, I loved the mother/daughter relationship between Georgia and Hannah. They made the book for me. There were also some good humorous exchanges and some emotional stuff that hit the mark.
This is a debut novel and I think some of the issues I had are common in first books for authors. When Ms. Acker's sophomore effort is available, I'll absolutely put it on my TBR.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
March 20, 2023
I loved how the romance between Georgia and Lauren progressed. As they were both trying to figure out who each other were, while handling grief in their own way, they learned so much about themselves. Hannah, Georgia's daughter is a very charismatic character. She the kind of kid I would enjoy meeting. Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go, Kay Acker presents a fresh and real way of looking at life between very real characters. It's an excellent novel that should not be missed. I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated vividly by Ellie Gossage.
May 21, 2025
I expected a different ending. With Loren realising she's autistic as well (there had been so many red flags to me!) or getting a new job, or Georgia moving with her... I want to know what happened, but I guess I'll have to guess/imagine for myself.
The autism representation is so good and respectful. The characters are interesting and relatable. Hannah is adorable. Very good book overall, even with the open ending.
The autism representation is so good and respectful. The characters are interesting and relatable. Hannah is adorable. Very good book overall, even with the open ending.
March 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. The cover is the first thing that jumped out at me. It's a picture of an Axolotl, which is a type of salamander. The young girl featured in this book - Hannah, is captivated by these creatures and her mother and her mother's girlfriend get a couple of them for the child. Hannah and her mother Georgia are both autistic and autistic people are often focused on somewhat obscure interests. Georgia and Lauren, the love interests in this book, don't bat an eye at Hannah's fascination with these creatures. Georgia and Lauren are both quirky and so is Hannah. That's one of the things I loved about this book. Their quirks are just part of them and are dealt with in a matter of fact way. The peripheral characters in this book also have their quirks and issues, and the result is that this book seems to be about real people.
I sometimes get bored with lesbian romances (or any romances for that matter) because they often feature the "go away - come here" scenario repeatedly. There was a little of that in this book as well as various misunderstandings. However, I didn't want to smack the main characters because of it because it was handled fairly realistically. I did think that Lauren jumped ship rather abruptly, but then came back at the end. There were also some unanswered questions at the end, like where are they going to live and so on. However, I chalked those up to the messiness of life.
Good book! I look forward to more from Kay.
I sometimes get bored with lesbian romances (or any romances for that matter) because they often feature the "go away - come here" scenario repeatedly. There was a little of that in this book as well as various misunderstandings. However, I didn't want to smack the main characters because of it because it was handled fairly realistically. I did think that Lauren jumped ship rather abruptly, but then came back at the end. There were also some unanswered questions at the end, like where are they going to live and so on. However, I chalked those up to the messiness of life.
Good book! I look forward to more from Kay.
March 21, 2021
I'm giving this book a solid 4.5 stars only because I felt like the end was too rushed, other than that, I pretty much fell in love with both protagonists and the kid, and God, I LOVE when I read a book that there's a kid and the kid behaves like a kid and talk like a kid, most books I read the author likes to write the kid as this big little human with great knowledge but Hannah was adorable, smart and amazing, just like her mommy!
I liked the slow burn between Georgia and Lauren, I liked how they both were taking their time even tho they were pining over the other, I loved how respectful and caring Lauren was towards Georgia and Hannah's autism, how she searched before she threaded through their lives, (a little bit thanks to her sister being dyslexic but still) and I love how our main couple are very flawed and they want to work through it and just be good for the other.
I'm really excited to read more books from Kay, the fact that this was her first published book and it was this good just makes me want more of her work and I really can't wait!
I liked the slow burn between Georgia and Lauren, I liked how they both were taking their time even tho they were pining over the other, I loved how respectful and caring Lauren was towards Georgia and Hannah's autism, how she searched before she threaded through their lives, (a little bit thanks to her sister being dyslexic but still) and I love how our main couple are very flawed and they want to work through it and just be good for the other.
I'm really excited to read more books from Kay, the fact that this was her first published book and it was this good just makes me want more of her work and I really can't wait!
March 23, 2021
I was touched by this book and I really liked seeing autistics characters brought to light.
Lauren, Georgia and Hannah, Georgia's daughter, develop a very sweet bond in the book.
Undoubtedly the characters are the high point of this narrative and I hope Acker keeps on with her writings.
Lauren, Georgia and Hannah, Georgia's daughter, develop a very sweet bond in the book.
Undoubtedly the characters are the high point of this narrative and I hope Acker keeps on with her writings.
September 28, 2021
This is a sweet, slow burn adult romance that deftly touches on complex issues like grief, autism, and the raising children and handles them all well. It's a grounded and sensitive book and an amazing debut for Kay Acker. Nice use of axolotls to punctuate a passionate kiss too!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews