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Birds of a Feather
Adrienne Stecher has always known she's different, and she's fine with her place on the spectrum. She has dedicated a lot of time to figuring herself out and has a routine that works for her. If only she could get rid of the peacocks that are taking over her childhood neighborhood!
Adrienne's adamant anti-peacock stance confounds Casey Knight who finds the birds majestic and entertaining. They are a welcome distraction from the dilemma she faces about continuing her education at the religious university her parents chose or dropping out to pursue a career grooming dogs.
Though Adrienne tries as hard to douse Casey's attraction as she does to scare away the peacocks, she can't deny that Casey has caught her attention as effectively as a peacock rattling his train. There may be no way to deny that they are birds of a feather.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Heather Honeywell
Words: 88,500
Adrienne's adamant anti-peacock stance confounds Casey Knight who finds the birds majestic and entertaining. They are a welcome distraction from the dilemma she faces about continuing her education at the religious university her parents chose or dropping out to pursue a career grooming dogs.
Though Adrienne tries as hard to douse Casey's attraction as she does to scare away the peacocks, she can't deny that Casey has caught her attention as effectively as a peacock rattling his train. There may be no way to deny that they are birds of a feather.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Heather Honeywell
Words: 88,500
280 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2022
8 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Laina Villeneuve
18 books51 followersLaina Villeneuve admits that her real-life courtship would read like a blatant plot manipulation. But it all worked out in the end and she and her wife live in Southern California with their three children. An English professor with a passion for lesbian fiction, she also has a lifelong love for horses.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 1, 2022
This was a great new adult, slice of life story, featuring an Autistic MC.
I enjoyed seeing Adrienne deal with her symptoms and knowing herself so well, and having such a great support system in her Pops and Dad. When we meet her, she is totally against dating, thinking she is 'too much' to deal with because of her autism and needs - but was so great about expressing them. I totally related to her feelings and the need for alone time and space to reset.
Casey is the love interest, who is determined to make Adrienne see that she is definitely not 'too much' and that they can have a great relationship together, as long as good communication exists.
I guess this is why I liked this story so much. It was great to see characters that were not shy about communicating their needs, their fears, their boundaries etc. Both have very accepting ways, even despite some disagreements (mostly about the Peacocks causing a fracas about the neighbourhood!) while still compromising without putting one another out. It could have easily fallen into melodrama territory and ended up with a lot of miscommunication and assumptions, power plays etc. But it felt natural and healthy, which is exactly what I rather from these types of stories.
What drama we do get is mostly related to Casey's family dynamic, and them not being supportive of her at all, her career prospects/studying and sexuality - and them being very Southern, Christian, and quite small minded. Adrienne's Pop is a great character who is very supportive and caring to both women. There's also doggy characters that are great personalities in their own rights.
I could have spent a much longer time reading about these characters. It may not be the most exciting story plot wise, or a deeply passionate love story to other people - but for me it was perfect in it's quiet subtlety and nuanced presentation. Plus the honesty of both characters and their sweet love and desire for more, and willingness to work hard for each other - just made my heart happy.
I enjoyed seeing Adrienne deal with her symptoms and knowing herself so well, and having such a great support system in her Pops and Dad. When we meet her, she is totally against dating, thinking she is 'too much' to deal with because of her autism and needs - but was so great about expressing them. I totally related to her feelings and the need for alone time and space to reset.
Casey is the love interest, who is determined to make Adrienne see that she is definitely not 'too much' and that they can have a great relationship together, as long as good communication exists.
I guess this is why I liked this story so much. It was great to see characters that were not shy about communicating their needs, their fears, their boundaries etc. Both have very accepting ways, even despite some disagreements (mostly about the Peacocks causing a fracas about the neighbourhood!) while still compromising without putting one another out. It could have easily fallen into melodrama territory and ended up with a lot of miscommunication and assumptions, power plays etc. But it felt natural and healthy, which is exactly what I rather from these types of stories.
What drama we do get is mostly related to Casey's family dynamic, and them not being supportive of her at all, her career prospects/studying and sexuality - and them being very Southern, Christian, and quite small minded. Adrienne's Pop is a great character who is very supportive and caring to both women. There's also doggy characters that are great personalities in their own rights.
I could have spent a much longer time reading about these characters. It may not be the most exciting story plot wise, or a deeply passionate love story to other people - but for me it was perfect in it's quiet subtlety and nuanced presentation. Plus the honesty of both characters and their sweet love and desire for more, and willingness to work hard for each other - just made my heart happy.
August 16, 2023
3,5 stars
This was very interesting. Especially because I like neurodivergent representation, if done right.
This one seemed right to me, or at least similar to my own experiences, albeit on a larger scale. I could identify with Adrienne (I'm more high-functioning than her, but there were still many similarities, just more diluted in my case), especially in her "what the crap am I supposed to do now, what even is going on and why isn't there a clear manual for this?" social moments. I have those on a regular basis.
There were some issues I had with some characters' decisions, but they were minor enough that I could actively ignore those.
Especially because they communicated. Clearly. A miracle in rom-coms.
Other than that it was funny, and while I won't reread it, it wasn't a waste of time.
Chronologically set after Cure for Insomnia but can be read as a standalone without any issues whatsoever.
This was very interesting. Especially because I like neurodivergent representation, if done right.
This one seemed right to me, or at least similar to my own experiences, albeit on a larger scale. I could identify with Adrienne (I'm more high-functioning than her, but there were still many similarities, just more diluted in my case), especially in her "what the crap am I supposed to do now, what even is going on and why isn't there a clear manual for this?" social moments. I have those on a regular basis.
There were some issues I had with some characters' decisions, but they were minor enough that I could actively ignore those.
Especially because they communicated. Clearly. A miracle in rom-coms.
Other than that it was funny, and while I won't reread it, it wasn't a waste of time.
Chronologically set after Cure for Insomnia but can be read as a standalone without any issues whatsoever.
August 31, 2022
Adrienne knows she is different and accepts herself. She is neurodivergent having both ADHD and autistism. Adrienne is a college graduate and works in a library. On weekends she spends time with the grandfather Pops, who helped raise her. While visiting Pops she meets Casey who has befriended the man. Casey loves her work as an animal groomer but is taking classes at the local college because her parents support that. Casey is intrigued with Adrienne wanting to understand her. As they become friends the possibility of more grows too.
The first half of the book focuses on Adrienne and how understanding her thinking process. It shows how things like sounds, tastes, crowds, smells, etc can impact her. This isn’t the first romance I’ve read with an autistic lead and I appreciate understanding these facets of Adrienne. I also like the author mentions that Adrienne has had to go through lots of extra types of therapy, and socialization to help her be independent and interact with others. Casey is sweet and endless patient as she learns about and loves Adrienne. Some parts of the romance are tricky because, particularly in the first half, Adrienne comes off as very young and naive. She does have at least one past relationship. At times I was more frustrated with Casey for squandering her time in college. If she wants to be a professional groomer there are still classes that could help her learn to run and market a small business. I’m not saying she needs a degree but somehow were suppose to support her because her parents aren’t that interested in her. That part of the story feels weak.
Overall the book is good as a new adult romance, especially representing a neurodivergent character. The continual talk of the neighborhood peacocks were at times funny but eventually felt overused. I’ve read most of the author’s books and I did enjoy Remi from Cure for Insomnia making an appearance as Adrienne’s friend. Thank you to Netgalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
The first half of the book focuses on Adrienne and how understanding her thinking process. It shows how things like sounds, tastes, crowds, smells, etc can impact her. This isn’t the first romance I’ve read with an autistic lead and I appreciate understanding these facets of Adrienne. I also like the author mentions that Adrienne has had to go through lots of extra types of therapy, and socialization to help her be independent and interact with others. Casey is sweet and endless patient as she learns about and loves Adrienne. Some parts of the romance are tricky because, particularly in the first half, Adrienne comes off as very young and naive. She does have at least one past relationship. At times I was more frustrated with Casey for squandering her time in college. If she wants to be a professional groomer there are still classes that could help her learn to run and market a small business. I’m not saying she needs a degree but somehow were suppose to support her because her parents aren’t that interested in her. That part of the story feels weak.
Overall the book is good as a new adult romance, especially representing a neurodivergent character. The continual talk of the neighborhood peacocks were at times funny but eventually felt overused. I’ve read most of the author’s books and I did enjoy Remi from Cure for Insomnia making an appearance as Adrienne’s friend. Thank you to Netgalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
February 26, 2023
Peacocks Everywhere
Librarian Adrianne stays with her grandfather, Pops, on weekends to help him out with whatever he needs done. The houses around his have a bunch of peacocks that the poor woman hates and does her best to drive them off. Casey is a transplant from Mississippi, lives on the south side of the neighbourhood with the same house number as Pops so she often drops off mail that has been misdelivered. Their first meeting isn’t at all smooth but eventually they get the hang of things. Along the way dogs are adopted, friends are made, relationships healed, and of course there are the peacocks and more peacock drama!
This is a sweet and engaging romance between Adrianne and Casey. Watching them fall for each other was the highlight of my week! They are adorable and fun. I liked watching Casey and Adrianne learn to communicate as they work around her autism. She wasn’t shy in letting Casey know what she needed but at the same time it was a struggle for her to express herself without accidentally hurting Casey’s feelings. It was a balance that was interesting to see. Casey had a lot going on with her schoolwork and career aspirations versus what her parents had planned for her. Shes finally far enough away from them to be able to live out even though they insisted she go to a school where that is taboo. Learning about how disruptive peacocks can be was something I never put ant thought into but I can see how they would drive a person batty and made me really grateful there are none here! I really enjoyed this book and will be looking into other books from this author!
Librarian Adrianne stays with her grandfather, Pops, on weekends to help him out with whatever he needs done. The houses around his have a bunch of peacocks that the poor woman hates and does her best to drive them off. Casey is a transplant from Mississippi, lives on the south side of the neighbourhood with the same house number as Pops so she often drops off mail that has been misdelivered. Their first meeting isn’t at all smooth but eventually they get the hang of things. Along the way dogs are adopted, friends are made, relationships healed, and of course there are the peacocks and more peacock drama!
This is a sweet and engaging romance between Adrianne and Casey. Watching them fall for each other was the highlight of my week! They are adorable and fun. I liked watching Casey and Adrianne learn to communicate as they work around her autism. She wasn’t shy in letting Casey know what she needed but at the same time it was a struggle for her to express herself without accidentally hurting Casey’s feelings. It was a balance that was interesting to see. Casey had a lot going on with her schoolwork and career aspirations versus what her parents had planned for her. Shes finally far enough away from them to be able to live out even though they insisted she go to a school where that is taboo. Learning about how disruptive peacocks can be was something I never put ant thought into but I can see how they would drive a person batty and made me really grateful there are none here! I really enjoyed this book and will be looking into other books from this author!
August 29, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Adrienne always known she was different but she ok with that she feels no one wants to deal with her quirks so she content with her life. She meets Casey who is a neighbor to her grandfather who she calls Pops who helped raise her along with her father. Casey who befriended Marv is intrigued by his granddaughter and wants to know what makes her tick. As they get to know each other Adrienne tries to work through her quirks as Casey knows they can be something great. This was a good read Adrienne and Casey has great support I like how Casey tries to get Adrienne to see the beauty in the birds even though Adrienne thinks they are nuisance.
Adrienne always known she was different but she ok with that she feels no one wants to deal with her quirks so she content with her life. She meets Casey who is a neighbor to her grandfather who she calls Pops who helped raise her along with her father. Casey who befriended Marv is intrigued by his granddaughter and wants to know what makes her tick. As they get to know each other Adrienne tries to work through her quirks as Casey knows they can be something great. This was a good read Adrienne and Casey has great support I like how Casey tries to get Adrienne to see the beauty in the birds even though Adrienne thinks they are nuisance.
August 28, 2022
Exploring a f/f romance with neurodiversity
I have read most of Villeneuve‘s romances and esp. enjoyed those set in nature and small towns/communities. This novel veers away from the beaten path of romances. One of the main characters, Adrienne, is on the spectrum and as a reader I learned a lot about falling in love with someone neurodiverse from both perspectives - the inside and the outside. If I understand the foreword correctly, it is own voice, i.e. the author and/or her wife walk the spectrum. Besides having a keen focus on the spectrum, this is a coming-of-age romance where Casey has to face her future and her parents.
The first half is a very careful exploration into unknown (or for Adrienne known) territory. It is well-written and interesting. The second half is where the attraction turns into romance and I wondered a bit how someone so sensitive to auditory and sensory input could so easily cope with sex.
The theme of a peacock plague didn‘t thrill me as much and did nothing for my reading enjoyment. Two cute dogs and some great friends are welcome additions.
Villeneuve again pulls off a vivid, life-like writing with an interesting focus.
Thanks to netgalley and Bella for the ARC. This review is left voluntarily.
I have read most of Villeneuve‘s romances and esp. enjoyed those set in nature and small towns/communities. This novel veers away from the beaten path of romances. One of the main characters, Adrienne, is on the spectrum and as a reader I learned a lot about falling in love with someone neurodiverse from both perspectives - the inside and the outside. If I understand the foreword correctly, it is own voice, i.e. the author and/or her wife walk the spectrum. Besides having a keen focus on the spectrum, this is a coming-of-age romance where Casey has to face her future and her parents.
The first half is a very careful exploration into unknown (or for Adrienne known) territory. It is well-written and interesting. The second half is where the attraction turns into romance and I wondered a bit how someone so sensitive to auditory and sensory input could so easily cope with sex.
The theme of a peacock plague didn‘t thrill me as much and did nothing for my reading enjoyment. Two cute dogs and some great friends are welcome additions.
Villeneuve again pulls off a vivid, life-like writing with an interesting focus.
Thanks to netgalley and Bella for the ARC. This review is left voluntarily.
September 1, 2022
Adrienne meets Casey after an accidental dousing with a garden hose. The rough beginning doesn't stop Casey from visiting her neighbor hoping to catch his granddaughter visiting again. Despite Adrienne's insistence that she doesn't date Casey continues to pursue her, sensing a connection developing out of their friendship. Adrienne though is gun shy after issues with ex girlfriends not dealing well with her quirks for very long.
This was a cute romance that I really enjoyed. There were lots of light hearted moments mixed in with deep emotions from past trauma and family dynamics. Adrienne is also Neuro diverse and I really enjoyed seeing an MC on the spectrum. The end came a few pages to soon for my liking and I felt like there was just that little bit missing from their ending but overall it was a great book. Also was a new author for me and is love to give some of her other work a try.
This was a cute romance that I really enjoyed. There were lots of light hearted moments mixed in with deep emotions from past trauma and family dynamics. Adrienne is also Neuro diverse and I really enjoyed seeing an MC on the spectrum. The end came a few pages to soon for my liking and I felt like there was just that little bit missing from their ending but overall it was a great book. Also was a new author for me and is love to give some of her other work a try.
August 16, 2023
Fun, light romance with a great representation of neuro-divergent MC.
I enjoyed reading the book and it made me think of a lot of the people I meet in my life who may (or may not) be annoyed with my little habits. The book touches on some "heavy" topics but does so lightly, without spoiling the fun and light ambiance. I love that.
This book has one main thing that is a huge credit point and 1 main flaw that prevented me from giving it a higher score.
Good things first: There's a beautiful, touching, realistic representation of an autistic MC who also happens to have ADHD. She is telling the story in her own voice, 1st person, which provides extra reliability to the way her emotions are depicted. While it is not said outright in the beginning, it is quite clear that she is different and very likely on the spectrum. The story of her growing up (with a wonderful support system and educational tools that helped her learn how to cope) was both moving and inspiring. I learned so much about the hardships and options that autistic people have when growing up - It blew my mind! I loved that the other girl fell in love with the autistic person *because* of her divergence and not in spite of it. It was refreshing and so very cool :)
Now, to the flaws: As I read through the book I understood much more about autism, ADHD, and crafting :) One thing I couldn't wrap my mind around was the main obstacle that supposedly stood in the way of the lovers. I just could not fully grasp Adriene's refusal to date. She ended up dating (and she knew it) and she wanted to take it further to the physical level but she refused to give it a label in the hope that this will prevent heartache!? This is so irrational and so unlike her. I would understand if she refused all contact or agreed to a platonic-only friendship and stood by it. But that shift in her behavior, making her "succumb" to her less rational impulses? I didn't buy it. It didn't go well with everything I learned about her - how her mind works and how she solves her problems. For me, that meant there was no actual conflict and it just became a very soft slow burn with no obstacles.
One more thing, there were a few occasions of Casey (narrated in 3rd person) suddenly becoming an "I" (narration in 1st person). It made me think that the whole book was 1st person to begin with and then Casey's chapters were altered to distinguish the voices better. As you can imagine, this kind of thinking is exactly what takes me out of the story... I did not like that.
Overall, I appreciated this very candid and detailed depiction of neuro-divergence and I loved the way it was done. It was fun and fluffy and not angsty and heavy (as is the case in similar books). I loved the writing which was light and humorous. Also, I loved the opportunities the author used to showcase differences in communities that may be located close by but differ greatly in opinions.
T&T:
Tropes: opposites attract, small town romance, cute pet, neurodivergent MC, slow burn, found family
Triggers: unsupportive family, animal abuse (not really, just trash talk), homophobic environment, homophobic comments
Rating: 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed reading the book and it made me think of a lot of the people I meet in my life who may (or may not) be annoyed with my little habits. The book touches on some "heavy" topics but does so lightly, without spoiling the fun and light ambiance. I love that.
This book has one main thing that is a huge credit point and 1 main flaw that prevented me from giving it a higher score.
Good things first: There's a beautiful, touching, realistic representation of an autistic MC who also happens to have ADHD. She is telling the story in her own voice, 1st person, which provides extra reliability to the way her emotions are depicted. While it is not said outright in the beginning, it is quite clear that she is different and very likely on the spectrum. The story of her growing up (with a wonderful support system and educational tools that helped her learn how to cope) was both moving and inspiring. I learned so much about the hardships and options that autistic people have when growing up - It blew my mind! I loved that the other girl fell in love with the autistic person *because* of her divergence and not in spite of it. It was refreshing and so very cool :)
Now, to the flaws: As I read through the book I understood much more about autism, ADHD, and crafting :) One thing I couldn't wrap my mind around was the main obstacle that supposedly stood in the way of the lovers. I just could not fully grasp Adriene's refusal to date. She ended up dating (and she knew it) and she wanted to take it further to the physical level but she refused to give it a label in the hope that this will prevent heartache!? This is so irrational and so unlike her. I would understand if she refused all contact or agreed to a platonic-only friendship and stood by it. But that shift in her behavior, making her "succumb" to her less rational impulses? I didn't buy it. It didn't go well with everything I learned about her - how her mind works and how she solves her problems. For me, that meant there was no actual conflict and it just became a very soft slow burn with no obstacles.
One more thing, there were a few occasions of Casey (narrated in 3rd person) suddenly becoming an "I" (narration in 1st person). It made me think that the whole book was 1st person to begin with and then Casey's chapters were altered to distinguish the voices better. As you can imagine, this kind of thinking is exactly what takes me out of the story... I did not like that.
Overall, I appreciated this very candid and detailed depiction of neuro-divergence and I loved the way it was done. It was fun and fluffy and not angsty and heavy (as is the case in similar books). I loved the writing which was light and humorous. Also, I loved the opportunities the author used to showcase differences in communities that may be located close by but differ greatly in opinions.
T&T:
Tropes: opposites attract, small town romance, cute pet, neurodivergent MC, slow burn, found family
Triggers: unsupportive family, animal abuse (not really, just trash talk), homophobic environment, homophobic comments
Rating: 3.5 stars.
September 12, 2022
Casey Knight moved to California to study, actually her strongest motivation was leaving behind her family who just never accepted the fact that the beautiful daughter they raised was a lesbian. So her family believing she was happy to be attending religious university where they hoped she’d find her way back to them,, leaving her lesbian ways behind. But Casey was determined to stay right where she was. Here she’d found the career that made her happy, grooming dogs.
Adrienne Stecher was doing her best keeping herself in the moment. Having autism had placed on the spectrum she was happy with. She had gone to university, which was a huge accomplishment . Dealing with the noise, smell and actions of others was work for her. Having a GF just wasn’t something she envisioned for herself. Not many could deal with her, or so she thought. Raised by her father and grandfather, living in her Grandfather’s home brought her some peace.
Working at the library and having her own apartment meant so much for Adrienne. She visited her GF often and would actually enjoy staying with him more if it weren't for the number of peacocks that made the community their home. Noisy, dirty, stinking birds she couldn’t keep off her granddads property. Casey on the other hand loved everything about them, seeing as she only saw them when she dropped off mail for Marv. That was how she and Adrienne met.
Ms Laine Villeneuve has written some books that I really enjoyed but this book is by far the best book. Characters dealing with autism and relationships, while remaining a fun read is something I could never hope to do. A Very, very wonderful read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
Adrienne Stecher was doing her best keeping herself in the moment. Having autism had placed on the spectrum she was happy with. She had gone to university, which was a huge accomplishment . Dealing with the noise, smell and actions of others was work for her. Having a GF just wasn’t something she envisioned for herself. Not many could deal with her, or so she thought. Raised by her father and grandfather, living in her Grandfather’s home brought her some peace.
Working at the library and having her own apartment meant so much for Adrienne. She visited her GF often and would actually enjoy staying with him more if it weren't for the number of peacocks that made the community their home. Noisy, dirty, stinking birds she couldn’t keep off her granddads property. Casey on the other hand loved everything about them, seeing as she only saw them when she dropped off mail for Marv. That was how she and Adrienne met.
Ms Laine Villeneuve has written some books that I really enjoyed but this book is by far the best book. Characters dealing with autism and relationships, while remaining a fun read is something I could never hope to do. A Very, very wonderful read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
September 20, 2022
*Thank you NetGalley and Bella Books for this ARC*
A sapphic romance with neurodiverse representation? I knew I had to read this and i’m very glad i did.
Was it the best romance book i’ve read? No. But it was a strong introduction to Villenueve’s writing. I also am really glad she didn’t shy away from saying lesbian or autism or ADHD, so many books skirt around the edges of being upfront with marginalised identities.
I really related to Adrienne a lot and found her romance with Casey to be really sweet. Casey also had such a hot attitude I loved her!
There wasn’t really a plot beyond the romance which is fine but it would be a more fun read if there was a bit more of a throughline: i think it was attempted in the peacock plot line but it just missed the mark.
I had some issues with the writing style: it felt quite juvenile and like it needed a couple more edits. The jumping from first to third person between POVs felt weird, i think sticking to one would have improved the flow. Probably third person, tho i appreciate it might have been easier to write adrienne’s sections in first. I did get used to this about half way through. Tense was sometimes inconsistent and information was sometimes given more than once unnecessarily.
There were also a couple of weird sentences describing poc characters? I’m unsure about them and i’m not qualified to dissect them: maybe a sensitivity reader could help.
Overall it was a decent read.
A sapphic romance with neurodiverse representation? I knew I had to read this and i’m very glad i did.
Was it the best romance book i’ve read? No. But it was a strong introduction to Villenueve’s writing. I also am really glad she didn’t shy away from saying lesbian or autism or ADHD, so many books skirt around the edges of being upfront with marginalised identities.
I really related to Adrienne a lot and found her romance with Casey to be really sweet. Casey also had such a hot attitude I loved her!
There wasn’t really a plot beyond the romance which is fine but it would be a more fun read if there was a bit more of a throughline: i think it was attempted in the peacock plot line but it just missed the mark.
I had some issues with the writing style: it felt quite juvenile and like it needed a couple more edits. The jumping from first to third person between POVs felt weird, i think sticking to one would have improved the flow. Probably third person, tho i appreciate it might have been easier to write adrienne’s sections in first. I did get used to this about half way through. Tense was sometimes inconsistent and information was sometimes given more than once unnecessarily.
There were also a couple of weird sentences describing poc characters? I’m unsure about them and i’m not qualified to dissect them: maybe a sensitivity reader could help.
Overall it was a decent read.
October 23, 2022
What a light and fun read. The peacocks and how the situation was handled was entertaining. Adrienne Stecher, lives with ADHD and autism. She works at a library after graduating from college. On weekends Adrienne goes "home" to visit and spend time with her grandfather. She also seems to have a good relationship with her father. Those are the two men that raised her after her mother left the family. Casey Knight, college student not happy with going to school because she wants a career as a groomer and that is her current job. One weekend when Adrienne is home, she meets Casey and the first interaction does not go well.
Casey is a very caring and a likeable person with a good heart. Casey along with Pops are so awesome with Adrienne. Pops has interacted with Adrienne for years and Casey is learning more and more with each time they are together. There is not much drama. The main focus is on each of their families. Casey, Southern Christians and pretty small minded. On the other hand, Adrienne's family is right there being supportive as well as encouraging. I really appreciated that Casey and Adrienne communicated well although at times it made either woman cringe.
Do I want to be happy or do I want to please my family? My response is, why can I not do both.
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
Casey is a very caring and a likeable person with a good heart. Casey along with Pops are so awesome with Adrienne. Pops has interacted with Adrienne for years and Casey is learning more and more with each time they are together. There is not much drama. The main focus is on each of their families. Casey, Southern Christians and pretty small minded. On the other hand, Adrienne's family is right there being supportive as well as encouraging. I really appreciated that Casey and Adrienne communicated well although at times it made either woman cringe.
Do I want to be happy or do I want to please my family? My response is, why can I not do both.
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
September 20, 2022
Adrienne does not like peacocks and in her efforts to keep them away from her grandfathers garden manages instead to attract a brightly colored human called Casey instead. 👀
This is the first time I’ve read a romance with a neurodivergent MC and I really liked how the entire romance unfolded. I think the “first person” narrative switch for Adrienne was a really smart decision. It gave readers the ability to proxy-experience the torrent of feelings that someone who is neurodivergent faces on a daily basis and it really gave insight into Adrienne’s thoughts and emotions.
I also loved Casey’s character’s generosity of spirit and patience. Casey and Adrienne’s back and forth with all of her “unfiltered” moments was both funny and incredibly sweet.
The peacocks feature prominently in this narrative which brings out loads of funnies, but separately, I think they serve as an excellent metaphor for how quickly we can be affronted when someone does not align to a certain PoV rather than take the time to understand them deeper.
This was a really cute and quirky low angst romance that kept me highly entertained.
Thank you NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first time I’ve read a romance with a neurodivergent MC and I really liked how the entire romance unfolded. I think the “first person” narrative switch for Adrienne was a really smart decision. It gave readers the ability to proxy-experience the torrent of feelings that someone who is neurodivergent faces on a daily basis and it really gave insight into Adrienne’s thoughts and emotions.
I also loved Casey’s character’s generosity of spirit and patience. Casey and Adrienne’s back and forth with all of her “unfiltered” moments was both funny and incredibly sweet.
The peacocks feature prominently in this narrative which brings out loads of funnies, but separately, I think they serve as an excellent metaphor for how quickly we can be affronted when someone does not align to a certain PoV rather than take the time to understand them deeper.
This was a really cute and quirky low angst romance that kept me highly entertained.
Thank you NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2022
Really good book. I loved the relationship between Casey and Adrienne it was very sweet and eye opening at the same time. Adrienne who's a librarian meets Casey one day while trying to discourage the peacocks in her grandfathers yard to stay away by setting up a sprinkler system that inevitably doesn't work on the birds, but gets Casey instead and this is where their relationship begins. This story was equal parts funny and sweet in all the right places. There are some drama filled moments, especially, because of the ADHD and autism that Adrienne deals with every day. Casey to me was really well written, because you could tell that she really paid attention to Adrienne from the beginning and picked up on her unique character traits by paying attention to all the emotional, and unemotional moments that brought them together. The supporting characters were great as well and made this an even more enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and I look forward to what's next from this author.
September 13, 2022
This was mellow and easy. I loved how I was able to pace myself. And though it was not an all-consuming love affair where the characters go crazy, where there’s some massive upheaval and grand gestures, this was just as interesting and sweet in its simplicity. The funny moments were a bonus, and it was entertaining to learn a bit about peafowls because where I’m from, we only see these birds in a zoo.
That’s not to say that the plot was plain and there weren’t any serious societal matters relevant in today’s world. There were. But Laina tackled it as you would in the real world and it made reading this feel effortless and shall I say, organic. I loved it. And I loved Casey and Adrienne and their dedication to each other, especially Casey’s at the beginning. I loved Adrienne’s honesty and directness. They’re a great match and they have a story worth reading.
Thank you Bella Books for providing me with an ARC for an honest review.
That’s not to say that the plot was plain and there weren’t any serious societal matters relevant in today’s world. There were. But Laina tackled it as you would in the real world and it made reading this feel effortless and shall I say, organic. I loved it. And I loved Casey and Adrienne and their dedication to each other, especially Casey’s at the beginning. I loved Adrienne’s honesty and directness. They’re a great match and they have a story worth reading.
Thank you Bella Books for providing me with an ARC for an honest review.
October 1, 2022
An interesting well thought out romance between Adrienne, a woman who is on the spectrum of neurodiversity and Casey, who has moved far away from her homophobic family. Set in a very small town in California, near to LA but quite old fashioned in its outlook, with a flock of Peacocks and Peahens that drive Adrienne mad. The other main character is Adrienne's grandfather, a lovely gentle but stubborn man. I really enjoyed the story of all the main characters and how they interact together, the connection between Adrienne and Casey builds slowly before really catching fire in a realistic way, with communication that can be rare. An engaging story, well told by an author who is also neurodivergent and therefore understands what she is writing about.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2022
It took me a long time to read this book (not because it is not well-written) but the characters weren't people I found myself investing in. I appreciate reading something unique and anyone neurodivergent will always make you look at your life through a different filter. So many moments I related with the leading lady, how they processed an event, how navigating social norms is a hardship at times, how miscommunications are inevitable, how moments can become overwhelming if approached in the wrong mindset, but neither leading ladies jumped off the page to pull me in. Maybe it was my mood, not sure. It is a cute read and I wonder about Floridian peacocks and their noise pollution, but this book was not my cup of tea.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2026
Romance that is a diamond in the rough.
Can you believe a love story that begins with one woman making another woman wet? Get your mind out of the gutter! One MC is sick and tired of shooing the peacocks in her neighborhood and she uses a water-hose to spray the birds. She accidentally soaks the crotch of a neighbor walking a dog. The rest is herstory…Ok, no such easy luck in this story. But all the obstacles and hurdles land the sapphic couple right where they belong, together! Laina Villeneuve, thank you for this story that includes a MC who is autistic/ADHD. To me, the story celebrates discovering our own self worth and finding that special person in life where it’s safe to be your authentic, complete, and imperfect self.
Can you believe a love story that begins with one woman making another woman wet? Get your mind out of the gutter! One MC is sick and tired of shooing the peacocks in her neighborhood and she uses a water-hose to spray the birds. She accidentally soaks the crotch of a neighbor walking a dog. The rest is herstory…Ok, no such easy luck in this story. But all the obstacles and hurdles land the sapphic couple right where they belong, together! Laina Villeneuve, thank you for this story that includes a MC who is autistic/ADHD. To me, the story celebrates discovering our own self worth and finding that special person in life where it’s safe to be your authentic, complete, and imperfect self.
December 29, 2022
A really lovely book that futures a sapphic romance and a neurodivergent character. Casey and Adrienne's first meeting is not getting them off to a great start, but with peacocks running amok, a meddling grandfather and a few more chance encounters they do slowly start to form a bond. Apart from the romance there's no real other plot but I have enjoyed myself reading about their journey and I liked the amusing situations they found themselves in. It was a light, fluffy, romantic read which is great for when you want to pick up a low angst book.
***Thank you Netgalley and BellaBooks for giving me the chance to read and review this book ***
***Thank you Netgalley and BellaBooks for giving me the chance to read and review this book ***
October 8, 2022
Combine neurodivergent Adrienne, reluctant college student Casey and a herd of unruly peafowl and the result is a wonderful tale. Adrienne and Casey each have issues that slow down development of their relationship, but there is a strong secondary cast to provide the occasional nudge in the right direction when needed. This is a very good read with a more than satisfactory conclusion.
October 9, 2022
Adrianne meets Casey in a beautiful love story. The plpo0tm involves how two people overcome their inhibitions about relationships and l0ve to0 find each other, I found the characters very well written and the use of Peacocks very good. I re4commend this book for all romance readers
April 12, 2023
Excellent depiction of a neurodivergent person. I have some of the hearing sensitivities myself and may use some of the coping mechanisms mentioned. Fun humor. I'm glad we only have one solo male peacock in our neighborhood. I can't imagine an ostentation or muster.
September 28, 2023
Everyone should know communicating is sexy...
This is a delightful new adult romance that would only make you smile and warm your heart.
This is a delightful new adult romance that would only make you smile and warm your heart.
July 4, 2024
I Absolutely loved this book!
September 3, 2025
Loved the support and caring; interesting info about peacocks!
February 4, 2026
lol super cute book, i loved it but i think towards the end the vibe changed .
September 6, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this book. I don't know that I've ever read a novel where one of the main characters was autistic, and I really appreciated the sensitivity with which it was portrayed and the glimpse into a mind that works very differently than my own. The peacock thing got a little over the top, but the love story was top notch.
March 3, 2023
Adrienne had been diagnosed as both autistic and ADHD at a young age and her mother had left because she couldn’t handle having to deal with Adrienne’s differences. Her father and her grandfather raised and made sure she got the help she needed to live independently. As the book opens, she understands her limitations and has a myriad of ways of coping with her triggers – and knows that she doesn’t want to be in a relationship because she’s learned the hard way that people have little patience – or understanding – of people who are different. But then she meets Casey who says she wants to be her girlfriend and no matter how hard Adrienne pushes her away, she always returns.
The author has written a book about a neurodivergent character that is both sensitive and realistic in addressing the issues of being different. If the reader doesn’t know a neurodivergent person, she will at least understand one such person after reading this book.
This is a fast paced, slow-burn, sweet romantce, and well-written book with two strong main characters, both of whom are trying to live in a world where they must struggle to be themselves.
If you’ve never have read anything by this author, after reading this book you will undoubtedly be a fan.
The author has written a book about a neurodivergent character that is both sensitive and realistic in addressing the issues of being different. If the reader doesn’t know a neurodivergent person, she will at least understand one such person after reading this book.
This is a fast paced, slow-burn, sweet romantce, and well-written book with two strong main characters, both of whom are trying to live in a world where they must struggle to be themselves.
If you’ve never have read anything by this author, after reading this book you will undoubtedly be a fan.
December 31, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💦🦚🦮🍪👭
Want to read a book about a lesbian who has autism and ADHD, who, despite everything her brain is telling her, gets the girl, who is amazing, caring, understanding, non-judgmental and just wonderful? Then read this book RIGHT NOW!
This book was everything. It was cute, it was funny, and it made you want to cry, in all the best ways. I loved the relationship between Adrienne and Casey. I loved the relationship between Adrienne and her pops. The relationship between Casey and Adrienne's pops. I loved the found family, the supportive friends, and the dogs. I loved everything.
Thank you Laina Villeneuve for this heartwarming story.
Thank you Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💦🦚🦮🍪👭
Want to read a book about a lesbian who has autism and ADHD, who, despite everything her brain is telling her, gets the girl, who is amazing, caring, understanding, non-judgmental and just wonderful? Then read this book RIGHT NOW!
This book was everything. It was cute, it was funny, and it made you want to cry, in all the best ways. I loved the relationship between Adrienne and Casey. I loved the relationship between Adrienne and her pops. The relationship between Casey and Adrienne's pops. I loved the found family, the supportive friends, and the dogs. I loved everything.
Thank you Laina Villeneuve for this heartwarming story.
Thank you Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review.
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