This book gives a magnificent peek into mental health and the influences trauma can have on a mind. As Leo's world changes, we see the inner turmoil of not only his mind but the minds of those around him, people who care more about him than he would like them to. With his little sister under his arm, he must start on the road to recovery. But everything must get worse before it heals, right?
The way that the author, Garrett Leigh, tells the story is as genuine as it is raw. You feel Leo's emotions as they unfold and see how Charlie, the adoptive son of his new foster parents, helps him understand them. It's a story about learning to live again, as well as learning to love.
Although a love story, a perfectly balanced LGBTQIA+ one at that, it's as equally about self-love as it is romance. Throughout the narrative, we see how crucial it is that Leo must learn to love himself as others love him. He must learn that to truly move forward. He must forget or accept his past before he can have the future he desperately wants but doesn't deem himself worthy of.
*Spoilers*
What I liked:
~ I loved the way that Kate and Reg understand and truly care about their children.
~ I liked how the themes of sexuality took a backseat to the main plot. It's so refreshing to see gay characters in a story which isn't about their sexuality.
What I didn't like:
~ I would have liked Lila more. I understand she is a secondary character and young, but I would have liked to see more of her and Leo.
A queer man exploring the concepts of gender and sexuality through creative writing. Bringing beauty to the darkness, while making darkness beautiful.
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Writings Of A Queer Mind 