I love a great teen romance novel, loved them when I was a teen and still do. I was excited to dive into Peyton Thomas’ debut novel Both Side Now featuring high school debate championships, a trans main character and a queer love story.

Finch and his debate partner Jonah are one of the best debate teams in the state, as runners up they get to head to the National Championships in Washington, DC which is a dream come true for Finch and his ticket into Georgetown University. When they receive the topic for nationals, debating transgender rights, Finch is left wondering if he can argue against a topic that hits so close to home.

I truly loved that this book was messy. Finch is learning to love himself as his true self but is still carrying many of the thoughts and feelings he had before he transitioned and is still questioning his sexuality. His parents are constantly fighting, loudly about money and/or him. His dad is out of work and his mom is on the brink of losing her job creating a difficult home life. At school, he has to deal with Jonah’s boyfriend Bailey who is the ultimate drama king.

Speaking of drama, there is so much of it. There are characters that will make your skin crawl every time they open their mouths, including the main protagonist. The book is written in what feels like an authentic teenage voice. A voice that is going to get things wrong 9 times out of 10, who is caring and still trying to find their place in the world and where their values lie.

Peyton Thomas has written some compelling characters in Jonah and Finch along with the whole supporting cast. Through Jonah and his relationships with his boyfriend and his family, the author touches on racism and microaggressions that he faces from his boyfriend, however doesn’t fully address any school fall out from the racist school play that is being staged. He has created a beautiful, supportive and kind family for Jonah. The kind of family we all want to have.

Readers get an intimate view of the fears and joys of being a trans man through Finch. For those who are trans or questioning, Both Sides Now is an incredible mirror reflecting experiences and providing visibility in the literary world. For those who are cis, this book builds empathy and understanding of the experiences of trans youth and will hopefully foster allyship.

Beyond that, this book has the most amazing love story. I won’t give anything away but I was totally swooning by the end. Peyton Thomas left this reader with a smile on her face. If you love teen romance, this book is perfect!