This novel was so utterly weird and I love that it is a love story. It was uncomfortable, awkward, gross, and entirely relatable. It's not easy to walk the tightrope of writing an imperfect main character without them being a complete turn off. There has to be just enough to relate to or empathize with for it not to become a hate read. In this case, despite Vi being seemingly hopeless, I could find the part of her humanity that spoke to mine. The forming of a blob into the perfect white man was just... *chef's kiss* It was a beautiful way to tell this story.

If I had a nickel for every time I read a book where a female protagonist literally builds a boyfriend, I would have two nickels, which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.

This is messy and mean but ultimately a pretty solid read. Vi is a character that people will hate to see themselves in. She calls to the bad decisions and awful moments of life that we all have done in some way or another.

I think there's some issues with transitioning between past and present, it can feel a little choppy.

A marvel! A moving and inventive take on a (self) love story.

Vi is a young woman unsure of where she belongs and what she wants out of life. The author portrays Vi with great empathy and I was invested in her wellbeing throughout, and hoping for the best, as she makes a series of questionable decisions.

Even as a young blob who can’t do much but loll around, Bob steals the show. His earnestness and commitment to watching any/every show on television was endearing.

This is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year.

Thank you to Harper and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy of this fantastic debut.