✨ Adult Fiction
✨ Coming of Age
✨ Set in Uganda
✨ Character-driven
✨Third Person POV

> content warnings after review

3.5 stars rounded up

Everything is Fine Here follows a young woman, Aine, who is almost finished with school and preparing to go to college. Her older sister is a doctor who has been furthering her studies in Canada. Her older sister also is a lesbian, which is punishable by imprisonment and even de*th in Uganda.

I think the highlight of this book is the relationship between Aine and her sister, Mbabazi. It is clear there is so much love there and although there is a stigma against LGBTQ+ people, Aine loves her sister just the same. Their relationship reminded me of the relationship between my younger sister and me. Aine also developed a strong friendship with her sister’s partner, Achen.

This is most definitely a character-driven novel because while there is a plot of sorts, the focus is very much on Aine’s relationships, life events, and struggles. She is young and trying to figure things out. She has a good grasp on something’s, but she can be a naive at times and does not always understand the gravity of situations.

I enjoyed the setting and cultural aspects quite a bit. My nephew’s father is from Uganda, so I was able to ask him about some things mentioned in the book which sparked some good conversation.

I liked this book overall, and I do enjoy character-driven novels; however, I was kind of hoping for a bit more for this book. Though I enjoyed the characters they did fall a bit flat, and there were topics that I wish had been explored more within the story. I felt there were some missed opportunities when it came to the subject matter.

I would be interested in reading further works by this author as this was her debut novel, and I enjoyed the writing and characters for the most part.

There may be potential spoilers below.

Content Warnings
(this list may not be all-inclusive)
mentions of su*cide/self-harm, homophobia (including threats of de*th/incarceration and disowning by family), religious trauma, fatal car accident, de*th (parent)

A coming of age novel that sees Aine torn by her love for her older sister Mbabazi and the beliefs of her parents and her country. Aine is 18 when Mbabazi brings her partner Achen to visit and changes everything. It's thoughtful, thought provoking, and beautifully written. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. A good debut.

Loved the characters! A very quick, engaging read. I really liked how the author explored sexuality and how family and community plays a role in how you are viewed. Not my personal cup of tea type of book, but I’m sure others will find it incredibly moving.

A biting debut where the ironic title perfectly captures an Ugandan family's delicate dance with truth. Eighteen-year-old Aine's weekend with her gay sister turns into an emotional minefield where love and law collide.

The boarding school setting provides both breathing room and pressure cooker for these complex relationships. When tragedy forces family confrontation, Mrs. Kamara's Christianity meets its match in her daughter's authenticity. Sharp, unflinching, and refreshingly free of preachiness while tackling heavy themes.

This was a really moving and intense debut novel. The relationship between sisters Aine and Mbabazi was so beautiful. They navigate religious trauma, grief, and estrangement together. Mbabazi's girlfriend Achen was also such a touching character. I honestly wish this book had been longer! I ended up reading it all in one sitting.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy!

This book has been on my radar for a long time as i included it in a books from around the world post months ago. I had high expectations and they were 100% acceded this book was everything i wanted and more. The writing is beautiful and flows together well. It was really easy to get sucked in to the book. The story was really well done and brought tears to my eyes at the end
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5/5⭐️
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Thank you to netgalley, the author, and the publisher for this arc!

I believe that many people will feel a sense of connection with the storyline. Although it is set in Uganda, there are many families dealing with similar struggles related to religion or tradition and how that intersects with their knowledge of acceptance of other people. This novel does have a strong place in contemporary fiction, with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both the communities it writes about, and in the broader conversation concerning progressive legislation.

I would have liked to get to know modern Kampala society and how it related to the way Mbabazi lived her life professionally and personally. The author did a great job describing the characters personalities. Overall it was an interesting read.

this was a great book! it was deep and emotional. It was a great read, and I love learning about different cultures and seeing the differences through the characters experiences. I like the way this book flowed, and how it was written

Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complimentary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

“Everything is Fine Here” by Iryn Tushabe is a beautifully written novel that transports readers to Uganda with its atmospheric and visceral storytelling. The narrative centers around two sisters and creates a compelling coming-of-age story.

The youngest sister, Aine, is finishing school, turning 18, and preparing to return to her family home before her next steps. Her elder sister, Mbabazi, is a doctor living in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. Mbabazi is in a long-term relationship with her girlfriend, Achan. However, when their mother discovers Mbabazi’s relationship, it leads to conflict due to her religious beliefs.

While this premise may seem heavy, the story is so much more. Both sisters are learning to navigate their lives as adults. The novel explores themes of family—both the one you are born into and the one you choose. It delves into the search for meaning, resilience, and identity. At its core, it is about love: the love of family, community, partners, and oneself.

After reading this book, I walked away with a full heart and a sense of hope. I would definitely recommend it to others. Mbabazi’s story is particularly relatable for many in the LGBTQ community, especially in the U.S., where family rejection after coming out has been a common experience. In a time when the U.S. can feel increasingly hostile, it is helpful to see characters navigating a culture where they may not fit in, yet still manage to find joy in life and effect change.

Thank you to House of Anansi Press Inc. and NetGalley for the advanced reader's copy (ARC).

this novel is such a bold and moving story about family, identity, and love in a country where being yourself can come at a high cost. 18 y/o Aine Kamara’s world is turned upside down when her sister, Mbabazi, introduces her girlfriend, Achen. what starts as discomfort for Aine transforms into a deep connection, but when tragedy strikes, their family is forced to confront harsh truths about faith, love, and acceptance. it captures Aine’s struggle to balance loyalty to her family with her growing understanding of who her sister is and who she wants to become. her escape to Kampala—and a reunion with her longtime crush, Elia—adds layers of self-discovery and young love to her journey.

with relatable characters and a fresh, unapologetic voice, this book tackles tough topics with heart and honesty. it's a powerful reminder that love and courage can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances. a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories about growth, resilience, and standing up for what matters.

3.5 stars because i wasn't fully invested but it is an amazing story. maybe not for me, but i hope it find its way to another reader.