How to Excavate a Heart

The writing flows beautifully, making this book a quick read that feels much shorter than it really is. It’s easy to like all of the characters, who make a diverse and entertaining cast. They’re well-rounded and have unique personalities, and they interact in realistic ways with each other. Shani and May have an enemies to lovers dynamic, and watching their interactions change from antagonistic to an actual relationship never felt forced. I especially loved the scenes featuring Raphael, the cutest corgi who steals the show whenever he appears. There’s fantastic Jewish and sapphic representation, and other groups are also represented in the story.

There is a little bit of profanity throughout the book, but it isn’t excessive. The material in the book still felt age appropriate, and while the characters make out a lot, there isn’t anything overtly sexual that occurs throughout the story. Shani isn’t exactly likable in the very beginning, but readers quickly get to see a different side of her that is much more likable.

Overall, this was a wonderful story. It’s easy to get invested in the characters and the story, as well as the romance itself. Arlow’s characters show a lot of growth over the course of the story, and it was enjoyable to see them change and mature. I especially liked the fact that both Shani and May are science nerds in different areas, because it’s so important to see females represented in science. Finally, the story doesn’t shy away from more difficult topics, like coming out, difficult family relationships, and sexual assault, which is mentioned but not shown on-page. This story is one that is not only fun to read, but also easy to identify with.