Kate Davies (11) (1983–)

I feel no connection with Julia. I felt like there was no real character development and that's something I struggled with throughout the book. The only real development was her deciding to embrace being a queer woman and even that was not the greatest. I have an issue with it because she decided to become a queer woman because she had bad sex.

I enjoyed the first half of this book but it started going down hill when Sam was introduced. That relationship was really cringe-worthy because of how abusive the relationship is. Sam was very manipulative and took advantage of Julia's innocence.

It was hard to write this review because I did like the writing. The work flows so good and made you want to keep reading. I would be very picky about who I recommend this book to. If you are easily offended, this book isn't for you.… (more)

The first portion of In At the Deep End starts off on a lighter note. Especially more Rom-Com as Julia explores her sexuality as a lesbian woman. Julia is able to connect well with a group from swing class and is able to get their love and support in her new journey. However, the tone of the novel quickly turned heinous when a relationship with Sam began.
The rest of the novel if filled with graphic, non consensual sex scenes, and a gross display of manipulation, leaving Julia in despair.
I found most of my enjoyment came in the development of more minor characters such as Julia's Mum and Dad and her best friend, Alice.
As a whole, it did represent varying perspectives of the LGBTQ community; but with the abuse and rape, the book left me feeling unsettled and unsatisfied.… (more)