generally speaking here, the writing was really good. especially in the first half, but there were lines throughout that were particularly well done, which made me interested in reading more by this author. i didn't love the second half; but i still thought that overall this is well done and a good read. ( )

Beating Heart Baby by Lio Minn failed to engage me despite the uniqueness of trans gendered characters in the world of pop music. The device of having the point of view for the first half of the book told from Santi's point of view and the remainder by the Sura, was not only confusing but it diffused the emotionality and rhythm of the novel. Lio Minn does have potential as a writer. ( )

I enjoyed parts of this book very much, particularly the chapters from Santi's perspective. The adolescent romance, experience of early social media and internet friendships, and the adolescent relationship mistakes were all well written and rang so true. I thought the later chapters around Suwa's music career went on a little long and felt pretty off topic at times. ( )