Book Review: I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm by Aisha Saeed
When I came across I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm by Aisha Saeed, I was instantly intrigued. The premise of a fake-dating romance between a beauty influencer and a moody artist immediately caught my attention. But what drew me in even more was the promise of navigating the complexities of identity and love in the vibrant world of Black girlhood. This is not just another YA sapphic romance; it’s a layered, heartfelt exploration of emotional growth, familial ties, and the digital age’s demands.
At the heart of the narrative are Lyric and Juniper—two distinctly crafted characters whose journeys are beautifully woven together. Lyric is that confident, polished girl we often see online, but beneath the surface, her life is far from perfect. She’s juggling brand deals, family issues, and the haunting shadows of her past. Juniper, on the other hand, is an artist grappling with grief and her own queerness. Their relationship unfolds slowly—complicated, prickly, and real. Watching them evolve and learn to communicate is an emotional experience that had me both rooting for them and wanting to shake them as they navigated their insecurities.
One of the standout aspects of this book is Grammy Viv, Lyric’s grandmother, who embodies the resilience and nurturing love that has been passed down through generations. The way she shows up for Lyric, even while dealing with her own grief, is a testament to the strength of Black womanhood. Their bond is beautifully raw and affectionate, often serving as a contrasting layer to both girls’ more tumultuous relationships.
The writing style adds another layer of complexity. Saeed’s choice to present Lyric’s story in prose while Juniper’s is delivered through verse is both a creative risk and a powerful narrative device. While Juniper’s poem-like reflections often captured her emotional distance exquisitely, there were moments where I wished for deeper insight during their conflicts. Conversely, the prose sections seemed to meander at times, which pulled me out of the narrative’s urgency.
And let’s talk about the romance—it’s messy, awkward, and refreshingly authentic. This isn’t your typical swoon-fest. Instead, it’s about two girls trying to sort through the labyrinth of who they are while grappling with public scrutiny and personal demons. Juniper’s sometimes selfish behaviors might frustrate readers (looking at you, girl!) but that’s what makes their love story feel so very real. It’s not always graceful, but that’s what makes the moments of tenderness shine even brighter.
This story isn’t without its imperfections, and that’s part of its charm. Saeed nails the importance of representation: Lyric’s pansexuality unfolds naturally without trauma, showcasing a healthier portrayal of queer identity. Yet, some plot twists felt unnecessary, and I found myself wishing for a tighter narrative at points—especially in the pathos-laden moments.
Ultimately, I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm thrives in its exploration of themes relevant to today’s youth, especially Black girls grappling with the duality of being seen online but often overlooked in their personal lives. This novel left me feeling uplifted and introspective, reminding me of the power of love, in all its complexity.
If you’re looking for a book that challenges traditional tropes and offers a more nuanced view of queer love and identity, this one’s definitely for you. It’s a heartfelt read that will evoke a range of emotions and resonate long after the last page has turned. Aisha Saeed has crafted a narrative that is not just about romance but about family, healing, and the beautiful messiness of growing up. Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to experience this touching story!
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