Holly Thorne’s Vying Girls is a compelling continuation of her sapphic, why-choose duet, offering readers a rich tapestry of emotions, suspense, and intricate relationships. As the second book in the series, it builds upon the foundation laid in its predecessor, diving deeper into the complexities of love, loyalty, and the shadows of the past. Thorne’s narrative is both a thrilling exploration of romantic entanglements and a poignant examination of personal growth and resilience.

The story picks up with the protagonist feeling a sense of security in her relationships with Elly and Haz. The love triangle, a central theme in many contemporary romances, is handled with nuance and sensitivity here. Thorne excels in portraying the fluidity of love and the idea that affection need not be confined to traditional boundaries. This is a refreshing take in the genre, where the concept of a "why-choose" romance allows for a more inclusive and expansive understanding of relationships.

Character development is one of the novel’s strongest suits. Elly and Haz are not mere romantic interests; they are fully fleshed-out characters with their own arcs and complexities. Elly’s love is described as secured, suggesting a depth and stability that contrasts with the more uncertain dynamics with Haz. This contrast adds layers to the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the different forms love can take. Haz’s character, with love "all but guaranteed," introduces an element of suspense and anticipation, keeping readers engaged as they wonder how these relationships will evolve.

Nic, the protagonist’s former bleak spot, becomes a focal point of tension and intrigue. The introduction of a new threat, a ghost from Nic’s past, adds a thrilling dimension to the story. This element of suspense is masterfully woven into the narrative, creating a sense of urgency that propels the plot forward. Thorne’s ability to blend romance with elements of suspense and mystery is reminiscent of authors like Sarah Waters, who similarly crafts narratives that are both emotionally resonant and thrilling.

The theme of confronting the past is prevalent throughout the novel. The ghost from Nic’s past serves as a metaphor for unresolved issues and the way they can haunt the present. Thorne handles this theme with sensitivity, illustrating how the characters must confront their pasts to move forward. This is a universal theme that resonates deeply, as it reflects the human experience of grappling with history and its impact on the present.

Thorne’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences. The opening line of the blurb, "The night’s made for confessions," sets the tone for the novel, suggesting a world where secrets and truths are laid bare under the cover of darkness. This motif of night as a space for revelation is beautifully explored throughout the book, adding a layer of poetic depth to the narrative.

In terms of overall impact, Vying Girls is a powerful exploration of love and identity. It challenges conventional narratives and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to love and be loved. The novel’s exploration of a sapphic relationship is particularly significant, providing representation that is often lacking in mainstream romance fiction. Thorne’s portrayal of these relationships is both authentic and empowering, offering readers a narrative that is both relatable and inspiring.

Comparatively, Thorne’s work stands alongside other notable authors in the genre, such as Casey McQuiston and Talia Hibbert, who also explore themes of love and identity with a modern twist. Like McQuiston’s Red, White & Royal Blue or Hibbert’s Get a Life, Chloe Brown, Vying Girls combines romance with deeper themes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Holly Thorne’s Vying Girls is a captivating and emotionally rich novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate complex characters and intricate relationships. Its blend of romance, suspense, and personal growth makes it a standout in the genre, offering a narrative that is both engaging and meaningful. Whether you are a fan of sapphic romances or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, Vying Girls is a book that should not be missed.