On Her Terms (Out in Hollywood, #3) by Cheyenne Spalding: A Delightful Exploration of Love and Friendship
When I first stumbled across On Her Terms by Cheyenne Spalding, I was immediately drawn in by the premise—after all, who doesn’t love a good fake dating trope? But more than that, the lens of queer relationships and the trials of navigating the dating world as a newcomer made it a must-read for me. As someone who deeply values authentic representation in literature, I felt a spark of excitement about delving into Clementine and Chloe’s journey. Spoiler alert: this book delivers on many fronts, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts!
The story revolves around Clementine, a fresh-faced baby gay who’s still navigating the emotional aftermath of a two-decade relationship with a man. When she meets the wise Chloe at a bar, what starts as a seemingly simple exchange of numbers evolves into a clever fake dating scheme. Chloe, wanting to avoid the pressure from her friends regarding her single status, offers to take Clementine along to various events, showcasing a friendship and romance that blooms in the most genuine way. I found myself rooting for these two, laughing at their witty banter and ultimately feeling the weight of their burgeoning feelings.
One of the book’s strongest points is its insight into not just romantic love, but also the significance of queer friendships. Spalding crafts Chloe’s friend group as relatable and diverse; they felt like a found family to me—something that is so crucial in queer narratives. The exploration of friendship dynamics and how they can shift as we grow makes the characters’ struggles feel all the more real. However, I found myself feeling a bit exhausted with Chloe’s repetitive reflections on her diverging paths from her straight friends. While the initial exploration of her disconnection was refreshing, it occasionally took me out of the romance I was eagerly reading about.
On a more personal note, I appreciated how Spalding handled the nuances of coming out later in life. Clementine’s bisexuality is portrayed with a sensitivity that resonates strongly, and her challenges, such as dealing with a difficult brother, offer depth to her character. The way Chloe expertly confronts him—a scene that made my heart swell—showcases not just her strength, but the kind of support we should always seek in those we love.
Moreover, Spalding does a fantastic job weaving in contemporary themes like body positivity and the messages we internalize about relationships. It’s refreshing to see the complexities of queer relationships represented without shying away from hard conversations, making the narrative feel all the more authentic.
In terms of writing style, Spalding’s warmth seeped through every page. The pacing kept me engaged; I often found myself wanting to linger on certain moments, soaking in the characters’ chemistry. The witty dialogue and humor provide a delightful balance to the more serious themes, making for a heartwarming, charming read.
On Her Terms is a beautifully crafted blend of romance, personal growth, and the importance of friendship in the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a story that I would recommend to readers who enjoy heartfelt romances with complex characters. If you’re looking for a book that celebrates love—both romantic and platonic—while exploring the ever-important theme of self-discovery, this one is for you.
Prepare to fall in love (and maybe shed a tear) with Chloe and Clementine as they navigate the thrilling yet challenging waters of love and friendship. I, for one, cannot wait to see how this series continues to unfold!
Mark your calendars: On Her Terms hits the shelves on February 25, 2025, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
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