Book Review: The Girl I Was by Geneva Rose
From the moment I stumbled upon Geneva Rose’s The Girl I Was, I felt an undeniable pull. Perhaps it was the title, which seemed to whisper secrets of nostalgia and self-discovery, or the intriguing premise of time travel—a concept that has always fascinated me. As I dove into Alexis Spencer’s journey, I found not just a story but a mirror reflecting my own struggles with past regrets and self-acceptance.
In this poignant tale, Alexis finds herself grappling with monumental life changes: losing her job and relationship on the same day. It’s a scenario that might sound familiar to many of us, giving way to thoughts of self-blame. Enter Lexi—her eighteen-year-old self, brimming with youthful exuberance yet flawed in her own right. This dynamic creates a beautiful juxtaposition that explores the complexities of growth and forgiveness. Watching these two versions of the same person navigate their past and present lent the story a unique richness that was at once heartwarming and heart-wrenching.
One of the standout elements of The Girl I Was is the emotional depth that Rose weaves into her writing. The pacing is well-crafted, guiding readers through intense moments of sorrow and joy with finesse. I often found myself laughing out loud or reaching for tissues as I related wholeheartedly to Alexis’s struggles with self-sabotage and body image. The relatable and raw portrayal of grief—especially in the context of losing a parent—struck a chord that reverberated long after I closed the book.
Rose encapsulates the complexity of our emotions through quotes, such as, “Here’s to you, ya dumb btch. I wish that I could make you better…”* This line encapsulates the blend of regret and desire for change that permeates Alexis’s journey. It resonates with anyone who’s experienced the burden of wishing they could rewrite their life’s script, sparking a profound sense of connection.
Amidst lighter moments filled with early 2000s nostalgia—think mixed CDs and lava lamps—I found deeper reflections on our past selves. We often carry the ghosts of who we once were, and Rose masterfully reminds us that those parts of us deserve compassion, not contempt. The quote, “She’s just a hindrance to herself and her own potential,” captured this truth beautifully, urging us to embrace all our versions rather than vilifying them.
This novel was not merely a read for me; it felt like therapy. As someone navigating a journey of self-discovery, I couldn’t have picked a better time to dive into Alexis’s story. It’s a lighthearted, yet deeply profound exploration of forgiveness and personal growth—a gentle nudge for those of us who often find ourselves at odds with the choices we made in our formative years.
The Girl I Was is perfect for readers looking for a blend of magical realism with authentic emotional weight. If you’ve ever battled inner demons or wished to reconcile with your past, this book is a warm embrace waiting to happen. It invites readers to reflect, laugh, cry, and ultimately understand that who we were forms the foundation of who we can become.
So, grab a slice of homemade fluffy lemon cheesecake, curl up in your favorite corner, and prepare for a journey that will not only entertain you but might just help you discover something new about yourself along the way.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, for providing this eARC. The Girl I Was hits shelves on July 15th, 2025, and trust me—you don’t want to miss this one!
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