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When Cath's twin sister suddenly refuses to be her college roommate, she's forced to leave behind the safe world of fanfiction and fandom that's sustained her through heartbreak and family struggles. Navigating dorm life, a creative writing professor who dismisses her passion, and an unexpected connection with a charming classmate, Cath discovers that growing up doesn't necessarily mean abandoning the things that make you feel alive. With her fragile dad trying to find his footing back home and her sister drifting further away, Cath has to figure out who she is beyond Simon Snow—and whether she's brave enough to write her own story. It's a tender, funny, deeply relatable exploration of found family, fandom love, and learning to stand on your own two feet.
Reading soundtrack
Blend indie pop confidence with vulnerable lo-fi intimacy—think boygenius, Clairo, and The 1975. Capture the electric tension of slow-burn romance, late-night dorm vulnerability, and that bittersweet ache of becoming yourself. Sensual but sincere.
Alternate vibes
Books set at the start of university/college - a bit like Fangirl ... - Reddit
Levi APPRECIATION POST from Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell - Reddit
I want to live vicariously through a crazed fangirl. : r/RomanceBooks
[Review] Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell - For the Fantasy Fanfic Writers ...
Carry on by Rainbow Rowell (spoilers) : r/Fantasy - Reddit
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