Everything Is Wonderful Now (The Requiem Series: Book 1)

TL;DR review:
A semi-autobiographical novel that's best defined as literary urban fantasy. Come for the angel getting his ass kicked, stay for Sean figuring out his past and his own, dark, nature.

Longer, more in-depth review:

On mental health:
With this book being based on the author's life, the mental health rep is very on point. It's personal and real--because it is--which really make this hard to read in certain bits. (Eg when Sera's dad is being abusive.) Because the story has been fictionalised, it remains unclear which bits are indeed fiction and which aren't.
I'll be honest and add that I'm friends with the author, so aware of certain personal details. This made reading this book all the more of a ride because I knew some events really happened, while others left me guessing (and hoping it was fiction-only).

On LGBTQ+:
The MC is trans and the book follows them as a kid to an adult. As a kid, gender questions start to rise but only as small notions, small hints--that bring a smile to Sera's face.
As an adult, Sean is already living as his authentic self. We do see some flashbacks to earlier but most details of the turbulent teen years where he settles are in the time skip.
Sexuality is also a thing because Sean is ace but very sexual (he needs sex on a spiritual level, just seldom feels sexual *attraction*). A combo not represented enough in books imo, so very happy to see more of that 💜
Most relationships shown are achillean. Also, relationships, plural, because this is a polyam book! 🤘
It was really nice to see supportive and loving partners, esp in regards to dealing with mental health issues.

On angels & demons:
Angels are a pain in the ass and the antagonist in question truly is one pigeon you'd {swallows words}. Ahum. Umabel is cruel and def puts one in a stabby mood.
Fallen angels though? Just golden. 10/10 would recommend getting one to protect you. (Good luck convincing one though to actually take an interest in you 😅)
As for demons? How about we just get a cuddle pile going because these boys are precious and our dear Sean deserves every single one of his lovers, esp after everything he's been put through {eyes a certain pigeon}.

On style:
This book is written in third person and has scenes from various point of views. Because of the semi-autobiographical nature, it blurs the line between fantasy and reality. If literary urban fantasy isn't a genre, it should be because *this* is it 🔥

Final notes:
I'll be honest and say this book isn't for everyone. If you're here for a fast, light read with angels and demons fighting it out: stop.
If however you're here for depth, character growth and exploration of trauma in various shapes (incl dealing with dark thoughts), and want to see a character deal with all that, getting to the bottom of their own psyche (and finding fear incarnate) and embracing it? Then 😩👌 you'll absolutely LOVE this book 🙌