“Mad Honey” is a book that left a lasting mark on me. I’ve read plenty of Jodi Picoult’s novels, but none have gripped me like this collaboration with Jennifer Finney Boylan. Over three days, I was completely immersed in its world.

At its core, “Mad Honey” is a mystery, but it’s so much more than that. The story dives into the heart-wrenching topics of transgender identity and the search for belonging. It’s rare to find a twisty, turntable mystery that also educates and enlightens, but this one does just that. I found myself learning and questioning things I hadn’t considered before.

The story weaves together young love, a tragic death, and a whodunnit mystery against the backdrop of domestic abuse and the impact of parental influence. It also beautifully incorporates the fascinating world of bees and honey, drawing parallels to human relationships and society. The way the book portrays the strength and roles of females in a beehive and a home and is both poignant and powerful.

What would you do if someone you loved was born a different gender, and you didn’t know? “Mad Honey” challenges you to think deeply about such questions, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read. I loved every moment of it, and it helped me understand issues I was too afraid to ask about before.

This book is a must-read. It’s not just a story; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

This book also belongs in my Thursday Thoughts