At first I did not like the way the book was heading like you had to be one thing or the other and there was no in between especially when working at a LGBTQIA+ publication however I loved the direction it turned in, the discussion on how a loved one’s reaction can impact your coming out and how it can all change and you don’t realise it.

The characters were lovable even though Lola made me want to hit my head against a wall at times, I also loved the topic of mental illness and how so much good can be happening but your still hitting rock bottom. Absolutely adored that Lola’s friends forced her to get help because it’s so easy to not realise when you need it

The actual plot I also really enjoyed, it has a mixture of different emotions for me.. funny, sad, heartbreaking and love. I think the author wrote this book incredibly well with the right amount of coming to terms with a pregnancy, trauma, sexuality and mental illness

I’d highly recommend, can’t wait to read more from this author

Okay can I just start off by saying....
😭😭😭😭

This book was written SO beautifully. The way mental health was intertwined into each chapter, and the way that it speaks to readers and makes us feel like we're not alone in the way we feel is truly incredible. Along with the LGBTQ representation? ABSOLUTELY LOVE.
Lola will always hold a special place in my heart for everything she went through and I am so glad she had everyone she did.
And also Kyle? I need a Kyle in my life pronto, just saying.
Thank you author for giving us Drowning Lessons and thank you for allowing me to ARC read!
Favorite read of the year and I can't wait to see what else you publish!

Drowning Lessons by Ana Hazel follows Lola, an ambitious journalist, whose world is shaken when she uncovers a major scoop: her favourite band's lead singer, Chris Ellington, kissing another man. Thrust into the spotlight, Lola must navigate the ethics of journalism, her values, and a spiralling mental health crisis.
The novel dives into the complexities of media, societal norms, and LGBTQ+ representation, balancing heavy emotional themes with the buzz of celebrity culture. Lola’s struggle between career and personal wellbeing adds depth, while a tender romance blossoms amid the chaos.
Raw, real, and emotionally gripping, Drowning Lessons offers a heartfelt look at mental health, self-discovery, and the cost of ambition. It is perfect for fans of character-driven contemporary fiction with emotional weight and layered storytelling.