Adjoa’s debut is as emotionally rich as it is narratively layered. Jae and Derek’s relationship is built with care and realism; their eventual trust is rooted in understanding, a love of creativity, and the shared experience of having non-white fathers who didn’t fully pass on their cultures to their children. . . . A touching, vulnerable romance navigating gut-wrenching conflict to deliver the ultimate relief of catharsis.

Sharply rendered poems by various characters are interspersed throughout the protagonists’ compelling and unique alternating narration, and Jae and Derek’s electric chemistry leaps off the page.

The prose itself takes on a lyrical cadence—every line feels as if it was written with meticulous care. The focus on teen autonomy grounds the novel, which manages to avoid becoming preachy as characters, both main and secondary, learn to respect others’ needs and make their own decisions. Hand this to readers looking for a deep and meaningful romance that doesn’t shy away from tough issues.

Characters’ layers are revealed, their complexity captivating readers with empathy as secrets on both sides unfold and an enemies-to-lovers romance ignites. Secondary characters bring humor into heavy situations. Prose with periodic engaging free verse, this debut pairs brilliantly with Hannah V. Sawyerr’s Truth Is (2025).

A powerfully poignant debut! Flowing with gorgeous prose and an achingly honest love story, The Free Verse Society is a tender look at family, grief, longing, secrets, and the steps we take toward healing. Delali Adjoa is a voice to watch for.

The Free Verse Society gave me everything I want in a YA book and a romance: flawed characters trying to figure out who they are, real stakes, and a slow burn, sweet romance. Jae moves in with her uncle and starts attending a new school to make a fresh start after giving up her baby for adoption. Derek is still struggling with his family’s fall from wealth after his father’s death. The way these two characters struggle, make mistakes, write poetry, and find each other is beautiful and heart-rending.

This book broke me open. Yes, there are dark themes, but the story is a welcome breeze, a breath held and released, a scab falling off to reveal the healed skin beneath. What I thought was a story about two troubled kids in a poetry group turned into so much more. I cried too many times to count and instead of feeling empty, I feel full.

The perfect romance for all bookish girlies and fans of enemies to lovers!