My Juliana Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
Juliana by Vanda is the first novel in an LGBT historical fiction series set in New York City during the 1940s. The story follows Alice “Al” Huffman, a farm girl from Long Island, who heads to Manhattan chasing dreams of Broadway stardom alongside her friends. When Al realizes she doesn’t have the talent to make it big right away, she settles for a quieter routine—working, dating, and taking acting classes—until she meets Juliana, a glamorous nightclub singer with secrets of her own. Their relationship pulls Al into the electric but hidden world of queer clubs, theater, and the underground gay scene. Al must balance her old friendships and “straight” life with her growing affection for Juliana, all set against the backdrop of war and the constant threat of social and personal risk. The novel blends romance, self-discovery, and a deeply researched historical setting, making it more than just a love story—it’s a snapshot of survival and belonging in a dangerous time.
Why I Love This Book
I love the immersive feeling of stepping into 1940s New York—Vanda packs in small details about the city, the entertainment world, and the coded language of queer communities. The research is solid, right down to the cultural rules about clothing and the very real dangers faced by women who broke the mold. I connect with Alice’s confusion and longing as she figures out who she is and what she wants. I like that the book doesn’t shy away from showing mistakes and heartbreak—characters make painful choices, and sometimes loyalty falls apart. The friendship between Al and Max stands out as a highlight, and the emotional stakes feel high and personal. The romance between Al and Juliana is sweet and sometimes messy, marked by desire and the fear of discovery. I also appreciate that the writing style is different—a blend of dialogue-heavy scenes and sharp moments that feel almost theatrical—which helps set the book apart from other historical novels. I finish the book feeling like I understand both the hope and the risk that come with falling in love in a world that doesn’t want you to.
Who Will Like This Book
If you love queer historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and character-driven romance, this is for you. The book is especially rewarding for readers who want lesbian characters front and center in an era rarely told from our point of view. It’s got plenty of found family, personal growth, and a lush portrait of nightlife, stage dreams, and the realities women faced. The pacing can be slow, and the romance is more about longing and struggle than wild passion—so if you like poetic, soft burn over fast chemistry, this will work for you. ⚠️ Trigger warning: Includes period-accurate homophobia, bullying, family rejection, war, and strong language. Sex scenes are present but more understated and sometimes lack explicitness or intensity. If you’re seeking high heat, this may feel more gentle by comparison.
Tagged As
lgbtq+ romance, lesbian romance, historical fiction, sapphic romance, 1940s, new york city, coming of age, found family, forbidden romance, theater, music, singer heroine, self-discovery, trauma recovery, sweet romance, slow burn, character-driven, wartime, queer fiction, mature themes, open-door romance, series, indie romance, gender nonconformity, code-switching
Steam Level
Sexual content is present but mostly subtle and not highly explicit. The focus is on emotion and identity rather than graphic heat. Expect gentle intimacy instead of high spice.
