Counter Culture

This book is very funny in the best British way, but the romance aspect falls short. The two MCs barely exchange a word until almost halfway through the book (although they have several awkward meet-cutes and do a lot of pining), then they have a few days together, but are quickly separated when lying and misunderstanding come between them. Both MCs are likeable, and Archie's involvement in the steampunk culture is fascinating, but I'm here for books that explore two people building a relationship over time and that aspect was sadly lacking. I felt very anxious as I read, waiting for the lies to catch up to them, and frankly I don't need any more anxiety in my life these days. YMMV if you can just sit back, enjoy Merrow's humor, and have more faith than I did that it will all work out in the end.