Ella and Saffron meet one night at university whilst celebrating an early New Year's Eve. They bond instantly but, unbeknownst to Nell, Saffron suffers with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which she is determined to keep hidden at all costs. Nell decides that Saffron's dislike of autumn can be changed and creates a to do list for the pair of all the best things to take part in as the nights draw in. But whilst the pair grow closer, will they remain just friends or will romance blossom?
This is a beautifully written story with so many wonderful messages woven through the pages. Saffron is struggling hugely but is terrified to let any body close enough to her to know exactly what's going on. As she and Nell grow closer, Nell realises that there's something Saffron is holding back, but she can't get her to open up. Mental health is treated so much better than it ever used to be but there are still people who feel that it is a taboo subject. So many times, I wanted to reach into the book and hug Saffron (and help her). It's not until the relationship she has with her parents is revealed that you begin to understand why she approaches things the way she does.
Shining a spotlight on SAD in such a brilliant way will help so many people. I know that I hate the winter (I say that sitting on a sunlounge in Spain dreading returning to the UK knowing that months of cold and rain await me...) but SAD is a whole different level; if this book helps just one person to understand the condition and reach out for support then that will be a good thing.
I also really enjoyed the relationships between the characters and the exploration of sexuality - the positivity and the freedom was wonderful to read.
Told in dual perspective, Sad Girl Hours is a wonderful YA romance story of acceptance, bravery and being yourself ... it will also give you a host of autumny things to do now the clocks have gone back!
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