Here the Whole Time – Vitor Martins

“Here the Whole Time” is a funny and genuinely sweet YA romance that doesn’t rely on trendy slang, heavy angst or high drama to win you over. It just asks you to spend a couple of weeks with a teen who’s working hard to feel okay in his own skin.

Felipe is 17, gay and fat — and those three facts pretty much run his inner monologue. He’s been counting down the days until school break so he can retreat into books, YouTube and not be bullied. 

However, his mom drops a bomb: their neighbor, Caio (Felipe’s longtime secret crush), is staying with them for two weeks while his parents are away. Suddenly, the quiet, isolating vacation Felipe had planned becomes something else entirely.

The story that follows is light on plot but heavy on internal reflection. Felipe spends a lot of time worrying – about his body, about what Caio might think and about how much space he takes up in the world. Yes, that inner voice can feel repetitive at times, but it also feels real. If you’ve ever been 17 and painfully self-aware, you know how loud those thoughts can be.

What makes the book work is the kindness at its core. Felipe’s relationship with his mom is full of humor and warmth. She’s supportive without being overbearing, and their dynamic brings some of the best moments in the book. 

Caio is quietly sweet, and while his character could have used a little more development, the chemistry between him and Felipe builds in a believable, slow-burn way. There’s no sex — just kissing, cuddling and a lot of nervous energy — but the romance still lands.

Vitor Martins, translated from Portuguese by Larissa Helena, captures the messy awkwardness of adolescence and first loves with humor and empathy. This isn’t a story about transformation, rather it’s a story about learning to show up as you are, and maybe being surprised that someone likes you just like that.

If you’re looking for a quick, affirming read with queer representation, a strong voice and a refreshingly gentle tone, “Here” is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Rating (story): 4/5 stars

Rating (narration): N/A

Format: eBook (library loan)

Dates read: May 13 – May 24, 2025

Multi-tasking: N/A