Stephanie Dickison, reviewing the album for
PopMatters, viewed it positively, calling Dawn "a woman that dares to contradict, a woman who uses words wisely and humorously".
Spin called it a "sweetly vicious debut, which is equal parts power pop and sugary punk, like
Siouxsie Sioux meets
Jewel". Tony Bowman, writing for
Ink 19, said the following: "In keeping with Dawn's country upbringing, the songs contained here tell individual stories that give you an idea of what her life has been like. Unlike her country upbringing, these songs rock....The album also has a softer side that is showcased brilliantly with 'Useless In LA,' the album's finest moment. After a couple of listens, you'll walk away feeling that you’ve known Laura most of your life. That is what separates this disc from a lot of the music out today—it's honest, sincere, and a lot of fun to listen to."
AllMusic writer Hal Horowitz gave the album a two star rating, calling it "a sturdy debut from a remarkably assured singer/songwriter with a knack for writing songs and hooks that sound familiar on first listen". ==Track listing==