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hazychapters's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
i’ve bought this book after my friend Anna, who hadn’t read it yet at that moment, convinced me to take it as we were browsing in one of our favourite bookstores. the promise of a very gay arthurian retelling was here and i’m so glad i read this book because it was all i needed!
we follow Gwendoline - the princess of Camelot - and her betrothed Arthur - son of an opponent to Gwen’s father. they are promised to each other as the sign of an alliance between their two fathers. but the problem is: they are not interested in each other at all, if you know what i mean 👀
i absolutely loved this book. the story is about friendship, love, first experiences and coming-out. the characters are all incredible, from Art and Gwen, Bridget and Gabriel, Sid and Agnes. i won’t call it a romance book because for me, it’s more about discovering, accepting and loving yourself. every character is different, with their own background, fears and experiences. but they are also a unique group of friends, and i loved how Art was like « you’re gay. you too. and you as well. because everybody is secretly gay ». by the way, we love the mlm/wlw solidarity!
this book warmed my heart and i can't really explain why. but to read the story of these young queer teenagers, who overcome assumptions to love whoever they want, without fear of the gaze of others, it's just incredible. i think this book healed something in me. i couldn't stop smiling reading these lines, laughing at some sour and sarcastic responses from Gwen and Art, and being happy watching them find their soul mates and do everything to make their love possible. i think that if i had been able to read this book when i was younger, i would have asked myself a lot fewer questions and i would not have tried to bottle up what i was feeling. it just felt safe to read this book ❤️🩹
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Child abuse, Death of parent, Alcoholism, Violence, Toxic relationship, Blood, Vomit, Emotional abuse, Injury/Injury detail, Misogyny, Outing, Religious bigotry, Sexism, and War
jem_carstairs's review against another edition
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Gwen and Art may not be in love, but I certainly am
Content Warnings
Graphic: War, Blood, and Violence
Moderate: Death, Sexism, Misogyny, Alcoholism, Death of parent, Emotional abuse, Alcohol, and Child abuse
Minor: Vomit
_teoeo's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
The dialogues really were peak comedy! When I started that book I didn't think I would relate to Arthur this much 🤠
But the story was really slow and sometimes dragged on, so it was a little hard for me to get through the book.
But the story was really slow and sometimes dragged on, so it was a little hard for me to get through the book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness, Emotional abuse, Blood, Death, Suicidal thoughts, War, Death of parent, Addiction, Alcohol, and Alcoholism
Minor: Incest
questingnotcoasting's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
This was as much fun as I'd hoped it would be. I love Lex Croucher and while this is a very different genre from their other books it was just as good. I found it so funny and I was rooting for both Gwen and Art throughout. The side characters were also great. There are quite a few layers to the story and I felt like they were woven together so well. In particular the themes of finding yourself and choosing your future were so sensitively and realistically handled.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Violence, Death, Injury/Injury detail, and War
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Homophobia, and Child abuse
literaryinluv's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Such a delight to read! This book made me laugh with its witty banter (mostly from Arthur) and its sweet relationships. Gwen and Arthur are a classic enemies-to-friends dynamic, with their hatred for each other stemming from their childhood. Of course, the two are betrothed (Kind of like The Swan Princess movie!). But I loved the queer angle it took in this relationship with both being interested in people who are decidedly not each other. They truly went from breaking wrists to WLW/MLM solidarity. In fact, that's how I would really describe the relationship between our two main characters: WLW/MLM solidarity.
Outside of the relationships our two characters held, there were some wonderful friendships. Sidney and Arthur are brothers in all but blood and would stick together through thick and thin. Gwen and Agnes shifted from a boss-worker dynamic to friends. And the close relationship our siblings, Gwen and Gabriel, had was adorable.
My only gripe with the book was that the romances from both our couples sometimes felt a bit lackluster. Arthur and Gabriel were cute at times and they had some nice bonding moments. But Bridget and Gwen let me down! As a sapphic female myself, I was looking forward to the sapphic relationship in this setting and was especially interested in the fact that one of those involved was a femme princess and a female knight (Oh side note, Bridget is Thai!). I wanted more bonding and moments from them, & there were some but not enough. This may be my only issue with the book, but since it's largely about romance, I felt like a star should be knocked off for that. Please remember that this is my opinion!
The book was overall super fun. The friendships were great & I really felt for these characters and their problems. I loved the setting & the Arthurian aspect and how it came to play throughout the story. It was very clever, & there were moments where I was on the edge of my seat & laughing at Arthur.
TDLR; I really need to read more historical queer novels!
Outside of the relationships our two characters held, there were some wonderful friendships. Sidney and Arthur are brothers in all but blood and would stick together through thick and thin. Gwen and Agnes shifted from a boss-worker dynamic to friends. And the close relationship our siblings, Gwen and Gabriel, had was adorable.
My only gripe with the book was that the romances from both our couples sometimes felt a bit lackluster. Arthur and Gabriel were cute at times and they had some nice bonding moments. But Bridget and Gwen let me down! As a sapphic female myself, I was looking forward to the sapphic relationship in this setting and was especially interested in the fact that one of those involved was a femme princess and a female knight (Oh side note, Bridget is Thai!). I wanted more bonding and moments from them, & there were some but not enough. This may be my only issue with the book, but since it's largely about romance, I felt like a star should be knocked off for that. Please remember that this is my opinion!
The book was overall super fun. The friendships were great & I really felt for these characters and their problems. I loved the setting & the Arthurian aspect and how it came to play throughout the story. It was very clever, & there were moments where I was on the edge of my seat & laughing at Arthur.
TDLR; I really need to read more historical queer novels!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol, Alcoholism, Blood, War, and Violence
Moderate: Physical abuse, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Cursing, Death, Homophobia, Injury/Injury detail, Misogyny, Death of parent, Lesbophobia, Murder, Body horror, and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Child abuse, Gore, Vomit, Incest, and Emotional abuse
trippyotter's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Gwen and Art Are Not in Love is definitely not your typical Arthurian tale, but that's what I enjoyed so much about the book!
I've always loved Arthurian movies, books, and whatnot, so no surprise that I'd want to read this after seeing the cover and reading the summary it was a given.
Growing up, Gwen and Art despise each other, but despite their feelings, their family expect them to marry. When Gwen learns Art's truth, they make a pack to cover for one another. But when tragedy hits, and everything is at risk, they'll need to work together alongside their friends to save their people.
I loved the non-traditional story, and it's okay to reach for your own path and happiness.
I've always loved Arthurian movies, books, and whatnot, so no surprise that I'd want to read this after seeing the cover and reading the summary it was a given.
Growing up, Gwen and Art despise each other, but despite their feelings, their family expect them to marry. When Gwen learns Art's truth, they make a pack to cover for one another. But when tragedy hits, and everything is at risk, they'll need to work together alongside their friends to save their people.
I loved the non-traditional story, and it's okay to reach for your own path and happiness.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Death, Violence, and War
Moderate: Emotional abuse
ladyfaceplant's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
God I loved this book. I just wanted more of it. Lex Croucher writes romance like no one else. One of the kissing scenes made me genuinely burst into tears. The characters were somehow all my favourite but I think Gwen will always have a special place in my heart. She’s very autistic coded and I really saw my younger self in her. It’s so wonderful to read a queer historical story that’s so full of hope and yet still feels grounded and meaningful. I would read about these six idiots for the rest of time.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence, Alcohol, Alcoholism, War, Injury/Injury detail, and Death of parent
Minor: Religious bigotry, Death of parent, Toxic relationship, Mental illness, Emotional abuse, Sexism, Child abuse, Vomit, Homophobia, Lesbophobia, and Grief
thaliareads's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the arc!
Gwen and Art have a problem. They have grown up thinking the worst of each other and dreading the day the betrothal that's been in place since their birth comes to fruition. Much to their chagrin the time is drawing near and they have to spend the entire summer together in preparation for the announcement of their wedding day. In what may turn out to be a stroke of luck for the two betrothed, Gwen catches Art in a compromising position that allows her to see that they may have more in common than she anticipated. Could a mutual arrangement allow Gwen to follow her heart to the brave knight Lady Bridget who's caught her eye? Additionally, could this be a chance for Art to reconnect with Gwen's older brother Gabriel and find a spark that he never expected? Alongside all of this, is there something deeper brewing beneath the surface of the kingdom as the people gather to celebrate the royal tournament being held?
This was an absolutely adorable tale of young and unrequited love. Additionally, I appreciated that none of the main characters had things figured out yet, especially since they are teenagers and that's a messy time in your life full of self-discovery. This really shined in the candid conversations between Gwen and Art revealing that, despite what might appear to be external confidence, they are still kids and still learning who they are and how to navigate their new feelings. I appreciated the unapologetic queerness of this book. Obviously, the environment still wasn't conducive to straying from heteronormativity, but the characters themselves reinforced that there was nothing wrong with who they were and who they chose to love. I also didn't expect the sort of deeper lore of conflict and mystery and feuding factions, but it was a pleasant surprise as it wove through the novel, culminating in an unexpected twist. Overall, I think this was a great coming-of-age romance and I would read it again in a heartbeat. I can't wait until it's out and I can listen to the audiobook.
Gwen and Art have a problem. They have grown up thinking the worst of each other and dreading the day the betrothal that's been in place since their birth comes to fruition. Much to their chagrin the time is drawing near and they have to spend the entire summer together in preparation for the announcement of their wedding day. In what may turn out to be a stroke of luck for the two betrothed, Gwen catches Art in a compromising position that allows her to see that they may have more in common than she anticipated. Could a mutual arrangement allow Gwen to follow her heart to the brave knight Lady Bridget who's caught her eye? Additionally, could this be a chance for Art to reconnect with Gwen's older brother Gabriel and find a spark that he never expected? Alongside all of this, is there something deeper brewing beneath the surface of the kingdom as the people gather to celebrate the royal tournament being held?
This was an absolutely adorable tale of young and unrequited love. Additionally, I appreciated that none of the main characters had things figured out yet, especially since they are teenagers and that's a messy time in your life full of self-discovery. This really shined in the candid conversations between Gwen and Art revealing that, despite what might appear to be external confidence, they are still kids and still learning who they are and how to navigate their new feelings. I appreciated the unapologetic queerness of this book. Obviously, the environment still wasn't conducive to straying from heteronormativity, but the characters themselves reinforced that there was nothing wrong with who they were and who they chose to love. I also didn't expect the sort of deeper lore of conflict and mystery and feuding factions, but it was a pleasant surprise as it wove through the novel, culminating in an unexpected twist. Overall, I think this was a great coming-of-age romance and I would read it again in a heartbeat. I can't wait until it's out and I can listen to the audiobook.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Murder, Alcoholism, Death of parent, Death, Alcohol, War, Injury/Injury detail, and Violence
Moderate: Blood and Gore
Minor: Animal death, Homophobia, Suicidal thoughts, Vomit, and Sexism
Unfortunately because of the time period and the setting, there are quite a few content warnings. As part of the royal tournament, there is some blood, injuries, and violence as a function of the event itself. This is rather mild though, and the more severe instance is later in the bookshelvesofivy's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Right off the bat, this book is funny. I'm talking, "laugh out loud through nearly the entire book" funny. Even though Arthur really stole the show for me, every single character had their own humor and charm. What can I say? I'm weak for a character who uses dark humor to deflect their own pain :")
Gwen was also so so special to me; I related to her need for safety and routine, and loved seeing her development as she let herself make friends ♡
And to address the actual premise of this book – I'm obsessed. I loved seeing the two very different dynamics between the two main couples (and of course Sid and Agnes!) play out through the book. Gwen and Bridget with their somewhat awkward flirtation, and Arthur and Gabe with their tortured pining? Incredible ♡
I will say that I wasn't quite as invested in Gwen and Bridget as I was Arthur and Gabe, and I'm not entirely sure what to pin it on. I think ultimately, the latter felt more genuine from both parties, whereas the former felt rather surface level.
As a whole though, this book and the characters had so much charm and wit, and the main six have become so so special to me ♡
Gwen was also so so special to me; I related to her need for safety and routine, and loved seeing her development as she let herself make friends ♡
And to address the actual premise of this book – I'm obsessed. I loved seeing the two very different dynamics between the two main couples (and of course Sid and Agnes!) play out through the book. Gwen and Bridget with their somewhat awkward flirtation, and Arthur and Gabe with their tortured pining? Incredible ♡
I will say that I wasn't quite as invested in Gwen and Bridget as I was Arthur and Gabe, and I'm not entirely sure what to pin it on. I think ultimately, the latter felt more genuine from both parties, whereas the former felt rather surface level.
As a whole though, this book and the characters had so much charm and wit, and the main six have become so so special to me ♡
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol, Vomit, Toxic relationship, Death of parent, Alcoholism, Death, Emotional abuse, Violence, and Cursing
Moderate: Outing
Minor: Medical content, Religious bigotry, and Suicidal thoughts
danaslitlist's review against another edition
I just couldn’t get into this book at the moment and I’m not sure if it’s the book or me. I feel very confused about how this world treats women because every chance a male figure points out “why didn’t you do more” to a woman it feels as though she should have the power over the situation but then we’re told that she doesn’t.
I may come back to this book closer to the publication date, as the copy I received is an ARC, and try again.
I may come back to this book closer to the publication date, as the copy I received is an ARC, and try again.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Death of parent, and Violence