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emily_mh's review
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
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? No
4.5
Tonally, this volume is much more similar to Volumes 1-3, without undermining the seriousness of the issues raised in Volume 4. More adult themes are brought on board, too, as Nick and Charlie want to explore a new level of intimacy in their relationship. I really appreciated Oseman’s approach here, because realistically most of the target audience will be having the same thoughts and feelings, so to have such healthy behaviour modelled for them regarding this is, of course, a positive thing.
Charlie’s character arc here is centred around (re)discovering his confidence (we also see him continue to manage his eating disorder). He is confronted with three situations where his confidence is challenged: the prospect of being intimate with Nick, being invited to do a gig with Sahar’s band, and developing a healthier relationship with his mum. He comes a long way across this instalment.
Nick’s character development was similarly well-done. Faced with imminent uni applications, Nick realises that he doesn’t know what we wants to do, and is scared of the possibility of having a long-distance relationship with Charlie, a person he is quite dependent on for emotional connection. As such, Nick goes on an introspective journey this volume, figuring out who he is and what his life might look like in the end.
Oseman also dedicated a few panels to briefly show us the inner worlds of Mr Farouk and Charlie’s mum. I really appreciated the rare insight this gave me into their characters.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this instalment. Nick and Charlie have such a wonderful, fluffy, soulmate connection. While this novel ended on a bittersweet note, due to Oseman’s short comics set in Nick and Charlie’s future, I know it’s all going to turn out okay, and that’s enough.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual content, Bullying, Mental illness, Eating disorder, and Self harm
Minor: Child abuse, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Domestic abuse, and Alcohol
notpresent22's review
emotional
hopeful
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
4.5
I am an avid fan of the heartstopper series and this book definitely lived up to the hype I was feeling. This is the definition of a cozy read, taking me only an hour to get through. It has plenty of cute moments and joyful experiences while also following the same serious themes that have been set up in prior books. However, this book is not 5 stars as it is clearly ramping up to the conclusion and so feels like less happens than have in other volumes.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Self harm, Panic attacks/disorders, Eating disorder, and Mental illness
Minor: Sexual assault
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