A review by tonyaf
And They Were Roommates by Page Powars

emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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? Yes

5.0

 And They Were Roommates is a ridiculously funny romantic comedy about two boys attending a strict and very competitive private school.

Charlie has wanted to attend Valentine Academy for Boys since he realized he was a boy. Now that he’s transitioned and been accepted into the prestigious school, he wants to “lay low” and try not to attract unnecessary attention. Unfortunately for him, he’s been assigned a roommate, Jasper, who not only knew him pre-transition but also broke his heart at summer camp two years ago.

Jasper, the principal’s nephew and Sexiest Poet of the Year, does not recognize Charlie as his previous Summer fling, but Charlie fears that - if he does - he could get kicked out of the very traditional school. However, as the two work together on a side project, they begin to clear up misunderstandings about each other and their brief relationship. Slowly, Charlie starts to realize that maybe Jasper isn’t as bad as he thought (even if he does have posters of himself on their ceiling and a life-size cutout of himself in their dorm).

Besides Charlie and Jasper, the cast is filled with a lot more delightful characters. Charlie’s growing friendship with a small group of fellow students adds a little of the “found family” trope to the story. He also has a best friend, Delilah, who attends the sister school next door. Various faculty and family members also fill out the cast.

The tone of the book is light and funny. Reading this reminded me of watching a teenage rom-com. This is a very low-angst, funny, joyful, triumphant, and incredibly fun read. I had a smile plastered on my face the entire time I read it!


I highly recommend this for lovers of queer stories, especially anyone who needs something light, silly, and happy. This is guaranteed to make you giggle at least once! 
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