A review by michaelbereading
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge by Matthew Hubbard

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted 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? It's complicated

5.0

Ezra Hayes and his two best friends are facing boy troubles. Their boyfriends constantly make them feel like shameful secrets to be hidden away. Once those relationships end they seek revenge in big ways. Simultaneously, their school district launches the "Watch What You Say" initiative to censor queer voices, so Ezra starts "The Last Boyfriends Student Rebellion" on TikTok. Amid ex-boyfriend drama and TikTok fame, Ezra realizes the fight is about more than revenge; it's about challenging outdated views and redefining queer identity in small-town Alabama.

I loved every single second of this book! What an absolutely fun, original, hilarious, and heartwarming ride this was! Every single character had so much depth and growth. It is refreshing to read a Queer YA book where the MCs aren't completely selfish and irrational. I understand that teens often are selfish and irrational, but that can get really hard to continuously read. These characters were confident and charming, and not unlikeable but also not perfect. There were so many moments of adorable joy as well as triumphant victories to celebrate. I will recommend this book to everyone! Books like these are life saving for Queer youth, and a reminder to all of us that Queer Pride is still a protest.