After reading just the first chapter, the writing comes across as very simple and straightforward, bordering on fanfiction style without quite crossing that line. The story is a classic queer love narrative reminiscent of the early 2000s, featuring familiar elements: a homophobic church and congregation, a protagonist who is clearly queer but not openly out, and the internal struggle of wanting to have it all before realizing the impossibility of that desire. But that's also the books downfall, Its so predictable there isn't much to say about it because of that.

A very good read about sexual identity discovery, love and religion.
I'm not familiar with christian music so the only thing I didn't understand if Trevor is a great composer and performer why he would have to limit his artistic work only to church and not tried to be a regular musician as an option.
It's a very good story that is interesting and keeps your attention with new curve balls when you think how it will progress. It has a great romance that is intertwined with friendship, love triangle and personal dilemmas.

An ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trust me when I say this has been one of the best reads I’ve had in a really long time.
In a lot of ways I just felt like the book was so relatable but also really really special.
We get to experience everything through our main character aka Trevor.
Trevor is truly precious but complicated. He’s deeply religious and has a deep passion for music, but at the same time he’s struggling to accept who he really is.
If anyone is triggered by bullying or someone being outed in such a horrible way be mindful when you read this.
But the book is so worth it, especially the journey of seeing Trevor come to terms with his bisexuality but most of all just letting himself be truly happy.

Prepare to be swept away in a tale of unexpected love, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one's true desires in "Anthem: Notes from Boston #1" by A.M. Leibowitz. This captivating romantic novel takes readers on a journey alongside Trevor Davidson and Andre Cole as they navigate the complexities of their burgeoning relationship against the backdrop of Boston.

Trevor Davidson seems to have it all—an exciting new chapter of independence with his friends, a coveted position as a music director at a prominent Boston church, and the prospect of a settled life with his long-term girlfriend. Meanwhile, Andre Cole finds himself stuck in a dead-end job at a call center in Cape Cod, longing for a fresh start in Boston. When fate brings Trevor and Andre together in a chance encounter on New Year's Eve, their connection ignites with a passionate encounter that leaves them both craving more.

Assuming their paths will never cross again, Trevor and Andre are unexpectedly reunited when Andre is hired to design Trevor's church website. As their lives become intertwined, Trevor's conflicted feelings begin to seep into his songwriting, resulting in an unintentional Christian radio hit that carries a hidden meaning dedicated to Andre. With the revelation of the song's true message and the subsequent leak of their secret, Trevor's world is turned upside down, forcing him to confront his own truth and reconcile his feelings for both his girlfriend and Andre.

A.M. Leibowitz masterfully crafts a heartfelt story that goes beyond societal expectations and explores the complexities of human emotions. The characters of Trevor and Andre are beautifully developed, each carrying their own personal struggles and desires. Trevor's journey of self-discovery is particularly poignant as he grapples with his identity, his faith, and his burgeoning attraction to Andre. The emotional depth of their connection is palpable, and readers will find themselves fully invested in their journey.

Leibowitz skillfully addresses themes of honesty, self-acceptance, and the power of love to transcend societal boundaries. Through Trevor's experiences, Leibowitz explores the challenges faced by individuals torn between personal desires and societal expectations, creating a thought-provoking narrative that encourages readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery.

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, effortlessly blending moments of passion, introspection, and emotional turmoil. Leibowitz's writing style is engaging and evocative, capturing the nuances of the characters' emotions and the vibrant atmosphere of Boston. The attention to detail immerses readers in the setting, creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding romance.

"Anthem: Notes from Boston #1" is a compelling and heartfelt romance that beautifully explores the complexities of love, self-acceptance, and the courage to embrace one's true desires. Leibowitz's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes make this book an engaging and emotionally resonant read. Fans of contemporary romance will be captivated by this tale of unexpected connections and the transformative power of love.

Anthem is a novel about a man who struggles with his sexual identity as he hides it from the church he works for. His agonizing becomes tedious. The various subparts to the novel have some interest, but the attempt to be creative about sexual identities did not win me over.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.

I actually didn’t truly understand the journey that Trevor and Andre are going through in the story. It’s not my story to understand because I’m not in that situation. I found it very compelling to see this insight of church and sexuality.