DNF at 35%

Kurt Vonnegut once famously said that true terror is waking up one morning to discover your high school classmates running the country. I'll raise him a millennial variation: true terror is reading a book that you can tell was written by someone who used Tumblr at the same time you did.

You guys, I tried with this book. I tried REALLY HARD. I wanted to like it; I requested an ARC in the first place because I thought it sounded cute. And it is cute - an extremely self-aware, winking-at-the-reader, poisoned-by-pop-culture-irony sort of cute. This is a book that quotes the memefied "epic highs and lows of high school football" Riverdale line in a medieval fantasy romance. (Side note: I'm fairly certain that this particular meme never broke Tumblr containment, and Tumblr these days is largely populated by thirtysomethings. But this book is aimed, ostensibly, at teenagers. If they recognize the line at all, the only emotion it's going to evoke is puzzlement at why this novel is quoting a CW soap.) Yes, the book is overflowing with anachronisms in the dialogue (King Arthur isn't dead, he's "on sabbatical") but the problem with that is, the author wants to have their cake and eat it too; the reader is meant to chuckle knowingly at these modern references, but Croucher also clearly wants them to take the emotional stakes seriously. And I'm sorry, but it doesn't work like that. You can be a Shrek-style sneering goof fest, or you can take your plot and characters seriously. In trying to do both, this book succeeds in doing neither.

And honestly? Even if the obnoxious tone hadn't overwhelmed the story for me, the cardboard cutout characters and worldbuilding would have finished the job. I could tell you from the jump which archetype everyone was meant to slot into: Art is the cocky jerk nursing a secret vulnerability over the expectations his father has placed on him (yes, Lex Croucher, I also watched BBC's Merlin back in the day), Gwen is a Hermione-style priss whose "awkwardness" came across more like a chip on her shoulder, Gabriel is the sad, studious gay boy who is no doubt intended to launch a million tiktok edits to whatever song is trending right now (the Wylan, if you will), and Bridget is - actually, Bridget is a glorified prize for Gwen's character development, because she certainly has none of her own. She's a Pinterest board titled "hot lady knight aesthetic" and not much else. The worldbuilding is likewise a mess - this book takes place in the real world, we know that because there are mentions of England and Norway and Catholics, but also England is split between Catholics and "cultists" (people who believe in/worship the legends of King Arthur) and also, see above re: the proliferation of anachronisms that are just there for the sake of a joke. If Croucher isn't taking any of this seriously, why should I?

Now, to be fair, I did DNF this book, and it's possible that the author pulls a 180 in the back half that retroactively justifies every issue I had with the first hundred pages. But it's quite frankly too little, too late, because if the beginning of your book - the part you present to the reader in an attempt to hook them - is this messy, this smug, this convinced of its own nonexistent charm, your readers are not going to stick around for a third act heel turn.

I am absolutely amazed about how much I loved this book and how much it means to me. I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. The plot seemed pretty straight forward and obvious BUT NO. There are so many beautiful layers to this story. This book was about coming out and accepting yourself. But it was also about choosing your own destiny and carving your own path. The character development in this story amazed me and it felt like watching your kid grow up. This book had me tearing up for the characters, but also had me laughing out loud and kicking my feet. The side characters absolutely made the story for me. This book was the definition of found family and I could only hope for friends like theirs.

Thank you to Wednesday Books (and Rivka Holler for keeping me on their email blasts whenever an amazing new book is coming out!) and NetGalley for this eArc of <i>Gwen and Art are Not in Love</i>. All opinions are my own.

Firstly, happy Pub Day (in the UK), Lex! Congrats on another amazingly fun romp!

Since I've enjoyed all of Lex Croucher's other books, I was anticipating that this one would be equally as fun a time, and I was right! If anything, I think I had even more fun reading this book than her two previous titles <i>Reputation</i> and <i>Infamous</i> (although I certainly enjoyed both). I loved seeing Croucher's same sense of storytelling, humor, and heart applied to younger characters. Although the experience of having to get married young and inheriting the crown to a kingdom aren't exactly common occurrences for most young adults, I think most teens can relate to the heavy weight of expectations and the shame that comes along with the realization that you will never be able to meet them. And, of course, it wouldn't be a good YA book with that journey of self-discovery, of finding who you really are and what (and who) you really want, and it was pure joy seeing each of the four main characters, Gwen, Art, Gabriel, and Bridget, grow into who they were meant to be.

The titular Gwen and Art aren't who you think they're going to be, the namesake of the Arthurian legends, King Arthur and Guinevere. Rather, Gwen and Art are two teens, many generations removed from their magical namesakes—one a princess, one a boy from a well-to-do family and an overbearing, conniving father who just happens to be betrothed to said princess. The problem? They hate each other. A lot. And yet, the expectation that they'll be married remains with nothing to do for it. What follows is, I would say, generally a comedy of errors a la Shakespeare as the two betrothed make discoveries about who and what they really want, culminating in some real feels and some serious medieval fighting action scenes (which I had no idea I would enjoy as much as I did).

I have literally three students doing research papers on medieval warfare and armor at the moment, all of them serious readers, and I can't wait to recommend this book to them!

Well this is a DNF

This one was just not for me it felt very similar in my brain to another YA set of books that are supposed to be like a modern spin but still in era. I don’t like it

I will start off by saying that I don’t typically read historical fiction or YA super often, but I had to read this one because I love LGBTQIA+ characters and I dabble in historical fiction and I am so glad I read this one! The characters were well-written, the story line was fantastic and although it’s historical fiction, it plays so well in this book. I thought the story was heart felt, the found family was amazing, and the whole thing felt really good. I needed this book right now.

3.5/5

If a queer, Arthurian-inspired historical romance with some medieval action sounds up your alley, I definitely recommend this book!

Gwen and Art may not be in love, but I loved them (although Arthur and Sidney’s relationship was my favorite). It’s technically a romance, but the found family aspect of this story definitely stood out the most to me.

The pacing was a bit slow during the first half, but it eventually picked up and I really enjoyed the ending. I’m going to miss these characters now and I would honestly love a sequel!

I generally avoid Historical Fiction, but I make exceptions for books that play fast and loose with Historical specifics. By this I mean I love books similar to the film, "A Knights Tale", or books like "My Lady Jane" and "A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue". This book did this. Yes, it takes place in Britains past, there are known Historical figures (some more fictional then others), and more. But, the style of speaking is more similar to modern day speaking, making for a more accessible book. The premise itself was fun, with a betrothed couple who hate each other and secretly love others. These secret relationships are queer, with one character being Gay and the other one Bi. The story follows these relationships while maintaining a sub plot with clashing political parties and ruling. Overall a quick fun, and funny, read that I will be purchasing for my library and recommending to my readers. (Thanks to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for the ARC)

Lex Croucher has managed to bring these LGBTQIA+ storylines together so well for this book! This has become one of my favorite books to date, especially for this year. The story flows so well between Gwen and Art's point of view. Most YA books aren't well fleshed out like this story is, with such a great message built in. I cannot wait to read more of their work in the future! All characters in this book felt so easy to visualize and fall for. A definite high recommendation to anyone who wants a good and mostly cozy read!

An edge of your seat, heartwarming, queer, not quite fairy tale. The title is true, Gwen and Art are not in love, at least not with each other. But princes and lady knights earn their attentions, while Gwen and Art deal with parental expectations, their betrothal, and sinister forces with their own agendas.
This story ramps up as you read and keeps you interested with inseparable relationship and political drama, playing on the continued legend of King Arthur.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, as it fulfills the fairy tale I wish I had when I was growing up. It is a strong piece that I believe will be important to queer teenagers and adults alike.
Thank you to Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy.

4.5 stars! One of the best romances I've read this year, queer or not. I normally judge the strength of a romance on whether I think I will ever want to pick it up again; most romances I read once and that's enough. I undoubtably will want to read Gwen and Art Are Not in Love multiple times.

First off, this book is genuinely funny, to the point you might find yourself laughing out loud. Which gay amongst us hasn't wishfully looked at a badass woman and thought "God, I hope she stabs me." I certainly would have happily let Bridget stab me... woof the description of her fighting were hot!

I appreciated how well-crafted the relationships between the characters were: not just the romances, but also the friendships too. For example, Arthur's conversation with Gabriel after he reacts badly to some news was so heartfelt. We've all longed for someone to stand up for us like Arthur did for Gwen. Because these dynamics were so well-written and developed, by the final chapter, you feel so at home amongst all the dynamics in the group - it feels like you're sitting with your own friends.

Finally, I found myself genuinely surprised by how caught up in the story I got beyond the romances. I thought I knew what this story would be, but the twists and turns along the way were not what I had predicted. I appreciated that the storyline kept me on my toes and guessing, and that it used the medieval time period to dodge some of the normal romance plot points.

Thank you to Lex Croucher, and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I hope to read more books by Lex Croucher soon!

4.5
Gwen and Arthur have been betrothed since childhood the only issue is they can’t stand each other. When Arthur is forced to go and get to know his future bride better during the summer tournaments he and Gwen find out each others secret. Gwen catches Arthur with another man and Arthur realizes that Gwen only has eyes for the lady knight Bridget Leclair. They come up with a scheme, pretend to get along and keep each others secrets.
I enjoyed the book. Gwen and Arthur’s characters were very well done and entertaining. The love interest and side characters were also likable and the story line kept a good pace. I enjoyed Gwen and Arthur’s developments throughout the story both personally and together. My only slight issue is the ending felt a bit rushed, I would’ve liked a little bit more at the end with their relationship and them coming into their new roles in life but it was still cute.

This is written as a YA in most regards but I would give a **trigger warning for alcohol use, violence, death of a parent, depression, murder, chronic illness, misogyny, medical misogyny, and vague homophobic themes (which, let's face it, is real and alive today as well!)**

This was a great queer retelling of King Arthur’s story (sort-of). It was quirky and cute. I appreciated that the characters were not cookie-cutter copies of the original standard Camelot-Era characters that just happened to be LGBTQ+. The author did a good job of injecting humor into the story. And allowing for individual growth that felt true to the majority of the characters.

Art and Gwen have been betrothed since childhood but have never got along well. When they both realize that they both have something to gain by playing along, they hatch a plan to make it work. I was frustrated with Art’s (okay, most of the characters) attitude(s) at times during the book. But there was enough humor to break up the ridiculousness and the seriousness of young people testing their wings and beginning to find their stride. There were times when the characters acted younger than their stated ages, and the pacing was slow in a few places, but overall was a great read, and I would recommend you check it out!

Many thanks to author Lex Croucher, St Martin’s Press, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review!

I am a sucker for a retelling, so I was so excited to read this! In this Camelot offshoot Arthur and Gwendolyn have been in an arranged marriage since Gwen's birth and have hated each other for almost as long. When their betrothal comes due and backing out is not an option they call a truce and pretend to get along. With the annual tournament going on we add in one attractive lady knight and one handsome prince and the summer gets more exciting than anyone expected.

I thought that the world building was very interesting. They have the Arthurian legend, of course, but people have split into factions. You have the Christians and the Cultists - those that are true to the legend and believe that King Arthur will rise again and that magic is real. Regardless of which faction people belong to you still have all the old names in play - Arthur, of course. Gwendolyn's family named here Guinevere adjacent. There is a mention of Lancelot, Gawain, and even a Merlin, although the last one is a cat.

The characters were all flawed and started the book with so much growing to do. Over the course of the summer the dynamics of Gwen, Art, Gwen's brother Gabriel, and the knight Bridget worked so wonderfully together and helped build the characters up in a natural progression rather than through a random epipheny. There were times when I felt that Arthur was a bit too much, but it was his gregarious personality that pushed the others to embrace their true selves.

While I did struggle a little with the pace in the middle of the book, it came together quite nicely in the end. Overall an enjoyable read.

I loved this book so much. I can see this becoming a comfort read for me.

I always get nervous when you follow more than one person in a book cause it's just so common for one POV to not be as interesting, but this was not the case with this book. I loved following both Art and Gwen equally.

The characters in this book are amazing. The banter and interactions between the characters are great, and I found myself chuckling quite a few times while reading this. You really do get invested in these characters fairly quickly. I would say the weakest reoccurring character for me was Agnes, and I wish we got more from her, but pretty much all the other characters were 10/10.

That big climax at the end had me STRESSED. I was worried for everyone. It was so epic. Maybe a little confusing at times just cause it seemed everything was moving so fast, but that's kind of the nature of it, so I get it.

The tagline says Heartstopper meets A Knight’s Tale. One of my favorite movies of all time (RIP Heath) meets one of my new favorite graphic novels? I SWOONED! Such a good book! 10/10 Recommend!

Gwen & Art Are Not in Love by Lex Croucher is a delightful YA romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love and acceptance. The story is filled with witty banter, relatable characters, and heartwarming moments. Croucher's writing style is engaging and her portrayal of the characters' emotions and struggles is both honest and nuanced. Overall, this book is perfect for those that are looking for a comforting and heartwarming read with queer representation.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for a review!

I'm a hardcore fantasy girlie. I normally read doorstoppers of books and get lost in worlds that aren't this one. I'm really not a romance person.

I've changed my mind. I'm specifically a Lex Croucher romance person because oh my god.
Gwen and Art Are Not in Love is presented as a romcom about two queer youths being forced to get along while pursuing their own interests- but it is also so much more.
I had heard about it on booktok, with people getting their scratch-off cover ARCs (no, I'm not jealous). The premise immediately interested me- I'm a sucker for Arthurian legend, especially when it's twisted like this (and NO, it is not a retelling. More of... inspired? Yet those familiar characters are still there, long in the distant past).
The characters are incredible, the banter lovely, the DRAMA?? Not to mention that reading Bridget is a fellow SEAsian really made me smile from ear to ear. I laughed out loud several times while reading, to the point where some friends of mine looked at me like I was nuts. I loved the way the relationships developed, and how the main cast wasn't one-dimensional and all had their own goals.
I will admit it took me a hot minute to actually start reading- I was reading an e-ARC, which I am eternally grateful for, but ebooks are hard for me. Now I'm mentally smacking myself because I REALLY should've gotten off my ass and finished reading sooner.
As a queer person of color from a religious background, parts of the novel hit hard for me (in a good way). It reminded me that there's still hope, and that things can change for the better. Maybe my own medieval romcom is sitting around the corner, waiting to be found.

In short, if the premise of Gwen and Art Are Not in Love interests you at all, I'm asking you to give it a shot, because you might find yourself pleasantly surprised like I did. A lovely debut, and I'm more than willing to read more of Croucher's work.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

**I was given an eARC in exchange for an honest review**

This is a really hard book to review, because I'm unsure if I didn't like it because of the actual quality, or if it was simply just not a book for me. I was reading it, mildly bored, and wondered if maybe I just wasn't in the mood for something like it.

I waited a very long time for something to happen. It didn't really feel like there as an actual plot or direction to the story. It wasn't until 75% in that I had any sense of what the plot would actually be, truly. And for the first 75% things were pretty fluffy until everything got serious. And it was *very* serious at that point, yet it seemed to wrap up nicely (perhaps too easily).

It was inherently character-driven, which is fine because I like character-drive stories, but the two protagonists/PoVs (Gwen & Art) weren't really captivating enough for that to work for me. They both had enough flaws to be interesting, but they lacked redeeming qualities that made you actually care about them. Growth was minimal and slow-coming, and honestly of the two, I think Gwen grew the most.

On that same note, the story obviously follows Gwen and Arthur as they're trying to sort out their sexualities. Art knows he's gay and isn't struggling with accepting that, just struggling with what that means in their society. Gwen is having a much harder time, partially because of the scrutiny of being not only a woman, but a princess. It's not as easy for her to explore her sexuality. This was an important thing to emphasize. However, while I totally grasped that she had a crush on Bridget, I struggled to actually feel the chemistry when they were actually interacting, rather than Gwen staring longingly at the knight. With Arthur and Gabriel, I just had a hard time accepting that Gabriel was into Arthur, mostly because it's hard to believe he had a longtime crush on someone who was such a nuisance to his sister, who was also his best friend.

The dialogue was witty and honestly my favourite part of the story. At times, however, it felt too witty. Even when scenes were supposed to be serious, it was witty, and this detracted from the story.

My more minor complaints include the lack of world-building. No clue what century this was supposed to take place in. Obviously it's an alternate of British history, in which King Arthur and magic existed at some point, probably the Medieval period as they say it was centuries after Arthur died (5th/6th century). But overall, could've used more there.

Overall, 3/5, I suppose? I'm conflicted. You would think I would score it lower because of my complaints, but it was a perfectly "meh" read. I wasn't excited to read it. I wasn't terribly motivated to keep going. But it was a book and I've read much worse.

I received a digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I've been on a bit of a King Arthur kick lately, and most of those novels have been fairly serious retellings of the main legends. This was something different, and honestly, it was just what I needed to get me through a bit of a reading slump. If you're reading for historical accuracy, then you are in the wrong place, but if you are looking for something more along the lines of a cozy queer romance with a few coy nods to Arthurian legend, then this is the book for you.

The banter was great, and these characters were a lot of fun to get to know. At first, I thought this was really going to be mostly rom-com and kind of shallow, but as we learn more about these characters, we find out that they are struggling with some pretty intense issues. The novel gets a little slow in the middle and then gets a lot darker toward the end, which I wasn't expecting. If it hadn't been for those issues making it feel a little lopsided, I would easily have given this five stars, because everything else was just so enjoyable.

Arthurian lore not just retold but reimagined and reborn. This novel was so fun. It included some political intrigue and dynamics. Fun and funny rom come banter. Several queer characters just trying to figure out who they are and what they really want while navigating what they think they can have. Medieval royalty 🤴 It has so many wonderful elements and is definitely worth the read. It’s ultimately a story of being proud of who you are and advocating for that 💖

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC! I really enjoyed myself with this one.