From the New York Times bestselling author of The Atlas Six (under the pen name Olivie Blake) comes Twelfth Knight, a YA romantic comedy and coming-of-age story about taking up space in the world and learning what it means to let others in.

I will be leaving feedback for this book in the future :)
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I knew the romance was gonna go off when the main characters still kinda hated each other halfway through. And guess what? I was not wrong!

Twelfth Knight is, of course, a retelling of Shakespeare’s play – only, in this version, Viola and Duke Orsino are high schoolers with an intense rivalry in real life, and a budding friendship in an MMORPG. And, yes, Duke does think Viola’s character is played by her brother Sebastian, leading to confusion, hijinks, and romance.

I wholeheartedly enjoyed this novel. I’m a huge sucker for secret identity related shenanigans and thought that Twelfth Knight effectively used this plot device to explore Viola’s struggles with being an assertive woman online and irl. This book tackled those subjects with nuance and depth, which kept me invested in the story.

Also, it was just plain fun to see Vi and Duke stumble their way toward self-confidence, growth, and understanding and respecting each other! I love a slowburn romance so it made me very happy to see their relationship play out the way it did. (And I very much appreciated that this the messy love triangle aspect of the story had an LGBTQ angle. It is what this story deserves!!)

Viola and Duke Orsino are among my top favorite Shakespeare couples and I will read/watch any version of their story. I am so glad this one rose to my expectations <3

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchanged for an honest review.

I really loved Alexene Farol Follmuth’s first book so I had pretty high hopes for this one and it didn’t disappoint! Her combination of nerdy themes and sweet YA romance is always done so well, she’s autobuy author for me now.

I really enjoy Vi’s character and I feel like i I don’t read characters like her often enough. She was a little abrupt and abrasive sometimes - even a little unlikeable at moments - but that actually made me like her more because it was so refreshing and real. She’s not perfect, she makes mistakes and isn’t going to make herself smaller to make other people feel better. It can be almost uncomfortable at times because its so honest and unrestrained and really enjoyed that.

I also really enjoyed the overall commentary about sexism in nerd spaces and racism more generally. Jack’s arc around people-pleasing so as not to come off as the ‘angry black man’ was really interesting and well done. Vi and Jack both have something to learn from one another and I loved the journey.

The characters and relationships more generally were all great and overall I really loved this book! I can’t wait to see what the author does next!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Viola is a star student and student body vice president, although she does all of the work. The class president is star running back Jack “Duke” Orsino. Gaming is Viola’s escape from the real world, where her skills can be valued and not overlooked because she is teenage girl. When she meets a Jack in the game, she realizes that there may have been more to him than she thought.

My favorite thing about this book is its fierce feminism. Yes, Viola is pissed off for most of the duration of this book, but she has good reasons to be. It is one of the best portrayals I’ve recently read of the genuine hardships of being a young woman, labeled a “b*tch” for sticking up for herself and not being a people pleaser. I liked seeing her character development and seeing her open herself up to the relationships in her life. I also liked the queer representation, although I would have liked to see that explored a little more. I have never read Shakespeare’s Twelfth Knight, so the parallels were lost on me. I liked that the game was Viola’s escape and that the book addressed very real issues of being a woman in traditionally male spaces like in gaming. A sweet YA romance with a strong message, I really enjoyed this read!

This was so, so good. I teach Twelfth Night every year, and this was such a fun adaptation. I loved the parallels between football and MMORPGs, and the ways that Jack and Viola found common ground.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC

Well that was a story. It’s my very first book by this author and it’s definitely gonna be my last.
I can’t remember the last time I read about such a terrible MC. Vi was giving major “I’m not like other girls” vibes and nope. It’s 2024.
I think she was supposed to be edgy but she was just plain mean and the redemption arc was so stupid? Like she ended up being portrayed as the victim when she was still a huge part of the problem.
I get what the author tried to do here but the way feminism was described here it sounded terrible. E.g she kept saying that her mother couldn’t really cook bc she was working so much bc she’s such an independent woman. Yay. That’s not what feminism is about. Spoiler alarm: there are feminists that can cook and that’s okay. It’s also okay if you can’t cook but the ability to cook is just irrelevant to feminism.
I liked the BIPOC and queer representation a lot but that’s about it.
Also this is YA and literally every single character sounded like they came straight out of a Jane Austin novel. No teenager talks like that.
Vi was just annoying and the love interest wasn’t any better. They both were just full of themselves and lived in their own bubble of unfair treatment and victim mentality.
The ending was kinda okay and also a bit cute so I’m happy I pushed through but as I said: Vi didn’t deserve to be let off the hook that easily.

Thank you to Tor Teen and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. Super well done re-telling of Twelfth Night that fits with video games and high school and having a happy ending for all involved. Viola and "Duke" felt like people you actually see out in the world with some exaggeration that you expect in a teen romance. The game sounded like it would be super fun to actually play and something you could very easily become obsessed with, given the time. It was a quick read but a good one. 4 stars.

Honestly I don’t think there will ever be a book Alexene/Olivie writes that I don’t enjoy. The way she crafts characters is so special whether in the adult or ya genre. I can really get a feel for the people she writes and it’s such a strong aspect of her writing. I thought this book was so cute and would definitely recommend!

In "Twelfth Knight," Alexene Farol Follmuth crafts a delightful YA romantic comedy that seamlessly blends the allure of online gaming with the complexities of real-life relationships. Viola Reyes, known online as Cesario, finds solace and empowerment in her MMORPG alter ego, a knight who embodies everything she wishes to be: confident, skilled, and respected. Follmuth skillfully navigates Vi's journey as she grapples with societal expectations, friendships, and the unexpected allure of Jack Orsino, both online and offline.

Set against the backdrop of high school politics and personal growth, "Twelfth Knight" explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of connection. Vi's struggle to reconcile her online persona with her real-life self resonates deeply, especially as she navigates the complexities of friendships and budding romance. Follmuth's writing is witty and heartfelt, capturing the essence of teenage uncertainty and the thrill of discovering oneself amidst the chaos of adolescence.

The chemistry between Vi and Jack is palpable, whether they're battling monsters in Twelfth Knight or navigating the awkwardness of school dynamics. Follmuth masterfully weaves humor and tenderness throughout the narrative, making the characters' journey both relatable and immensely enjoyable. As Vi learns to embrace her true self and Jack grapples with unexpected feelings, readers are treated to a heartwarming story of self-discovery and young love.

"Twelfth Knight" is a charming addition to YA literature, offering a refreshing take on friendship, romance, and the power of authenticity. Follmuth's ability to blend gaming culture with heartfelt storytelling makes this novel a standout, perfect for readers looking for a blend of humor, romance, and meaningful introspection.

Alexene Farol Follmuth, also known as Olivie Blake, skillfully weaves Shakespearean magic with the challenges of modern youth in "Twelfth Knight," a delightful YA novel. As a fan of Follmuth's more adult works like "Atlas Six" and "Alone with You in the Ether," I was eager to explore her YA realm, and "Twelfth Knight" exceeded expectations. The story deftly integrates elements of Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" into a contemporary setting, emphasizing authenticity and self-discovery amidst societal pressures.

As someone well past her high school years, I approached this YA book with some trepidation, but I was pleasantly surprised. Viola Reyes, our fiercely independent protagonist, navigates high school life with a determination that resonates deeply. Her journey, filled with challenges like sexism in gaming communities and the weight of expectations, is both relatable and empowering. Follmuth portrays Viola's resilience in confronting these issues admirably, illustrating that strength lies in staying true to oneself.

Jack Orsino, grappling with setbacks from a football injury, adds a heartfelt layer to the story. His transformation from star athlete to a gamer exploring the virtual world of Twelfth Knight is poignant and engaging. The evolution of his relationship with Viola unfolds naturally, devoid of the clichés typical in YA romance.

What distinguishes "Twelfth Knight" is its adept handling of serious themes—such as sexism and self-discovery—with a light-hearted touch. The banter between characters is witty and endearing, grounding the narrative in authenticity. Follmuth excels in forging meaningful connections and evoking genuine emotions from her readers.

The seamless fusion of Shakespearean essence into a contemporary context is masterfully executed. Unlike retellings that feel forced or overly referential, "Twelfth Knight" effortlessly integrates its plot and characters into a narrative that feels wholly original. Viola Reyes, the grumpy yet fiercely determined protagonist, drew me into her world of MMORPGs and cosplay with such authenticity that I found myself rooting for her at every turn. Her struggles with gender stereotypes in gaming are portrayed realistically, resonating with many readers.

Additionally, the incorporation of gaming and roleplaying elements feels natural and integral to the story, showcasing the author's deep understanding and respect for these subcultures. Unlike narratives that awkwardly insert such themes, "Twelfth Knight" integrates them seamlessly, enriching rather than detracting from the story.

The slow burn romance between Viola and Jack stands out as a highlight of the novel. Unlike many romance stories that rush into unnecessary drama due to misunderstandings, 'Twelfth Knight' takes a refreshing approach. For once, the characters demonstrate emotional maturity, understanding that open communication can prevent needless complications. This realistic portrayal deepens their relationship organically throughout the novel. Their witty banter and evolving camaraderie are both entertaining and heartwarming, culminating in a satisfying romantic payoff.

In conclusion, "Twelfth Knight" is a charming blend of romance, self-discovery, and Shakespearean homage that will appeal to fans of both classic literature retellings and contemporary YA fiction alike. Follmuth's skillful storytelling and nuanced character development make this a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and immersive narrative.

Readers who appreciate well-developed characters, witty dialogue, and narratives that seamlessly blend contemporary issues with classic literature will find "Twelfth Knight" to be a captivating and rewarding read.

I really wanted to love this as someone who plays D&D. But I just could not get into it. I tried multiple times to pick this up.

Finished 07/07/2024 || Twelfth Knight by Alexene Farol Follmuth || #TwelfthKnight #NetGalley #RomCom

Thank you NetGalley, Alexene Farol Follmuth, and Tor Publishing Group | Tor Teen for making this e-ARC available!
Please note: This review may not be reproduced or quoted, in whole or in part, without explicit consent from the author and myself.
All of my thoughts are my own~

2.5 Stars over all

CW: mentions of racism and microaggressions, misogyny- this last one is hard to describe so easily but without spoiling much there is a male character that is a "nice guy" who pushes himself on the female characters but nothing much else transpires
Also I will be speaking about it deeper in my review, but there is a part of the book where sexuality is spoken about and it gave quick queer mention then sped past it.

For full transparency college has been eating away at my leisurely time so I did not get to this title before its publishing date

Over all this book has a good idea for the plot, I loved the nerding out parts, and I loved how the characters *mostly* interacted with one another.

As mentioned in the CWs there were mentions of racism and microaggressions, and while I understand there are plenty of books out there that explore how BIPOC handle these issues, I felt how quickly and casually these very real and very intense issues were mentioned and how quickly they were brushed off unless being made mention for the character's reactions to something.

The entire character of Vi is centered around feminism and being strong and how she came to be so shut off and the "grumpy" bitch/nerd was due to harassment and heckling because she was a woman in fandom spaces- I'm sure this would have only been worse if they'd known she was not white. Online she chooses to pretend to be a man in these fandom spaces because she was the target of harassment and hate- something we learn about extremely second-hand even though it was something that really explained a lot of her issues. Meanwhile Jack was morphed into the lovable, forgiving, almost people pleasing "sunshine" Jock to avoid the issues of being an "angry Black Man" in the eyes of his peers. These very real and pressing matters were simply used as plot points and ways to justify how the characters, both Jack and Vi, handled their very understandable anger. None of this was explored, and again- only seemed to be used to propel the romance plot forward.

Again, while I understand that this book had only so much room for so many plot points, I found it sorta wack knowing how many white audiences will more than likely consume this book and not understand half of the nuances for these very real and very serious issues. Being used as plot devices or personality markers was,,,,,hmmm. A choice.

The other part is the sexuality exploration blip we got. The whole reason Jack and Vi even began to orbit one another in-person was the fact Jack asks Vi to please befriend his not girlfriend, girlfriend Olivia, and find out why she's breaking things off with him. Through befriending, becoming close with, and understanding Olivia more, Olivia reveals she has feelings for another girl and in the process doesn't know if she likes Jack anymore. Granted they are only teens and Olivia comes from a very strict background, I felt like they could have made this a touch more clear. Olivia confesses (sorta???) that she likes Vi as more than a friend and Vi has to think about if she feels the same because her inner thoughts sorta do sorta don't- she doesn't fully know. She does an entire research mission and confides in her mom that yes she finds Olivia very pretty and nice to be around, she ultimately likes boys (Jack) more but is confused if this means she is bi. Honestly, I found that the quick dismissal of her questioning herself was not done in the best of tastes and when it didn't amount to anything beyond her and Olivia becoming better friends (wonderful honestly I loved their connection), Olivia telling Jack so that they were officially over and that he could pursue Vi- I didn't see the reasons for this at all. Thankfully the book does have Vi respond back to Olivia positively, but its sorta rushed and I was glad that Vi and Jack ended up being very supportive of Olivia, but the need for this just????? Made no sense.

To start exploring the possibilities of one being bi usually means there is more than just "oh she is pretty'- again, another very serious matter used as a weird plot device to propel the plot is strike two on my list.

So besides the issues mentioned here, I felt the nerd aspects in the book were lovely. I loved the convention sequence, and the details about Vi's cosplay were lovely- her interactions with the other con goers and even Jack was super endearing and I loved watching them essentially fall for one another via this sequence. I enjoyed Jack and Vi playing the game a lot and again, the details there were fantastic- the environments, the fights, the plot to the game. I loved their romance a lot. The writing style was superb too. But that is it for my positives.

I felt like this book was trying to hit all its diversity milestones without exploring these aspects at all which sucks and did not work for me at all.

This was such a great book that I read it in one sitting. I loved the characters and their development and also the storyline. I always find these such a sweet romance. I would definitely recommend this book.

For fans of D&D and amazing YA romcoms! Olivie Blake aka Alexene Farrol Follmuth is such an amazing writer. This was cute, immersive, and I was hooked from the start. I loved the way the characters grew throughout the story, the way they dealt with their emotions, and all the feminist themes as well.

4.5 ⭐️

For me, Alexene's YA never misses. I adored Viola and Jack's story. Twelfth Knight has the perfect combination of levity and depth that come so organically. A true romcom classic. It reminded me of 10 Things I Hate About you and She's the Man in the best way possible. The Shakespeare references as well as the gaming aspect made me love the story even know. Twelfth Knight was an instant favorite for me.

Definitely recommend this fun YA romcom to fans of 2006 She’s the Man. This was a fun retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night but set in a high school environment.

Features:
👾 Nerd x jock
👾 Coming of age story
👾 Video game quests
👾 Shakespeare retelling

Thanks to NetGalley and the Publishers for this ARC!

This is a very cute read with a grumpy x sunshine pairing. If you are a fan of 90s and early 2000s romcoms like myself, you will enjoy this. If you are a part of any fandoms, you will feel seen and enjoy this. Though no longer a young adult myself, I did resonate more with these characters than I thought I would.

Vi is the angry, takes no one's shit, smart, and geeky female protagonist. When not on top of her studies or role as student body vice president, she loses herself in the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) of Twelfth Knight. There her role playing counterpart is a male knight named Cesario. Her decision to take on a male character is due to the negative experiences playing as a female (i.e. not taken seriously or respectfully by her male gamer counterparts).

Jack is your what may seem like typical popular and charismatic high school football player and student body president. However, a serious injury at one of the games, keeps him from playing the rest of the season. He than grapples with the pressure of who he wants to be and if that means getting better to continue his family's football legacy or something else. He also has to deal with his distant girlfriend, Olivia, who now wants to put a pause in their relationship.

In school, Jack enlists Vi's help to find out what's going on with Olivia and in exchange he will take his role and responsibility as class president more seriously. Having nothing to do while he heals at home, Jack's friend introduces him to Twelfth Knight. In the game, Jack meets Vi's character Cesario who he asks for help to get better at playing the game. Afraid to tell Jack who she really is, Vi tells Jack she is actually her twin brother Sebastian. The two get closer in real life and the game.

As earlier stated I really enjoyed this story. It kept me entertained from beginning to end. If you're looking to read a lighthearted romance for the summer, this is the one.

Thank you NetGalley & Tor Publishing Group for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

this book is my perfect niche like i am the target audience of this book. nerd culture, slow burn, and twelfth night retelling??? i have never been more sat.

i am so grateful i was chosen to receive an arc of this book, it was actually my first of hers! i will definitely be going back and reading her others now though.

thank you netgalley for an arc of this book!!

I adored this book! It was so good! I’m a huge fan of Shakespeare retellings, Olivie Blake , and nerd culture… So this was a full homerun for me. I really connected with Vi about the sometimes aggressive sexism in nerd culture. Everything was so well done! The ending was everything it should have been! I’ll miss these characters!