Thank you Netgalley and Running Press Kids for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Zachary Sergi’s “Love and Video Games” is an emotionally rich, quick-paced YA book examines the connection between the magic of mythology and the high-stakes thrill of competitive gaming all while depicting the quiet resilience of living with chronic pain into one unforgettable journey. It’s sweet, fun, and brimming with heart—perfect for fans of found family stories and soft queer romances.

In the real world, Keegan is an 18-year-old mythology nerd navigating undiagnosed chronic pain and the anxiety of leaving home for NYU. Online, he transforms into K.Odyssia—a powerful hero in the mythologically inspired game Pantheonic, where he slays monsters and leads his team, the Epic Hearts, through virtual quests. But beneath the avatar is a teen trying to balance his epic online life with the very real challenges of his body, identity, and future.

When a seemingly ordinary in-game mission turns into an invitation to a secret IRL tournament in New York City, Keegan and the Epic Hearts are thrust into a new kind of battle—one that tests not just their gaming skills, but their bonds, resilience, and personal growth. The prize? A hefty cash reward and a chance to prove themselves on a massive stage. But for Keegan, the real struggle is internal—coping with pain, opening up, and learning how to ask for help.

One of the book’s biggest strengths is its cast of lovable, complex characters. The Epic Hearts team exudes strong found family energy—supportive, quirky, and sometimes messy, but always rooting for each other. It’s that dynamic that gives the story its emotional punch. Britni, in particular, is a standout—sharp, warm, and endlessly endearing. The team’s camaraderie is believable and touching, with the kind of inside jokes and support systems that make you wish you could join the group chat.

The romantic subplot between Keegan and his teammate Alix is gentle and sweet, though a bit underdeveloped. I wasn’t really able to connect deeply with Alix, but their dynamic still adds an extra layer of vulnerability and hope to Keegan’s journey. It's more about emotional intimacy than sweeping declarations, which suits the story’s tone.

Sergi does a fantastic job bringing mythology into the gameplay world of Pantheonic, creating a setting that’s both fantastical and emotionally grounded. For mythology buffs, it’s a fun nod to the classics; for gamers, it captures the addictive camaraderie and adrenaline of team-based RPGs. The way the in-game quests mirror Keegan’s real-life challenges is smartly done—it's not just fantasy escapism, but a lens through which he processes his reality.

At the heart of the book is a nuanced, compassionate portrayal of chronic pain. Keegan’s struggle is raw and real—he’s not “fixed” by the end, and his pain doesn’t define him, but it does shape the decisions he makes and how he learns to advocate for himself. It’s a quiet kind of bravery, one that deserves the spotlight it gets here.

Overall, “Love and Video Games” is the literary equivalent of a healing potion—warm, affirming, and quietly powerful. It’s a celebration of the connections we forge both online and off, and of the strength it takes to show up for others and for yourself. Whether you’re a mythology nerd, a gamer, or just someone who loves a good underdog story with heart, this is one quest you’ll be glad you joined.

This was a sweet, quick read!

As a mythology nerd with chronic pain, I loved reading Keegan's journey. The game is fun, and I really enjoyed Epic Hearts's friendship throughout the story. It feels very found family (which is my favourite trope ever, so that aspect of the game really worked for me). I couldn't connect as much with Alix, but the romance was very cute regardless, and I absolutely adored Britni. Overall, it was a really heartwarming and fun!

This book is like a perfect gaming session—fun, immersive, and full of heart. It’s about friendship, first love, and figuring yourself out, all wrapped up in a world of myth and competition. The characters feel real, the emotions hit hard, and the story is both exciting and deeply personal. Whether you’re a gamer or just love a good coming-of-age story, this one will stick with you long after you turn the last page.