A review by mattiedancer
Gwen and Art Are Not in Love by Lex Croucher

funny lighthearted sad medium-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? Yes

4.0

Writing: 4.5⭐️/5 
Lex Croucher did a good job with this novel. Not only did I feel – viscerally and fully – the emotions and internal conflicts of the character, but I also understood deeply the mood and tone of the novel with ease. I liked the ease of writing, which at moments did turn to beautiful prose. 

Characters: 4.5⭐️/5
I thought the characters were extremely fun to read about. Where some of the characters may have felt a little trope-y, I’m willing to forgive because they also felt real and raw and conflicted. I loved their struggles to come to terms with both their histories and their desires and how to move forward in a world that is unlikely to accept them. 

Plot: 3.5⭐️/5 
I think 90% of the plot is so well done. At the end of the novel, it takes a turn I wasn’t expecting and, though it made sense in the course of the book, it really moved it from a fun, romantasy read to a more serious fantasy plot. The sudden change was jarring, but overall the plot was still enjoyable. 

Who Should Read This Book? 
  • Fans of King Arthur retellings – with twists
  • Those looking for a light fantasy-esque novel with LGBTQIA+ vibes

Content Warnings? 
Death of parent, death, war, violence, homophobia, biphobia, outing, misogyny, sexism, gore, blood, classism, emotional abuse, gaslighting, injury, injury detail, excrement, vomit, physical abuse, 

Post-Reading Rating:  4⭐️/5
Cute, sweet, and a little jarring at the end.

Final Rating: 4⭐️/5
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