Book Review: Call Your Boyfriend by Kate Bromley
There’s something delightful about diving into a book that explores the tumultuous path of first loves, heartache, and quirky friendships. Call Your Boyfriend by Kate Bromley caught my eye with its premise: “A girlfriendless misfit teaching another girlfriendless misfit how to reel in the prom queen.” Intrigued? So was I!
From the very first scene, where Beau—our spirited and somewhat chaotic heroine—arrives at a party clutching a pair of panties, I knew I was in for a journey filled with laughter and heart. Beau’s encounter with Maia, the girl she’s been longing to have a candid conversation with, sets off a whirlwind of emotions that had me both chuckling and cringing. When Beau witnesses Maia sharing a kiss with someone else, it becomes clear that both girls are entangled in a web of misunderstandings and unrequited feelings. I loved how Bromley manages to mix humor with genuine heartache, making it relatable and deeply absorbing.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its exploration of love and self-worth. Both Beau and Charm—who decides to join forces with Beau to scheme against Maia—grapple with their own insecurities and parental issues. I found myself reflecting on their pasts, particularly Beau’s struggle with being the secret crush of straight girls, and Charm’s battle against an ex-girlfriend’s harsh judgments. As they’re thrust together in their plan to “woo” and subsequently dump Maia, their bond grows, showcasing a beautiful transformation from intent-driven collaboration to heartfelt connection.
Bromley’s writing style is engaging, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with tender introspection. The pacing was brisk, keeping the momentum alive as we follow Beau and Charm through their flirtation lessons. As a fan of romantic comedies, I particularly enjoyed the lighthearted banter combined with the profound realizations both characters experience. One memorable quote that struck a chord with me was when Beau mused about the complexities of love and friendship—it served as a poignant reminder that our expectations can often get in the way of what truly matters.
The supporting characters, especially Ezra and Celine, further enrich the narrative, adding depth to the themes of insecurity and personal growth. Their arcs illustrate that no character is simply a backdrop in this story; everyone has a struggle that adds to the tapestry of teenage life and love.
In essence, Call Your Boyfriend is a delightful sapphic romcom that deftly navigates the trials of young love while addressing topics like acceptance and the intricacies of LGBTQ+ relationships. It’s a book for anyone who enjoys rooting for the underdog, facing the awkwardness of youth, or simply wants a charming escape into a world where love, friendship, and self-acceptance reign supreme.
So, if you’re on the lookout for a story that encapsulates the messiness of growing up, all while serving humor and wisdom in equal measure, this book should definitely find a place on your shelf. I walked away feeling a little lighter and a lot more hopeful about the beauty of connections, both romantic and platonic. Thanks to Simon Teen for the eARC—I can’t wait to share this joy with fellow readers!
[ad_2]