Suitabook

Gwen and Art are NOT in Love

Lex Croucher

Reading: Set expectations about a slow-building romance and friendship before reading. Consider checking in before the later battle material, then discuss how the characters respond when private relationships meet public duty.
Themes: Queer identity and social expectation: Gwen and Art are queer and are expected to fulfil a betrothal and royal duties that do not fit their attractions. The book presents competing or mixed signals about this.
Friendship beyond romance: Gwen and Art begin as hostile betrothed teenagers, then use a public pretence while confiding in and supporting each other. Their friendship is treated as a central strength and as distinct from the romances they pursue elsewhere.
Duty, power and belief: The kingdom contains competing religious and political interests, and Gwen and Art become involved as tensions grow around Camelot. The story appears to complicate inherited authority and belief through rival loyalties, but its final political direction is deliberately abrupt.
Worth knowing: Be aware of homophobia, pressure to marry and produce heirs, romantic longing, and a final section involving intense battle scenes, blunt bloodshed and an on-page amputation.