A Sapphic Rom-Com Delight: A Review of Call Your Boyfriend
When I first stumbled upon Call Your Boyfriend by the ever-talented Katherine Locke, I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a quirky premise: "A girlfriendless misfit teaching another girlfriendless misfit how to reel in the prom queen." It’s a setup ripe for all kinds of teenage mischief and, of course, unexpected romance. After devouring this enchanting tale, I knew I had to share my thoughts, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint!
At its core, Call Your Boyfriend is a heartfelt journey of self-discovery wrapped in the complexities of young love. It starts with Beau, who arrives at a party with a pair of panties in hand, ready to confront the girl she’s been seeing. But just as Beau musters the courage to deepen their relationship, she discovers her love interest locking lips with someone else. This emotional gut-punch sets the stage for a delightful twist: Beau teams up with Charm, a fellow misfit, to take down the girl who played them both.
One of my favorite aspects of the story is the palpable chemistry between Beau and Charm. Their plan to use flirtation as a weapon against Maia quickly spirals into a heartwarming connection that makes the reader root for their romance. The amusing premise of “if we do this, we can’t fall in love” creates a delicious tension, leading to a series of comedic mishaps as they unwittingly grow closer. It’s an old trope, but it never fails to tug at my heartstrings!
Locke’s writing shines with authenticity as she tackles themes of insecurity, parental abandonment, and the complexities of emerging sexuality. Beau’s struggle with her reputation as a “playboy” in a world where the girls she attracts want to keep her a secret struck a chord with me; it’s a theme that resonates far beyond the pages. Similarly, Charm’s journey of self-esteem, depicted through her bemusement at her unexpected romantic prowess, added layers of depth and humor.
The supporting characters, from the layered Maia to the insightful Ezra and Celine, are brilliantly fleshed out, each bringing their own struggles and insecurities to the table. I appreciated how even minor characters brought richness to the narrative—each person felt well-rounded and real, allowing for a better understanding of the struggles faced by young LGBTQ+ individuals today.
Every twist and turn felt either comically delightful or painfully relatable, keeping me engaged from start to finish. I found myself laughing, crying, and even cringing in all the best ways—an emotional rollercoaster that only a book like this can deliver.
In conclusion, Call Your Boyfriend is a charming sapphic rom-com that I wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re a fan of witty banter, young love, or just enjoy a story about finding oneself amidst the chaos of teenage relationships, this book has something for you. Katherine Locke has crafted a narrative that not only entertains but also offers poignant insights into the power of love and friendship. I’m grateful to have read it, and I’m sure it will continue to resonate with many readers long after they turn the last page. Happy reading!