This queer medieval rom-com follows Princess Gwen and Arthur, betrothed since birth, as they navigate love, friendship, and adventure in a tale blending humor and heart.
1.1 Overview of the Novel
Gwen and Art Are Not in Love is a debut YA novel by Lex Croucher, blending queer medieval romance with witty humor. The story follows Princess Gwen, a sharp-tongued royal, and Arthur, her charming yet mischievous betrothed, as they navigate their arranged engagement and the chaos of tournament season. With its lighthearted tone, sword-fighting antics, and heartfelt moments, the novel explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, set against a backdrop of adventure and camaraderie. This rom-com delight has captured readers with its unique charm and relatable characters.
1.2 Author Lex Croucher and Their Influence
Lex Croucher, a rising star in YA literature, brings a fresh voice to the genre with Gwen and Art Are Not in Love. As a social media influencer and writer, Croucher’s engaging storytelling and relatable characters have resonated with readers. Their ability to weave humor, romance, and adventure into a medieval setting highlights their unique style. This debut novel solidifies Croucher’s place as a promising new talent, blending queer themes and heartfelt narratives that captivate a diverse audience and leave a lasting impression in contemporary young adult fiction.
Plot Summary
Gwen and Arthur, betrothed since birth, face unexpected challenges as tournament season unfolds, shaking their plans and forcing them to confront their true feelings and destinies.
2.1 The Betrothal of Gwen and Arthur
Gwen, the sharp-witted Princess of England, and Arthur, the charming future lord, have been betrothed since birth. Gwen initially rejoices, envisioning Arthur-free summers, while Arthur, ever the gadabout, seems indifferent. Their arranged union, a political convenience, sets the stage for a tale of unexpected adventures and emotional growth. The betrothal binds them, but their true feelings and desires remain unspoken, creating a foundation for the humor, romance, and self-discovery that unfold as they navigate their intertwined destinies.
2.2 The Tournament Season and Its Impact
The arrival of tournament season brings excitement and upheaval to Gwen and Arthur’s world. Gwen’s nocturnal exploits fade into the background as the festivities begin, shifting focus to the thrill of competition and camaraderie. The tournaments become a backdrop for adventure, showcasing sword-fighting prowess and fostering unexpected bonds. As Gwen and Arthur navigate this lively environment, their interactions spark a blend of rivalry and affection, complicating their arranged betrothal and setting the stage for a series of romantic and comedic misunderstandings that redefine their relationship.
Main Characters
Gwen, the sharp-witted Princess of England, and Arthur, a charming future lord, navigate their betrothal and adventures, showcasing their distinct personalities and evolving relationship dynamics with humor and charm.
3.1 Gwen: The Quick-Witted Princess
Gwen, the sharp-tongued Princess of England, captivates with her cleverness and independence. Betrayed by her betrothal to Arthur, she seeks freedom and joy, revealing a resilient and endearing spirit through her adventures. Gwen’s wit and charm make her a standout character, as she navigates the complexities of royal life and unexpected love. Her journey is filled with growth, humor, and a determination to define her own destiny, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability; Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability; Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen’s interactions with Arthur and others reveal her depth and complexity. Gwen’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. Gwen’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to embrace her true self. Gwen
3.2 Arthur: The Future Lord and Gadabout
Arthur, the charming yet irresponsible future lord, brings humor and lightness to the story. Engaged to Gwen since birth, his carefree nature contrasts with her sharp wit, creating a dynamic imbalance. Arthur’s adventures and charm often land him in trouble, yet his good-heartedness shines through. His journey explores themes of duty, friendship, and unexpected love, adding depth to his character. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his growth and the complexities of his role in their shared destiny. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur’s interactions with Gwen and others reveal his depth and complexity. Arthur’s character is a central highlight of the novel, showcasing his strength and vulnerability. Arthur’s story is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to embrace his true self. Arthur
Reception and Reviews
Themes and Genres
The novel blends queer medieval romance with humor, focusing on love, friendship, and found family. Its genre-defying mix of adventure and wit captivates readers seeking fresh, heartfelt stories.