The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King

"The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King" is an entertaining and sweet first book that's as funny as Bridget Jones, but appropriate for teens. Harry Trevaldwyn gives us Patrick "Patch" Simmons, a gay (and out) teenager navigating complicated friendships while looking for his first boyfriend.

This book is full of queer teenage joy, offering a refreshing escape from typical coming-out narratives. The supporting cast is well-crafted, each bringing their quirks and humour to Patch's world. Trevaldwyn's writing is clever, with great lines like "Patrick, it's only bloody cake!" that show (or remind one) what it's like to be a teenager. There is a wonderful twist on the classic big romantic gesture that I absolutely adored. You really can't help but root for him and his dramatic ways.

Patch's journey is full of laugh-out-loud moments. Whether he's chatting too much with a favourite teacher, plotting with friends, or being a bit too full of himself, he's always entertaining. His big personality and confidence make him fun to follow, even when he's being over-the-top (which is always).

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good laugh, a cute romance, and characters who aren't afraid to be themselves. It's bound to be a hit, and I can't wait to see what he writes next!

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Books | First Ink & NetGalley for an eARC copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

Completely enchanting. laugh out loud funny, occasionally very poignant and funny exactly what the world needs right now. Patch is ready for his first boyfriend and sets about making it happen with such blind enthusiasm, naivety, blissful confidence and deluded empathy that even while we expect things to come crashing down around him, we also know he will prevail and get a happy ending - albeit not the one he necessarily expects. He is so wonderfully self obsessed, a terrible friend and exhausting son, but also so full of love and good intentions you just won’t care. this book is a little bit of feel good heaven.
it’s also bloody refreshing to read a story about a gay teenager with absolutely no identify conflict, or even coming out trauma (in fact he enjoyed it so much he has done it four times). He’s not quite sure what’s expected of him as a gay teenager, so he’s writing the rules for himself.
This one is screaming out for a film or TV adaptation z can’t wait