Title: Not for the Faint of Heart
Author: Lex Croucher
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Publication date: November 26, 2024
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Summary
Mariel is the new captain of the Merry Men and is determined to live up to her grandfather Robin Hood’s legacy. So they capture Clem, a backwoods healer whose guardian was helping the Sheriff of Nottingham. Everything seems to be going according to plan until Jack Hartley, the Commander of the Merry Men and Mariel’s father, is captured. With Clem in tow, Mariel sets on a journey to get him back.
However, the woods are now at war, and the Merry Men aren’t exactly on the right side of history. As Mariel and Clem start to grow closer, they realize they have to fight for themselves and for those they love.
Review: Not for the Faint of Heart
Thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for an advanced copy of Not for the Faint of Heart to review! Lex Croucher is establishing themselves as an expert in queer historical YA fantasy. If you read for the vibes, this historical romance will definitely be a book for you.
There are a lot of great romance tropes in this, like enemies to lovers, only one bed, hurt/comfort, and kidnapping. The pacing is a little bit slow at the beginning, but it definitely picks up about halfway through the book as sparks start to fly between Clem and Mariel. Their relationship is probably the best part of the story, hands down.
There’s some great banter between the main characters as well, making the book itself entertaining to read and just a fun time. If you like historical rom-coms, definitely check this one out when it comes out in November!
4/5 stars