Title: Encore!
Author: Miles Toriko Burks
Publisher: HarperAlley
Publication date: June 2, 2026
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Summary
Clay is determined to have an excellent senior year with his friends doing theater things. But when his ex-best friend, Aron, suddenly joins their drama class, things get complicated. The two are paired up for an improv exercise, and Clay is annoyed that he’s acting like nothing happened between them.
However, as Aron and Clay start to spend more time together, they realize that maybe their old feelings are coming back. But will they be able to move past what ended their friendship to begin with?
Review: Encore!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for an advanced copy of Encore! By Miles Toriko Burks to review! This is a quick read, but an absolutely delightful one. I felt like the art style fit the overall tone of the story well, bringing Aron, Clay, and their friends to life. It’s a rare instance where Hearstopper is a comp title and it feels accurate.
The theater framework for the story works well. Especially since Aron feels like he’s been playing a role for everyone else. Hanging out with Clay allows him to let his guard down and feel like himself for the first time in a long time. It’s sweet that he finally doesn’t feel worried about what other people will think of him.
However, Clay feels the opposite. Re-igniting his friendship with Aron has made him put his guard up with his other friends because he is afraid of rejection. Part of his journey is coming to terms with this fear and learning how to still be a good friend despite his anxiety.
I’m glad we’re getting more fluffy, romance themed graphic novels. Can’t wait to recommend this when it comes out in June!
5/5 stars