Review of Never Been Kissed: A Queer Second-Chance Summer Romance by Timothy Janovsky
As someone who finds an undeniable joy in stories about love rediscovered, Never Been Kissed by Timothy Janovsky caught my eye with its sweet premise and nostalgic summer setting. The title alone resonated with the hopeful romantic in me, conjuring images of perfect kisses under starlit skies. This delightful novel offered not just a heartwarming tale of romance but also a deep exploration of self-discovery that had me rooting for its characters from the very first page.
At the center of the story is Wren Roland, a recent college graduate navigating the tumultuous waters of love, identity, and personal dreams. Wren’s quest for the perfect first kiss is not merely about physical romance; it’s about coming to terms with who he is and whom he truly desires. The moment he sends out emails to boys he nearly loved from his past, hoping for closure, I felt an echo of my own youthful vulnerability. It’s those relatable moments that made Wren’s journey feel so inviting.
The reappearance of Derick Haverford—a boy Wren never quite forgot—throws a delightful wrench in Wren’s plan to move on. Their reunion unfolds against the charming backdrop of a drive-in theater, a fading relic that symbolizes nostalgia and the magic of summer love. As Wren and Derick work together to save this beloved landmark, old feelings resurface and old insecurities come to the fore. The dynamics of their relationship are tender and sweet—filled with the kind of misunderstandings and revelations that make love stories satisfying.
Janovsky’s writing is both engaging and witty, capturing the young adult voice with authenticity. There’s a lightness to the prose that mirrors the playful nature of Wren and Derick’s interactions while still allowing for poignant introspection. I appreciated how the narrative smoothly balanced humor with more profound themes of identity and acceptance. Wren’s struggles with his sexuality and his journey toward self-acceptance are addressed with care, inviting readers to think deeply about their own journeys.
One memorable moment that stood out for me was when Wren reflects on how everyone has their own version of love. This idea resonates universally and especially touched me, given the backdrop of Wren’s letter-writing campaign—a heartfelt gesture in pursuit of closure. The way Janovsky portrays these relatable, real-life challenges through a lens of romantic comedy made for a delightful reading experience.
I believe Never Been Kissed is a perfect summer read for anyone looking for a light-hearted romance with a dash of emotional depth. It’s a lovely reminder that love often finds us in unexpected ways, and sometimes, we need to look back to move forward. If you’re a fan of queer narratives, second chances at love, or simply enjoy stories that celebrate identity and growth, this book will no doubt resonate with you.
Reading Janovsky’s novel left me feeling hopeful and deeply satisfied, as though I had just shared a perfect summer evening with friends—filled with laughter, a few tears, and that elusive spark of romance. I am already looking forward to the next installment in this charming series and can’t wait to see where Wren’s journey takes him next!
You can find Never Been Kissed: A Queer Second-Chance Summer Romance (Boy Meets Boy, 1) here >>