The classic 2000s Shakespeare retelling film in novel format. Jack Orsino is not having a good semester - a debilitating injury, a suddenly distant girlfriend and forced interaction with Viola Reyes. Things aren't looking rosy for Vi either - dude bros and "nice guys", a best friend that takes people pleasing to Olympic gold standard and having to do the work of most of the student body committee - in particular, its democratically elected (even after a recount) but largely useless president, Jack "Duke" Orsino.

Through an online game, the two connect and get to know each other better. The catch? Jack believes he's talking to Vi's brother, Bash. This book is a fantastic exploration of relationships - romantic, platonic and fandom. I was expecting a light, fluffy, funny YA read and I absolutely got that, but also much more. It's also an insightful look at how gender affects how people treat you, how race affects how people see you and how it's OK to be angry about that.

Special mention also has to go to the quoting of lyrics from the 10 Things I Hate About You soundtrack! Loved it.

This was perfection!

“Twelfth Knight” is encompassed the pure joy and essence of what a YA romcom book should be! The premise was really unique— even if it went over my head a little— which made for a really exciting story. I felt as though I’d never read anything like this before. I adored our heroine Violet, she was my favourite part of the whole thing! I saw a lot of myself in her and I just adored how tenacious, intelligent and confident in herself she was. She didn’t let people walk all over her and that makes her “unlikeable” but that was truly my favourite thing about her. I cheered every time she dished out a snarky quip but we still got an insight into the vulnerable shell she has beneath.

My second favourite thing was actually her budding friendship with Olivia :) I love a healthy beautiful female friendship in my books and Vi and Olivia delivered so hard. I was smiling so big in every scene just because a genuine, heartfelt female friendship is what Vi truly deserves. Both girls had a lot on their shoulders but they shared those burdens together and it was amazing to read.

And of course, Vi’s romance with Jack was super fun! Their dynamic reminded me of the romances in “I Hope This Doesn’t Find You” by Ann Liang and “Woke Up Like This” by Amy Lea, so fans of both will absolutely adore “Twelfth Knight”!

I absolutely love this book and everything that it stands for! I love that sometimes it takes the most unusual and unexpected ppl to bring us out of our shells and we find love in the places we least expect it! I also love girls kicking butt as well! Such a great message to send. I look forward to sharing much more soon!