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Wrong Answers Only
Marco's always done the right thing. But now it's time for wrong answers only.
Marco should be at university, studying biomedicine. Instead, he’s been sent to live on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean with his estranged uncle, all because of a ‘blip’ everyone else is convinced was a panic attack. (Which it most definitely was not.)
And even though Marco’s trip is supposed to provide answers – about himself, about his family – all he finds on board the Ocean Melody are more and more questions.
But then his best friend CeCe proposes a new plan: for someone who has always done the right thing, in every possible way, it’s time for Marco to get a few things wrong. And hooking up with a hot dancer from the ship is only the beginning . . .
Marco should be at university, studying biomedicine. Instead, he’s been sent to live on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean with his estranged uncle, all because of a ‘blip’ everyone else is convinced was a panic attack. (Which it most definitely was not.)
And even though Marco’s trip is supposed to provide answers – about himself, about his family – all he finds on board the Ocean Melody are more and more questions.
But then his best friend CeCe proposes a new plan: for someone who has always done the right thing, in every possible way, it’s time for Marco to get a few things wrong. And hooking up with a hot dancer from the ship is only the beginning . . .
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2024
35 people are currently reading
4873 people want to read
About the author
Tobias Madden
6 books349 followersTobias is an author and editor from Sydney, Australia. Originally from Ballarat, Tobias worked for ten years as a performer, touring Australia and New Zealand with musicals such as Mary Poppins, CATS, Singin' in the Rain, and Guys and Dolls. In 2019, he edited and published UNDERDOG, the first #LoveOzYA short story anthology for previously unpublished Aussie young adult fiction writers. Also in 2019, he wrote the cabaret show Siblingship, which played to sold out audiences in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra. Tobias is a passionate member of the #LoveOzYA and LGBTQ+ communities, and currently works in publishing as a Digital Marketing Executive and YA Publicist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
August 13, 2024
I’ve read all of Tobias Madden’s books and think this one is his best so far. It reminded me of Phil Stamper’s Golden Boys. Wrong Answers Only and Golden Boys are both about boys on the cusp of adulthood who close a chapter and start a new one.
Mario has it all. He was a golden boy at high school who has never failed in his life. Until he’s almost leaving for university. Then Marco freezes, having multiple panic attacks, blibs, as he calls them.
Instead of going to university, Marco takes a gap year and leaves for Europe to live on a cruise ship his estranged uncle is working on. To find answers.
Marco always wants answers to his questions, but what if you can’t find them? Or can only find the wrong ones? This is what Wrong Answers Only is about.
As always, Tobias’ writing is breezy and vivid, and this story is easily readable despite the tougher topics. Like I said, it felt like Golden Boys. Don’t expect a romance because this isn’t one. It’s a story of finding yourself, a story about family relationships and friendship. I liked Marco’s friendship with CeCe, and I loved Renzo, but I disliked Hunter from the start. Oliver though, I wanted to know better (and somehow wanted Marco and Oliver to get together).
If you liked Golden Boys or Phil Stamper’s writing overall, I highly recommend this book. But also if you have a soft spot for stories about finding yourself, family, and friends.
Thank you, Jane from Pagestreet, for this wonderful ARC!
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Mario has it all. He was a golden boy at high school who has never failed in his life. Until he’s almost leaving for university. Then Marco freezes, having multiple panic attacks, blibs, as he calls them.
Instead of going to university, Marco takes a gap year and leaves for Europe to live on a cruise ship his estranged uncle is working on. To find answers.
Marco always wants answers to his questions, but what if you can’t find them? Or can only find the wrong ones? This is what Wrong Answers Only is about.
As always, Tobias’ writing is breezy and vivid, and this story is easily readable despite the tougher topics. Like I said, it felt like Golden Boys. Don’t expect a romance because this isn’t one. It’s a story of finding yourself, a story about family relationships and friendship. I liked Marco’s friendship with CeCe, and I loved Renzo, but I disliked Hunter from the start. Oliver though, I wanted to know better (and somehow wanted Marco and Oliver to get together).
If you liked Golden Boys or Phil Stamper’s writing overall, I highly recommend this book. But also if you have a soft spot for stories about finding yourself, family, and friends.
Thank you, Jane from Pagestreet, for this wonderful ARC!
Follow me on Instagram
May 28, 2024
the way this book quickly became one of my favourite books ever.
brilliantly written, this book made me feel every emotion, and even shed a few tears. a heartwarming story of Marco, who’s figuring himself out and trying to navigate the world as a gay 18 year old. after experiencing a couple of panic attacks, he’s whisked away to the Mediterranean (goals) by his estranged Uncle, with more questions than answers.
a few laugh-out-loud moments and a story interesting enough to keep me engaged, pacing pretty much perfect. I can’t fault it. I loved every minute of it.
there were just so many parts that spoke to my own experience as a gay person, as well as my interests and personality (like loving trivia, being competitive, always having to be right) which is why I think I liked it so much, because I could see myself in Marco. the book was also pleasantly surprising, in the way that the way I thought the story was going wasn’t how it ended, and the lessons or moral of the story was quite different to where I thought we’d end up, and I loved that.
If I was an annotator, I would be highlighting and tagging just about every chapter in this book, so many good quotes and lessons and things to delve into deeper, which I also didn’t expect. this would be a great book club read.
anyway….. I love queer literature.
GAY RIGHTS!!!!!!!!
brilliantly written, this book made me feel every emotion, and even shed a few tears. a heartwarming story of Marco, who’s figuring himself out and trying to navigate the world as a gay 18 year old. after experiencing a couple of panic attacks, he’s whisked away to the Mediterranean (goals) by his estranged Uncle, with more questions than answers.
a few laugh-out-loud moments and a story interesting enough to keep me engaged, pacing pretty much perfect. I can’t fault it. I loved every minute of it.
there were just so many parts that spoke to my own experience as a gay person, as well as my interests and personality (like loving trivia, being competitive, always having to be right) which is why I think I liked it so much, because I could see myself in Marco. the book was also pleasantly surprising, in the way that the way I thought the story was going wasn’t how it ended, and the lessons or moral of the story was quite different to where I thought we’d end up, and I loved that.
If I was an annotator, I would be highlighting and tagging just about every chapter in this book, so many good quotes and lessons and things to delve into deeper, which I also didn’t expect. this would be a great book club read.
anyway….. I love queer literature.
GAY RIGHTS!!!!!!!!
September 12, 2024
✰ 2.5 stars ✰
“Let go.
Let life surprise you.
Get a few things wrong.”
Yeah, no...I was not a fan of this one, at all. It may be that I'm just a bad fit with the premise of this, itself that turned me against it. Because I do want answers in life; I do want a justification for people's actions, not to let it go, for the sake of sanity. I do want to make the right decisions, so that my life can go in the right direction. I'm not wired to be that person, so maybe that is why I was unable to really empathize with Marco's crisis or how easily it was for him to dismiss all the unanswered problems in his life - simply 'because not all questions need to be answered.' I was a wrong fit for the very subject matter of this book, itself.
Wrong Answers Only is my third book of Tobias Madden, and perhaps, my least favorite. It depicted Marco's anxiety with a very honest and realistic touch. But, that was probably the only thing that resonated with me; his fear of not living up to his dreams - the possibility of the unknown dampening his desire to just live. 'I’ve done everything I was supposed to, at every step of the way.' For when he does live - even when his decisions are literally all the wrong ones - knowingly - why does it not surprise me that everything just went spectacularly wrong because of those choices? 🤨
“When I’m hanging out with CeCe, or ‘hanging out’ with Hunter, I do feel better. But those distractions aren’t constant. My problems still exist.
And the answer page is still very much missing.”
One would argue that this is really how friendships are; but, at eighteen, I would not want anyone to behave as petty and juvenile as the two supposed soulmates behaved in order to aggravate the other. Their argument was so the drama! 'You’ve always picked the right answers. I think it’s time for you to get a few things wrong.' Cue the eye-roll, because in what day and age are people still whining over being clingy with each other? Why are people so self-entitled to believe that all their attention should be invested in themselves? 😮💨 It was so unnecessary, especially when they both agreed to the terms they set out on! Messiness that has no basis to it irks me to no end! Neither of them behave maturely or responsibly, and it irked me even more that Marco was the only one apologizing, when CeCe was not entirely innocent either, yet, for the sake of friendship, it never was addressed, because oh so conveniently, outside forces intervene for things out of their control, hence all is water under the bridge. Urgh... 🙄
And another thing! How come I was able to figure out what the reason was behind the bad blood between Marco's uncle and his family, the minute the author focused on it, and it did not even dawn on Marco till his uncle informed him?? Urgh, and this is the point where while I'm typing, my rational mind kicks in - well, Amina, Marco did have a lot of other things on his mind that prevented him from noticing the obvious, so please find it in your heart to forgive him...
Uff, fine. This time, anyway. 🙎🏻♀️
My point is - I did not feel that Marco's dilemma was legitimate enough to warrant a reasoning behind his cruise that served as a distraction - let alone an escape from the extra burden of responsibility and overwhelming feeling of being scared. If finding a guy to hook up with was the only thing he needed to make himself feel more alive - to lessen the stress levels that he was feeling by living up to his own expectations of himself - that seems like a shoddy reason.
Not to mention how Hunter's character arc was even treated without even a remorseful thought from Marco. Fine, I don't deny that he was a willing participant, but I just felt zero chemistry or attraction between the two; could not conceive why he was so committed to him, when he gave him nothing really - in return. 🙅🏻♀️ I'm not saying that I don't think people do need a breather to let go of their troubles; but even after he faced the troubles aboard the cruise and learned more about himself, my heart did not go out to him.
“ Because my life right now? It’s missing the answer pages. All I’ve got are the problems.
And even if I think I’ve found the solution to one of my problems, I can’t check the back of the book to make sure it’s correct.”
I failed to see what else he really did out of his comfort zone aside from hooking up with Hunter. What else did he do wrong exactly? Going against his parents' wishes? Keeping silent about a family secret? Behaving like a child with his platonic best friend? Acting like his boy toy to this 21-year-old, who was in his own ways, just as immature and superficial and who was not even worth it! 'Because Hunter is a drug. And I’m addicted to the escape.' 😒 No self-value for himself by turning into a hopeless sap in front of him, acting jealous and at the same time getting over things so very easily - as if it doesn't really mean anything.
I kept thinking was it deliberate to write Hunter as such a character that was undeserving of sympathy? Regardless of who blabbed his indiscretion, the very fact that he had such a blase attitude about the very rules and guidelines he was meant to follow, clearly means he doesn't take it all too seriously. And is that not a perfect example of how letting things go, really is not the right way to go??? 😩
Uff, just thinking about it annoys me, even though it really is not my place to be annoyed!
I feel nowadays that books are not written to be enjoyed anymore, but to prove a point. Marco's family - nothing was resolved positively enough to further progress the troubles that he left with; I did not feel satisfied. I know it is not supposed to be a lighthearted read, all things considered. 😑 But, when all is revealed, I did not find the reasoning behind sending Marco on this cruise the right call - knowingly that he was already stressed out enough, simply using him as a gateway for other family issues. It was wrong on so many levels, that I did not even feel that it felt right in the end. I just feel like ideas are thrown out, but never really explained in full. It seems to be the brand of the author's; portray a tight-knit friendship, only to have it devolve over a childish and misconceived notion, and finally for them to have it all and end up bffs again. Third time's the charm, they say, but I really was not feeling. 😕
Yet, if I was to don my more sensible hat, then, yes, it was well-written, despite how annoyed it left me feeling, I won't deny that. Humorous and heartfelt? Not so much - definitely no laugh out loud moments for me or ones where I felt the human connection. And yet, I think I can still understand what the author was trying to convey. That by Marco behaving in ways that did not align with his personality, he was actually making things a lot worse than they were. And as the problems exponentially increased, it made matters more troublesome for him. But, that in time, also contradicts with his final thoughts where he reasons that not everything needs an answer, so just make the most of what you get in life. I think it's best if I just say, it's me, not the book, and leave it at that. 😒
“Let go.
Let life surprise you.
Get a few things wrong.”
Yeah, no...I was not a fan of this one, at all. It may be that I'm just a bad fit with the premise of this, itself that turned me against it. Because I do want answers in life; I do want a justification for people's actions, not to let it go, for the sake of sanity. I do want to make the right decisions, so that my life can go in the right direction. I'm not wired to be that person, so maybe that is why I was unable to really empathize with Marco's crisis or how easily it was for him to dismiss all the unanswered problems in his life - simply 'because not all questions need to be answered.' I was a wrong fit for the very subject matter of this book, itself.
Wrong Answers Only is my third book of Tobias Madden, and perhaps, my least favorite. It depicted Marco's anxiety with a very honest and realistic touch. But, that was probably the only thing that resonated with me; his fear of not living up to his dreams - the possibility of the unknown dampening his desire to just live. 'I’ve done everything I was supposed to, at every step of the way.' For when he does live - even when his decisions are literally all the wrong ones - knowingly - why does it not surprise me that everything just went spectacularly wrong because of those choices? 🤨
“When I’m hanging out with CeCe, or ‘hanging out’ with Hunter, I do feel better. But those distractions aren’t constant. My problems still exist.
And the answer page is still very much missing.”
One would argue that this is really how friendships are; but, at eighteen, I would not want anyone to behave as petty and juvenile as the two supposed soulmates behaved in order to aggravate the other. Their argument was so the drama! 'You’ve always picked the right answers. I think it’s time for you to get a few things wrong.' Cue the eye-roll, because in what day and age are people still whining over being clingy with each other? Why are people so self-entitled to believe that all their attention should be invested in themselves? 😮💨 It was so unnecessary, especially when they both agreed to the terms they set out on! Messiness that has no basis to it irks me to no end! Neither of them behave maturely or responsibly, and it irked me even more that Marco was the only one apologizing, when CeCe was not entirely innocent either, yet, for the sake of friendship, it never was addressed, because oh so conveniently, outside forces intervene for things out of their control, hence all is water under the bridge. Urgh... 🙄
And another thing! How come I was able to figure out what the reason was behind the bad blood between Marco's uncle and his family, the minute the author focused on it, and it did not even dawn on Marco till his uncle informed him?? Urgh, and this is the point where while I'm typing, my rational mind kicks in - well, Amina, Marco did have a lot of other things on his mind that prevented him from noticing the obvious, so please find it in your heart to forgive him...
Uff, fine. This time, anyway. 🙎🏻♀️
My point is - I did not feel that Marco's dilemma was legitimate enough to warrant a reasoning behind his cruise that served as a distraction - let alone an escape from the extra burden of responsibility and overwhelming feeling of being scared. If finding a guy to hook up with was the only thing he needed to make himself feel more alive - to lessen the stress levels that he was feeling by living up to his own expectations of himself - that seems like a shoddy reason.
Not to mention how Hunter's character arc was even treated without even a remorseful thought from Marco. Fine, I don't deny that he was a willing participant, but I just felt zero chemistry or attraction between the two; could not conceive why he was so committed to him, when he gave him nothing really - in return. 🙅🏻♀️ I'm not saying that I don't think people do need a breather to let go of their troubles; but even after he faced the troubles aboard the cruise and learned more about himself, my heart did not go out to him.
“ Because my life right now? It’s missing the answer pages. All I’ve got are the problems.
And even if I think I’ve found the solution to one of my problems, I can’t check the back of the book to make sure it’s correct.”
I failed to see what else he really did out of his comfort zone aside from hooking up with Hunter. What else did he do wrong exactly? Going against his parents' wishes? Keeping silent about a family secret? Behaving like a child with his platonic best friend? Acting like his boy toy to this 21-year-old, who was in his own ways, just as immature and superficial and who was not even worth it! 'Because Hunter is a drug. And I’m addicted to the escape.' 😒 No self-value for himself by turning into a hopeless sap in front of him, acting jealous and at the same time getting over things so very easily - as if it doesn't really mean anything.
I kept thinking was it deliberate to write Hunter as such a character that was undeserving of sympathy? Regardless of who blabbed his indiscretion, the very fact that he had such a blase attitude about the very rules and guidelines he was meant to follow, clearly means he doesn't take it all too seriously. And is that not a perfect example of how letting things go, really is not the right way to go??? 😩
Uff, just thinking about it annoys me, even though it really is not my place to be annoyed!
I feel nowadays that books are not written to be enjoyed anymore, but to prove a point. Marco's family - nothing was resolved positively enough to further progress the troubles that he left with; I did not feel satisfied. I know it is not supposed to be a lighthearted read, all things considered. 😑 But, when all is revealed, I did not find the reasoning behind sending Marco on this cruise the right call - knowingly that he was already stressed out enough, simply using him as a gateway for other family issues. It was wrong on so many levels, that I did not even feel that it felt right in the end. I just feel like ideas are thrown out, but never really explained in full. It seems to be the brand of the author's; portray a tight-knit friendship, only to have it devolve over a childish and misconceived notion, and finally for them to have it all and end up bffs again. Third time's the charm, they say, but I really was not feeling. 😕
Yet, if I was to don my more sensible hat, then, yes, it was well-written, despite how annoyed it left me feeling, I won't deny that. Humorous and heartfelt? Not so much - definitely no laugh out loud moments for me or ones where I felt the human connection. And yet, I think I can still understand what the author was trying to convey. That by Marco behaving in ways that did not align with his personality, he was actually making things a lot worse than they were. And as the problems exponentially increased, it made matters more troublesome for him. But, that in time, also contradicts with his final thoughts where he reasons that not everything needs an answer, so just make the most of what you get in life. I think it's best if I just say, it's me, not the book, and leave it at that. 😒
March 25, 2024
Thank you Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Tobias Madden’s third young adults outing is a campy, inspiring and engaging reading experience that will leave a smile on your face.
Marco is ready for university to study bio medicine after he aced his exams.
But he has a panic attack putting a damper on his world.
Coming up with an answer, he is sent to recover and self discover on a ship with his estranged uncle.
Meeting up with his best friend CeCe, they make a plan.
Marco has always done the right thing but now it’s time to do the wrong and getting it on with a handsome American dancer is the first of many.
Wrong Answers Only is a bright, breezy and fun read.
While Marco makes some questionable decisions, his charming and meaningful attitude is addictive and sweet.
A bingeable, lively and fun queer dramedy with an infectious plot alongside some serious issues, a cast of distinctive personalities and a setting on the high seas and you can also enjoy Tobias’s all round contagious writing.
Check out Tobias’s back catalogue, if you haven’t all ready.
Tobias Madden’s third young adults outing is a campy, inspiring and engaging reading experience that will leave a smile on your face.
Marco is ready for university to study bio medicine after he aced his exams.
But he has a panic attack putting a damper on his world.
Coming up with an answer, he is sent to recover and self discover on a ship with his estranged uncle.
Meeting up with his best friend CeCe, they make a plan.
Marco has always done the right thing but now it’s time to do the wrong and getting it on with a handsome American dancer is the first of many.
Wrong Answers Only is a bright, breezy and fun read.
While Marco makes some questionable decisions, his charming and meaningful attitude is addictive and sweet.
A bingeable, lively and fun queer dramedy with an infectious plot alongside some serious issues, a cast of distinctive personalities and a setting on the high seas and you can also enjoy Tobias’s all round contagious writing.
Check out Tobias’s back catalogue, if you haven’t all ready.
September 3, 2024
A coming of age story with humor, wit, anxiety, romance, family drama, and friendship. This was such a beautifully told story. Marco is supposed to be going to university, but when he begins to have panic attacks, his grandmother suggests he go on a cruise ship with his estranged Uncle for some needed relaxation. His best friend joins him and encourages him to talk to his crush. What follows is a bit of romance, a lot of self discovery, some family drama and secrets, a test of friendship, and a look at anxiety.
I think many queer/gay people will find aspects of this story relatable. There was great conversation about coming out, generational differences in attitudes towards being gay, secrecy and the damage family members can inflict on gay psyches. This followed a YA character but it had a lot of “grown up” conversations. The main character was flawed and had some growing up to do, but was endearing and I found myself rooting for him, his growth, and his family. 4.25
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think many queer/gay people will find aspects of this story relatable. There was great conversation about coming out, generational differences in attitudes towards being gay, secrecy and the damage family members can inflict on gay psyches. This followed a YA character but it had a lot of “grown up” conversations. The main character was flawed and had some growing up to do, but was endearing and I found myself rooting for him, his growth, and his family. 4.25
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2024
"Here we stand, literally surrounded by history, unable to face our own."
April 21, 2024
Masked as a simple YA queer novel with a teenage protagonist as its main character, Madden weaves a complex story that brings forth the anxieties and discomfort of life's endless questions. The coming of age grapples with commentary around family in the most traditional sense. The authenticity in the ethnic-Australian migrant family characters and dynamics brought forth a subtle commentary on intergenerational traumas and evolution of characters through cultural assimilation.
Marco's self rejection of weaknesses deeply rooted in high achievers and likeness to parental figures is a mature revelation that is well supported with contradictions of self makes for a truely authentic queer teenage character that acts beyond his years. Resolution of the decade-long rifts in the family subvert the expected typical YA happy ending but rather roots itself in the imperfect nature of endless questioning, partial answers and incompleteness while attempting to move forward with life.
So while "Lascia che la vita to sorprenda" (let life surprise you) remains the catch phrase of the novel, Madden does wonders in layering the cacophony of grief, shame, pain, anxiety, wonder, and numbness young queer Australian boys experience.
I simultaneously hate and thank Madden for writing this amazing novel that has left me feeling seen and broken. The last 50 pages of my tear stained, wrinkled copy of Wrong Answers Only will never lie flat again. 🇦🇺🏳️🌈
Marco's self rejection of weaknesses deeply rooted in high achievers and likeness to parental figures is a mature revelation that is well supported with contradictions of self makes for a truely authentic queer teenage character that acts beyond his years. Resolution of the decade-long rifts in the family subvert the expected typical YA happy ending but rather roots itself in the imperfect nature of endless questioning, partial answers and incompleteness while attempting to move forward with life.
So while "Lascia che la vita to sorprenda" (let life surprise you) remains the catch phrase of the novel, Madden does wonders in layering the cacophony of grief, shame, pain, anxiety, wonder, and numbness young queer Australian boys experience.
I simultaneously hate and thank Madden for writing this amazing novel that has left me feeling seen and broken. The last 50 pages of my tear stained, wrinkled copy of Wrong Answers Only will never lie flat again. 🇦🇺🏳️🌈
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 2, 2024This dude and his bestie drama was so annoying I wanted the ship to sink. Take a shot every time he said soulmate and then got into the shittest childish fights where the resolution was gas.
What was the point of it all? Most of what he did was hook up with some dumb asshole who basically uses him in which my boy over here got rightfully upset over but then got over it so easily?? Wild for that.
What was the point of it all? Most of what he did was hook up with some dumb asshole who basically uses him in which my boy over here got rightfully upset over but then got over it so easily?? Wild for that.
March 4, 2025
3.5 stars / 5.
I was very eagerly awaiting this one! I absolutely loved Tobias Madden's first 2 books (Anything But Fine and Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell), and devoured each within 24 - 48 hours. They were just that engaging and charming.
Wrong Answers Only is also engaging and charming! But perhaps to a lesser extent than Tobias Madden's first 2 books. There's a lot that works here, but there's a few things that didn't slot into place correctly.
The things that worked:
Overall, I liked Marco a lot. He was a well-developed character who I was rooting for, and I loved watching him find his footing throughout the book. There were some great moments where we got to see him become more confident and at ease in his own body.
Tobias Madden is also great at including scenes in his writing that are vivid and easy to picture (i.e., the skating rink in Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell) -- and we got several of those scenes here. I loved that.
A few things that didn't work:
Marco's family genuinely pissed me off. Cancelling his enrollment in school, arranging for him to work a job he doesn't want to work, and then making him give that money to them? And then being surprised that he doesn't want to stay at home with them?
The strange subplot with Cece towards the end of the book ... did not need to happen. I didn't feel that it added anything to the story except an extreme discomfort that wasn't necessary.
My biggest qualm was that Marco was going to be a doctor .. but couldn't acknowledge what was so clearly a somatic panic attack? I.e., a literal symptom of a medical disorder? As much as I get that it was him refusing to acknowledge failure, I just couldn't suspend my disbelief enough to ignore that.
Wrong Answers Only is a good book. I went into it expecting 5 stars, but that's fine. I will still read anything Tobias Madden releases, because his writing is truly unique and heartwarming!
I was very eagerly awaiting this one! I absolutely loved Tobias Madden's first 2 books (Anything But Fine and Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell), and devoured each within 24 - 48 hours. They were just that engaging and charming.
Wrong Answers Only is also engaging and charming! But perhaps to a lesser extent than Tobias Madden's first 2 books. There's a lot that works here, but there's a few things that didn't slot into place correctly.
The things that worked:
Overall, I liked Marco a lot. He was a well-developed character who I was rooting for, and I loved watching him find his footing throughout the book. There were some great moments where we got to see him become more confident and at ease in his own body.
Tobias Madden is also great at including scenes in his writing that are vivid and easy to picture (i.e., the skating rink in Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell) -- and we got several of those scenes here. I loved that.
A few things that didn't work:
Marco's family genuinely pissed me off. Cancelling his enrollment in school, arranging for him to work a job he doesn't want to work, and then making him give that money to them? And then being surprised that he doesn't want to stay at home with them?
The strange subplot with Cece towards the end of the book ... did not need to happen. I didn't feel that it added anything to the story except an extreme discomfort that wasn't necessary.
My biggest qualm was that Marco was going to be a doctor .. but couldn't acknowledge what was so clearly a somatic panic attack? I.e., a literal symptom of a medical disorder? As much as I get that it was him refusing to acknowledge failure, I just couldn't suspend my disbelief enough to ignore that.
Wrong Answers Only is a good book. I went into it expecting 5 stars, but that's fine. I will still read anything Tobias Madden releases, because his writing is truly unique and heartwarming!
August 15, 2024
Thank you to Tobias Madden for sending me an ARC.
Wrong Answers Only is about a boy named Marco who is struggling to jump into life after high school. Once he gets whisked away onto a Mediterranean cruise ship led by his estranged uncle, he feels even more lost. Making his way through the cruises, he discovers the hard way about friendship, family, and relationships. Although difficult, Marco is able to blossom into adulthood.
Whew, this book was almost too relatable. I think any queer kid perfectly understands Marco’s situation. I went through a similar journey when I was in my first year of university.
The book started slow, giving you a full understanding of Marco and his behaviors, but also painting the scene around him. You get a full understanding of the different relationships, especially with him and CeCe.
I think the relationship with his uncle Lorenzo was the best. He was almost like his fairy godmother, helping him traverse the different challenges in life. This relationship was truly beautiful.
So many layers to this book, but every step of the way there was a relatability that fully drew me into the book. Although Marco became annoying at parts, I know for a fact I acted the exact same way when I was 18 and exploring the world.
This was a truly beautiful story that encompasses so much of what it’s like to grow up queer, but also for anyone that has ever felt lost. There were many difficult family moments in this story, so I think many different kinds of people could appreciate the journey from each of the characters.
Wrong Answers Only is about a boy named Marco who is struggling to jump into life after high school. Once he gets whisked away onto a Mediterranean cruise ship led by his estranged uncle, he feels even more lost. Making his way through the cruises, he discovers the hard way about friendship, family, and relationships. Although difficult, Marco is able to blossom into adulthood.
Whew, this book was almost too relatable. I think any queer kid perfectly understands Marco’s situation. I went through a similar journey when I was in my first year of university.
The book started slow, giving you a full understanding of Marco and his behaviors, but also painting the scene around him. You get a full understanding of the different relationships, especially with him and CeCe.
I think the relationship with his uncle Lorenzo was the best. He was almost like his fairy godmother, helping him traverse the different challenges in life. This relationship was truly beautiful.
So many layers to this book, but every step of the way there was a relatability that fully drew me into the book. Although Marco became annoying at parts, I know for a fact I acted the exact same way when I was 18 and exploring the world.
This was a truly beautiful story that encompasses so much of what it’s like to grow up queer, but also for anyone that has ever felt lost. There were many difficult family moments in this story, so I think many different kinds of people could appreciate the journey from each of the characters.
April 10, 2024
This was just what I needed. Fun, flirty, tender and full of plot and wonderful relationships of all types. This book was paced perfectly and brought together everything I love about queer YA fiction.
I had a big cry and loved it.
I had a big cry and loved it.
September 29, 2024
You know what is not a wrong answer? THIS BOOK 👏🏼
Be still my HEART our boy Marco is going THROUGH it! Marco's journey throughout this book is just *chef's kiss* A child of many talents, he's the golden child that, even though he had the world practically laid out on a platter for me, got cold feet when it was time to begin college. So instead, takes a little time off before enrolling to cross his T's and dot his I's. Which, what better way than to embark on a cruise ship with an uncle you and your family have no contact with, dabble in a little bit of romance, knucking and bucking across the Caribbean with Prince Charming, visiting cities across the world, while doing so with your bestie? This book is a JOURNEY for Marco and I never wanted off that ship. Some ups, lots of downs, but NECESSARY ebbs and flows that made Marco such an alluring character. We must protect him at all costs.
I ate UP the relationship between Marco and his best friend Ce! I knew that if the two of them both existed on the page, I was in for a good time. The banter and adventures were pure gold and their ride-or-die attitude was just so refreshing. Given the state Marco is currently in, he needed a shoulder to lean on, and Ce was willing to be that crutch every step of the way. THE WORLD DOES NOT DESERVE CE, SHE IS TOO PRECIOUS! They were freakin HILARIOUS and having that person who was "your person" at that age honestly feels so life-saving, which made this part feel so relatable. (I know I would NOT have survived high school and my early college years without my best friend Ashley) I seriously could not get enough of Co and Ce and would literally volunteer to just sit there and listen to the two of them talk to each other for hours.
I loved the sea setting so much. This is my first book set on a cruise and it was such a riot! Especially considering some of the destinations played a role in Marco's family history and played into the plot. Being sea-bound a majority of the time allowed Marco to really delve into his thoughts and figure out his life, especially when he gets home. (and, while he's at it, why not delve into his mans too ;) (that was a dick joke)) Even though he was a total fuck boy. But meh, you're on a cruise so, yolo. There were also some of the most heartfelt moments with his uncle on the boat, who I LOVED! I loved Uncle Renzo to infinity, and hearing his story too was just UGH tear-jerking. Because again, people will find it relatable. Yay boats!
Thank you so much to Tobias for an ARC of this little cutie :)
Be still my HEART our boy Marco is going THROUGH it! Marco's journey throughout this book is just *chef's kiss* A child of many talents, he's the golden child that, even though he had the world practically laid out on a platter for me, got cold feet when it was time to begin college. So instead, takes a little time off before enrolling to cross his T's and dot his I's. Which, what better way than to embark on a cruise ship with an uncle you and your family have no contact with, dabble in a little bit of romance, knucking and bucking across the Caribbean with Prince Charming, visiting cities across the world, while doing so with your bestie? This book is a JOURNEY for Marco and I never wanted off that ship. Some ups, lots of downs, but NECESSARY ebbs and flows that made Marco such an alluring character. We must protect him at all costs.
I ate UP the relationship between Marco and his best friend Ce! I knew that if the two of them both existed on the page, I was in for a good time. The banter and adventures were pure gold and their ride-or-die attitude was just so refreshing. Given the state Marco is currently in, he needed a shoulder to lean on, and Ce was willing to be that crutch every step of the way. THE WORLD DOES NOT DESERVE CE, SHE IS TOO PRECIOUS! They were freakin HILARIOUS and having that person who was "your person" at that age honestly feels so life-saving, which made this part feel so relatable. (I know I would NOT have survived high school and my early college years without my best friend Ashley) I seriously could not get enough of Co and Ce and would literally volunteer to just sit there and listen to the two of them talk to each other for hours.
I loved the sea setting so much. This is my first book set on a cruise and it was such a riot! Especially considering some of the destinations played a role in Marco's family history and played into the plot. Being sea-bound a majority of the time allowed Marco to really delve into his thoughts and figure out his life, especially when he gets home. (and, while he's at it, why not delve into his mans too ;) (that was a dick joke)) Even though he was a total fuck boy. But meh, you're on a cruise so, yolo. There were also some of the most heartfelt moments with his uncle on the boat, who I LOVED! I loved Uncle Renzo to infinity, and hearing his story too was just UGH tear-jerking. Because again, people will find it relatable. Yay boats!
Thank you so much to Tobias for an ARC of this little cutie :)
May 19, 2024
THIS WAS SO FUN GUYS
I LOVED THE CRUISE SHIP SETTING
i just finished crying from this book it’s not actaully that sad just all the grandparent and family stuff made me emotional as hell
I LOVED THE CRUISE SHIP SETTING
i just finished crying from this book it’s not actaully that sad just all the grandparent and family stuff made me emotional as hell
June 24, 2025
Wrong Answers Only is an entertaining book with some funny, compelling characters that I unfortunately couldn't get fully invested in. I loved the family dynamics, the mystery and reveal of why and how Renzo cut ties with his family. I love reading about Marco getting him not only as a family member but as am elder. The rest is kind of middle of the road for me - I liked the framing if the Marco and CeCe as soulmates because if their friendship but that was kind of tainted by a moment later on that seems to muddy the waters.
I also didn't appreciate the fact the dancer (completely blanking on his name) was treated as the bad guy for not wanting an exclusive relationship when he was fairly open about that and Marco didn't communicate any of his boundaries about fidelity. The guy wasn't fully villainised but I wish queer books were more willing to explore situations like these without feeling the need to cast anyone as the bad actor.
I also didn't appreciate the fact the dancer (completely blanking on his name) was treated as the bad guy for not wanting an exclusive relationship when he was fairly open about that and Marco didn't communicate any of his boundaries about fidelity. The guy wasn't fully villainised but I wish queer books were more willing to explore situations like these without feeling the need to cast anyone as the bad actor.
March 31, 2024
4.5 stars
Tobias Madden has done it again!
Thank you so much to Penguin Australia for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this one so much. Setting majority of the book on a cruise ship was SUCH a fun idea and it really paid off. I loved the ship politics and drama, the insight into ship life, the brief glimpses of various passengers lives, and the whole adventure of it all.
Marco goes on this cruise to find himself and I loved his messy, chaotic journey. I loved watching him try new things, let go a little, lean into the impossible, dare to dream differently.
I really loved his relationship with his uncle Renzo. Renzo was SUCH a beautiful addition to this book. He was honestly the heart and soul of this story for me and I just wanna give him such a big hug.
Some of the drama bothered me a little which is really the only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars for me. There was a lot of “you should know how I’m feeling without me telling you” from two separate characters towards the MC that was never addressed as an issue that kinda bugged me.
But otherwise a stellar third book from one of my faves and I can’t recommend it enough!
Tobias Madden has done it again!
Thank you so much to Penguin Australia for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this one so much. Setting majority of the book on a cruise ship was SUCH a fun idea and it really paid off. I loved the ship politics and drama, the insight into ship life, the brief glimpses of various passengers lives, and the whole adventure of it all.
Marco goes on this cruise to find himself and I loved his messy, chaotic journey. I loved watching him try new things, let go a little, lean into the impossible, dare to dream differently.
I really loved his relationship with his uncle Renzo. Renzo was SUCH a beautiful addition to this book. He was honestly the heart and soul of this story for me and I just wanna give him such a big hug.
Some of the drama bothered me a little which is really the only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars for me. There was a lot of “you should know how I’m feeling without me telling you” from two separate characters towards the MC that was never addressed as an issue that kinda bugged me.
But otherwise a stellar third book from one of my faves and I can’t recommend it enough!
April 21, 2024
{ April 2024 Book Club Pick for the As-Yet-Unnamed Book Club for Nautical Fiction 🚢📚 }
2.5 stars - As an anxiety-ridden former gifted kid just like the main character of this novel, I would like to know where my gap year all expenses paid no-set-ending Mediterranean cruise was? Took me a few tries to get into this one but then I read 300 odd pages in an afternoon to finish it! A sweet queer coming of age story with some solid life lessons about love, friendship, and finding yourself and, of course, a sprinkling of Titanic references (because it’s a cruise novel so what else did I expect 🤦🏼♀️)!
2.5 stars - As an anxiety-ridden former gifted kid just like the main character of this novel, I would like to know where my gap year all expenses paid no-set-ending Mediterranean cruise was? Took me a few tries to get into this one but then I read 300 odd pages in an afternoon to finish it! A sweet queer coming of age story with some solid life lessons about love, friendship, and finding yourself and, of course, a sprinkling of Titanic references (because it’s a cruise novel so what else did I expect 🤦🏼♀️)!
May 2, 2025
guys this is tobias’ best work yet. absolutely amazing story, i could not put it down.
as someone who watched the whole writing process unravel, i was so excited to get into this. then the inevitable slump hit and i was unable to bring myself to read this unless it was audibly. and my god, the audibook is INCREDIBLE.
i felt like i was truly in marcos head, knowing all his thoughts and interactions with everything and everyone. truly some great writing from tobias, literally the best work he has released yet.
the story was so captivating, and as someone who experienced the same anxieties around starting university and having to live up to these expectations that are so unbelievably high, i felt like i had a bit of marco in me. every aspect of the story was done so well, and not one thing felt out of place.
honestly? i really enjoyed marco choosing cece at the end, it wouldn’t have made sense at all if he went back to hunter. the ending of the story was so devastating that i had to physically withhold tears from streaming down my face as i was walking back home from uni.
everything about this book was perfection to me, and it is what i think some of the best ya work out there - it doesn’t read too young yet it doesn’t need all the adult aspects which would age it up.
incredible work tobias! i’ve loved watching you grow from luca and noah’s stories, and i cannot wait to see what you do next!
as someone who watched the whole writing process unravel, i was so excited to get into this. then the inevitable slump hit and i was unable to bring myself to read this unless it was audibly. and my god, the audibook is INCREDIBLE.
i felt like i was truly in marcos head, knowing all his thoughts and interactions with everything and everyone. truly some great writing from tobias, literally the best work he has released yet.
the story was so captivating, and as someone who experienced the same anxieties around starting university and having to live up to these expectations that are so unbelievably high, i felt like i had a bit of marco in me. every aspect of the story was done so well, and not one thing felt out of place.
honestly? i really enjoyed marco choosing cece at the end, it wouldn’t have made sense at all if he went back to hunter. the ending of the story was so devastating that i had to physically withhold tears from streaming down my face as i was walking back home from uni.
everything about this book was perfection to me, and it is what i think some of the best ya work out there - it doesn’t read too young yet it doesn’t need all the adult aspects which would age it up.
incredible work tobias! i’ve loved watching you grow from luca and noah’s stories, and i cannot wait to see what you do next!
July 3, 2024
Tobias Madden books are always a good time - this one was no exception. His ability to explore such deep topics whilst still telling a super fun (and sometimes slightly unhinged) YA story is amazing and what keeps me coming back for more.
Though I am low key disappointed that Lorenzo was not Marco’s dad (I was seriously convinced of this for the longest time), I had a really good time reading this book. The cruise ship setting was super fun, and I was so surprised (and absolutely loved) that Alex from ‘Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell’ made so many appearances.
Despite leaving me with so many unanswered questions, the ending of this book felt very well-rounded. The reveal of Nonna Sofia’s email was so emotional and tied up the story perfectly.
Though I am low key disappointed that Lorenzo was not Marco’s dad (I was seriously convinced of this for the longest time), I had a really good time reading this book. The cruise ship setting was super fun, and I was so surprised (and absolutely loved) that Alex from ‘Take a Bow, Noah Mitchell’ made so many appearances.
Despite leaving me with so many unanswered questions, the ending of this book felt very well-rounded. The reveal of Nonna Sofia’s email was so emotional and tied up the story perfectly.
October 6, 2024
This is an interesting story about finding yourself, friendship and family! The main character is flawed, likable, relatable and one of my favorites I have come across in a while! The plot, pace, characters and everything else that you can think of were pretty much perfect! It's a story full of hope, fun, some romance, relationships of many different types and more! There are a few tough topics but you can't help but connect to this story! Thank you StoryGram Tours, Page Street YA and Tobias Madden for sharing this book with me!
May 19, 2025
★★★★★ | Emotional, Empathetic, and Wildly Entertaining
Wrong Answers had me hooked from the start. I felt emotional and empathetic throughout, especially watching the struggles Renzo and Marco faced. I was so frustrated by Marco’s bad choices, but also couldn’t help laughing and living vicariously through his wild, hilarious adventures. Tobias Madden’s writing is sharp, heartfelt, and so easy to connect with. It’s a book that pulls you in, makes you feel everything, and stays with you long after the last page. A definite standout for me.
Wrong Answers had me hooked from the start. I felt emotional and empathetic throughout, especially watching the struggles Renzo and Marco faced. I was so frustrated by Marco’s bad choices, but also couldn’t help laughing and living vicariously through his wild, hilarious adventures. Tobias Madden’s writing is sharp, heartfelt, and so easy to connect with. It’s a book that pulls you in, makes you feel everything, and stays with you long after the last page. A definite standout for me.
September 14, 2025
DNF at 30%
The only reason I DNF'ed this book was because of the LGBTQ content. I am not homophobic, I simply just do not support LGBTQ, and I am not a fan of reading it I my books. I am a Christian, and I support the person, not their beliefs.
The main character in this book is gay, and while I was hoping that it would not be a major part of the plot, it was. I borrowed this from the library, and didn't realise that the author himself is also LGBTQ. The plot overall was good, and if it wasn't mainly LGBTQ, I would enjoy it.
The only reason I DNF'ed this book was because of the LGBTQ content. I am not homophobic, I simply just do not support LGBTQ, and I am not a fan of reading it I my books. I am a Christian, and I support the person, not their beliefs.
The main character in this book is gay, and while I was hoping that it would not be a major part of the plot, it was. I borrowed this from the library, and didn't realise that the author himself is also LGBTQ. The plot overall was good, and if it wasn't mainly LGBTQ, I would enjoy it.
September 17, 2024
Reading this while being on a cruise ship, was a really fun and relatable way to experience what it was like for Marco, who was also on a cruise for the first time.
Alot happens throughout the book that I wasn't expecting, but it all happens for a reason.
I loved everything about this book. It's now one of my fav reads for this month 😊
Alot happens throughout the book that I wasn't expecting, but it all happens for a reason.
I loved everything about this book. It's now one of my fav reads for this month 😊
Read
April 13, 2025DNF 36%
This will be an enjoyable read for plenty of people and I've really enjoyed the two previous Tobias Madden books I've read, but this one just wasn't my vibe. Really long lead-in to a consistently hard to picture and hard to believe plot that points towards flirty and fun without quite getting there.
This will be an enjoyable read for plenty of people and I've really enjoyed the two previous Tobias Madden books I've read, but this one just wasn't my vibe. Really long lead-in to a consistently hard to picture and hard to believe plot that points towards flirty and fun without quite getting there.
January 2, 2024
Shsyshaktksststskt
April 21, 2024
3.75 stars
This was so cute and made me wish I was on a cruise so bad
This was so cute and made me wish I was on a cruise so bad
May 14, 2024
An incredible book. So well crafted, with real and relatable characters.
December 2, 2024
Love Tobias Madden's work! This novel did not disappoint
March 15, 2025
everyone in this book is an asshole
June 5, 2025
I went to read a chapter before bed and now it is two hours later and I just finished and I may have cried a little.
June 17, 2024
This was a super cute coming of age story!! Surprisingly quite emotional.
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