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The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge
A queer coming-of-age about three teenage boys in small town Alabama who set out to get revenge on their ex-boyfriends and end up starting a student rebellion.
Ezra Hayes has always felt like a background character compared to BFFs Lucas and Finley. He would do anything to be seen as a romantic lead, even if it means keeping a secret summer boyfriend, Presley. But when he discovers that Presley is a lying cheater, and his best friends are having boy problems of their own, they want revenge.
Their plans to get even involve sabotaging the largest party of the year, entering a drag competition, and even having Ezra run against his ex for Winter Formal King. Then the school district starts to actively censor queer voices with their Watch What You Say initiative. Taking to TikTok to vent frustrations, Ezra begins “The Last Boyfriends Student Rebellion.”
Between ex-boyfriend drama and navigating viral TikTok fame, Ezra realizes this rebellion is about something more important than revenge. It’s a battle cry to fight back against outdated opinions and redefine what it means to be queer in small town Alabama.
Ezra Hayes has always felt like a background character compared to BFFs Lucas and Finley. He would do anything to be seen as a romantic lead, even if it means keeping a secret summer boyfriend, Presley. But when he discovers that Presley is a lying cheater, and his best friends are having boy problems of their own, they want revenge.
Their plans to get even involve sabotaging the largest party of the year, entering a drag competition, and even having Ezra run against his ex for Winter Formal King. Then the school district starts to actively censor queer voices with their Watch What You Say initiative. Taking to TikTok to vent frustrations, Ezra begins “The Last Boyfriends Student Rebellion.”
Between ex-boyfriend drama and navigating viral TikTok fame, Ezra realizes this rebellion is about something more important than revenge. It’s a battle cry to fight back against outdated opinions and redefine what it means to be queer in small town Alabama.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published April 30, 2024
65 people are currently reading
6173 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Hubbard
3 books210 followersMatthew Hubbard writes the kind of stories he wished he’d had as a teen in rural Alabama. He grew up on a mountaintop farm and knows more than he is willing to admit about small towns. He studied English, marketing, and psychology in college and has spent a majority of his life speaking up to make a difference.
Armed with a TARDIS tattoo, Matthew can be found on adventures when he isn't writing. He enjoys traveling to different countries, hiking in search of breathtaking views, reading as many books as he can get his hands on, and cheering for his favorite hockey team.
He lives in Tennessee with his husband, their dogs, Layla and Phillip, and Jay Gatsby the cat.
Armed with a TARDIS tattoo, Matthew can be found on adventures when he isn't writing. He enjoys traveling to different countries, hiking in search of breathtaking views, reading as many books as he can get his hands on, and cheering for his favorite hockey team.
He lives in Tennessee with his husband, their dogs, Layla and Phillip, and Jay Gatsby the cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
April 30, 2024
Actual rating 4.5 stars for a powerful and important story WITHOUT (!) a third-act breakup. So happy about that!!
A vibrant cover. Think of The First Wives Club. A bulky main character (as Ezra calls himself). Book banning. A cinnamon roll love interest. A fantastic friendship between three boys!
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge reminded me so much of Steven Salvatore’s Can’t Take That Away. Both books are about the courage to stand up for yourself and fight back. About friendship. About flawed and messy teens. And in the end about self-love.
TLBRFR has got many things to love, and it’s a very timely story with, on the one hand, out and proud queer teens and, on the other hand, the silencing of those same queer kids in a ‘perversion-free environment’ including book banning. What I loved most, though, was the friendship between Ezra, Lucas, and Finley. Close friendships are so precious and important in our lives, and stories about them are underrated, in my opinion.
Of course, I also liked the romance in TLBRFR. I immediately knew who the Snapchatter was (still not sure if this is a word), and he was such a sweet cinnamon roll. People who have followed me for a longer time know I have a soft spot for cinnamon rolls, and my heart was overflowing with love when Ezra got that special message from Rolf Nyberg, a hockey player. Just know Ezra loves watching hockey!!
Matthew, I adored your debut and can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next!
Thanks so much, Delacorte Press and NetGalley, for letting me read this book early!!
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A vibrant cover. Think of The First Wives Club. A bulky main character (as Ezra calls himself). Book banning. A cinnamon roll love interest. A fantastic friendship between three boys!
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge reminded me so much of Steven Salvatore’s Can’t Take That Away. Both books are about the courage to stand up for yourself and fight back. About friendship. About flawed and messy teens. And in the end about self-love.
TLBRFR has got many things to love, and it’s a very timely story with, on the one hand, out and proud queer teens and, on the other hand, the silencing of those same queer kids in a ‘perversion-free environment’ including book banning. What I loved most, though, was the friendship between Ezra, Lucas, and Finley. Close friendships are so precious and important in our lives, and stories about them are underrated, in my opinion.
Of course, I also liked the romance in TLBRFR. I immediately knew who the Snapchatter was (still not sure if this is a word), and he was such a sweet cinnamon roll. People who have followed me for a longer time know I have a soft spot for cinnamon rolls, and my heart was overflowing with love when Ezra got that special message from Rolf Nyberg, a hockey player. Just know Ezra loves watching hockey!!
Matthew, I adored your debut and can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next!
Thanks so much, Delacorte Press and NetGalley, for letting me read this book early!!
Follow me on Instagram
April 29, 2024
What a revolution of a book!!! The revolution is revolutioning. It's revolutionary.
So I loved everything about this book. That's it, that's the review.
Ok kidding I have THOUGHTS! You know we love a library, especially when the library is OPEN! (I hope you get the reference) Matthew is absolutely READING the peasants who are spreading the rampant homophobia we are seeing in schools, and even beyond that. This book is a statement piece. That even amidst this homophobic rhetoric, there is going to be an army of voices clapping back. And that even the smallest acts can cause waves of change! I just loooooove a book that calls out the haters and their fragile egos :D
What started as a small plot to get back at their ex boyfriends turned into this grand adventure between this complete lovable group of friends! This little trio of trailblazers is EVERYTHING! First of all, they're hilarious, with banter and quips that you can't get enough of. Second, they have their ups and downs that make it all seem so human! ESPECIALLY considering this is high school and we were all just dumb sometimes during those days! Third, their friendship is just so fun! I mean, they do their first drag show together...I WANT TO JOIN! And fourth, they stick together, something I feel like every high schooler can relate to. Needing that person or two that is an absolute rock! I just love them :)
One of the coolest things about this book is the way it keeps you so engaged the entire time! There isn't ever a lull. I read this book in less than 2 days because all I wanted to do was inhale it at every chance I had. It follows this series of social media posts that get more grand with each and every one. They're met with lots of praise but also lots of heat at the same time so as the message becomes bolder, the stakes become higher! How can you not stay glued to the pages to the pages when these characters are constantly flexing on these wrinkly dust buckets?? You can't, that's the answer. You won't put it down.
Also ok hi representation! This book hosts such a diverse cast of characters that is just so necessary and heartwarming to see!
BRILLIANT debut and Matthew is 100% an auto-buy for me from here on out!
So I loved everything about this book. That's it, that's the review.
Ok kidding I have THOUGHTS! You know we love a library, especially when the library is OPEN! (I hope you get the reference) Matthew is absolutely READING the peasants who are spreading the rampant homophobia we are seeing in schools, and even beyond that. This book is a statement piece. That even amidst this homophobic rhetoric, there is going to be an army of voices clapping back. And that even the smallest acts can cause waves of change! I just loooooove a book that calls out the haters and their fragile egos :D
What started as a small plot to get back at their ex boyfriends turned into this grand adventure between this complete lovable group of friends! This little trio of trailblazers is EVERYTHING! First of all, they're hilarious, with banter and quips that you can't get enough of. Second, they have their ups and downs that make it all seem so human! ESPECIALLY considering this is high school and we were all just dumb sometimes during those days! Third, their friendship is just so fun! I mean, they do their first drag show together...I WANT TO JOIN! And fourth, they stick together, something I feel like every high schooler can relate to. Needing that person or two that is an absolute rock! I just love them :)
One of the coolest things about this book is the way it keeps you so engaged the entire time! There isn't ever a lull. I read this book in less than 2 days because all I wanted to do was inhale it at every chance I had. It follows this series of social media posts that get more grand with each and every one. They're met with lots of praise but also lots of heat at the same time so as the message becomes bolder, the stakes become higher! How can you not stay glued to the pages to the pages when these characters are constantly flexing on these wrinkly dust buckets?? You can't, that's the answer. You won't put it down.
Also ok hi representation! This book hosts such a diverse cast of characters that is just so necessary and heartwarming to see!
BRILLIANT debut and Matthew is 100% an auto-buy for me from here on out!
December 21, 2023
This book is an absolute must-read. It is so necessary for young LGBTQ+ people to be able to see that their voices matter and in spite of the vehement anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric out there today (book banning, don’t say gay), we matter.
The Last Boyfriends Rules For Revenge was such a fun story and a powerful one. It was giving all of the “John Tucker Must Die” and “First Wives Club” realness. The pop culture references were tasteful as well.
There is an extremely emotional, personal, and triumphant story about our main characters taking on their school district’s version of the “Don’t Say Gay Bill”. But this proves just how strong and powerful LGBTQ+ people and youth are. Especially when we are pushed around by bigots. This truly gave me so much hope in the power of our next generation, I think this book will help and save LGBTQ+ kids. Save them from living afraid to stand up for themselves and their community against hate. A little noise and raising hell moves mountains.
“We’re here, we’re queer and we’re not going any where” is the best way to describe this book. Well deserved 5 star review and read!
The Last Boyfriends Rules For Revenge was such a fun story and a powerful one. It was giving all of the “John Tucker Must Die” and “First Wives Club” realness. The pop culture references were tasteful as well.
There is an extremely emotional, personal, and triumphant story about our main characters taking on their school district’s version of the “Don’t Say Gay Bill”. But this proves just how strong and powerful LGBTQ+ people and youth are. Especially when we are pushed around by bigots. This truly gave me so much hope in the power of our next generation, I think this book will help and save LGBTQ+ kids. Save them from living afraid to stand up for themselves and their community against hate. A little noise and raising hell moves mountains.
“We’re here, we’re queer and we’re not going any where” is the best way to describe this book. Well deserved 5 star review and read!
July 29, 2025
This is such an important book and I fucking LOVED it!! The message that you're not alone, you deserve to be here and be seen and treated equally and with respect is so powerful. I wish there had been books like this when I was in school because it would have made things so much better. I'm so grateful that kids now have all of these resources available to them.
I have to say I didn't really get all the specific TikTok stuff - I'm 38 and honestly I just really fucking miss the simplicity of MySpace and my emo music, yanno?? 😂😂 I got the gist of it though, that social media can be a powerful tool to stand up for what's right and connect more people than ever before. I also liked how it covered how obsessive and addictive social media can be, and how toxic.
I loved Ezra and he was incredibly relatable. The self-doubts, insecurities and weight concerns made him feel real. His belief that he deserved better, that every queer kid deserved better, was so endearing and I was cheering him on. He's exactly the kind of person I would love to be friends with!
Jackson is just adorable! He's so sweet and squishy towards Ezra that I couldn't stop smiling. I liked how he knew his limits and what he was ready for, and he was so brave.
Lucas and Fin were great side characters and I'm curious to know more about them too.
I'd love to actually read more about these guys to see what happens next! I want to know the outcome of the meeting, I want to see Ezra and Jackson go on a hockey date, and I really want a story for Ezra's dad!!
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HRCYED2: The Even Bigger Rainbow / Even Queerer Alphabet
I have to say I didn't really get all the specific TikTok stuff - I'm 38 and honestly I just really fucking miss the simplicity of MySpace and my emo music, yanno?? 😂😂 I got the gist of it though, that social media can be a powerful tool to stand up for what's right and connect more people than ever before. I also liked how it covered how obsessive and addictive social media can be, and how toxic.
I loved Ezra and he was incredibly relatable. The self-doubts, insecurities and weight concerns made him feel real. His belief that he deserved better, that every queer kid deserved better, was so endearing and I was cheering him on. He's exactly the kind of person I would love to be friends with!
Jackson is just adorable! He's so sweet and squishy towards Ezra that I couldn't stop smiling. I liked how he knew his limits and what he was ready for, and he was so brave.
Lucas and Fin were great side characters and I'm curious to know more about them too.
I'd love to actually read more about these guys to see what happens next! I want to know the outcome of the meeting, I want to see Ezra and Jackson go on a hockey date, and I really want a story for Ezra's dad!!
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HRCYED2: The Even Bigger Rainbow / Even Queerer Alphabet
March 12, 2024
Dear Reader,
“We’re here” is a powerful reminder. These two words burned like a fire inside me as I wrote The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge. This story of queer teens in rural Alabama began as them seeking revenge for their heartbreak; however, while writing my heart was broken as Florida House Bill 1557, the infamous “Don’t Say Gay” bill, began targeting my community. I cried tears of anger as events unfolded and turned to the document that would become this book to do the only thing I could: keep hope alive.
As I started writing to fight back, I thought of how helpless those affected by anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation must feel. It reminded me of my own struggles growing up in a small Alabama town. Just like the main character, Ezra, I felt alone and bullied by the world. After being harassed at school, I often begged the universe for answers: Will I always be alone? Will I ever belong? Do I even matter? Keeping that desperation in mind, I set out to write for anyone who might feel the same. Ezra is a younger version of me; I wrote my present-day self as his father to help him see himself clearly. As his father, I was able to finally answer those questions and heal the hurt I’ve carried for far too long. I hope you’ll discover yourself in these pages, as I have discovered myself, and know that you aren’t alone and you belong and you matter.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge has been my story for so long, but now it’s our story. Together we’ll learn to believe in ourselves like Ezra and his friends as they cause mayhem and have fun doing so—believing in yourself is the best revenge, after all. With great pride, I welcome you to join the fight and promise you that you aren’t alone. We’re here, and we’re all “last boyfriends.”
Proudly,
Matthew
“We’re here” is a powerful reminder. These two words burned like a fire inside me as I wrote The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge. This story of queer teens in rural Alabama began as them seeking revenge for their heartbreak; however, while writing my heart was broken as Florida House Bill 1557, the infamous “Don’t Say Gay” bill, began targeting my community. I cried tears of anger as events unfolded and turned to the document that would become this book to do the only thing I could: keep hope alive.
As I started writing to fight back, I thought of how helpless those affected by anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation must feel. It reminded me of my own struggles growing up in a small Alabama town. Just like the main character, Ezra, I felt alone and bullied by the world. After being harassed at school, I often begged the universe for answers: Will I always be alone? Will I ever belong? Do I even matter? Keeping that desperation in mind, I set out to write for anyone who might feel the same. Ezra is a younger version of me; I wrote my present-day self as his father to help him see himself clearly. As his father, I was able to finally answer those questions and heal the hurt I’ve carried for far too long. I hope you’ll discover yourself in these pages, as I have discovered myself, and know that you aren’t alone and you belong and you matter.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge has been my story for so long, but now it’s our story. Together we’ll learn to believe in ourselves like Ezra and his friends as they cause mayhem and have fun doing so—believing in yourself is the best revenge, after all. With great pride, I welcome you to join the fight and promise you that you aren’t alone. We’re here, and we’re all “last boyfriends.”
Proudly,
Matthew
February 10, 2025
Labai YA, labai queer, miela, kiek naivoka, bet sušildanti ir įkvepianti kovoti už teisę būti savimi, itin aktuali dabar ir čia. Mielai skaityčiau tęsinį, bet, kiek mačiau, kitoje dalyje - kiti pagrindiniai veikėjai, kita istorija, et gaila. Tačiau užsimaniau vėl pažiūrėti filmą "The First Wives Club".
May 12, 2024
AHJLWKSIUXHEKWJXUYXFGWHWJG!!!!!!!!!!
I love them all so much! My little gayby’s deserve happiness and all the love they want from life.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is a deliciously queer retelling of The First Wives Club and I can’t tell you how ICONIC that is! No! Really. You need to read this!
After being spurned by their boyfriends for different reasons, 3 friends (including our MC, Ezra) create The Last Boyfriends and come up with a plan to get revenge on their exes. All of this is going on while also dealing with their school district’s brand new rules (think something like Don’t Say Gay mixed with Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) that put a stop to all things queer.
Ezra was so relatable. He’s not the perfectly fit model sportsball playing most popular kid at school. He’s been called fat by more than one person, but he isn’t trying to change himself. The closeted guy he’s been seeing doesn’t want things to change, which is made obvious when we find out he’s been cheating on him.
I loved that he was seeing a popular jock (albeit the guy was a serial cheater) and then the guy he ends up with is also a popular jock. This kind of story will give confidence to the chunky boys out there. I need more stories where the fat kid wins at life. They don’t always end up alone!!! We need stories to see ourselves in just as much as everyone else.
Growing up, there weren’t gay characters for me to see myself in books. When I got to the point where there were, it was still stereotypical type-casting where the fit guys end up together. That isn’t always the case. Plus, I just want to see more queer books with chunky MC’s. That isn’t too much to ask. 😭
I LOVEEEEEEEED that this is a First Wives Club retelling and it plays on that. They talk about the movie and make jokes about how they want revenge a la Bette Midler and the rest of the cast. At one point they do a drag performance of the song performed at the end of the movie and I was LIVING for it!!!!
There isn’t much that would have made this better for me. It was just a really fun time.
I love them all so much! My little gayby’s deserve happiness and all the love they want from life.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is a deliciously queer retelling of The First Wives Club and I can’t tell you how ICONIC that is! No! Really. You need to read this!
After being spurned by their boyfriends for different reasons, 3 friends (including our MC, Ezra) create The Last Boyfriends and come up with a plan to get revenge on their exes. All of this is going on while also dealing with their school district’s brand new rules (think something like Don’t Say Gay mixed with Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) that put a stop to all things queer.
Ezra was so relatable. He’s not the perfectly fit model sportsball playing most popular kid at school. He’s been called fat by more than one person, but he isn’t trying to change himself. The closeted guy he’s been seeing doesn’t want things to change, which is made obvious when we find out he’s been cheating on him.
I loved that he was seeing a popular jock (albeit the guy was a serial cheater) and then the guy he ends up with is also a popular jock. This kind of story will give confidence to the chunky boys out there. I need more stories where the fat kid wins at life. They don’t always end up alone!!! We need stories to see ourselves in just as much as everyone else.
Growing up, there weren’t gay characters for me to see myself in books. When I got to the point where there were, it was still stereotypical type-casting where the fit guys end up together. That isn’t always the case. Plus, I just want to see more queer books with chunky MC’s. That isn’t too much to ask. 😭
I LOVEEEEEEEED that this is a First Wives Club retelling and it plays on that. They talk about the movie and make jokes about how they want revenge a la Bette Midler and the rest of the cast. At one point they do a drag performance of the song performed at the end of the movie and I was LIVING for it!!!!
There isn’t much that would have made this better for me. It was just a really fun time.
May 23, 2024
I genuinely appreciated how quickly the story shifted from an exes-revenge plot to a queer rights advocacy story rooted in what's happening right now in places like the town and state it depicts. It was a great bait and switch, for the readers and also the characters.
But as much as I rooted for the ideas driving the story, the writing style and characterization just didn't connect for me. 15% of the book is the main character remembering and repeating things other characters have said to him, over and over, without new insight.
And while I was excited to have a fat character as the main romantic lead, the reality meter never really reached middle. His love interest was perfectly and enthusiastically all-in from the start but the protagonist acts as if this guy is just hanging around him and he's not sure why, despite the fact that they are calling each other boyfriends and are dating. Instead of exploring how the protagonist's insecurity due to experiences of being shamed were playing out in how he struggles to recognize and receive honest affection, it just seemed like this kid wasn't getting the memo that he had an adoring boyfriend. Nor did he ever express anything to that boyfriend about what he felt for him—just a single mention of "you're beautiful." Ugh. Honestly, I might have liked this book better if told from the love interest's point of view, hearing his process of deciding to come out, the sacrifices that came with it, and what it was like to be falling for the cute fat guy he'd been crushing on forever- and being inspired by him to join a cause. I wanted to like our protagonist, but he seemed like a strangely oblivious narrator, given everything he was a part of and everything this book was making a stand for.
But as much as I rooted for the ideas driving the story, the writing style and characterization just didn't connect for me. 15% of the book is the main character remembering and repeating things other characters have said to him, over and over, without new insight.
And while I was excited to have a fat character as the main romantic lead, the reality meter never really reached middle. His love interest was perfectly and enthusiastically all-in from the start but the protagonist acts as if this guy is just hanging around him and he's not sure why, despite the fact that they are calling each other boyfriends and are dating. Instead of exploring how the protagonist's insecurity due to experiences of being shamed were playing out in how he struggles to recognize and receive honest affection, it just seemed like this kid wasn't getting the memo that he had an adoring boyfriend. Nor did he ever express anything to that boyfriend about what he felt for him—just a single mention of "you're beautiful." Ugh. Honestly, I might have liked this book better if told from the love interest's point of view, hearing his process of deciding to come out, the sacrifices that came with it, and what it was like to be falling for the cute fat guy he'd been crushing on forever- and being inspired by him to join a cause. I wanted to like our protagonist, but he seemed like a strangely oblivious narrator, given everything he was a part of and everything this book was making a stand for.
May 6, 2025
I really liked this one! it was a very fun and enjoyable read even while dealing with homophobia queer phobia.
for me the friend group really shined in this and I loved the love interest.
my only hesitation with this one is the fatphobia. our MC is probably midsize going off the cover, but at some point a bully calls him a fat nobody and he internalizes that the entire book. the ONLY time it's fully recognized and addressed to my satisfaction was when he is talking with his dad and he says "I'm fat" and the dad says "so what". it's the one time that we get a very clear response that being fat isn't a bad thing. the other times it's addressed by his friends it's more so brushed off as a bullying comment, like "no don't believe that bullshit" vibes instead of "who the hell cares if you're fat".
I want more fat rep in books, but I also need it to be supported and not with underlying themes of fatphobia that the author might not even be aware he was perpetuating.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it with the caveat to be mindful of some of the fat phobia and queer phobia but this book does have a very celebratory queer joy ending that will put a smile on your face.
for me the friend group really shined in this and I loved the love interest.
my only hesitation with this one is the fatphobia. our MC is probably midsize going off the cover, but at some point a bully calls him a fat nobody and he internalizes that the entire book. the ONLY time it's fully recognized and addressed to my satisfaction was when he is talking with his dad and he says "I'm fat" and the dad says "so what". it's the one time that we get a very clear response that being fat isn't a bad thing. the other times it's addressed by his friends it's more so brushed off as a bullying comment, like "no don't believe that bullshit" vibes instead of "who the hell cares if you're fat".
I want more fat rep in books, but I also need it to be supported and not with underlying themes of fatphobia that the author might not even be aware he was perpetuating.
All in all I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it with the caveat to be mindful of some of the fat phobia and queer phobia but this book does have a very celebratory queer joy ending that will put a smile on your face.
March 28, 2024
A super fun queer coming of age YA story about a group of friends who band together to get revenge on their shitty exes. Full of heart, gay pride and characters who learn how to be unapologetically themselves despite small town Alabama homophobia.
I really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it for fans of authors like Phil Stamper and Jason June. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and @prhaudio for a complimentary digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it for fans of authors like Phil Stamper and Jason June. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and @prhaudio for a complimentary digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 3, 2025
This. Book. Was. GLORIOUS.
Finally, a queer YA with a protagonist that’s both believable and unbelievably competent, kind and brave. It makes me want to cry, because if this is really based on what the teens of today believe and stand for, the world is going to be alright.
Finally, a queer YA with a protagonist that’s both believable and unbelievably competent, kind and brave. It makes me want to cry, because if this is really based on what the teens of today believe and stand for, the world is going to be alright.
May 8, 2024
The kind of book that makes me wish I was still in the classroom so I could hand it to a student who needs this glittery message of empowerment and queer joy. A raw and joyful debut that leaves the reader hopeful for the future.
February 24, 2024
This is a 5 star debut novel by Matthew Hubbard! The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is a queer YA reimagining of First Wives Club following 3 high school best friends who are plotting revenge on their ex boyfriends while also secretly fighting their school’s new anti-gay policies via an anonymous TikTok account that quickly goes viral!
If you like:
✨Queer friendships
✨Ally communities
✨LGBTQ+ pride
✨Student uprisings
✨Revenge
✨Humor
✨Glitter Bombs
✨Drag shows
This novel is for you!!
I had an absolute blast reading every page of this book. It was a delightful romp with meaningful messages about friendship, love, adversity, and standing up against institutionalized hate. Hubbard’s characters show us what it means to wrestle with self doubt, find your voice, and gain the strength to fight back against oppression.
Equal parts delightful & empowering, this book offers important insights into the dangers facing queer youth and the sinister policies targeting them. Hubbard expertly blends wit and humor with social commentary, making this novel an absolute must read for all ages.
Thank you so much to Matthew Hubbard for sending me an ARC of this book. I will be enthusiastically joining the “glitter dusted revolution” and buying the print version on April 30!
If you like:
✨Queer friendships
✨Ally communities
✨LGBTQ+ pride
✨Student uprisings
✨Revenge
✨Humor
✨Glitter Bombs
✨Drag shows
This novel is for you!!
I had an absolute blast reading every page of this book. It was a delightful romp with meaningful messages about friendship, love, adversity, and standing up against institutionalized hate. Hubbard’s characters show us what it means to wrestle with self doubt, find your voice, and gain the strength to fight back against oppression.
Equal parts delightful & empowering, this book offers important insights into the dangers facing queer youth and the sinister policies targeting them. Hubbard expertly blends wit and humor with social commentary, making this novel an absolute must read for all ages.
Thank you so much to Matthew Hubbard for sending me an ARC of this book. I will be enthusiastically joining the “glitter dusted revolution” and buying the print version on April 30!
December 10, 2023
I am usually an urban fantasy, sci-fi reader that will dabble in some YA occasionally if something piques my interest. I was asked to beta read this book, and y’all … This book. It made me feel happy, sad (in the best way), hopeful, empowered, and seen. I am so grateful for the journey this book took me on and can not wait for the rest of the world to read it!
March 7, 2024
You know when Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda first came out in 2015 and the book community (especially the queer book community) was like, “Stop everything you’re doing and read this book right now”? I had the same reaction while reading TLBRFR. This book made me feel like a new wave of queer defiance is being ushered in, and I am here 👏🏼 for 👏🏼 it 👏🏼. I think it’s more than serendipitous that Becky Albertalli blurbed for this book.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge tells the story of Ezra, Finley, and Lucas. These three Alabama-living besties are in relationships with the shittiest guys. I mean, their boyfriends are just the WORST. And as each of these toxic relationships begins to crash and burn, EF&L take solace in the fact that they're all "last boyfriends". At the same time, their school attempts to stifle their queerness under the guise of a "Watch What You Say" initiative, and the boys are not having it. They decide to fight back.
There were so many things about this book that I loved and the amount of diversity and representation was just the tip of the iceberg. The characters in this book were all so uniquely and unapologetically themselves, which is something I adore. I also loved the unwavering courage shown by all of the characters in the face of adversity. I adored Ezra, Fin, and Lucas’ friendship and the unshakable loyalty shown to one another throughout this story. And on top of all of that, there was romance 😍, a Zaddy named Kevin, a “Carrie moment”, and a plethora of Sour Patch Kids.
TL;DR- Reading TLBRFR has made me feel like I’m part of a movement. This book has lit a fire, fueled by queer-defiance. And we, as the readers, are helping to feed the flames. I am bursting with pride by that sentiment and I can’t wait to watch my community create an inferno 🔥
BONUS: Please enjoy the following Kevinisms:
- "Don't be afraid of a fight"
- "Being brave is doing what's right when you know the consequences"
- "The best revenge is believing in yourself"
- "And wear a rubber if you're gonna have sex"
*The The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is out April 30th, but you can pre-order now and submit your receipt to www.lastboyfriends.com for some fun swag 💃*
Thank you so much to Underlined and Delacorte Press for an ARC of this book ❤️
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge tells the story of Ezra, Finley, and Lucas. These three Alabama-living besties are in relationships with the shittiest guys. I mean, their boyfriends are just the WORST. And as each of these toxic relationships begins to crash and burn, EF&L take solace in the fact that they're all "last boyfriends". At the same time, their school attempts to stifle their queerness under the guise of a "Watch What You Say" initiative, and the boys are not having it. They decide to fight back.
There were so many things about this book that I loved and the amount of diversity and representation was just the tip of the iceberg. The characters in this book were all so uniquely and unapologetically themselves, which is something I adore. I also loved the unwavering courage shown by all of the characters in the face of adversity. I adored Ezra, Fin, and Lucas’ friendship and the unshakable loyalty shown to one another throughout this story. And on top of all of that, there was romance 😍, a Zaddy named Kevin, a “Carrie moment”, and a plethora of Sour Patch Kids.
TL;DR- Reading TLBRFR has made me feel like I’m part of a movement. This book has lit a fire, fueled by queer-defiance. And we, as the readers, are helping to feed the flames. I am bursting with pride by that sentiment and I can’t wait to watch my community create an inferno 🔥
BONUS: Please enjoy the following Kevinisms:
- "Don't be afraid of a fight"
- "Being brave is doing what's right when you know the consequences"
- "The best revenge is believing in yourself"
- "And wear a rubber if you're gonna have sex"
*The The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is out April 30th, but you can pre-order now and submit your receipt to www.lastboyfriends.com for some fun swag 💃*
Thank you so much to Underlined and Delacorte Press for an ARC of this book ❤️
May 24, 2024
This was an entertaining story about revenge on ex boyfriends while also having a deeper message about finding courage in being yourself and standing up for what's right. I liked how supportive Ezra's friends were and his dad is pretty great too. This is a hopeful story that's perfect for going into Pride month!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the copy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the copy.
May 5, 2024
I absolutely LOVED The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge by Matthew Hubbard! A fun, yet serious, story about a Southern small town and the LGBTQ+ students at the local high school who’ve had enough of their schools’ “Don’t Say Gay”-esque mantra. I loved the inclusive queer rep - gay, bi, pan, lesbian - and also the acknowledgment of queer identity as it coincides with youth athletes and that dynamic can be extra explosive. …go back to Party City!
June 6, 2024
4,5 estrelas.
Ezra Hayes nunca foi uma pessoa muito confiante, sempre achou que estava sobrando no grupo de amigos com Lucas e Finley, e não se sentia capaz de ter um amor digno de filme. Até que o astro de futebol da escola começa a dar em cima dele, mas eles não podem serem vistos em público, então esse romance acontece no sigilo. Até que chega o momento em que Ezra se cansa e percebe todas as mentiras que o Presley vem contando pra ele, então decide acabar com isso.
Ao mesmo tempo, Lucas e Finley também estão tendo problemas nos seus respectivos relacionamentos. Assim, eles criam planos para se vingarem dos ex que os trataram muito mal.
As coisas começam a fugir um pouco do controle quando eles começam a colocar o plano em prática, usando um perfil no TikTok chama "The Last Boyfriends". No começo, era só um plano de vingança para os ex-namorados, mas que acabou sendo um portal para absurdos que estavam acontecendo na escola, envolvendo pessoas conservadoras no poder.
É uma história bem bobinha, quando se trata dos momentos em que os personagens estão se vingando. Mas isso é o que quebra os temas sério que são abordado, como lgbtfobia, conservadores no poder tentando silenciar pessoas queer, banimento de livros nas escolas e como as mídias sociais podem ajudar as pessoas a ter voz, ganhar mais visibilidade em um movimento, num lugar que não quer dar visibilidade para isso.
A forma como o autor aborda esses assuntos foi muito responsável. Ele mostra que ninguém deve se sentir sozinho, que o apoio pode vir de quem menos esperamos, que essa luta contra o preconceito não é algo que as pessoas LGBTQIAP+ devem fazer sozinhas.
Os personagens são bem especiais também, cada um tem o seu problema interno com relação ao tema geral, cada um lida de uma forma com isso, mas todos estão ali para lutar pelos seus direitos e pelos direitos dos entes queridos, isso torna eles humanos. Sem falar em como a diversidade reina aqui.
Os planos que eles tiveram para se vingar foram muito bons, eles sabotaram uma festa, entraram para um concurso de Drag Queens (melhor cena do livro) e ajudaram a começar um protesto muito importante.
Por mais que tenha sido uma leitura muito boa, eu sinto que me apaixonaria mais pela história se lesse quando fosse mais novo. Eu entendo os assuntos mais sério bem melhor hoje em dia, mas para as partes mais bobinhas eu acharia mais interessante se fosse ler entre 2016-2018, que era quando eu estava mais na vibe para o Y.A assim. Mas isso não diminui o livro em nada!
Foi uma leitura que me trouxa um misto de emoções, abordou assuntos de forma clara e justa e trouxe uma carga de humor maravilhosa, com personagens adoráveis. Além de ter sido muito rápido de ler e estar recheado de referencias a cultura pop que foram muito bem vindas na trama.
O livro conseguiu me marcar com cenas que não vou esquecer tão cedo.
Ezra Hayes nunca foi uma pessoa muito confiante, sempre achou que estava sobrando no grupo de amigos com Lucas e Finley, e não se sentia capaz de ter um amor digno de filme. Até que o astro de futebol da escola começa a dar em cima dele, mas eles não podem serem vistos em público, então esse romance acontece no sigilo. Até que chega o momento em que Ezra se cansa e percebe todas as mentiras que o Presley vem contando pra ele, então decide acabar com isso.
Ao mesmo tempo, Lucas e Finley também estão tendo problemas nos seus respectivos relacionamentos. Assim, eles criam planos para se vingarem dos ex que os trataram muito mal.
As coisas começam a fugir um pouco do controle quando eles começam a colocar o plano em prática, usando um perfil no TikTok chama "The Last Boyfriends". No começo, era só um plano de vingança para os ex-namorados, mas que acabou sendo um portal para absurdos que estavam acontecendo na escola, envolvendo pessoas conservadoras no poder.
É uma história bem bobinha, quando se trata dos momentos em que os personagens estão se vingando. Mas isso é o que quebra os temas sério que são abordado, como lgbtfobia, conservadores no poder tentando silenciar pessoas queer, banimento de livros nas escolas e como as mídias sociais podem ajudar as pessoas a ter voz, ganhar mais visibilidade em um movimento, num lugar que não quer dar visibilidade para isso.
A forma como o autor aborda esses assuntos foi muito responsável. Ele mostra que ninguém deve se sentir sozinho, que o apoio pode vir de quem menos esperamos, que essa luta contra o preconceito não é algo que as pessoas LGBTQIAP+ devem fazer sozinhas.
Os personagens são bem especiais também, cada um tem o seu problema interno com relação ao tema geral, cada um lida de uma forma com isso, mas todos estão ali para lutar pelos seus direitos e pelos direitos dos entes queridos, isso torna eles humanos. Sem falar em como a diversidade reina aqui.
Os planos que eles tiveram para se vingar foram muito bons, eles sabotaram uma festa, entraram para um concurso de Drag Queens (melhor cena do livro) e ajudaram a começar um protesto muito importante.
Por mais que tenha sido uma leitura muito boa, eu sinto que me apaixonaria mais pela história se lesse quando fosse mais novo. Eu entendo os assuntos mais sério bem melhor hoje em dia, mas para as partes mais bobinhas eu acharia mais interessante se fosse ler entre 2016-2018, que era quando eu estava mais na vibe para o Y.A assim. Mas isso não diminui o livro em nada!
Foi uma leitura que me trouxa um misto de emoções, abordou assuntos de forma clara e justa e trouxe uma carga de humor maravilhosa, com personagens adoráveis. Além de ter sido muito rápido de ler e estar recheado de referencias a cultura pop que foram muito bem vindas na trama.
O livro conseguiu me marcar com cenas que não vou esquecer tão cedo.
January 28, 2024
OMFG. While @matthewhubbard ‘s The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge (TLBRFR) totally drew me in with the AMAZING cover (I literally cannot resist a 🌈), I was absolutely hooked on this novel from the very first page. I used to be a big YA reader, but so much of it makes me cringe these days - y'all there is NOTHING cringy about this book (unless it's very intentionally meant to be). I loved the writing. The romance is SO sweet. And the messages in this book are going to be so meaningful to so many people.
TLBRFR follows 3 friends who have all been burned by their horrible ex boyfriends. They decide to get them back in pretty epic ways, beginning with Ezra burning his cheating ex's varsity jacket and posting a video to an anonymous TikTok account. The video goes viral and things escalate a LOT from there, but alongside the boys' personal drama is a background of a district-wide "don't say gay" policy that is just devastating. The story ends up being about Ezra's personal growth while also providing an extremely inspiring and empowering storyline about the power queer students have to overcome these kind of obstacles. And, while navigating all of this, Ezra also manages to find love where he'd never thought to look - and it even involves hockey 😱😱.
This book got me all up in my feelings, I cried off and on through the entire second half. I seriously cannot believe this is a debut novel! This book is IMPORTANT y’all. It's not my lived experience, but it was for many of my friends growing up and for many young people today. It is making me want to go double check the school district policies for my daughter because seriously, this book is a call to action. And I absolutely loved that the final message, after all is said and done, is about having pride and believing that individuals can make a difference 🏳️🌈.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is out in April, and you are going to want to get it on you TBR RIGHT NOW. Thank you so much to @netgalley and @delacortepress for the ARC, and to Matthew Hubbard for listening to me ramble about how much I loved the book as I read.
TLBRFR follows 3 friends who have all been burned by their horrible ex boyfriends. They decide to get them back in pretty epic ways, beginning with Ezra burning his cheating ex's varsity jacket and posting a video to an anonymous TikTok account. The video goes viral and things escalate a LOT from there, but alongside the boys' personal drama is a background of a district-wide "don't say gay" policy that is just devastating. The story ends up being about Ezra's personal growth while also providing an extremely inspiring and empowering storyline about the power queer students have to overcome these kind of obstacles. And, while navigating all of this, Ezra also manages to find love where he'd never thought to look - and it even involves hockey 😱😱.
This book got me all up in my feelings, I cried off and on through the entire second half. I seriously cannot believe this is a debut novel! This book is IMPORTANT y’all. It's not my lived experience, but it was for many of my friends growing up and for many young people today. It is making me want to go double check the school district policies for my daughter because seriously, this book is a call to action. And I absolutely loved that the final message, after all is said and done, is about having pride and believing that individuals can make a difference 🏳️🌈.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is out in April, and you are going to want to get it on you TBR RIGHT NOW. Thank you so much to @netgalley and @delacortepress for the ARC, and to Matthew Hubbard for listening to me ramble about how much I loved the book as I read.
July 18, 2024
Updated review: 7/18/24
Ezra Hayes hides his boyfriend, Presley, only to uncover his betrayal. Teaming up with his best friends Lucas and Finley to seek revenge on all of their boyfriend’s, they plan to disrupt the school's biggest event and spark a rebellion against a censoring initiative. As their actions gain traction on TikTok, Ezra learns their fight transcends personal vendettas, evolving into a movement to challenge societal norms and empower queer voices in their conservative Alabama town.
My original review for this book still stands. Ezra is everything to me. I still related to him so hard. As someone who has been the secret, it’s horrible.
My heart ached for him and I just wanted him to be happy! Enter those larger than life besties who are ride or die: Lucas and Finley. Love them love them. Sassy and sweet, funny and thoughtful. Glitter bomb: I love this trio.Also enter Jackson f-ing Darcy. My HEART HOW CAN YOU NOT WANT TO JUST SQUEEZE HIM? Please do not forget daddy Kevin.
Lee Osorio has done it again with incredible narration. Every character was distinct and I am obsessed. I loved this audio so much I devoured it in less than 24 hours. I love the message of this book. We’re here.
Love you Matthew!!!
Original review: 12/27/23
Ezra feels down after he finds out his boyfriend has been seeing other people and using him. He feels like he’s undateable and like no one will ever want him. He and his two best friends have all had their hearts broken and they form The Last Boyfriend’s Club. Not only that - but they’re dealing with a school administration that is trying to make them nonexistent.
Y’all - I’d been WAITING for this one. A YA book of queer people being themselves and figuring out how to make change? Revenge plot? Sassy friends? Sweet as pie romance? Supportive family?? Growth?? Flawed characters who apologize??!
This book was everything I want and more. Tell me why I messaged @matthewhubbard like he was my friend while reading because I was so blown away. This book is wonderful, and Matthew lets you into his brain, his experience, and shares a beautiful vulnerability with readers.
Glitter bomb: I relate to Ezra so much because I am that person. I’ve been that person, and my heart ached for him.
I cried twice reading this one. #Jazra!! So happy I preordered this one already. The copy will sit proudly on my shelf.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ezra Hayes hides his boyfriend, Presley, only to uncover his betrayal. Teaming up with his best friends Lucas and Finley to seek revenge on all of their boyfriend’s, they plan to disrupt the school's biggest event and spark a rebellion against a censoring initiative. As their actions gain traction on TikTok, Ezra learns their fight transcends personal vendettas, evolving into a movement to challenge societal norms and empower queer voices in their conservative Alabama town.
My original review for this book still stands. Ezra is everything to me. I still related to him so hard. As someone who has been the secret, it’s horrible.
My heart ached for him and I just wanted him to be happy! Enter those larger than life besties who are ride or die: Lucas and Finley. Love them love them. Sassy and sweet, funny and thoughtful. Glitter bomb: I love this trio.Also enter Jackson f-ing Darcy. My HEART HOW CAN YOU NOT WANT TO JUST SQUEEZE HIM? Please do not forget daddy Kevin.
Lee Osorio has done it again with incredible narration. Every character was distinct and I am obsessed. I loved this audio so much I devoured it in less than 24 hours. I love the message of this book. We’re here.
Love you Matthew!!!
Original review: 12/27/23
Ezra feels down after he finds out his boyfriend has been seeing other people and using him. He feels like he’s undateable and like no one will ever want him. He and his two best friends have all had their hearts broken and they form The Last Boyfriend’s Club. Not only that - but they’re dealing with a school administration that is trying to make them nonexistent.
Y’all - I’d been WAITING for this one. A YA book of queer people being themselves and figuring out how to make change? Revenge plot? Sassy friends? Sweet as pie romance? Supportive family?? Growth?? Flawed characters who apologize??!
This book was everything I want and more. Tell me why I messaged @matthewhubbard like he was my friend while reading because I was so blown away. This book is wonderful, and Matthew lets you into his brain, his experience, and shares a beautiful vulnerability with readers.
Glitter bomb: I relate to Ezra so much because I am that person. I’ve been that person, and my heart ached for him.
I cried twice reading this one. #Jazra!! So happy I preordered this one already. The copy will sit proudly on my shelf.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2024
I have read a lot of Young Adult books in my life, the majority of which have been LGBTQ – they are one of my comforts. The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is, without a doubt, one of the best YA books I have ever read. It’s a new all-time favorite in the genre of queer YA, and I will recommend it to everyone.
There’s so much to love here. The characters are complex and dynamic. The plot is well-paced and absorbing. The romance is beautiful. The emotion is vivid. The humor is bold. The writing is excellent. The Taylor Swift easter eggs and references are plentiful.
The book explores so many important topics – friendship, identity, justice, strength, acceptance … and, of course, revenge. And it does so from a queer point of view.
The tone is managed so well. I found myself laughing, I found myself crying (a lot), I found myself enraged, and sometimes I was all of those things at the same time. It shifts from vigilantism and revenge plotting to meaningful discourse on a dime. And it makes it work.
The book encourages you to look within, and in turn, you see yourself in these characters that are so well-developed that they feel real.
Amidst real-world legislation that is targeting the existence of queer people, this book has never felt more relevant or necessary. If it finds its way into the hands of someone who needs that spark, that push, to finally speak up and fight back? Then this book can change lives. That is how strong and meaningful this story is.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is such an experience. It is a resounding chorus of voices encouraging us all to scream “We’re here.”
It’s also a reminder that not only are queer people here – but we’re here to stay.
What a debut. Matthew Hubbard is an author to watch.
Part of the magic of reading queer YA books when you’re older is that you reminisce on the times that you yourself were a young adult – and how you desperately wish that you had books like these. The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is the book I needed when I was younger, and it warms my heart to know that the young adult audience who desperately needs books like this right now, has it.
“So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it – you’ve got no reason to be afraid. You’re on your own, kid – you can face this.” – Taylor Swift
Thank you to Matthew Hubbard and NetGalley for the eARC of the book!
There’s so much to love here. The characters are complex and dynamic. The plot is well-paced and absorbing. The romance is beautiful. The emotion is vivid. The humor is bold. The writing is excellent. The Taylor Swift easter eggs and references are plentiful.
The book explores so many important topics – friendship, identity, justice, strength, acceptance … and, of course, revenge. And it does so from a queer point of view.
The tone is managed so well. I found myself laughing, I found myself crying (a lot), I found myself enraged, and sometimes I was all of those things at the same time. It shifts from vigilantism and revenge plotting to meaningful discourse on a dime. And it makes it work.
The book encourages you to look within, and in turn, you see yourself in these characters that are so well-developed that they feel real.
Amidst real-world legislation that is targeting the existence of queer people, this book has never felt more relevant or necessary. If it finds its way into the hands of someone who needs that spark, that push, to finally speak up and fight back? Then this book can change lives. That is how strong and meaningful this story is.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is such an experience. It is a resounding chorus of voices encouraging us all to scream “We’re here.”
It’s also a reminder that not only are queer people here – but we’re here to stay.
What a debut. Matthew Hubbard is an author to watch.
Part of the magic of reading queer YA books when you’re older is that you reminisce on the times that you yourself were a young adult – and how you desperately wish that you had books like these. The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is the book I needed when I was younger, and it warms my heart to know that the young adult audience who desperately needs books like this right now, has it.
“So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it – you’ve got no reason to be afraid. You’re on your own, kid – you can face this.” – Taylor Swift
Thank you to Matthew Hubbard and NetGalley for the eARC of the book!
May 11, 2024
This book was super cute and very fun while also being incredibly important in its statement. It largely centers around the discriminatory agendas being pushed at schools specifically targeting LGBTQIA+ history and people while starting as a fun revenge plot on our main characters’ ex-boyfriends. Watching these characters, and specifically Ezra, grow into themselves and become stronger versions of themselves is really nice. Also, the TikTok aspect of this book was relatable and actually exciting, like I was pumped to see what their next upload would be and how people would react (art imitates life, I suppose 😅)
The blossoming romance between Kackson and Ezra made me soooo happy! Like they are soooo cute together and I love that they each get a win here after how they were treated by Presley. Jackson is such a lil puppy dog and the fact that he’d been crushing for so long on Ezra is incredibly sweet.
I will say that I wish the ending weren’t left to the imagination as much with this one. I think that we could have gotten a more firm conclusion here, seeing the final interview and School Board meeting and verdict. With the way the antagonists were so openly harassing students and cartoonishly villainous, that would have been incredibly rewarding and balance out the horrible behavior and bullying a bit better. That said, the presumption of the HEA these characters deserve is very nice!
Overall, I loved this book, I love our protagonists and this would definitely make a super cute movie!
The blossoming romance between Kackson and Ezra made me soooo happy! Like they are soooo cute together and I love that they each get a win here after how they were treated by Presley. Jackson is such a lil puppy dog and the fact that he’d been crushing for so long on Ezra is incredibly sweet.
I will say that I wish the ending weren’t left to the imagination as much with this one. I think that we could have gotten a more firm conclusion here, seeing the final interview and School Board meeting and verdict. With the way the antagonists were so openly harassing students and cartoonishly villainous, that would have been incredibly rewarding and balance out the horrible behavior and bullying a bit better. That said, the presumption of the HEA these characters deserve is very nice!
Overall, I loved this book, I love our protagonists and this would definitely make a super cute movie!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2024
I am a HUGE fan of queer revenge stories (as in, queers getting revenge against the heteropatriarchal societies in which they reside) - so much so that part of my dissertation covers this trope. So yeah, I am a big fan of The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge by Matthew Hubbard. I also really appreciate that the book doesn't feel as patronizing as some other YA "issue" books. What takes away from my enjoyment of the book is the ending and a bit too much of a focus on relationships. I suppose I can accept these issues since the book is so strong otherwise, but it is by no means a perfect book.
That being said, it IS a great book that had me oscillating between simmering with rage and giddiness. Any book that does that is worth its weight in gold. I definitely recommend this book, and I fully believe it deserves far more acclaim in the LGBTQ+ YA genre(s).
That being said, it IS a great book that had me oscillating between simmering with rage and giddiness. Any book that does that is worth its weight in gold. I definitely recommend this book, and I fully believe it deserves far more acclaim in the LGBTQ+ YA genre(s).
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December 12, 2024Cheesy as anything and very unrealistic but don’t young queer people deserve that right now?? It’s nice to see this amidst all the books bans and suppression of queer kids. Here they get to band together and use their collective power to fight the bigoted school policies. It’s for the kids in conservative small towns and the South and to encourage them to use their voices.
While it started off interesting, I thought it dragged a bit in the middle. Some of the hockey metaphors at the beginning were a bit much but all the Preds references were fun
While it started off interesting, I thought it dragged a bit in the middle. Some of the hockey metaphors at the beginning were a bit much but all the Preds references were fun
November 11, 2025
the book in three words: queer teenage rebellion.
this is absolutely what needs to happen, I just can't believe that there are still queer people living with fear of repercussions solely based on their sexuality.
the characters are incredibly loveable and sweet. the story balances incredibly well between lighthearted humor, romance, friendship and the injustice and heavier themes.
A special shout out to Ezra's father, he is so supportive and understanding, I either wanna be adopted or Wed I don't care either way.
this is absolutely what needs to happen, I just can't believe that there are still queer people living with fear of repercussions solely based on their sexuality.
the characters are incredibly loveable and sweet. the story balances incredibly well between lighthearted humor, romance, friendship and the injustice and heavier themes.
A special shout out to Ezra's father, he is so supportive and understanding, I either wanna be adopted or Wed I don't care either way.
August 5, 2024
more like a 4.5
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is heart warming. What begins as a story about revenge, morphs into one about how revenge can leave us hollow. And then turns into a story about fighting the homophobia, about speaking out against policies, and making safe spaces. It examines how revenge looks different for those who have to worry about their own security, their safety. About the ways we can be emotionally manipulated and feel so hurt.
The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge is heart warming. What begins as a story about revenge, morphs into one about how revenge can leave us hollow. And then turns into a story about fighting the homophobia, about speaking out against policies, and making safe spaces. It examines how revenge looks different for those who have to worry about their own security, their safety. About the ways we can be emotionally manipulated and feel so hurt.
August 26, 2024
Oh em geeeeeeeeee. This book. This book. This book. If I wasn’t taking a trip it would’ve been finished in two days. I happy cried. I don’t know the last time I happy cried at a book. I happy cried multiple times. Who knew I had so many happy tears to spill? The boys in this book you cannot help but love and root for.
May 3, 2024
This is a must-read for all young adults. It speaks to so much that is happening across the country today. Yet it is still a fun read, and I was happy to be along for the ride with Ezra and his friends.
May 28, 2024
this book is a complete and utter TRIUMPH !!! what a revolutionary debut. this is the story the world needs. thank you and bravo, matthew!
June 5, 2024
What a great book to kick off Pride Month! As an adult reader, sometimes teen fiction feels conveniently dramatized to me; however, I slowly realized that each event in this story could have (unfortunately) been pulled from real-life, recent news coverage. This book does an impressive job of translating "pride is a protest" to a younger generation with modern challenges, while interspersing positive and affirming messages throughout.
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