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Tripping Over You #1
Tripping Over You, Volume 1
The first volume of young adult graphic novel series about the long and winding romantic relationship between an energetic theater kid, Milo, and his withdrawn classmate, Liam. Perfect for fans of Heartstopper!
The infamous theater kid Milo and wallflower Liam are unlikely friends connected by a mutual feeling of being misfits in their boarding school. As their friendship and bond develops, unspoken romantic feelings start to bubble up and complicate everything—misunderstandings and bruised eyes aplenty. But with their graduation soon approaching, Milo gathers the strength to finally confess. They begin dating in secret (for fear of Liam’s strict father finding out), but their relationship becomes more difficult to hide over time and they must decide if they are ready for what the future has in store for them.
Tripping Over You is perfect for readers who want more than just the moody teen problems and the 'getting together' stage. It's a story that throughout the three volumes, progresses until they are out of college, showing the relationship mature and change as the characters move through different stages of their lives.
The infamous theater kid Milo and wallflower Liam are unlikely friends connected by a mutual feeling of being misfits in their boarding school. As their friendship and bond develops, unspoken romantic feelings start to bubble up and complicate everything—misunderstandings and bruised eyes aplenty. But with their graduation soon approaching, Milo gathers the strength to finally confess. They begin dating in secret (for fear of Liam’s strict father finding out), but their relationship becomes more difficult to hide over time and they must decide if they are ready for what the future has in store for them.
Tripping Over You is perfect for readers who want more than just the moody teen problems and the 'getting together' stage. It's a story that throughout the three volumes, progresses until they are out of college, showing the relationship mature and change as the characters move through different stages of their lives.
240 pages, Paperback
Published August 19, 2025
6 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 14, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
This is my first graphic novel series I’ve read, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but since it was compared to Heartstopper I was definitely interested.
In book one, we are introduced to friends Milo and Liam, who are about to graduate from their final year of boarding school. This leads to Milo confessing to Liam, and the book follows them as they date in secret.
I really liked the romance between Milo and Liam, but would’ve liked seeing more of their relationship.
The parts of their friendship that we do see doesn’t really do their relationship justice, especially since Milo had been in love with Liam for years.
That being said that was the only part of book one that I didn’t like and I’m already jumping into book two, can’t wait to see how their relationship develops.
Haven’t read a graphic novel yet, but this seems promising. Thanks first Second and NetGalley for the arc
This is my first graphic novel series I’ve read, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but since it was compared to Heartstopper I was definitely interested.
In book one, we are introduced to friends Milo and Liam, who are about to graduate from their final year of boarding school. This leads to Milo confessing to Liam, and the book follows them as they date in secret.
I really liked the romance between Milo and Liam, but would’ve liked seeing more of their relationship.
The parts of their friendship that we do see doesn’t really do their relationship justice, especially since Milo had been in love with Liam for years.
That being said that was the only part of book one that I didn’t like and I’m already jumping into book two, can’t wait to see how their relationship develops.
Haven’t read a graphic novel yet, but this seems promising. Thanks first Second and NetGalley for the arc
August 20, 2025
Milo is such a cutie pie and Liam is very insufferable. I’m hoping that moving forward the relationship gets stronger and I like them together, because right now it feels like Liam is holding Milo back.
March 13, 2025
When I read this story as a webcomic 10 years ago, I absolutely loved it. It's perfect for that kind of story that gradually comes out every week/month. These characters' daily life are part of your daily life and you grow with them.
As a published graphic novel that you probably read in one sitting, it doesn't quite work. It misses plot to keep it interesting. The boys story is sweet but you really get to see the cuteness of it as they grow and in this first volume we don't quite get there.
I hope we'll still get to see the next volumes being published though!
As a published graphic novel that you probably read in one sitting, it doesn't quite work. It misses plot to keep it interesting. The boys story is sweet but you really get to see the cuteness of it as they grow and in this first volume we don't quite get there.
I hope we'll still get to see the next volumes being published though!
July 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this! The friends-to-lovers romance of Milo and Liam is very cute and full of the awkward getting-together are-we-aren't-we moments that makes reading high school and college romance so much fun.
I really liked the art style! The characters faces and body language are very expressive and do an excellent job conveying their emotions. The muted color palette works really well and is pleasant to look at.
I like that the story isn't just focused on Milo and Liam, but also on their families and friends. It makes the characters and world feel more fleshed out. I wish it had been longer, which would have allowed the characters' relationships to unfold more naturally instead of being occasionally jarring.
I also really like the side-plot of Liam and his dad and his cousin, and how he begins to learn to stand up for himself.
I really enjoyed reading it and immediately jumped into the second volume to get more.
*Thanks to First Second for providing an early copy for review.
I really liked the art style! The characters faces and body language are very expressive and do an excellent job conveying their emotions. The muted color palette works really well and is pleasant to look at.
I like that the story isn't just focused on Milo and Liam, but also on their families and friends. It makes the characters and world feel more fleshed out. I wish it had been longer, which would have allowed the characters' relationships to unfold more naturally instead of being occasionally jarring.
I also really like the side-plot of Liam and his dad and his cousin, and how he begins to learn to stand up for himself.
I really enjoyed reading it and immediately jumped into the second volume to get more.
*Thanks to First Second for providing an early copy for review.
July 30, 2025
Absolutely love a slice of life queer romance, especially when you add in long term crushes and a self acceptance character arc! While volume one is just the foundation of Milo and Liam's relationship, you're invested in them quite quickly, learning about them as individuals and their reciprocated feelings for one another. I do hope that future volumes go into more depth with each of them and their relationship. Love the simple, almost-callback art style and vast saturation of colors. Looking forward to the next volume!
Thanks to NetGalley and First Second Books for the arc!
Thanks to NetGalley and First Second Books for the arc!
October 11, 2025
It's slice of life, but nothing happens. Just two polite English boys start secretly dating at a boarding school. The supporting cast is underdeveloped. The art style is cute it feels like Archie meetsa generic shoujo style. No shoujo sparkles tho.
October 15, 2025
Strong Heartstopper vibes, with more detailed art, more internalised homophobia and a coed boarding school just for kicks.
Loved it.
Loved it.
August 28, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and First Second for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tripping Over You by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is a slice of life school/coming-of-age queer rom-com story about Milo, a relatively out theater kid, and his initially closeted bestie-turned-boyfriend Liam as they navigate the complexities of young adulthood and relationships, as well as the general chaos of a boarding school filled with teenagers.
One of the strengths of this comic are the quirky cast of characters--they each have their own strong personality that makes them just as memorable for their behavior traits as for their visual character design. The art style is also quite distinct, with strong linework and vivid use of color that pairs well with the humor and drama of the plot. It's a great pick-me-up story for a gloomy day.
It may also be of interest to note that this graphic novel was a first published as an indie webcomic over a decade ago, so it's been really cool to see this story grow and change through its various iterations. The first chapter was originally presented in gradations of blue, so seeing these scenes in color (and in print) was a fun surprise (the full-color prologue had been a late addition to the original comic). There were also some minor edits to the dialogue in the print version that update the comic and enhance the story content as well.
One thing I do miss about the original was the comedic alt text commentary for each single page upload, a mix of characters' internal monologues and the creators' tongue-in-cheek jokes. If the original version is still on their website, it's worth taking a peek! Reading this volume was definitely a trip down nostalgia lane with an overall positive take on young queer love--and a message to never underestimate cunning wlw! I can't wait for Volume 2!
Readers who enjoy this book may also like: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Castle Swimmer by Wendy Lian Martin, Blue Flag by Kaito, Classmates by Asumiko Nakamura, The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn't a Guy At All by Sumiko Arai, Wandering Son and Sweet Blue Flowers by Takako Shimura, Fence by C. S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad, and other sweet stories of young LGBTQIA+ youth clumsily in love.
Tripping Over You by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is a slice of life school/coming-of-age queer rom-com story about Milo, a relatively out theater kid, and his initially closeted bestie-turned-boyfriend Liam as they navigate the complexities of young adulthood and relationships, as well as the general chaos of a boarding school filled with teenagers.
One of the strengths of this comic are the quirky cast of characters--they each have their own strong personality that makes them just as memorable for their behavior traits as for their visual character design. The art style is also quite distinct, with strong linework and vivid use of color that pairs well with the humor and drama of the plot. It's a great pick-me-up story for a gloomy day.
It may also be of interest to note that this graphic novel was a first published as an indie webcomic over a decade ago, so it's been really cool to see this story grow and change through its various iterations. The first chapter was originally presented in gradations of blue, so seeing these scenes in color (and in print) was a fun surprise (the full-color prologue had been a late addition to the original comic). There were also some minor edits to the dialogue in the print version that update the comic and enhance the story content as well.
One thing I do miss about the original was the comedic alt text commentary for each single page upload, a mix of characters' internal monologues and the creators' tongue-in-cheek jokes. If the original version is still on their website, it's worth taking a peek! Reading this volume was definitely a trip down nostalgia lane with an overall positive take on young queer love--and a message to never underestimate cunning wlw! I can't wait for Volume 2!
Readers who enjoy this book may also like: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Castle Swimmer by Wendy Lian Martin, Blue Flag by Kaito, Classmates by Asumiko Nakamura, The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn't a Guy At All by Sumiko Arai, Wandering Son and Sweet Blue Flowers by Takako Shimura, Fence by C. S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad, and other sweet stories of young LGBTQIA+ youth clumsily in love.
August 13, 2025
eARC Review:
The Basics:
Art: 3/5
After reading so many manga and manhwa, it’s refreshing to see a different art style. That said, webcomic art has come so far in recent years that it’s hard not to compare…
Characters: 2/5
I didn’t really like Milo… way too pushy. Liam also was annoying… but to be fair, aren’t all teenage boys supposed to be annoying? hahaha
Honestly, I just felt like the leads didn’t have any real chemistry; their constant bickering wasn’t the fun, flirty kind of banter, just… tiring.
There were also a lot of side characters, and since I didn’t connect with the main couple, I wasn’t invested enough to care about all the extras.
Story/Plot: 2/5
It jumps right in, which I normally don’t mind, but here it just didn’t quite work for me.
I think the biggest issue is that we go into this with the implication that the two MCs already like each other—but we never really get to see any of that budding romance. They just don’t seem to get along for most of the story. Sure, there are some cute moments here and there, but overall it felt like they’d rather argue than spend time together. The ending was sweet and did lean more into the romance, but I definitely had to push myself to get there.
Writing/Dialouge: 4/5
A bit awkward at times—like the characters weren’t always finishing their sentences. Maybe it was an attempt to incorporate younger slang. That said, it’s a minor gripe, and overall the writing and dialogue were fine.
In conclusion:
This one felt a bit all over the place. I read in other reviews that it originally released weekly back in 2011, and honestly, I think it just doesn’t hold up as well now. I can tell it was trying to tackle important topics like consent, coming out, and condom usage, but unfortunately, it just didn’t feel well executed.
Extras:
Giggles/Sweetness: 1/5
Second-hand Embarrassment: 0/5
The Basics:
Art: 3/5
After reading so many manga and manhwa, it’s refreshing to see a different art style. That said, webcomic art has come so far in recent years that it’s hard not to compare…
Characters: 2/5
I didn’t really like Milo… way too pushy. Liam also was annoying… but to be fair, aren’t all teenage boys supposed to be annoying? hahaha
Honestly, I just felt like the leads didn’t have any real chemistry; their constant bickering wasn’t the fun, flirty kind of banter, just… tiring.
There were also a lot of side characters, and since I didn’t connect with the main couple, I wasn’t invested enough to care about all the extras.
Story/Plot: 2/5
It jumps right in, which I normally don’t mind, but here it just didn’t quite work for me.
I think the biggest issue is that we go into this with the implication that the two MCs already like each other—but we never really get to see any of that budding romance. They just don’t seem to get along for most of the story. Sure, there are some cute moments here and there, but overall it felt like they’d rather argue than spend time together. The ending was sweet and did lean more into the romance, but I definitely had to push myself to get there.
Writing/Dialouge: 4/5
A bit awkward at times—like the characters weren’t always finishing their sentences. Maybe it was an attempt to incorporate younger slang. That said, it’s a minor gripe, and overall the writing and dialogue were fine.
In conclusion:
This one felt a bit all over the place. I read in other reviews that it originally released weekly back in 2011, and honestly, I think it just doesn’t hold up as well now. I can tell it was trying to tackle important topics like consent, coming out, and condom usage, but unfortunately, it just didn’t feel well executed.
Extras:
Giggles/Sweetness: 1/5
Second-hand Embarrassment: 0/5
August 20, 2025
Thank you, First Second & Fierce Reads, for sending me a copy for the tour! Tripping Over You: Volume 1 is out NOW! 🥰🫶
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Tripping Over You is based on a webcomic with the same name that has been out for many years. (started in 2011) I have no idea how I haven’t read it or even heard of it until now, so I’m super happy it's getting traditionally published and was brought to my attention. 😊 I loved this book so much! I am already desperately waiting for volume 2 (I’m not sure how many will be made, but volume 2 is confirmed, has a cover, and a release date! So YAY 😁).
Ugh, these characters! They are so loveable! Milo, an outgoing theater kid, and Liam, a more reserved kid, are quite different, but despite this, they became friends. Liam always thinks Milo is teasing him to make fun of him, but Milo is flirting, and after telling him so, they share a disastrously funny (in my opinion) first kiss. Eventually, they work it out and begin to secretly date. I really love how they didn't just go perfectly from friends to dating; it took work. It was messy. It felt real!
The dynamic between Liam and Milo reminds me a lot of Charlie and Jasper from And They Were Roommates by Page Powars, which is a favorite of mine! (Bonus points: both books occur at a boarding school.) Liam being Charlie, and Milo being Jasper.
One thing I enjoyed seeing was their conversation about having sex for the first time. When the boys realized neither of them had done that before, they stopped and researched it. Queer sex is very often not taught in sex ed., and leads to queer teens having to do their own research, so I think including this scene was a nice touch to show a bit of reality.
Besides the main plot being the beginning of a relationship between the two, we also get to see a bit of Liam’s dad, who, let's just say, has certain expectations of Liam to be a “manly man”. It wasn’t explored too-too much in volume 1, but it definitely helped to flesh out the character. Opposed to Liam’s dad, we also meet Milo’s dad, whom I love! He is so chill and welcoming to Liam, and it was really sweet.
I can’t wait to see how the relationship changes and develops further now that the two have left high school, and as Liam begins to accept himself more. 🫶
.
Tripping Over You is based on a webcomic with the same name that has been out for many years. (started in 2011) I have no idea how I haven’t read it or even heard of it until now, so I’m super happy it's getting traditionally published and was brought to my attention. 😊 I loved this book so much! I am already desperately waiting for volume 2 (I’m not sure how many will be made, but volume 2 is confirmed, has a cover, and a release date! So YAY 😁).
Ugh, these characters! They are so loveable! Milo, an outgoing theater kid, and Liam, a more reserved kid, are quite different, but despite this, they became friends. Liam always thinks Milo is teasing him to make fun of him, but Milo is flirting, and after telling him so, they share a disastrously funny (in my opinion) first kiss. Eventually, they work it out and begin to secretly date. I really love how they didn't just go perfectly from friends to dating; it took work. It was messy. It felt real!
The dynamic between Liam and Milo reminds me a lot of Charlie and Jasper from And They Were Roommates by Page Powars, which is a favorite of mine! (Bonus points: both books occur at a boarding school.) Liam being Charlie, and Milo being Jasper.
One thing I enjoyed seeing was their conversation about having sex for the first time. When the boys realized neither of them had done that before, they stopped and researched it. Queer sex is very often not taught in sex ed., and leads to queer teens having to do their own research, so I think including this scene was a nice touch to show a bit of reality.
Besides the main plot being the beginning of a relationship between the two, we also get to see a bit of Liam’s dad, who, let's just say, has certain expectations of Liam to be a “manly man”. It wasn’t explored too-too much in volume 1, but it definitely helped to flesh out the character. Opposed to Liam’s dad, we also meet Milo’s dad, whom I love! He is so chill and welcoming to Liam, and it was really sweet.
I can’t wait to see how the relationship changes and develops further now that the two have left high school, and as Liam begins to accept himself more. 🫶
August 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and firstsecond publishing for the eARC in exchange for my review.
Tripping Over You (Volume 1) by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is the story of theater kid Milo and wallflower Liam bumbling their way into a relationship. This volume introduces us to the main characters, supporting cast, and the budding relationship between these two awkward high schoolers. It is marketed as a Young Adult graphic novel. However, I will stress that there is talk and depictions of sexual encounters so it would be a good novel for older teens, and the sexual talk and encounters are not explicit and age appropriate for teens.
What I liked about this book:
This was such a sweet and true depiction of high school, teen relationships, and the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth. The way in which this book dealt with heavier topics was very good and it was interspersed with moments of comedy and joy as well. In addition, the art style was very expressive and fun to look at as I read.
What I didn't like about this book:
The only negative I can say about this book is that it felt rushed in some places. I wish we would've gotten more of an introduction to Milo and Liam as I felt as I didn't connect with them as much as I could have in the beginning. However, I their character development pulled me in eventually and I began to connect with them more.
Final Thoughts:
This was an amazing story, especially as a happy LGBTQ+ story that still dealt with challenges that teens and LGBTQ+ youth face. The characters where funny and the art style was lovely. This story will be perfect for readers that loved Heartstopper and wanted more LGBTQ+ young adult graphic novels to read. I cannot wait for the second volume to be published!
Content Warnings:
- Light sexual content
- Discussions of mental health/therapy
- Homophobia
Tripping Over You (Volume 1) by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is the story of theater kid Milo and wallflower Liam bumbling their way into a relationship. This volume introduces us to the main characters, supporting cast, and the budding relationship between these two awkward high schoolers. It is marketed as a Young Adult graphic novel. However, I will stress that there is talk and depictions of sexual encounters so it would be a good novel for older teens, and the sexual talk and encounters are not explicit and age appropriate for teens.
What I liked about this book:
This was such a sweet and true depiction of high school, teen relationships, and the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth. The way in which this book dealt with heavier topics was very good and it was interspersed with moments of comedy and joy as well. In addition, the art style was very expressive and fun to look at as I read.
What I didn't like about this book:
The only negative I can say about this book is that it felt rushed in some places. I wish we would've gotten more of an introduction to Milo and Liam as I felt as I didn't connect with them as much as I could have in the beginning. However, I their character development pulled me in eventually and I began to connect with them more.
Final Thoughts:
This was an amazing story, especially as a happy LGBTQ+ story that still dealt with challenges that teens and LGBTQ+ youth face. The characters where funny and the art style was lovely. This story will be perfect for readers that loved Heartstopper and wanted more LGBTQ+ young adult graphic novels to read. I cannot wait for the second volume to be published!
Content Warnings:
- Light sexual content
- Discussions of mental health/therapy
- Homophobia
August 18, 2025
Tripping over you gives off strong Heartstopper vibes with a slightly more chaotic & flighty energy that makes it feel both charming & grounded. The premise is lovely, exploring queer connection & growth with honesty & humor. Archie’s anxiety & struggles with vulnerability are shown with care, & Milo’s support through it all is genuinely heartwarming. His patience with Liam’s coming out journey—& his willingness to adapt the pace of their relationship to suit Liam’s needs—was especially moving.
Archie & Milo also demonstrate a refreshingly healthy friendship between a queer & cis individual—filled with support, mutual respect, & emotional availability. It’s the kind of dynamic we don’t see often enough in media.
That said, Liam punching Milo for confessing his feelings was really uncalled for, & it’s disappointing that no one (besides his female best friend) held him accountable for that. Still, Liam’s growth—especially standing up for himself with his therapist—was a proud moment & marked a clear step forward in his emotional maturity.
The depiction of safe sex was respectful & appreciated, even if a few of the innuendos (like “Booty Bandit”) felt a bit much. Penny’s blackmail subplot didn’t land for me either—it felt out of place. But the comic really shines in how it reflects on the shifting nature of friendships after school ends, & how growing up sometimes means growing apart.
Side note: Can we please get a story with gay male leads in a public school setting? Boarding & private schools are overdone—queer public school kids deserve to see themselves too.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
Archie & Milo also demonstrate a refreshingly healthy friendship between a queer & cis individual—filled with support, mutual respect, & emotional availability. It’s the kind of dynamic we don’t see often enough in media.
That said, Liam punching Milo for confessing his feelings was really uncalled for, & it’s disappointing that no one (besides his female best friend) held him accountable for that. Still, Liam’s growth—especially standing up for himself with his therapist—was a proud moment & marked a clear step forward in his emotional maturity.
The depiction of safe sex was respectful & appreciated, even if a few of the innuendos (like “Booty Bandit”) felt a bit much. Penny’s blackmail subplot didn’t land for me either—it felt out of place. But the comic really shines in how it reflects on the shifting nature of friendships after school ends, & how growing up sometimes means growing apart.
Side note: Can we please get a story with gay male leads in a public school setting? Boarding & private schools are overdone—queer public school kids deserve to see themselves too.
*I received an advance review copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
#ThankGodForARCs
August 21, 2025
I received a copy of an ARC from NetGalley and first second publishing.
I did not read the original webcomic so my views are only about the new volume. I found the romance cute and the art fit with the tone.
Confident Milo and Anxious Liam are an interesting pair to match up. Long time friends and secret crushes leads to a secret romance. This happens very quick. The characters are not developed at all if just rushes into an intro and right into plot.
The story focuses on Liam having a very strict father who he doesn’t want of come out to and therefore asks Milo to had a secret relationship.
The pacing is tough. There’s no room for much backstory or character development the plot is tricky to pinpoint it just rushes along.
There is no setting - a nondescript boarding school in an unknown location maybe UK because of the cars. Side characters pop in but it was hard to care about most of them because you only learn their names and they are filler for parts the two MCs are not together.
I wish they would have added more to the story converting it from webcomic to book to give the story plot depth and character arcs. It’s only being compared to Heartstopper because it’s a young queer romance comic but it lacks any of the emotional story.
While Liam and Milo are cute and they have an interesting if not uncommon romance trope I just didn’t have space to see their relationship grow or change or become complex. It’s all very at the surface. I think queer narratives are very important but I’m not sure I’d read book 2 if it’s the same vignette type chapters that don’t feel like a cohesive and rich story.
I did not read the original webcomic so my views are only about the new volume. I found the romance cute and the art fit with the tone.
Confident Milo and Anxious Liam are an interesting pair to match up. Long time friends and secret crushes leads to a secret romance. This happens very quick. The characters are not developed at all if just rushes into an intro and right into plot.
The story focuses on Liam having a very strict father who he doesn’t want of come out to and therefore asks Milo to had a secret relationship.
The pacing is tough. There’s no room for much backstory or character development the plot is tricky to pinpoint it just rushes along.
There is no setting - a nondescript boarding school in an unknown location maybe UK because of the cars. Side characters pop in but it was hard to care about most of them because you only learn their names and they are filler for parts the two MCs are not together.
I wish they would have added more to the story converting it from webcomic to book to give the story plot depth and character arcs. It’s only being compared to Heartstopper because it’s a young queer romance comic but it lacks any of the emotional story.
While Liam and Milo are cute and they have an interesting if not uncommon romance trope I just didn’t have space to see their relationship grow or change or become complex. It’s all very at the surface. I think queer narratives are very important but I’m not sure I’d read book 2 if it’s the same vignette type chapters that don’t feel like a cohesive and rich story.
September 28, 2025
I received an advanced copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
What happens when a wallflower and a theater kid meet? For shy Liam, being friends with the enthusiastic Milo has its dramatic moments and hilarious times, as they navigate through heartbreak and blackmail with their close friends. At the same time, Milo and Liam ready themselves for life after boarding school, and romance blooms slowly between the two boys. From a black eye misunderstanding to being the third or fourth wheel in dating, these two find their secret moments to be open to each other, and with a few given make-out sessions, they begin to open up. Will Milo and Liam be ready for the next step in their relationship by the time the year ends?
While this graphic novel was charming in several ways, Liam sometimes acts melancholic, and Milo acts like the actor he is (he’s a theater kid) in front of the many friendships they both share. From secret rendezvous between them to dealing with parents who are accepting and sometimes not, Liam and Milo have it cut out for them to pursue a romantic relationship. Soft blues meet vibrant purples across the pages of this heartfelt story, showing how two boys fall in love against the backdrop of boarding school, extreme drama, and the feeling of never letting go. A delight from start to finish.
What happens when a wallflower and a theater kid meet? For shy Liam, being friends with the enthusiastic Milo has its dramatic moments and hilarious times, as they navigate through heartbreak and blackmail with their close friends. At the same time, Milo and Liam ready themselves for life after boarding school, and romance blooms slowly between the two boys. From a black eye misunderstanding to being the third or fourth wheel in dating, these two find their secret moments to be open to each other, and with a few given make-out sessions, they begin to open up. Will Milo and Liam be ready for the next step in their relationship by the time the year ends?
While this graphic novel was charming in several ways, Liam sometimes acts melancholic, and Milo acts like the actor he is (he’s a theater kid) in front of the many friendships they both share. From secret rendezvous between them to dealing with parents who are accepting and sometimes not, Liam and Milo have it cut out for them to pursue a romantic relationship. Soft blues meet vibrant purples across the pages of this heartfelt story, showing how two boys fall in love against the backdrop of boarding school, extreme drama, and the feeling of never letting go. A delight from start to finish.
July 11, 2025
I honestly really enjoyed this read! It was heartwarming and light, but still had more heavy topics at the same time. While not explicitly focusing on the "bad" and more aimed at being a lighthearted read, it still felt really strong. The little hints of the "darker" parts of their story were still so intertwined in their characters, especially in Liam's case. I liked that his being withdrawn/frightened is the product of his upbringing and the way that it felt really intertwined with the story! Milo is so sweet that it balances out really well, in my opinion, but was not represented as a "fixing" thing.
The actual story, while again, a simple and lighthearted story about them getting together, was still intriguing and enjoyable. It also wasn't a complete focus on them only and kept a focus on their respective friendships/family outside of their relationship at the same time. It made them both feel more fleshed out as actual characters/people than as simply two boyfriends.
I really did like this book quite a bit! The art style is also so good, I really enjoyed it! Their expressions/actions were really well drawn and made it easy to fall into the story!
Thank you to NetGalley and firstsecond publishing for the eARC in exchange for my review!
The actual story, while again, a simple and lighthearted story about them getting together, was still intriguing and enjoyable. It also wasn't a complete focus on them only and kept a focus on their respective friendships/family outside of their relationship at the same time. It made them both feel more fleshed out as actual characters/people than as simply two boyfriends.
I really did like this book quite a bit! The art style is also so good, I really enjoyed it! Their expressions/actions were really well drawn and made it easy to fall into the story!
Thank you to NetGalley and firstsecond publishing for the eARC in exchange for my review!
March 21, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley & First Second Books for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
First off, this was apparently a Webcomic published in 2011 that ran over the course of several years and finished in 2023. So I think the context helps a lot with how this GN is presented. There's a lot of scenes that should have been added but wasn't because it was a one page a month kind of deal.
It was OK overall. I feel bad comparing it to Heartstopper but British gay kids at school...reminding me of HS there. I think Heartstopper does better overall because it gives more down-time for characters and fleshes them out more. This book is stuck in ye old Webcomic times with one page a month so they used each page wisely but at the cost of breathing life into the world.
It also doesn't help that the world feels very shallow because all dialogue is focused on the main couple, which is great and all, but didn't really create a lot of tension and drama. The art was OK but there were too many brown-haired characters including one of the protagonists and I genuinely had a hard time telling them apart.
First off, this was apparently a Webcomic published in 2011 that ran over the course of several years and finished in 2023. So I think the context helps a lot with how this GN is presented. There's a lot of scenes that should have been added but wasn't because it was a one page a month kind of deal.
It was OK overall. I feel bad comparing it to Heartstopper but British gay kids at school...reminding me of HS there. I think Heartstopper does better overall because it gives more down-time for characters and fleshes them out more. This book is stuck in ye old Webcomic times with one page a month so they used each page wisely but at the cost of breathing life into the world.
It also doesn't help that the world feels very shallow because all dialogue is focused on the main couple, which is great and all, but didn't really create a lot of tension and drama. The art was OK but there were too many brown-haired characters including one of the protagonists and I genuinely had a hard time telling them apart.
August 18, 2025
The book description says this graphic novel is perfect for fans of Heartstopper. In one way, it is. It is the story about young men falling in love, but unlike Heartstopper, both know they are gay, but one of them is just not out. In fact, Liam is painfully so far into the closet that he can’t even find the door, so to speak. This doesn’t mean he is not in love with Milo who is very much out.
So, this first volume is Liam getting used to the idea of both showing affection to a boyfriend, and showing it in public.
Not a spoiler, because there is a volume 2 coming out in the spring, but this ends with everyone going off to different universities, and wondering what life will be like.
It is a sweet enough story. I always get annoyed with people being so closeted, even though when I was younger, I was as well, until I wasn’t. It is very personal, and we each should come out when we feel comfortable.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on August 19th, 2025.
So, this first volume is Liam getting used to the idea of both showing affection to a boyfriend, and showing it in public.
Not a spoiler, because there is a volume 2 coming out in the spring, but this ends with everyone going off to different universities, and wondering what life will be like.
It is a sweet enough story. I always get annoyed with people being so closeted, even though when I was younger, I was as well, until I wasn’t. It is very personal, and we each should come out when we feel comfortable.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on August 19th, 2025.
March 28, 2025
***I received a free eARC of this book from First Second through Netgalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.***
*2.5 stars
Similarly to Always Raining Here, which I also finished this week, this is a webcomic from the early 2010s that's being published in print. I had a lot of that same problems with this one as I did that one, which is that the representation in this just does not hold up. There's so much toxicity and, in this one specifically, some violence, that is inexcusable, and I don't think it stands up to the Much Better queer graphic novels that are available now; this one is safe to leave in the past without missing anything.
*2.5 stars
Similarly to Always Raining Here, which I also finished this week, this is a webcomic from the early 2010s that's being published in print. I had a lot of that same problems with this one as I did that one, which is that the representation in this just does not hold up. There's so much toxicity and, in this one specifically, some violence, that is inexcusable, and I don't think it stands up to the Much Better queer graphic novels that are available now; this one is safe to leave in the past without missing anything.
April 22, 2025
I began reading this as a webcomic several years ago and I'm very excited to see it getting published now! I can definitely tell the beginning section was still find its footing as a serializing webcomic, and the pacing was a bit jarring at first. For a graphic novel I would've wanted to see the initial romance or background of our couple fleshed out a bit more so a reader who's reading everything at once is able to still connect to them better. As it is, a lot of time passes very quickly and it feels 0-60, but the actual conflict during the confession section was very well done and kept my interest easily. I really enjoy the facial expressions, I think the art does a great job of using them to drive humorous scenes home. I also like how the storyline of Liam and his father is unfolding alongside his romance. I'm looking forward for the next volume to be released and this is a great late school into early adulthood romanctic series for the new adult audience.
June 25, 2025
"Tripping Over You" by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is a cute graphic novel about two people falling in love and figuring out what that looks like/means for them. Milo and Liam have been classmates for a long time, but as they enter their final year of school Milo takes a chance to share with Liam how he feels about him. While that doesn't initially go well, the story that follows is heartfelt and endearing.
Milo and Liam maintain their relationship while also tackling things at school and home. This story explores coming out on your own terms, growing into yourself and leaning on the person you love. The art style is cute and enjoyable and it was an engaging read!
If you enjoy queer stories, good friendships, and graphic novels, I would recommend this! Thank you to the publisher for providing an advanced readers copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Milo and Liam maintain their relationship while also tackling things at school and home. This story explores coming out on your own terms, growing into yourself and leaning on the person you love. The art style is cute and enjoyable and it was an engaging read!
If you enjoy queer stories, good friendships, and graphic novels, I would recommend this! Thank you to the publisher for providing an advanced readers copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2025
E-ARC from NetGalley
I have been going back and fourth with this one, with 3 to 4 stars. Settling on 3 stars and here's why. I liked it but didn't love it. The characters didn't seem fleshed out. Yes I know you can only do so much in a graphic novel but still. I couldn't get behind the main characters relationship. I really liked Milo but Liam was just meh. I didn't like how Mila had to pretend all the time, that him and Liam wasn't together. I get why not ready to come out but why, because his father wouldn't approve, their had to be something else going on in his personal life. Didn't know why he was going to therapy till the very end. But he was no further ahead in the long run because of the therapy. I usually read graphic novels all in one sitting maybe that's why it wasn't a hit for me. I will do a reread before reading vol 1 just to be fair.
I have been going back and fourth with this one, with 3 to 4 stars. Settling on 3 stars and here's why. I liked it but didn't love it. The characters didn't seem fleshed out. Yes I know you can only do so much in a graphic novel but still. I couldn't get behind the main characters relationship. I really liked Milo but Liam was just meh. I didn't like how Mila had to pretend all the time, that him and Liam wasn't together. I get why not ready to come out but why, because his father wouldn't approve, their had to be something else going on in his personal life. Didn't know why he was going to therapy till the very end. But he was no further ahead in the long run because of the therapy. I usually read graphic novels all in one sitting maybe that's why it wasn't a hit for me. I will do a reread before reading vol 1 just to be fair.
November 4, 2025
I read this comic online for years and years (until a few years ago when I lost track of my webcomics and stopped reading them all) and was shocked (but excited) to see this published version at my local library! There was no new content, since I had read all the online comics previously, but I loved it just as I loved it when I first read it years ago. I'd definitely read more volumes if they become available and I'm inspired to try and find the online comics again.
As to the actual content, Milo and Liam are so adorable and awkward that I can't help but love them, even if they are also both sometimes complete dinguses. I also appreciate the range of relationships that are depicted in this comic and their variety of responses to emerging queer identities. I think Liam and Milo both have relatable journeys at different times.
As to the actual content, Milo and Liam are so adorable and awkward that I can't help but love them, even if they are also both sometimes complete dinguses. I also appreciate the range of relationships that are depicted in this comic and their variety of responses to emerging queer identities. I think Liam and Milo both have relatable journeys at different times.
March 11, 2025
This book is a DNF at 97 pages. Two cute boys in boarding school like each other, but one is very uptight and the other is more lackadaisical and fun loving. There is something going on with the uptight one something about their father and needing to keep things on the down low. So Our fun loving guy who is an actor, keep things on the downlow for the other person even though it makes him a different person. This is just too much drama. I understand the serious boy wants to stay in the closet and has something to do with his father. There’s a section about consent. That is kind of nice. Nice is the wrong word but when you see it, you would get it. However, 97 pages felt like 300 pages. It felt like this was never ending and I have no desire to read the next 196 pages.
July 1, 2025
I read this as a webcomic when it was coming out, and I enjoyed it at the time. Reading it again, I'm struck by how quickly it jumps into the setting without introducing the characters or explaining anything. I'm left a bit confused about what the problems are, sometimes. Additionally, while I really like some of the characters, especially some of the side characters doing zany things, I often wonder what the two main characters see in each other, and I'm honestly not sure I like the dynamic they have. Things move at the occasionally awkward pacing of a webcomic and you can really feel that sitting down and reading the pages in bulk.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2025
The RayView: ✨✨✨✨✨
The HeatRay:🔥🔥🔥
How It Be Spicin’?:
.
Ahhhhh! If you like Heartstopper, I have a feeling you’ll also like Tripping Over You. I love the awkward beginnings of Milo and Liam’s story. The teasing innuendos throughout the whole novel had me giggling, just like the developing relationship between our MCs. I really enjoyed seeing Liam and his cousin too. Sometimes that outside perspective can make us see things in a new light. I’m glad for Liam standing up for himself and can’t wait to read what happens next!
Note: I don’t usually rate The Heatray with teens but as it does happen in the novel, I didn’t want to not acknowledge it, hence the 3🔥 for confirming.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The HeatRay:🔥🔥🔥
How It Be Spicin’?:
.
Ahhhhh! If you like Heartstopper, I have a feeling you’ll also like Tripping Over You. I love the awkward beginnings of Milo and Liam’s story. The teasing innuendos throughout the whole novel had me giggling, just like the developing relationship between our MCs. I really enjoyed seeing Liam and his cousin too. Sometimes that outside perspective can make us see things in a new light. I’m glad for Liam standing up for himself and can’t wait to read what happens next!
Note: I don’t usually rate The Heatray with teens but as it does happen in the novel, I didn’t want to not acknowledge it, hence the 3🔥 for confirming.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
July 12, 2025TRIPPING OVER YOU, VOL 1. by Suzana Harcum and Owena White is a young adult graphic novel that follows Milo and Liam and their friendship that grows into more. We see grumpy/sunshine, high school shenanigans, friendships, coming-of-age, exploration of sexuality, mental health themes, and more. The friends to lovers romance progresses naturally throughout the story, and it's fun, messy, and realistic.
I really liked the characters - they are well developed and feel like real people, and they're entertaining to read about. I'm excited to see their growth and the development of the romance in the upcoming volumes. The art is really pretty as well.
I definitely recommend this if you want a fun, fast-paced YA graphic novel with queer romance and great characters.
I really liked the characters - they are well developed and feel like real people, and they're entertaining to read about. I'm excited to see their growth and the development of the romance in the upcoming volumes. The art is really pretty as well.
I definitely recommend this if you want a fun, fast-paced YA graphic novel with queer romance and great characters.
November 4, 2025
This was originally a webcomic, and it shows. Although there's something of an overarching plot, it's largely episodic. There's a lot of time skips of undeterminate length. Like, at one point one of the characters accuses the other of avoiding him, and I was surprised because I didn't realize more than a day or two had passed. The romance is cute and the characters have great chemistry. But I also think there are serious things that are just kind of glossed over or entirely ignored in favor of keeping things moving. One character has a dead parent, which I only know because it was mentioned in passing. I'm not saying that losing a parent needs to entirely define a character, but if it isn't actually going to affect anything, what's the point?
July 29, 2025
3.5 stars
Thanks to First Second and NetGalley for an advanced copy of Tripping Over You by Suzana Harcum to review! I always have to check out something that says it’s great for fans of Heartstopper, and I’d say for the most part, this is pretty accurate. It has similar vibes of friends falling in love at an English school with one of the boys unsure of coming out. It is one I’d had to teens looking for something similar to Heartstopper!
However, I think because this was a webcomic, we don’t quite get the character depth that I wanted. From what I’ve heard, this was published a page (or two?) at a time, and I think that made it difficult in the character development department. I wanted more about Liam especially, because he had such a complex relationship with his dad. Though, this is only the first volume, so maybe that stuff gets fleshed out later in the story!
The art style was fun; I think it overall fit the story itself pretty well. Not my favorite that I’ve seen, though. All in all, this is a good introduction to the series, and I am interested in seeing where it goes next.
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Review to come!
Thanks to First Second and NetGalley for an advanced copy of Tripping Over You by Suzana Harcum to review! I always have to check out something that says it’s great for fans of Heartstopper, and I’d say for the most part, this is pretty accurate. It has similar vibes of friends falling in love at an English school with one of the boys unsure of coming out. It is one I’d had to teens looking for something similar to Heartstopper!
However, I think because this was a webcomic, we don’t quite get the character depth that I wanted. From what I’ve heard, this was published a page (or two?) at a time, and I think that made it difficult in the character development department. I wanted more about Liam especially, because he had such a complex relationship with his dad. Though, this is only the first volume, so maybe that stuff gets fleshed out later in the story!
The art style was fun; I think it overall fit the story itself pretty well. Not my favorite that I’ve seen, though. All in all, this is a good introduction to the series, and I am interested in seeing where it goes next.
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Review to come!
March 30, 2025
Tripping Over You was originally published online once a week and I've followed it (and loved it) for years. One thing I can say is that the very start is a simple groundwork for what blooms in to a strong story with very loveable characters. Milo and Liam are a great couple who thrive together to come in to their own happiness together and individually. We watch them find their paths in life and overcome a lot of obstacles through the entire webcomic and I definitely recommend this one for contemporary romance lovers (like Heartstopper).
July 26, 2025
Quick note: I might label this an upper YA novel as there are subtle sexual innuendos in the early chapters and then implied sexual intercourse later but it's not shown.
So this was so cute and gay! And the illustrations were so colorful and expressive!
My one mini-complaint is that the transition from chapter 4 to 5 was a little jarring and unexpected and I'm not sure it was set up properly. But, it was still easy to follow once the jump was explained.
I'm interested to see where volume 2 takes Milo and Liam!
So this was so cute and gay! And the illustrations were so colorful and expressive!
My one mini-complaint is that the transition from chapter 4 to 5 was a little jarring and unexpected and I'm not sure it was set up properly. But, it was still easy to follow once the jump was explained.
I'm interested to see where volume 2 takes Milo and Liam!
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