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The Rebel's Guide to Pride
When the mayor of a small Alabama town starts targeting Pride events, bad boy Zeke begins hosting a series of “Pride Speakeasies” in this joyful queer coming-of-age!
There’s nothing Zeke Chapman wants more than to tarnish the perfect reputation his father is so obsessed with. He quit the baseball team, started fighting at school, and nearly flunked junior year. Newly out as gay, Zeke isn’t sure where his queer identity fits in with his bad-boy persona. His father has always told him to stay quiet and not attract attention, but his friends are pushing him to be just as out and proud as they are. Most days, Zeke isn’t sure how to be a “good gay” or what that even means.
When his best friend, Sawyer, begs him to help the QSA plan Pride Day, he obliges—mostly to piss his dad off. But then the mayor announces an ordinance that cancels all LGBTQ+ celebrations. Angered by the injustice—and his father’s support of it—Zeke decides to put his rebellious ways to good use and plans a series of underground “Pride Speakeasies”.
As the speakeasies grow, and the community comes together to declare him “King of Pride”, Zeke finally feels like he’s doing something that matters. But friendship drama, a mysterious cyber-crush, and rising tension with his rival and ex Cohen “Coco” Fisher threaten to undermine his newfound pride. When his final party ends in near-disaster, Zeke must ask himself what he’s really trying to do. After all, there’s a reason that the first pride was a riot.
There’s nothing Zeke Chapman wants more than to tarnish the perfect reputation his father is so obsessed with. He quit the baseball team, started fighting at school, and nearly flunked junior year. Newly out as gay, Zeke isn’t sure where his queer identity fits in with his bad-boy persona. His father has always told him to stay quiet and not attract attention, but his friends are pushing him to be just as out and proud as they are. Most days, Zeke isn’t sure how to be a “good gay” or what that even means.
When his best friend, Sawyer, begs him to help the QSA plan Pride Day, he obliges—mostly to piss his dad off. But then the mayor announces an ordinance that cancels all LGBTQ+ celebrations. Angered by the injustice—and his father’s support of it—Zeke decides to put his rebellious ways to good use and plans a series of underground “Pride Speakeasies”.
As the speakeasies grow, and the community comes together to declare him “King of Pride”, Zeke finally feels like he’s doing something that matters. But friendship drama, a mysterious cyber-crush, and rising tension with his rival and ex Cohen “Coco” Fisher threaten to undermine his newfound pride. When his final party ends in near-disaster, Zeke must ask himself what he’s really trying to do. After all, there’s a reason that the first pride was a riot.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2025
18 people are currently reading
4513 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Hubbard
3 books212 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 129 reviews
July 8, 2025
A rebel with a cause. That’s who Zeke is now. As the son of James Anthony Chapman, aka JACass (I laughed out loud), he’s spent his life hiding, always dancing to his father’s tune. Until one day, he decides he wants to dance on his own, and with people who truly understand him. Because Zeke is done hiding.
Some stories aren’t just funny, beautiful, or thought-provoking. Some are also incredibly important. A Rebel’s Guide to Pride is one of those books. It’s a timely story that reflects the current situation in the US all too well: a father who wants to erase his son’s sexuality, a program that claims to “put families first” (as in, man, woman, kids) to keep children “safe,” and a mayor determined to wipe out anything that even looks queer. It feels eerily familiar, doesn’t it? It also left a brick in my stomach.
These days, I hold my breath every time I watch the news. But stories like Matthew Hubbard’s also make me smile. Because even in difficult times, there’s always hope.
Thank you, Matthew, for writing a story like this. And thank you, Delacorte Press and NetGalley, for trusting me with an ARC.
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Some stories aren’t just funny, beautiful, or thought-provoking. Some are also incredibly important. A Rebel’s Guide to Pride is one of those books. It’s a timely story that reflects the current situation in the US all too well: a father who wants to erase his son’s sexuality, a program that claims to “put families first” (as in, man, woman, kids) to keep children “safe,” and a mayor determined to wipe out anything that even looks queer. It feels eerily familiar, doesn’t it? It also left a brick in my stomach.
These days, I hold my breath every time I watch the news. But stories like Matthew Hubbard’s also make me smile. Because even in difficult times, there’s always hope.
Thank you, Matthew, for writing a story like this. And thank you, Delacorte Press and NetGalley, for trusting me with an ARC.
Follow me on Instagram
May 11, 2025
Dear Reader,
I’ve spent more than a decade dreaming of being an author, and never in my wildest did I imagine that a second book would make its way into the world. If my debut—The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge—was the book of my heart, then The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is the book of my soul. So, reader, please accept my party invitation and step into the “Roaring 2020s” of The Rebel’s Guide to Pride with a mayor who prohibits Pride and the rebels who resist by hosting Pride speakeasies. Rebelling has never been so fun or as sparkly as a mirrored disco ball.
This story began taking shape after reading news of proposed bans on Pride celebrations before bed. My dreams connected our present—infected with hate and vitriol woven into the fabric of politics—to the past with the Roaring Twenties and what it means to live in a time of prohibition and Zelda Fitzgerald, the rebel from Alabama who became the first American flapper during the 1920s. When I sat down to write, those elements made me consider what Pride means to me, what it would mean if banned. Like Zeke, the main character, Pride once felt like a war between who I should be and who I am. His questioning of whether or not he’s a “good gay” is something that I’ve done my whole life. At first, I was terrified to write that into his character, shame and worry whether or not he’s doing enough for both himself and his community. I realized as soon as Zeke climbs that billboard on page one, facing his fears, that I had to do the same.
Early in the story, Zeke has a shoebox full of everything he’s been made to feel ashamed of, including a Pride flag. Having him go through the things he hid felt like reclaiming parts of myself that I’d also been forced to hide. It was empowering to have him refuse to feel shame for who he is. Bringing him to life reinforced what Pride means to me now: speaking up and demanding to exist. However, disgraced and unqualified politicians have screamed at us for far too long, told us who we are and who we are not worthy of being. They want us to cower and live in the darkness of shoeboxes and “underground speakeasies” and closets until we forget ourselves—and we won’t let them anymore.
There’s a reason why the first Pride was a riot, a rebellion, an uprising.
To witness political attacks against the LGBTQIA+ community in real time as I wrote this story both hurt my heart and lit a fire in my veins. That rage burned inside me as my characters dismantled small minds and demanded change. However, as I neared the end, my anger turned into blazing resistance right along with Zeke, Sawyer, Cohen, and Kennedy. And I hope this rebel guide with its glittering speakeasies and fun will inspire you to find your voice, your joy, your unbreakable soul…and fight back too.
After all, they made us rebels.
Proudly,
Matthew
PS: I hope you enjoy!
I’ve spent more than a decade dreaming of being an author, and never in my wildest did I imagine that a second book would make its way into the world. If my debut—The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge—was the book of my heart, then The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is the book of my soul. So, reader, please accept my party invitation and step into the “Roaring 2020s” of The Rebel’s Guide to Pride with a mayor who prohibits Pride and the rebels who resist by hosting Pride speakeasies. Rebelling has never been so fun or as sparkly as a mirrored disco ball.
This story began taking shape after reading news of proposed bans on Pride celebrations before bed. My dreams connected our present—infected with hate and vitriol woven into the fabric of politics—to the past with the Roaring Twenties and what it means to live in a time of prohibition and Zelda Fitzgerald, the rebel from Alabama who became the first American flapper during the 1920s. When I sat down to write, those elements made me consider what Pride means to me, what it would mean if banned. Like Zeke, the main character, Pride once felt like a war between who I should be and who I am. His questioning of whether or not he’s a “good gay” is something that I’ve done my whole life. At first, I was terrified to write that into his character, shame and worry whether or not he’s doing enough for both himself and his community. I realized as soon as Zeke climbs that billboard on page one, facing his fears, that I had to do the same.
Early in the story, Zeke has a shoebox full of everything he’s been made to feel ashamed of, including a Pride flag. Having him go through the things he hid felt like reclaiming parts of myself that I’d also been forced to hide. It was empowering to have him refuse to feel shame for who he is. Bringing him to life reinforced what Pride means to me now: speaking up and demanding to exist. However, disgraced and unqualified politicians have screamed at us for far too long, told us who we are and who we are not worthy of being. They want us to cower and live in the darkness of shoeboxes and “underground speakeasies” and closets until we forget ourselves—and we won’t let them anymore.
There’s a reason why the first Pride was a riot, a rebellion, an uprising.
To witness political attacks against the LGBTQIA+ community in real time as I wrote this story both hurt my heart and lit a fire in my veins. That rage burned inside me as my characters dismantled small minds and demanded change. However, as I neared the end, my anger turned into blazing resistance right along with Zeke, Sawyer, Cohen, and Kennedy. And I hope this rebel guide with its glittering speakeasies and fun will inspire you to find your voice, your joy, your unbreakable soul…and fight back too.
After all, they made us rebels.
Proudly,
Matthew
PS: I hope you enjoy!
April 19, 2025
In the current political climate this book is more timely than ever. Yet it’s also a timeless, heartwarming story of self-discovery, acceptance, and love. I was rooting for Zeke and all his friends until the very last page. 💕
May 9, 2025
★★★★★
With all the new laws going into effect targeting the LGBTQIA+ community, this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. It serves as a reminder that as long as we keep fighting for our rights there will always be hope.
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is a heartwarming read with realistic and lovable characters who will make you fall in love with this book. Also, Zeke’s nickname being “Coco” is adorable.
Thank you, Matthew, for writing this book and giving me hope when you hear about attacks against the LGBTQIA+ community every day in the news and politics. And thank you, NetGalley and Delacorte Press, for the Arc.
So excited I got this! Thank you NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the Arc
With all the new laws going into effect targeting the LGBTQIA+ community, this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. It serves as a reminder that as long as we keep fighting for our rights there will always be hope.
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is a heartwarming read with realistic and lovable characters who will make you fall in love with this book. Also, Zeke’s nickname being “Coco” is adorable.
Thank you, Matthew, for writing this book and giving me hope when you hear about attacks against the LGBTQIA+ community every day in the news and politics. And thank you, NetGalley and Delacorte Press, for the Arc.
So excited I got this! Thank you NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the Arc
December 18, 2024
He’s done it again! This book solidifies how truly gifted Hubbard is at creating the most empowering stories.
In THE REBEL’S GUIDE TO PRIDE, we’re introduced to Zeke Chapman. Zeke has spent his young life living in his image-obsessed father’s shadow. The image carefully sculpted by Anthony Chapman includes straight A’s, superstar of the baseball team, and law school. No where in Anthony’s plan is there room for Zeke to be gay, which is why he tries to force him back into the closet.
Thankfully, Zeke and his badass mom yeet themselves out of Anthony Champan’s orbit and move into their own apartment. It’s there that Zeke is finally able to be himself. But without the weight of his father’s expectations forcing him into a specific mold, Zeke realizes he doesn’t really know who he is.
Enter a homophobic mayor who cancels Pride and introduces anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation. Zeke’s found his purpose. Together with his QSA friends, the crew bands together to fight for their town and the people in it.
I could spend all day talking about everything I loved in this book. The diversity, the empowering subplots, the romance… all flawlessly executed. But I think it really comes down to the fact that all of us have felt like Zeke at some point in our lives.
REBELS is a book for anyone who has ever felt powerless or silenced. It’s a story about finding yourself, standing up for what you believe in, and overcoming fear. And how incredible is that?
In THE REBEL’S GUIDE TO PRIDE, we’re introduced to Zeke Chapman. Zeke has spent his young life living in his image-obsessed father’s shadow. The image carefully sculpted by Anthony Chapman includes straight A’s, superstar of the baseball team, and law school. No where in Anthony’s plan is there room for Zeke to be gay, which is why he tries to force him back into the closet.
Thankfully, Zeke and his badass mom yeet themselves out of Anthony Champan’s orbit and move into their own apartment. It’s there that Zeke is finally able to be himself. But without the weight of his father’s expectations forcing him into a specific mold, Zeke realizes he doesn’t really know who he is.
Enter a homophobic mayor who cancels Pride and introduces anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation. Zeke’s found his purpose. Together with his QSA friends, the crew bands together to fight for their town and the people in it.
I could spend all day talking about everything I loved in this book. The diversity, the empowering subplots, the romance… all flawlessly executed. But I think it really comes down to the fact that all of us have felt like Zeke at some point in our lives.
REBELS is a book for anyone who has ever felt powerless or silenced. It’s a story about finding yourself, standing up for what you believe in, and overcoming fear. And how incredible is that?
Want to read
October 17, 2024"When the mayor of a small Alabama town starts targeting Pride events, bad boy Zeke begins hosting a series of “Pride Speakeasies” in this joyful queer coming-of-age!"
always looking for more joyful queer books
always looking for more joyful queer books
April 25, 2025
Matthew Hubbard has DONE IT AGAIN! The Rebel's Guide to Pride is so inspiring, with a clear message and call to action along with an action-packed story, endearing characters, and a sweet coming of age romance. There need to be more books like this one available to younger readers, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, because if Matthew's messages of hope, belonging, and support are so needed in the current political climate. AND, in addition to all of that, this book is just FUN. Definitely get this one on your TBR!
Poor Zeke is really struggling throughout much of Rebel. He's conflicted about himself, his friends, and his community, and particularly fixated on being a "bad gay." On the one hand, he acts out as a way to rip away the image his unsupportive father, who wanted him to stay closeted, created for him. On the other, he finally starts trying to become more actively involved in his schools Queer-Straight Alliance Club. He just goes a little overboard in both cases, but honestly, I don't blame him. His entire town is full of real-life villains, and the guy really needs someone to reassure him that he's doing all he can AND MORE. His speakeasy events touch a lot of lives, bring people together, and ultimately create a rallying point for queer people and allies alike.
While the fight for the right for queer people to exist in this small town is front and center throughout this entire book (mirroring real situations happening all over the US right now), there are lighter moments too. Watching Zeke repair his relationship with his mom as she becomes a better ally had me tearing up. Zeke's experience volunteering as a mentor for a local LGBTQIA+ youth group also gave me all the heart eyes. And oh gosh, his second chance, hate to love romance with Cohen was just so sweet I wanted more!
Listen friends, if you want to get fired up about fighting for queer rights, you are going to want to read anything from Matthew Hubbard, the literal King of Pride. So excited for this release so more people can read it as it is just so needed in the world right now!
Poor Zeke is really struggling throughout much of Rebel. He's conflicted about himself, his friends, and his community, and particularly fixated on being a "bad gay." On the one hand, he acts out as a way to rip away the image his unsupportive father, who wanted him to stay closeted, created for him. On the other, he finally starts trying to become more actively involved in his schools Queer-Straight Alliance Club. He just goes a little overboard in both cases, but honestly, I don't blame him. His entire town is full of real-life villains, and the guy really needs someone to reassure him that he's doing all he can AND MORE. His speakeasy events touch a lot of lives, bring people together, and ultimately create a rallying point for queer people and allies alike.
While the fight for the right for queer people to exist in this small town is front and center throughout this entire book (mirroring real situations happening all over the US right now), there are lighter moments too. Watching Zeke repair his relationship with his mom as she becomes a better ally had me tearing up. Zeke's experience volunteering as a mentor for a local LGBTQIA+ youth group also gave me all the heart eyes. And oh gosh, his second chance, hate to love romance with Cohen was just so sweet I wanted more!
Listen friends, if you want to get fired up about fighting for queer rights, you are going to want to read anything from Matthew Hubbard, the literal King of Pride. So excited for this release so more people can read it as it is just so needed in the world right now!
June 1, 2025
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride was a great book to kick off my Pride month. It’s a good reminder that queer people are still having to fight for their rights. But despite the fight and the hate directed towards us, we can still find ways to be ourselves, support each other, be proud of being queer, and work to make a better tomorrow for future generations.
May 6, 2025
I will never get sick of Hubbard's books exposing the system and their unfair treatment of the LGBTQIA+ community!
Hubbard writes stories that are REAL. Sure, fiction in nature. But REAL issues that youth in the LGBT community face in today's real world. And what does this do? 1.) Exposure. Books like this highlight the trials a marginalized community faces. This allows those who do not face these same issues to see life through a different, more challenging lens. And 2.) Provides a home. People will ABSOLUTELY see themselves and find solace in Hubbard's books. Perhaps illuminating a light at the end of seemingly bleak tunnel :)
This book honestly couldn't come at a more perfect time. We in the LGBT community are under heavy fire from our government. So to have a book like this put these injustices in a spotlight feels correct, to be quite frank. Especially with the amount of representation in this book. Like Oscar Wilde said, "The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame." This book, these characters, and this community are being targeted in this sense. And Hubbard's here to expose it.
This book is a masterclass in character development. Our MC struggles to determine what Pride means to him. Even struggling to embrace his own queerness. A father with political standing wanting him to hide his sexuality. Voices in his head telling him he isn't good enough to obtain happiness. An ex telling him he screws everything up. Yet rallies his community through a series of Pride speakeasy's to fight back against the oppression, finding himself along the way. It was honestly just so reassuring and personable watching his journey, while also allowing for reflection on my own journey, especially at that age.
Super appreciative to Hubbard and Netgalley for early copies of this book!
Hubbard writes stories that are REAL. Sure, fiction in nature. But REAL issues that youth in the LGBT community face in today's real world. And what does this do? 1.) Exposure. Books like this highlight the trials a marginalized community faces. This allows those who do not face these same issues to see life through a different, more challenging lens. And 2.) Provides a home. People will ABSOLUTELY see themselves and find solace in Hubbard's books. Perhaps illuminating a light at the end of seemingly bleak tunnel :)
This book honestly couldn't come at a more perfect time. We in the LGBT community are under heavy fire from our government. So to have a book like this put these injustices in a spotlight feels correct, to be quite frank. Especially with the amount of representation in this book. Like Oscar Wilde said, "The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame." This book, these characters, and this community are being targeted in this sense. And Hubbard's here to expose it.
This book is a masterclass in character development. Our MC struggles to determine what Pride means to him. Even struggling to embrace his own queerness. A father with political standing wanting him to hide his sexuality. Voices in his head telling him he isn't good enough to obtain happiness. An ex telling him he screws everything up. Yet rallies his community through a series of Pride speakeasy's to fight back against the oppression, finding himself along the way. It was honestly just so reassuring and personable watching his journey, while also allowing for reflection on my own journey, especially at that age.
Super appreciative to Hubbard and Netgalley for early copies of this book!
May 6, 2025
Matthew Hubbard’s second novel, The Rebel’s Guide to Pride, is an absolute home run. Filled with so much heart, so much introspection, and so much hope, it is a story that is engrossing, timely, and necessary.
Why is this book such a knockout? I’m glad you asked!
- The premise is unique and topical, and takes inspiration from LGBTQ history. Modernizing the concept of speakeasies was an excellent idea that really stuck its landing.
- The plot never once lagged, and every chapter seemed to have its own purpose — which meant I did not want to put it down.
- The book is stacked with complex characters, all of whom demonstrate so much change throughout the story. If I had to single out just ONE of Matthew Hubbard’s talents as a writer, it would be his ability to craft vivid characters that are real, lovable, flawed, and human — characters that you care about and want to root for.
Much like The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge, The Rebel’s Guide to Pride delivers a message of hope and resilience. With the current political climate, this is a book we need now more than ever.
This is on track to my favorite YA novel of the year, and I don’t foresee that changing.
Matthew Hubbard is an absolute gift to YA literature. His passion for advocacy and his fearless writing shine through and bring an authenticity to his work that is one of a kind.
Why is this book such a knockout? I’m glad you asked!
- The premise is unique and topical, and takes inspiration from LGBTQ history. Modernizing the concept of speakeasies was an excellent idea that really stuck its landing.
- The plot never once lagged, and every chapter seemed to have its own purpose — which meant I did not want to put it down.
- The book is stacked with complex characters, all of whom demonstrate so much change throughout the story. If I had to single out just ONE of Matthew Hubbard’s talents as a writer, it would be his ability to craft vivid characters that are real, lovable, flawed, and human — characters that you care about and want to root for.
Much like The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge, The Rebel’s Guide to Pride delivers a message of hope and resilience. With the current political climate, this is a book we need now more than ever.
This is on track to my favorite YA novel of the year, and I don’t foresee that changing.
Matthew Hubbard is an absolute gift to YA literature. His passion for advocacy and his fearless writing shine through and bring an authenticity to his work that is one of a kind.
May 15, 2025
ARC REVIEW
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
Oooof this story hit home for me in a lot of ways! Zeke’s internal battle is something I struggle with as well at times but overall this book is so powerful and very needed in this day and age.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This book comes out May 6th and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
Oooof this story hit home for me in a lot of ways! Zeke’s internal battle is something I struggle with as well at times but overall this book is so powerful and very needed in this day and age.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This book comes out May 6th and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
April 13, 2025
"'What do you do when the rules weren't made with you in mind?' 'You don't follow them then, you break them.'" Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge was one of my favorite books of 2024 and like that, The Rebel's Guide to Pride delivers impactful social commentary in a time where it's needed more than ever.
I think the book does a really good job showing the instability of what it's like to be a teenager in a time where so much around you is changing. Zeke faces so many internal battles in the story: anger at his dad for telling him to stay closeted and going along with the Mayor's homophobic agenda, anger at himself for fitting into the mold his dad crafted for him for so many years, gratitude at his mom for finally leaving his dad but frustration for going along with what he wanted for so many years, growing resentment at his best friend Sawyer for always acting like she knows best and never taking him seriously, and confusion as to why his feelings towards his ex Cohen are starting to change. And I think all of these come together really well and you get to see that Zeke is trying to do the right thing even if he isn't always "right".
In a time where government and society wants everyone to be complicit with their narrow minded ideas, this book tells the story of the importance of fighting back and the ability to find community around you.
Thank you Underlined for an ARC of The Rebel's Guide to Pride!
I think the book does a really good job showing the instability of what it's like to be a teenager in a time where so much around you is changing. Zeke faces so many internal battles in the story: anger at his dad for telling him to stay closeted and going along with the Mayor's homophobic agenda, anger at himself for fitting into the mold his dad crafted for him for so many years, gratitude at his mom for finally leaving his dad but frustration for going along with what he wanted for so many years, growing resentment at his best friend Sawyer for always acting like she knows best and never taking him seriously, and confusion as to why his feelings towards his ex Cohen are starting to change. And I think all of these come together really well and you get to see that Zeke is trying to do the right thing even if he isn't always "right".
In a time where government and society wants everyone to be complicit with their narrow minded ideas, this book tells the story of the importance of fighting back and the ability to find community around you.
Thank you Underlined for an ARC of The Rebel's Guide to Pride!
May 8, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Zeke is a charming character, and I appreciate that the book ended where it did. This book may be a little too rooted in the real world for someone who wants an escapist romance, dealing as it does with religious fundamentalists stripping away rights from the gay community because of hate and cruelty; there’s no happy ending, no suddenly they all changed their mind moment. It’s simply a hopeful ending, with the idea that the queer community is stronger together than apart, that small efforts can have extraordinary outcomes, and that one person can make a difference.
Read Elizabeth's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Zeke is a charming character, and I appreciate that the book ended where it did. This book may be a little too rooted in the real world for someone who wants an escapist romance, dealing as it does with religious fundamentalists stripping away rights from the gay community because of hate and cruelty; there’s no happy ending, no suddenly they all changed their mind moment. It’s simply a hopeful ending, with the idea that the queer community is stronger together than apart, that small efforts can have extraordinary outcomes, and that one person can make a difference.
Read Elizabeth's review in its entirety here.
July 1, 2025
*I reread this on audio and Matthew Hubbard is everything to me*
Thank you SO much to @delacorteromance @loveunderlined @getunderlined for this amazing ARC of @matthewhubbard’s latest book! Enjoy my photoshoot with the book as I carried it around with me today.
Y’all, we KNOW that Matthew always brings the political realness to his stories. I am HERE for it. I absolutely adored this story and had to force myself to set it down a couple of times so I wouldn’t fly through it in one sitting.
Matthew knows JUST how to tug at all of my heartstrings. He always gives me characters that are real. Flawed. A little messy. Romantic. Full of ideas. Thoughtful. Kind (who also can be a little mean). But ALWAYS true to themselves.
I found myself captivated by the kids, particularly Zeke and Cohen (enemies to lovers realness). I also really loved Zeke’s relationship with his mom. It was lovely.
Also guys gals and non-binary pals, Matthew gave us the *swooniest* most romantic scene. Ah hell. Several scenes. But one in particular had me cheesin’ at the coffee shop.
He also made me as a millennial (ily Matthew) feel old with Spice Girls jokes. 😅😅 (and then old Great Gatsby from 2013!!!)
I am so in love with this book and can’t wait to add the finished copy to my shelves (PS order from @parnassusbooks and get a signed/personalized copy!!)
Look, the fact is, we are in a wild time in the US. Stuff that happened in this book is happening everywhere. It’s up to us to fight for our pride. Will you? 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
Thank you SO much to @delacorteromance @loveunderlined @getunderlined for this amazing ARC of @matthewhubbard’s latest book! Enjoy my photoshoot with the book as I carried it around with me today.
Y’all, we KNOW that Matthew always brings the political realness to his stories. I am HERE for it. I absolutely adored this story and had to force myself to set it down a couple of times so I wouldn’t fly through it in one sitting.
Matthew knows JUST how to tug at all of my heartstrings. He always gives me characters that are real. Flawed. A little messy. Romantic. Full of ideas. Thoughtful. Kind (who also can be a little mean). But ALWAYS true to themselves.
I found myself captivated by the kids, particularly Zeke and Cohen (enemies to lovers realness). I also really loved Zeke’s relationship with his mom. It was lovely.
Also guys gals and non-binary pals, Matthew gave us the *swooniest* most romantic scene. Ah hell. Several scenes. But one in particular had me cheesin’ at the coffee shop.
He also made me as a millennial (ily Matthew) feel old with Spice Girls jokes. 😅😅 (and then old Great Gatsby from 2013!!!)
I am so in love with this book and can’t wait to add the finished copy to my shelves (PS order from @parnassusbooks and get a signed/personalized copy!!)
Look, the fact is, we are in a wild time in the US. Stuff that happened in this book is happening everywhere. It’s up to us to fight for our pride. Will you? 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
May 9, 2025
Matthew Hubbard wrote another slam dunk YA story centered around queer discovery, joy, and resilience in a time where LGBTQ+ people, specifically youth, are under attack.
The Rebels Guide To Pride takes real world issues like anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that targets the queer community and tells a beautiful story where our main character Zeke is forced to find out who he is as a gay boy, find out what pride is for, and how to fight back when people try to silence and erase us.
The characters are easy to root for even though the teenage angst is pretty high in this book but that is highschool kids for you. Matthew does a wonderful job taking serious real world issues and weaving it into a hopeful and powerful YA gay contemporary story.
As a sophomore novel and follow up to The Last Boyfriends Guide to Revenge, The Rebels Guide to Pride makes a significant stance in this new universe and gives the reader the hope we need to remind us that the LGBTQ+ community may be under attack now, but we endure and we always overcome.
Rounding to 5 stars because this was a 4.5 star read!
The Rebels Guide To Pride takes real world issues like anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that targets the queer community and tells a beautiful story where our main character Zeke is forced to find out who he is as a gay boy, find out what pride is for, and how to fight back when people try to silence and erase us.
The characters are easy to root for even though the teenage angst is pretty high in this book but that is highschool kids for you. Matthew does a wonderful job taking serious real world issues and weaving it into a hopeful and powerful YA gay contemporary story.
As a sophomore novel and follow up to The Last Boyfriends Guide to Revenge, The Rebels Guide to Pride makes a significant stance in this new universe and gives the reader the hope we need to remind us that the LGBTQ+ community may be under attack now, but we endure and we always overcome.
Rounding to 5 stars because this was a 4.5 star read!
April 11, 2025
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is Matthew Hubbard’s follow-up novel to his immensely successful debut, “The Last Boyfriends Rules For Revenge.” This new book is another coming-of-age YA drama with important themes and subplots of romance and family drama.
The story follows Zeke Chapman, in Beggs, Alabama, living with his mother after his parents separated. After coming out and facing criticism from his father, Zeke wants to change himself from the person his father wanted him to be. He’s quit sports teams, is starting fights, and no longer wishes to be a lawyer like his father. When his best friend, Sawyer, asks for help in planning the QSA's community Pride Day, he's happy to help but is hesitant to work with his ex and current frenemy Cohen. When the town’s mayor cancels all Pride events and starts a 'Family First' initiative aimed at silencing the LGBTQ+ community, Zeke refuses to let others dictate who he can be and raises his voice to inspire others to do the same.
The story has a wonderful cast of animated, rich characters. Zeke is a feisty protagonist who’s unwilling to be told how to live his life. He has contrasting relationships with his mother and father, but both parents have a genuine love for him that is evident. His animosity towards his father is warranted, and one that many queer readers in similar situations may relate to. No longer living with his father allows Zeke to freely be himself for the first time, and it feels both daunting and liberating. Like many LGBTQ+ young adults, he has to process what parts of himself are authentic and which were put in place to be accepted. Zeke’s internal self-analysis triggers a transformation within him that some people, including his own friends who think they have him all figured out, are not expecting or prepared for. It’s a grand coming-of-age tale that would translate well to film.
The story is relatable on a broad scale, even to those outside the LGBTQ+ community, as Zeke juggles a lot of different issues. He’s making bold choices for his future, dealing with old heartache, having new and old relationships transition, and most importantly, he’s trying to change his image of being a self-absorbed “bad gay” into someone interested in bettering the world. His friendship with best friend Sawyer is very heartfelt, but they’re at a crossroads. The story presents Sawyer as the wiser of the two, but Zeke’s willingness to change is very admirable. Sawyer, in some of their dialogue, refuses to listen to what Zeke has to say. Hubbard presents all the characters as having their flaws and complexities, making them very relatable.
There are many powerful messages in this book. Firstly, the power of community, especially in the LGBTO+ space, resonates strongly. The mayor has put Zeke and his allies in a difficult situation, causing them fear and uncertainty—this sadly mirrors the current sociopolitical climate for many LGBTQ+ in America today. Standing up for change and equality together, even as a small group, while remaining committed to the roots of your cause, can lead to big results—and this message is brilliantly articulated by Hubbard in this story.
Many LGBTQ+ adults wish these kinds of stories were around when they were growing up, which further emphasizes their importance for youths and future generations. These stories can alter (and even save) lives and demonstrate how important it is for people to unite against book banning and against the defunding of public libraries—two very relevant topics right now!
Overall, The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is a standout YA novel with powerful messages and memorable characters. The book is a rollercoaster of emotions that will especially resonate with anyone that struggled with their identity and society's standards. Readers who enjoy bingeable YA novels, pronounced character arcs, and stories that linger long after the final page will love this book!
The story follows Zeke Chapman, in Beggs, Alabama, living with his mother after his parents separated. After coming out and facing criticism from his father, Zeke wants to change himself from the person his father wanted him to be. He’s quit sports teams, is starting fights, and no longer wishes to be a lawyer like his father. When his best friend, Sawyer, asks for help in planning the QSA's community Pride Day, he's happy to help but is hesitant to work with his ex and current frenemy Cohen. When the town’s mayor cancels all Pride events and starts a 'Family First' initiative aimed at silencing the LGBTQ+ community, Zeke refuses to let others dictate who he can be and raises his voice to inspire others to do the same.
The story has a wonderful cast of animated, rich characters. Zeke is a feisty protagonist who’s unwilling to be told how to live his life. He has contrasting relationships with his mother and father, but both parents have a genuine love for him that is evident. His animosity towards his father is warranted, and one that many queer readers in similar situations may relate to. No longer living with his father allows Zeke to freely be himself for the first time, and it feels both daunting and liberating. Like many LGBTQ+ young adults, he has to process what parts of himself are authentic and which were put in place to be accepted. Zeke’s internal self-analysis triggers a transformation within him that some people, including his own friends who think they have him all figured out, are not expecting or prepared for. It’s a grand coming-of-age tale that would translate well to film.
The story is relatable on a broad scale, even to those outside the LGBTQ+ community, as Zeke juggles a lot of different issues. He’s making bold choices for his future, dealing with old heartache, having new and old relationships transition, and most importantly, he’s trying to change his image of being a self-absorbed “bad gay” into someone interested in bettering the world. His friendship with best friend Sawyer is very heartfelt, but they’re at a crossroads. The story presents Sawyer as the wiser of the two, but Zeke’s willingness to change is very admirable. Sawyer, in some of their dialogue, refuses to listen to what Zeke has to say. Hubbard presents all the characters as having their flaws and complexities, making them very relatable.
There are many powerful messages in this book. Firstly, the power of community, especially in the LGBTO+ space, resonates strongly. The mayor has put Zeke and his allies in a difficult situation, causing them fear and uncertainty—this sadly mirrors the current sociopolitical climate for many LGBTQ+ in America today. Standing up for change and equality together, even as a small group, while remaining committed to the roots of your cause, can lead to big results—and this message is brilliantly articulated by Hubbard in this story.
Many LGBTQ+ adults wish these kinds of stories were around when they were growing up, which further emphasizes their importance for youths and future generations. These stories can alter (and even save) lives and demonstrate how important it is for people to unite against book banning and against the defunding of public libraries—two very relevant topics right now!
Overall, The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is a standout YA novel with powerful messages and memorable characters. The book is a rollercoaster of emotions that will especially resonate with anyone that struggled with their identity and society's standards. Readers who enjoy bingeable YA novels, pronounced character arcs, and stories that linger long after the final page will love this book!
April 12, 2025
Thank you to PRH Audio and Delacorte Press for an ALC of the book. 💜
Pride was a riot and it takes a rebel to start it.
Taking a page from what’s currently happening in the US as we speak, Matthew Hubbard has written another book that packs a punch, sends a message, and made me love him even more than I already do. The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge was a fun time reminiscent of The First Wives Club, but The Rebel’s Guide to Pride had all of the laughs and excitement with so much more.
After coming out, Zeke’s dad tried everything he could to push him back into the closet. He didn’t want his son’s sexuality to ruin his perfect standing in their small Alabama community… but unfortunately for him, his gay son is in his Reputation (Homosexuality Version) era!
The gay straight alliance that his best friend Sawyer is the president of has been planning Pride Day (which they got signatures and permits for through the city) for a year. But when the day arrives and after they set up, the mayor shows up to shut it down and guess whose dad is standing directly to his right as he announces it?
The unfairness of it all sets something off in Zeke and he becomes the rebellious son his father never wanted. He begins to set up secret pride speakeasies to celebrate like they always should have been able to, with or without the permission of the mayor.
While this is a queer contemporary second chance romance, that wasn’t the most important part of the story to me. I loved their relationship and was happy with the outcome, but this was much more about fighting back to the injustice and hate that queer people deal with on a daily basis. We need stories that highlight what we all see in the news (or don’t see since it is edited to show a very one-sided view).
To say I loved this is an understatement. Michael Crouch is one of the best audio actors in the business. When I see he’s narrating a book, I get immediately excited. He expertly captures the feelings and vibes of the characters. It really makes the experience incredible.
Pride was a riot and it takes a rebel to start it.
Taking a page from what’s currently happening in the US as we speak, Matthew Hubbard has written another book that packs a punch, sends a message, and made me love him even more than I already do. The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge was a fun time reminiscent of The First Wives Club, but The Rebel’s Guide to Pride had all of the laughs and excitement with so much more.
After coming out, Zeke’s dad tried everything he could to push him back into the closet. He didn’t want his son’s sexuality to ruin his perfect standing in their small Alabama community… but unfortunately for him, his gay son is in his Reputation (Homosexuality Version) era!
The gay straight alliance that his best friend Sawyer is the president of has been planning Pride Day (which they got signatures and permits for through the city) for a year. But when the day arrives and after they set up, the mayor shows up to shut it down and guess whose dad is standing directly to his right as he announces it?
The unfairness of it all sets something off in Zeke and he becomes the rebellious son his father never wanted. He begins to set up secret pride speakeasies to celebrate like they always should have been able to, with or without the permission of the mayor.
While this is a queer contemporary second chance romance, that wasn’t the most important part of the story to me. I loved their relationship and was happy with the outcome, but this was much more about fighting back to the injustice and hate that queer people deal with on a daily basis. We need stories that highlight what we all see in the news (or don’t see since it is edited to show a very one-sided view).
To say I loved this is an understatement. Michael Crouch is one of the best audio actors in the business. When I see he’s narrating a book, I get immediately excited. He expertly captures the feelings and vibes of the characters. It really makes the experience incredible.
April 5, 2025
Heart-warming, inspiring, and adorable!
Matthew Hubbard delivers a powerful reminder - the first Pride was a riot! The Rebel’s Guide to Pride focuses on powerful themes of identity, chosen family, and nuclear family relationships. Zeke, the main character, is relatable to any reader. He is figuring out who exactly he wants to be, what his priorities are going to be, and what he wants to fight for. These are unifying aspects that each person has to decide for themselves, but the way that Hubbard writes made it even more relatable. I think this identify development definitely hit home with me based on some of the relationships that Zeke works through so I really loved this story for tackling this theme.
Family is another big component of this story. Chosen family and nuclear family relationships take the spotlight within these pages. Zeke has a tenuous relationship with his father, which isn’t a spoiler, but it does inform major parts of the plot. It’s a raw and emotional component of this story that I really loved. It made this story come to life in a way that I will readers are going to connect with. Chosen family is the other part of this story that really stole my heart. Seeing Zeke develop new queer relationships while maintaining others, was something I personally struggled with at this time of my life. Hubbard writing this as a relatable experience really made me feel seen and it just speaks to the talent of Hubbard’s writing!
This is a fantastic reminder of a book in the face of our complicated political climate. I loved this story and I think readers of all ages should read this and find themselves reminded that Pride should be fought for no matter what! Check this out!
Matthew Hubbard delivers a powerful reminder - the first Pride was a riot! The Rebel’s Guide to Pride focuses on powerful themes of identity, chosen family, and nuclear family relationships. Zeke, the main character, is relatable to any reader. He is figuring out who exactly he wants to be, what his priorities are going to be, and what he wants to fight for. These are unifying aspects that each person has to decide for themselves, but the way that Hubbard writes made it even more relatable. I think this identify development definitely hit home with me based on some of the relationships that Zeke works through so I really loved this story for tackling this theme.
Family is another big component of this story. Chosen family and nuclear family relationships take the spotlight within these pages. Zeke has a tenuous relationship with his father, which isn’t a spoiler, but it does inform major parts of the plot. It’s a raw and emotional component of this story that I really loved. It made this story come to life in a way that I will readers are going to connect with. Chosen family is the other part of this story that really stole my heart. Seeing Zeke develop new queer relationships while maintaining others, was something I personally struggled with at this time of my life. Hubbard writing this as a relatable experience really made me feel seen and it just speaks to the talent of Hubbard’s writing!
This is a fantastic reminder of a book in the face of our complicated political climate. I loved this story and I think readers of all ages should read this and find themselves reminded that Pride should be fought for no matter what! Check this out!
April 28, 2025
The Rebel’s Guide To Pride is the newest novel from Matthew Hubbard. I loved his debut novel and getting to know him since then has been so amazing. I was so excited when I received an approval for this ARC and even more excited doing this as a buddy read with Jordan.
Zeke is working through a lot having recently come out, including an unsupportive father, not so welcoming teammates, and lower grades. He finds solace with his mother, best friend and attending his first pride event since being out. When the mayor cancels the pride event day of, something awakens within Zeke, something even he didn’t know he had. With the helps of his friends and unlikely allies, he spearheads a movement by creating some hidden celebrations in homage of speakeasies. As their popularity increases, and the pressure of wanting to do more intensifies; Zeke learns the importance of being yourself and proud to be a rebel. This story has such an amazing and important message, now more than ever. It was great seeing these characters go through real situations many of us face and how it’s ok to be scared and unsure of things but we cannot give up. The importance of support systems with family and found families was lovely to see. I went through several emotions reading this but what I left with was hope, hope that this book will reach many people and hope that we continue to fight. One line that resonated with me was “You only lose if you stop.”
I for one cannot wait for this to hit bookshelves on 05/06, pre order this now and join the rebellion!
Thank you so much Delacorte Press, NetGalley and Matthew for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review!
Zeke is working through a lot having recently come out, including an unsupportive father, not so welcoming teammates, and lower grades. He finds solace with his mother, best friend and attending his first pride event since being out. When the mayor cancels the pride event day of, something awakens within Zeke, something even he didn’t know he had. With the helps of his friends and unlikely allies, he spearheads a movement by creating some hidden celebrations in homage of speakeasies. As their popularity increases, and the pressure of wanting to do more intensifies; Zeke learns the importance of being yourself and proud to be a rebel. This story has such an amazing and important message, now more than ever. It was great seeing these characters go through real situations many of us face and how it’s ok to be scared and unsure of things but we cannot give up. The importance of support systems with family and found families was lovely to see. I went through several emotions reading this but what I left with was hope, hope that this book will reach many people and hope that we continue to fight. One line that resonated with me was “You only lose if you stop.”
I for one cannot wait for this to hit bookshelves on 05/06, pre order this now and join the rebellion!
Thank you so much Delacorte Press, NetGalley and Matthew for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review!
May 8, 2025
*4.5 stars
June 28, 2025
very very sweet book!! i love zeke so much
February 23, 2025
The Queer Straight Alliance at a high school in small town Alabama has organized the town's first Pride parade, only to be shut down minutes before the start by a homophobic mayor. That turns out to be the push Zeke needs to get more involved and try to effect change. Soon, he's organizing a series of queer speakeasies to celebrate Pride month. But tensions rise in his own personal relationships as the popularity of his parties grows. This earnest story is a gentle nudge to everyone that we can all effect change when we fight for something we believe in.
This was a fun and quick read. And if you can suspend disbelief for a bit, the story is great. How can a mayor outlaw private queer events? How does no one see the overreach with that? Other than that, great story!
This was a fun and quick read. And if you can suspend disbelief for a bit, the story is great. How can a mayor outlaw private queer events? How does no one see the overreach with that? Other than that, great story!
May 3, 2025
4.5 stars
Oh, I really enjoyed this one. The issues I had with Matthew Hubbard's previous book were not present here. This book is easily one of my favorites at the moment. The young queer experiences are so real, and the political climate around LGBTQIA+ existence is so relevant. The writing is gripping, the characters are very real and relatable, and the story itself is an emotional journey. Zeke is finally able to be himself and accept himself, but it takes him a while to really get there, which is something I think a lot of people can empathize with whether they are queer or not. I also really loved the exploration of all the different relationships in this story. Zeke and his friends, Zeke and the town of Beggs, Zeke and his mom, Zeke and his dad, and Zeke and his love interest. While some points felt predictable, it didn't diminish my enjoyment in the slightest. I really enjoyed this and powered through it in a day. I loved the story and its relevant messages of living as a queer person. I highly recommend checking this out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh, I really enjoyed this one. The issues I had with Matthew Hubbard's previous book were not present here. This book is easily one of my favorites at the moment. The young queer experiences are so real, and the political climate around LGBTQIA+ existence is so relevant. The writing is gripping, the characters are very real and relatable, and the story itself is an emotional journey. Zeke is finally able to be himself and accept himself, but it takes him a while to really get there, which is something I think a lot of people can empathize with whether they are queer or not. I also really loved the exploration of all the different relationships in this story. Zeke and his friends, Zeke and the town of Beggs, Zeke and his mom, Zeke and his dad, and Zeke and his love interest. While some points felt predictable, it didn't diminish my enjoyment in the slightest. I really enjoyed this and powered through it in a day. I loved the story and its relevant messages of living as a queer person. I highly recommend checking this out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2025
Relevant, representative, and heartfelt. If you’re glancing through these reviews to finalize your decision on “to read or not to read” - just go ahead and read this book. KThxBye.
May 8, 2025
Fight for Your Rights!
Brief synopsis:
Zeke Thompson has never thought of himself as a "good gay." He's felt forced to hide his sexuality by his Dad, a prominent attorney in their small Alabama town. He's not been able to be a full member of his high school's Queer Straight Alliance (QSA), whose president is Sawyer, his best friend for years--after their initial relationship was that of bully (Sawyer) and bullied (Zeke). Zeke's just never been able to be his true authentic self...until his parents' divorce is finalized and he and his mother move to their own place in town. His mother opens her own mechanic shop--something she's always wanted to do--and uses Zelda Fitzgerald, the first American flapper (and ex-wife to a famous American author) to inspire her. Zelda is also the inspiration for Zeke's name--and what he chooses to be called after the divorce. No longer Anthony, like his Dad, whom he refers to as JACass.
Zeke wans to be a "bad gay," i.e., all the stereotypical things associated with a young gay male.
He's now able to be a part of the QSA, and just in time to help Sawyer and the other members, Cohen--a former flame of Zeke's--and Kennedy, a popular, African-American cheerleader and graphic artist, and Sawyer's girl-crush/wannabe girlfriend, to organize Beggs, Alabama's first official Pride celebration.
Unfortunately, on the date--actually a few minutes prior to the start of the official first Pride event--Beggs' mayor puts a stop to the event, with Zeke's Dad there at the mayor's side, with a proclamation that the Pride event will go against the Mayor's newly introduced "Family First" initiative.
This upheaval leads Zeke to suggest the idea of speakeasies (again, using Zelda Fitzgerald and the 1920s as inspiration) in the month of June to allow those LGBTQIA+ people of Beggs and their supporters to celebrate....Mayor-initiative be damned!
Matthew Hubbard does an amazing job of writing diverse and related characters--both the main LGBTQIA+ teens and adults at the center of the story and those on the opposite side: the Mayor, the "anti" townspeople. Even secondary characters are relatable and likely trigger every reader to an "I know someone just like them" (in real life).
Zeke is not a "perfect" main character--his aforementioned want to be a "bad gay" to mostly get under his Dad's skin and sully his reputation, but also to figure who he is & just "be."
Zeke's want to live an authentic life leads him to speak up (to his own and others' surprise) at the Pride event, after it is cancelled, with that speakeasy idea. Though, at the time of that outburst, he has no idea how it will happen!
There are many trials and roadblocks--BUT through the support of Sawyer, Kennedy, and reluctantly, Cohen (also affectionately called Coco by Zeke), and MORE through his own guile and determination, the town of Beggs is changed from Zeke, his courage, and his desire for a life out loud.
This story of Pride-bans, stripping LGBTQIA+ individuals of rights or flat out refusing their rights, unfortunately continues to take place--not just in small-town Alabama, but everywhere.
Matthew's story, Zeke's story and journey, are important, timely, powerful and inspiring!
Rebel's Guide is relatable and fun, and addresses the hard-hitting discrimination, hate, and more head-on--No shying away from that in Matthew's book.
The "relationship" with Zeke's Dad is quite tennuous and strained. Watch out for the billboards, ya'll!!
Zeke's relationship with his Mom is strained at times; however, Matthew does show their relationship evolve and grow--pre- and post-divorce--and she becomes a major source of stability and LOVE for Zeke. I love that Matthew's characters have at least one, if not both, supportive and caring parents and MANY adult figures and role models in their lives. The adults aren't perfect & shouldn't be, and they often grow and evolve with the main characters--BUT that the majority are loving and supportive and reasonable is just so amazing to have in these stories, and we need more of these people in real life...EVERYWHERE!!
This book also offers a little more romance than Matthew's first book! A welcomed edition--not too spicy, now, but hints and openness regarding sex, for sure!
This book and story is very much a Pride/queer-positive story for teens, YA, adults--everyone!
Look forward to more writing and stories from Matthew Hubbard!!
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for this eARC of Matthew Hubbard's second novel, "The Rebel's Guide to Pride."
Brief synopsis:
Zeke Thompson has never thought of himself as a "good gay." He's felt forced to hide his sexuality by his Dad, a prominent attorney in their small Alabama town. He's not been able to be a full member of his high school's Queer Straight Alliance (QSA), whose president is Sawyer, his best friend for years--after their initial relationship was that of bully (Sawyer) and bullied (Zeke). Zeke's just never been able to be his true authentic self...until his parents' divorce is finalized and he and his mother move to their own place in town. His mother opens her own mechanic shop--something she's always wanted to do--and uses Zelda Fitzgerald, the first American flapper (and ex-wife to a famous American author) to inspire her. Zelda is also the inspiration for Zeke's name--and what he chooses to be called after the divorce. No longer Anthony, like his Dad, whom he refers to as JACass.
Zeke wans to be a "bad gay," i.e., all the stereotypical things associated with a young gay male.
He's now able to be a part of the QSA, and just in time to help Sawyer and the other members, Cohen--a former flame of Zeke's--and Kennedy, a popular, African-American cheerleader and graphic artist, and Sawyer's girl-crush/wannabe girlfriend, to organize Beggs, Alabama's first official Pride celebration.
Unfortunately, on the date--actually a few minutes prior to the start of the official first Pride event--Beggs' mayor puts a stop to the event, with Zeke's Dad there at the mayor's side, with a proclamation that the Pride event will go against the Mayor's newly introduced "Family First" initiative.
This upheaval leads Zeke to suggest the idea of speakeasies (again, using Zelda Fitzgerald and the 1920s as inspiration) in the month of June to allow those LGBTQIA+ people of Beggs and their supporters to celebrate....Mayor-initiative be damned!
Matthew Hubbard does an amazing job of writing diverse and related characters--both the main LGBTQIA+ teens and adults at the center of the story and those on the opposite side: the Mayor, the "anti" townspeople. Even secondary characters are relatable and likely trigger every reader to an "I know someone just like them" (in real life).
Zeke is not a "perfect" main character--his aforementioned want to be a "bad gay" to mostly get under his Dad's skin and sully his reputation, but also to figure who he is & just "be."
Zeke's want to live an authentic life leads him to speak up (to his own and others' surprise) at the Pride event, after it is cancelled, with that speakeasy idea. Though, at the time of that outburst, he has no idea how it will happen!
There are many trials and roadblocks--BUT through the support of Sawyer, Kennedy, and reluctantly, Cohen (also affectionately called Coco by Zeke), and MORE through his own guile and determination, the town of Beggs is changed from Zeke, his courage, and his desire for a life out loud.
This story of Pride-bans, stripping LGBTQIA+ individuals of rights or flat out refusing their rights, unfortunately continues to take place--not just in small-town Alabama, but everywhere.
Matthew's story, Zeke's story and journey, are important, timely, powerful and inspiring!
Rebel's Guide is relatable and fun, and addresses the hard-hitting discrimination, hate, and more head-on--No shying away from that in Matthew's book.
The "relationship" with Zeke's Dad is quite tennuous and strained. Watch out for the billboards, ya'll!!
Zeke's relationship with his Mom is strained at times; however, Matthew does show their relationship evolve and grow--pre- and post-divorce--and she becomes a major source of stability and LOVE for Zeke. I love that Matthew's characters have at least one, if not both, supportive and caring parents and MANY adult figures and role models in their lives. The adults aren't perfect & shouldn't be, and they often grow and evolve with the main characters--BUT that the majority are loving and supportive and reasonable is just so amazing to have in these stories, and we need more of these people in real life...EVERYWHERE!!
This book also offers a little more romance than Matthew's first book! A welcomed edition--not too spicy, now, but hints and openness regarding sex, for sure!
This book and story is very much a Pride/queer-positive story for teens, YA, adults--everyone!
Look forward to more writing and stories from Matthew Hubbard!!
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for this eARC of Matthew Hubbard's second novel, "The Rebel's Guide to Pride."
May 5, 2025
"Pride is about being heard. But to me Pride felt like a fight. A war between who I should be and who I was."
I've been wanting to read this book since I read The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge last year and the wait was so worth it. Matthew Hubbard has a gift for queer stories that we need with protagonists who feel so relatable and real in everything that they do.
"There was a place for me here, and I finally felt like I belonged."
Zeke is at a crossroads in life. He's trying to reinvent himself while also trying to figure out his identity as a queer person and what that means to him. When some harsh comments hit close to his heart and celebrating Pride is cancelled in his hometown, he sets out to prove that he can be the "right kind of gay" by hosting secret Pride speakeasies.
“It’s okay to be afraid, Zeke. I’m afraid too, but knowing that I’m not the only one… That makes me feel like I’m not alone.”
Zeke's never had the opportunity to figure himself out. When he impulsively throws himself into running the speakeasies, he goes down a path that he's not sure he deserves. Being crowned "King of Pride" and being a source of inspiration is daunting and scary. But he soon realizes that while fear can tear down friendships, relationships and himself, it can also build something great. When you share your fears with people, it gives you the strength to fight and rebel and can power an entire revolution.
"The speakeasies brought together fighters who would continue their efforts no matter what happened. They were in town all along, and now they were here because of us."
There are a lot of amazing things about this book but my favorite has to be Zeke's journey of figuring out what Pride means to him. We see so many things in social media and the people around us and while it can be joyful, it can also get intimidating. I love the message of how Pride doesn't have to mean just one thing for everyone. It can mean being fearless or brave or being heard. But regardless of all that, it really just means that you get to be who you are. And just like Zeke, everyone deserves the freedom to figure out who that is on their own time and no one else's.
"Our story began today, and we would be the ones to write it."
Zeke and Sawyer and Cohen and Kennedy and every person who took part in the speakeasies built something that matters. They created a community that makes every person feel like they matter and that they have a voice. This story was painful and emotional and made me cry, but it's also hopeful and joyous and needed. I loved everything about this book and I truly cannot wait to see what comes next from Matthew!
I've been wanting to read this book since I read The Last Boyfriends Rules for Revenge last year and the wait was so worth it. Matthew Hubbard has a gift for queer stories that we need with protagonists who feel so relatable and real in everything that they do.
"There was a place for me here, and I finally felt like I belonged."
Zeke is at a crossroads in life. He's trying to reinvent himself while also trying to figure out his identity as a queer person and what that means to him. When some harsh comments hit close to his heart and celebrating Pride is cancelled in his hometown, he sets out to prove that he can be the "right kind of gay" by hosting secret Pride speakeasies.
“It’s okay to be afraid, Zeke. I’m afraid too, but knowing that I’m not the only one… That makes me feel like I’m not alone.”
Zeke's never had the opportunity to figure himself out. When he impulsively throws himself into running the speakeasies, he goes down a path that he's not sure he deserves. Being crowned "King of Pride" and being a source of inspiration is daunting and scary. But he soon realizes that while fear can tear down friendships, relationships and himself, it can also build something great. When you share your fears with people, it gives you the strength to fight and rebel and can power an entire revolution.
"The speakeasies brought together fighters who would continue their efforts no matter what happened. They were in town all along, and now they were here because of us."
There are a lot of amazing things about this book but my favorite has to be Zeke's journey of figuring out what Pride means to him. We see so many things in social media and the people around us and while it can be joyful, it can also get intimidating. I love the message of how Pride doesn't have to mean just one thing for everyone. It can mean being fearless or brave or being heard. But regardless of all that, it really just means that you get to be who you are. And just like Zeke, everyone deserves the freedom to figure out who that is on their own time and no one else's.
"Our story began today, and we would be the ones to write it."
Zeke and Sawyer and Cohen and Kennedy and every person who took part in the speakeasies built something that matters. They created a community that makes every person feel like they matter and that they have a voice. This story was painful and emotional and made me cry, but it's also hopeful and joyous and needed. I loved everything about this book and I truly cannot wait to see what comes next from Matthew!
April 29, 2025
Thanks for the free copy of this eARC @prhinternational
Queer rights are under attack in this novel about a group of teenagers who start their own rebellious Pride celebrations. I read The Last Boyfriends’ Rules For Revenge earlier this year, so I was very excited for this book set in the same area but following brand new characters.
This story is fast-paced and witty whilst dealing with some pretty serious topics. Rampant homophobia is running wild in the MC (Zeke)’s town and the mayor himself is trying to shut down anything Pride related. Meanwhile, Zeke is also dealing with his dad being a massive jackass ever since he came out to him and his mum. All of this made for a very interesting story with a layered MC who was always trying to protect himself, whilst also secretly wanting someone to open up to.
Zeke was definitely a main character who both fascinated and frustrated me. He had many good ideas and intentions, and I loved all the little digs he had at the system. But he was also incredibly reckless in some cases and I constantly told him to chill. I liked seeing how the Pride celebrations affected his friendships/relationships and all the stuff he learned about himself along the way.
Overall this was a really great reading experience and I’m excited to pick up more books by this author in the future.
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is out May 6th.
Queer rights are under attack in this novel about a group of teenagers who start their own rebellious Pride celebrations. I read The Last Boyfriends’ Rules For Revenge earlier this year, so I was very excited for this book set in the same area but following brand new characters.
This story is fast-paced and witty whilst dealing with some pretty serious topics. Rampant homophobia is running wild in the MC (Zeke)’s town and the mayor himself is trying to shut down anything Pride related. Meanwhile, Zeke is also dealing with his dad being a massive jackass ever since he came out to him and his mum. All of this made for a very interesting story with a layered MC who was always trying to protect himself, whilst also secretly wanting someone to open up to.
Zeke was definitely a main character who both fascinated and frustrated me. He had many good ideas and intentions, and I loved all the little digs he had at the system. But he was also incredibly reckless in some cases and I constantly told him to chill. I liked seeing how the Pride celebrations affected his friendships/relationships and all the stuff he learned about himself along the way.
Overall this was a really great reading experience and I’m excited to pick up more books by this author in the future.
The Rebel’s Guide to Pride is out May 6th.
March 22, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this novel!
3.5 Stars
The Rebels guide to Pride is a need for today’s world. This book talks about and deals with topics and situations that are scarily similar to real life experiences. Our main character Zeke is struggling to figure out where he fits in the world that we live in today being a queer individual. Is what he is doing enough or does he need to step up? Zeke’s journey is very similar to a lot of people’s today. He faces whether or not he is a “good gay” or a “bad gay”. Which many LGBTQIA+ folk go through. There are many people in society today who want people to fit into a mold and a box. But Zeke’s story shows that you can be anyone you want to be and still be queer. The book is a must read for young queer people but also any person figuring out where their place is in the world.
3.5 Stars
The Rebels guide to Pride is a need for today’s world. This book talks about and deals with topics and situations that are scarily similar to real life experiences. Our main character Zeke is struggling to figure out where he fits in the world that we live in today being a queer individual. Is what he is doing enough or does he need to step up? Zeke’s journey is very similar to a lot of people’s today. He faces whether or not he is a “good gay” or a “bad gay”. Which many LGBTQIA+ folk go through. There are many people in society today who want people to fit into a mold and a box. But Zeke’s story shows that you can be anyone you want to be and still be queer. The book is a must read for young queer people but also any person figuring out where their place is in the world.
May 3, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!
Matthew Hubbard is now an auto read author of mine. He hit it out of the park again with this book. Full of heart, humor, and lovably messy characters. This feels like such an impactful and important book that we really need right now. Pride was a riot!!
Zeke is someone that even though he’s showed to be extremely “flawed” I was really rooting for. It’s so obvious he’s masking his pain. I enjoyed seeing him grow and find himself in his community.
The messages here are ones that I think everyone can take with them. There’s no way to be a “bad” gay and there’s no one way to celebrate pride. Helping each other and making sure that everyone is represented and seen is the most important thing. Matthew’s books are ones to watch and always going to read them!
Matthew Hubbard is now an auto read author of mine. He hit it out of the park again with this book. Full of heart, humor, and lovably messy characters. This feels like such an impactful and important book that we really need right now. Pride was a riot!!
Zeke is someone that even though he’s showed to be extremely “flawed” I was really rooting for. It’s so obvious he’s masking his pain. I enjoyed seeing him grow and find himself in his community.
The messages here are ones that I think everyone can take with them. There’s no way to be a “bad” gay and there’s no one way to celebrate pride. Helping each other and making sure that everyone is represented and seen is the most important thing. Matthew’s books are ones to watch and always going to read them!
March 29, 2025
An incredibly timely and swoony young adult romance following a QSA's quest to SAVE PRIDE MONTH by throwing a series of clandestine speakeasies after their small town mayor outlaws ANY pride celebrations in town. Zeke is a newly out teen who had previously lived in his dad's oppressive household, where he was not free to express himself or even think or act for himself. Finally free from his controlling lawyer dad, Zeke finds that not only does he not know who he is or what he wants, he also has no idea how to be a "good gay". I thought Zeke captures perfectly the character of a teen who is a bit confused but still trying his best, even if he keeps messing it up.
I loved Zeke's journey of figuring out what is happening in his town as well as figuring out himself, and the more he accepts himself, the more the people around him grow to accept and appreciate him for who he is. I also loved the community of this small town and how they each came together to help with pride. This book truly shows how anti-LGBTQ+ hate affects everyone in the community, not just Queer people being forced to quell or hide their identities. This book is full of mothers, fathers, aunts, public servants, and community members, who truly demonstrate what good allyship is.
The romantic beats here are a bit more predictable with a fun, enemies-to-lovers plot with former crush and fellow QSA member Cohen. The only issue I took with the book is the somewhat ambiguous ending.
Big thank you to Random House Children's for gifting me an eArc of this one! Thoughts are my own.
I loved Zeke's journey of figuring out what is happening in his town as well as figuring out himself, and the more he accepts himself, the more the people around him grow to accept and appreciate him for who he is. I also loved the community of this small town and how they each came together to help with pride. This book truly shows how anti-LGBTQ+ hate affects everyone in the community, not just Queer people being forced to quell or hide their identities. This book is full of mothers, fathers, aunts, public servants, and community members, who truly demonstrate what good allyship is.
The romantic beats here are a bit more predictable with a fun, enemies-to-lovers plot with former crush and fellow QSA member Cohen. The only issue I took with the book is the somewhat ambiguous ending.
Big thank you to Random House Children's for gifting me an eArc of this one! Thoughts are my own.
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