What do you think?
Rate this book
The Camelot Disasters #2
Bridget and Gabe Are Not Okay
Not yet published
Expected 6 Aug 26Return to Camelot in the much anticipated and funny follow-up to the instant New York Times bestselling and YA Book Prize winning Gwen and Art Are Not in Love.
They fell in love. They won a great battle. It should have been happily ever after. But now, Camelot’s famous couples have fallen apart.
Newly crowned King Gabriel is having panic attacks in cupboards in-between council meetings. He can't tell Arthur just how not okay he is – so he's set him free, to find love with someone who can get through the day without breaking down.
Bridget has lost her spark for sparring, forfeiting again and again in the lists. When she’s invited to join Gabriel's round table, she hopes it’ll be the change she needs. But trying to navigate the post-happily-ever-after reality of a relationship with Gwen, when Bridget no longer feels like the dashing knight Gwen fell in love with, feels impossible.
With the kingdom still reeling from an attempted uprising, and rumoured sightings of the holy grail, the questing beast and the green knight happening across the country, the gang depart on a PR tour destined for disaster. Can Gabriel be the king his country deserves? Can Bridget get her jousting groove back? And will they find their way back to the courtly love that once seemed fated?
They fell in love. They won a great battle. It should have been happily ever after. But now, Camelot’s famous couples have fallen apart.
Newly crowned King Gabriel is having panic attacks in cupboards in-between council meetings. He can't tell Arthur just how not okay he is – so he's set him free, to find love with someone who can get through the day without breaking down.
Bridget has lost her spark for sparring, forfeiting again and again in the lists. When she’s invited to join Gabriel's round table, she hopes it’ll be the change she needs. But trying to navigate the post-happily-ever-after reality of a relationship with Gwen, when Bridget no longer feels like the dashing knight Gwen fell in love with, feels impossible.
With the kingdom still reeling from an attempted uprising, and rumoured sightings of the holy grail, the questing beast and the green knight happening across the country, the gang depart on a PR tour destined for disaster. Can Gabriel be the king his country deserves? Can Bridget get her jousting groove back? And will they find their way back to the courtly love that once seemed fated?
432 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 6, 2026
About the author
Lex Croucher
8 books3,030 followersLex Croucher grew up in Surrey, reading a lot of books and making friends with strangers on the internet, and now lives in London with an elderly cat. With a background in social media for NGOs, Lex now writes historical-ish rom coms for adults (REPUTATION, INFAMOUS) and historical fantasy rom coms for teenagers. GWEN AND ART ARE NOT IN LOVE is their YA debut.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
Want to Read
August 8, 2025to know me is to know how much i adored gwen and art are not in love. just know that i am seated. i’m so seated that the bookstore employees are actually terrified and begging me to leave, but i am simply too seated.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⚔️🏰 Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay 🏰⚔️
I’ll admit this didn’t land the same for me as book one, but I still enjoyed it. The tone is noticeably more somber this time around and leans away from the whimsical humor that made the first book stand out. That shift isn’t a bad thing, but it did change the overall reading experience, and I think some readers will be surprised by it.
That said, there’s still a lot to appreciate here. The found family dynamic continues to be one of the strongest parts of the story. The group has to navigate their relationships with each other. There’s a big focus on communication and working through conflict. Naturally, there is alot of miscommunication at the beginning. They figured it out by the end.
True to the book's title, Bridget and Gabe are not ok, and the story doesn’t shy away from that. This book also takes a deeper look at grief, burnout, and healing. I thought the author handled those themes with care.
💔 What to Expect
• Queer relationships
• Grief and healing
• Found family
• Mental health rep
• Court politics
• Quest adventure
• Arthurian retelling
_ _ _ _
⭐ Final Score: 3.75 stars
📅 Pub Date: August 11, 2026
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
I’ll admit this didn’t land the same for me as book one, but I still enjoyed it. The tone is noticeably more somber this time around and leans away from the whimsical humor that made the first book stand out. That shift isn’t a bad thing, but it did change the overall reading experience, and I think some readers will be surprised by it.
That said, there’s still a lot to appreciate here. The found family dynamic continues to be one of the strongest parts of the story. The group has to navigate their relationships with each other. There’s a big focus on communication and working through conflict. Naturally, there is alot of miscommunication at the beginning. They figured it out by the end.
True to the book's title, Bridget and Gabe are not ok, and the story doesn’t shy away from that. This book also takes a deeper look at grief, burnout, and healing. I thought the author handled those themes with care.
💔 What to Expect
• Queer relationships
• Grief and healing
• Found family
• Mental health rep
• Court politics
• Quest adventure
• Arthurian retelling
_ _ _ _
⭐ Final Score: 3.75 stars
📅 Pub Date: August 11, 2026
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Want to Read
September 9, 2025why did i think this was a retelling from Gabe's and Bridget's POV and not a sequel?? I would like the second POV better than "the couples have fallen apart" sequel
March 16, 2026
lex croucher, the author that you are!
Oh, how nice it is to be reunited with my children. As much as I loved Gwen & Art, I did not expect a sequel. I was obviously excited when it was announced, but I was a bit worried I wouldn’t like it as much. Not only did I just adore the first one, but I would not consider myself much of a YA enjoyer these days. However, I feel quite silly now for ever having any doubt. I know I sound like a broken record by this point, but boy, do I just love how funny Croucher is. I remember the ending of GWART taking quite a dark turn, which made sense considering the circumstances, but after such a humorous romp, the stakes really came to a head and these characters endured some harrowing losses. That’s why it was so nice to see this addressed in Bridget & Gabe. I think enough weight is given to the struggles each of these characters, but especially Bridget and Gabe, go through following the events of the last book, while still allowing for the humor of the original book to shine through. These are kids!! They’ve been through a lot! They’re hurt and scared and might not know how to express all that! It’s refreshing to see a realistic look at how each character would fare; battling ptsd and anxiety and not having a true understanding of either, especially considering the historical setting. As is custom for any Croucher book, the characters are very much oops! all queer (which I obviously love), but I appreciated how it was portrayed as something that still had to be fought for. I know some queer historicals will either make queer normative worlds or make only two characters have to hide their secret from most, but it’s nice to see everyone stand together for each other, even if the wider world isn’t necessarily ready. The new characters were a welcome addition, even if I didn’t realize I had even MORE room in my heart for additional characters in this universe. I should know by now that the charm of a Croucher character is unmatched. Anyway, all that to say I loved it. Who’s surprised?
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh, how nice it is to be reunited with my children. As much as I loved Gwen & Art, I did not expect a sequel. I was obviously excited when it was announced, but I was a bit worried I wouldn’t like it as much. Not only did I just adore the first one, but I would not consider myself much of a YA enjoyer these days. However, I feel quite silly now for ever having any doubt. I know I sound like a broken record by this point, but boy, do I just love how funny Croucher is. I remember the ending of GWART taking quite a dark turn, which made sense considering the circumstances, but after such a humorous romp, the stakes really came to a head and these characters endured some harrowing losses. That’s why it was so nice to see this addressed in Bridget & Gabe. I think enough weight is given to the struggles each of these characters, but especially Bridget and Gabe, go through following the events of the last book, while still allowing for the humor of the original book to shine through. These are kids!! They’ve been through a lot! They’re hurt and scared and might not know how to express all that! It’s refreshing to see a realistic look at how each character would fare; battling ptsd and anxiety and not having a true understanding of either, especially considering the historical setting. As is custom for any Croucher book, the characters are very much oops! all queer (which I obviously love), but I appreciated how it was portrayed as something that still had to be fought for. I know some queer historicals will either make queer normative worlds or make only two characters have to hide their secret from most, but it’s nice to see everyone stand together for each other, even if the wider world isn’t necessarily ready. The new characters were a welcome addition, even if I didn’t realize I had even MORE room in my heart for additional characters in this universe. I should know by now that the charm of a Croucher character is unmatched. Anyway, all that to say I loved it. Who’s surprised?
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
not-yet-released
November 27, 2025SEQUEL???
February 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for inviting me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I didn’t expect a sequel to this book, so I was excited to see I was invited to read it!
This unfortunately wasn’t as good as the first one. I wouldn’t say it’s not worth the read if you liked the first book, but I don’t know if you necessarily need to jump on it right away.
I respect the author for wanting to explore mental health representation as well as a from of PTSD, but I don’t think breaking up the characters to start the novel is the way to go.
I can’t stand when we wait a whole book for the couples to get together, only for the sequel to have them break up. I get that authors want to add conflict, but there are other ways to explore that. Have Gabriel and Bridget go through their struggles, but let Arthur and Gwen be a part of that journey and help them out!
The miscommunication was awful. I get it may be hard to talk about your feelings, but Gabriel and Bridget should know Arthur and Gwen well enough that they love them and wouldn’t judge them for how they are feeling. If they were open and honest with them, half of their pain would have never happened. I also can’t stand when a character assumes what is good for another person and makes a decision for them. Gabriel and Bridget really hurt Arthur and Gwen by pushing them away. If Arthur and Gwen decide it is too much for them to handle, then at least they had a choice! I get that it may be hurtful to tell someone your struggles and they decide it’s too much, but again Arthur and Gwen clearly loved the two of them, and that wouldn’t have happened.
I hate to say it, but there wasn’t really a point to this book. It felt like it was just like, oh the first book did well enough, let’s just write a second. I think the character’s struggles are important to talk about, but everything else that happened wasn’t really necessary. I personally feel like everything we got in the first book was enough for me! Sure I was a little curious how the aftermath would be and to see more of the couples, but it could have been a novella or something brief, not a whole entire book.
The best thing about this book that was consistent with the first book was the humor! The humor is 10/10. Practically every page I was actually laughing out loud. The banter is so funny, as well as the character’s inner thoughts. Any comedic bit was my favorite part about the book and thankfully there was a lot of it.
Arthur remained the best character. I do really love him and Gabriel. I loved Gabriel and my heart ached for him at how scared and overwhelmed he was feeling. I thought Bridget and Gwen were a little underdeveloped compared to the first book. They were in it a decent bit, but I thought they sort of took the back burner for Gabriel. Which in a way makes sense, since he is the king, but still.
I really liked all the characters we were introduced in this novel. I loved Neil, he was so endearing. Sir Bowen and Sir Leonard were also pretty funny! Sidney wasn’t in it too much, but when he was he stole the show. Florian was my favorite addition to the cast of characters! I loved him. He gave off such baby energy. Not that he was childish, but just so adorable and endearing!
I wasn’t as impressed with this one as the first book, but if you want to read another book with these characters in it, it is not a terrible read.
I didn’t expect a sequel to this book, so I was excited to see I was invited to read it!
This unfortunately wasn’t as good as the first one. I wouldn’t say it’s not worth the read if you liked the first book, but I don’t know if you necessarily need to jump on it right away.
I respect the author for wanting to explore mental health representation as well as a from of PTSD, but I don’t think breaking up the characters to start the novel is the way to go.
I can’t stand when we wait a whole book for the couples to get together, only for the sequel to have them break up. I get that authors want to add conflict, but there are other ways to explore that. Have Gabriel and Bridget go through their struggles, but let Arthur and Gwen be a part of that journey and help them out!
The miscommunication was awful. I get it may be hard to talk about your feelings, but Gabriel and Bridget should know Arthur and Gwen well enough that they love them and wouldn’t judge them for how they are feeling. If they were open and honest with them, half of their pain would have never happened. I also can’t stand when a character assumes what is good for another person and makes a decision for them. Gabriel and Bridget really hurt Arthur and Gwen by pushing them away. If Arthur and Gwen decide it is too much for them to handle, then at least they had a choice! I get that it may be hurtful to tell someone your struggles and they decide it’s too much, but again Arthur and Gwen clearly loved the two of them, and that wouldn’t have happened.
I hate to say it, but there wasn’t really a point to this book. It felt like it was just like, oh the first book did well enough, let’s just write a second. I think the character’s struggles are important to talk about, but everything else that happened wasn’t really necessary. I personally feel like everything we got in the first book was enough for me! Sure I was a little curious how the aftermath would be and to see more of the couples, but it could have been a novella or something brief, not a whole entire book.
The best thing about this book that was consistent with the first book was the humor! The humor is 10/10. Practically every page I was actually laughing out loud. The banter is so funny, as well as the character’s inner thoughts. Any comedic bit was my favorite part about the book and thankfully there was a lot of it.
Arthur remained the best character. I do really love him and Gabriel. I loved Gabriel and my heart ached for him at how scared and overwhelmed he was feeling. I thought Bridget and Gwen were a little underdeveloped compared to the first book. They were in it a decent bit, but I thought they sort of took the back burner for Gabriel. Which in a way makes sense, since he is the king, but still.
I really liked all the characters we were introduced in this novel. I loved Neil, he was so endearing. Sir Bowen and Sir Leonard were also pretty funny! Sidney wasn’t in it too much, but when he was he stole the show. Florian was my favorite addition to the cast of characters! I loved him. He gave off such baby energy. Not that he was childish, but just so adorable and endearing!
I wasn’t as impressed with this one as the first book, but if you want to read another book with these characters in it, it is not a terrible read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Gwen & Art was one of my favorite books of 2023, so naturally this sequel was one of my most anticipated books of this year. Amazingly, I loved it just as much as I hoped it would. It was a perfect follow-up. Rather than feeling like needless conflict to justify a sequel, it felt like the logical continuation of the ending of the first book.
That does mean this book was a lot less funny. The stakes are higher, and after everything that happened in the first book, they're not in a great place mentally. On top of that, Bridget and Gabriel are both just less inclined to humor in general than Gwen and Arthur. However, it didn't feel like a departure or an absence. It still very much felt like the same world and the same author, and the humor that was there still worked.
Maybe I'm biased because I love these characters so much I would read a five-book series of them just kind of hanging out, but I do think this sequel enhances the first book as well. It's a reminder that change is never easy, and there will always be closed-minded people who will hate you for it, but it is still necessary and worth fighting for. I was so proud of them by the end, and I will treasure my time with them always.
That does mean this book was a lot less funny. The stakes are higher, and after everything that happened in the first book, they're not in a great place mentally. On top of that, Bridget and Gabriel are both just less inclined to humor in general than Gwen and Arthur. However, it didn't feel like a departure or an absence. It still very much felt like the same world and the same author, and the humor that was there still worked.
Maybe I'm biased because I love these characters so much I would read a five-book series of them just kind of hanging out, but I do think this sequel enhances the first book as well. It's a reminder that change is never easy, and there will always be closed-minded people who will hate you for it, but it is still necessary and worth fighting for. I was so proud of them by the end, and I will treasure my time with them always.
Want to Read
November 7, 2025WE HAVE A COVER PEOPLE!!
March 11, 2026
Thank you so much to Lex Croucher, NetGalley, St.Martin's Press, and Wednesday Books for access to this ARC. This is an open and honest review.
----
It's just a dog, Bridget thought, palms sweaty inside her gauntlets. Stop being weird about it. But what was a knight if not an obedient dog scenting blood, hungry for the death of their master's choosing?
----
Gabriel is the king of England. Bridget is an honored knight. Both have reached the goals that others thrust upon them, but neither are truly happy. After the battle that took Gabriel's father from him and dampened Bridget's courage, England's favorite couples are very, very not okay. While Gabriel's anxiety and panic attacks force a wedge between him and Arthur, and Bridget's need to prove her strength to herself warding away Gwen, worries of an unsettled kingdom force the four out on a quest to investigate a resurgence of Arthurian legends plaguing their lands. As the stakes soar ever higher, it becomes a question of what is truly the greater good: doing what is best for the country or carving out a home for yourself.
----
Croucher absolutely nailed this continuation of Gwen & Art Are Not In Love! While the first book was a fun romp through the woes of courting someone within the castle walls, Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay really ups the ante and thrusts the group into the chill of reality. While the story is still witty and the dialogue outright hysterical at time, this a story of the ripples of the trauma of war. The loss of the king affected the kingdom a great deal, and the characters are all struggling with the aftermath in their own way. This weaves a story of grief, anxiety, self-image, and regret that deeply resounds with those who have loved and lost.
Reading through the POVs of Gabe and Bridget was illuminating. Gabriel is possibly one of my favorite MMCs in YA. He's not cut out to be a king with his soft and studious personality, but he's fiercely loyal to his father and the kingdom he created. I sympathized with him so much in this book, my heart aching at times when everything he wanted was just out of his reach. His love for Arthur is so very pure and seated in a need to be something to somebody that I truly treasure. Bridget, too, offers a stunning portrayal of the lasting trauma of war and death and the ways it can muddle identity and confidence. Poor Bridget deserves a kiss on the forehead and a warm tea for everything suffered, brave and polished knight or not.
If you're a fan of Arthurian legends, this is the book for you! The Green Knight made me laugh out loud, and encountering the Lady in the Lake was equally as fun. I truly appreciate the way Croucher is able to weave humor with the Arthurian legacy and the heart of what it means to be queer despite adversity. These books have become such a home for me, and it was such a joy to be able to experience them. Five stars, no notes.
----
It's just a dog, Bridget thought, palms sweaty inside her gauntlets. Stop being weird about it. But what was a knight if not an obedient dog scenting blood, hungry for the death of their master's choosing?
----
Gabriel is the king of England. Bridget is an honored knight. Both have reached the goals that others thrust upon them, but neither are truly happy. After the battle that took Gabriel's father from him and dampened Bridget's courage, England's favorite couples are very, very not okay. While Gabriel's anxiety and panic attacks force a wedge between him and Arthur, and Bridget's need to prove her strength to herself warding away Gwen, worries of an unsettled kingdom force the four out on a quest to investigate a resurgence of Arthurian legends plaguing their lands. As the stakes soar ever higher, it becomes a question of what is truly the greater good: doing what is best for the country or carving out a home for yourself.
----
Croucher absolutely nailed this continuation of Gwen & Art Are Not In Love! While the first book was a fun romp through the woes of courting someone within the castle walls, Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay really ups the ante and thrusts the group into the chill of reality. While the story is still witty and the dialogue outright hysterical at time, this a story of the ripples of the trauma of war. The loss of the king affected the kingdom a great deal, and the characters are all struggling with the aftermath in their own way. This weaves a story of grief, anxiety, self-image, and regret that deeply resounds with those who have loved and lost.
Reading through the POVs of Gabe and Bridget was illuminating. Gabriel is possibly one of my favorite MMCs in YA. He's not cut out to be a king with his soft and studious personality, but he's fiercely loyal to his father and the kingdom he created. I sympathized with him so much in this book, my heart aching at times when everything he wanted was just out of his reach. His love for Arthur is so very pure and seated in a need to be something to somebody that I truly treasure. Bridget, too, offers a stunning portrayal of the lasting trauma of war and death and the ways it can muddle identity and confidence. Poor Bridget deserves a kiss on the forehead and a warm tea for everything suffered, brave and polished knight or not.
If you're a fan of Arthurian legends, this is the book for you! The Green Knight made me laugh out loud, and encountering the Lady in the Lake was equally as fun. I truly appreciate the way Croucher is able to weave humor with the Arthurian legacy and the heart of what it means to be queer despite adversity. These books have become such a home for me, and it was such a joy to be able to experience them. Five stars, no notes.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thank you to Edelweiss for the ARC!
I think this suffered from me not re reading the previous book before reading this, as I had a bit of a harder time getting back into the cadence of the writing and the characters. All in all I think it covered some really important ground and topics, and didn't shy away from certain things or say "and then love fixed it!" I also think the addition of the Arthurian legends was pretty fun.
I think this suffered from me not re reading the previous book before reading this, as I had a bit of a harder time getting back into the cadence of the writing and the characters. All in all I think it covered some really important ground and topics, and didn't shy away from certain things or say "and then love fixed it!" I also think the addition of the Arthurian legends was pretty fun.
Want to Read
April 21, 2026i am SO EXTREMELY excited to be brought back into this world. thank you Lex Croucher i am literally shaking in anticipation. if i could sacrifice my first born child for an ARC i would
update: ARC ACQUIRED i can't wait to revisit this world, i hope it matches the level of whimsy of the first book, i missed these silly royals so much. review to come
update: ARC ACQUIRED i can't wait to revisit this world, i hope it matches the level of whimsy of the first book, i missed these silly royals so much. review to come
April 3, 2026
Thank you NetGallery for the eARC!! 4.5 ⭐️
Omg!! This book was so lovely. Most of the time sequels are very hit and miss, but this sequel was definitely better than the first.
Bridget and Gabe are both struggling heavily after the fall of the king. Bridget dealing with PTSD, while Gabe deals with intense anxiety. The angst is poignant and really allows the reader to understand the importance of speaking about these struggles.
With this, queerness is also a constant issue in this book—meaning the kingdom is still not entirely for the Lancelot laws. This reflection of society reacting to queerness hit a nerve for me (in a relatable way) reminding me of the struggles we still have with acceptance in our world today. But what really mattered to me was the way they never stopped fighting and let the haters rage on. A lot of books idealize a world without homophobia when that is not reality, but this world accepts that not everyone is ready to be loving, unfortunately, but that doesn’t mean you should stop being true to yourself. There was also an addition to more gender exploration in this novel, although subtly (cough, cough, Sir Bridget), which was also wonderful.
Below are two quotes toward the end of the story of Gabe and Bridget declaring/experiencing their truest loves, which I found very impactful:
“Gabriel kissed him, smiling, and Arthur's arms slid up around Gabriel's neck as he kissed him back. Arthur, the sky, the sea. In another life, perhaps he'd have been allowed peace like this all the time. He could close his eyes for a moment and pretend.
Imagine that they had all day, all week, to do nothing but walk and kiss and talk, and hold each other under the blankets at night, and remember how to be loved again.
Not in this life. But Arthur was here, and that was the part that mattered.”
“But knight or not, whether I'm a noble, a mercenary, a thiet, a damned monk... I swear myself in service to you. I will protect you, speak the truth to you always, honor you with my life and deeds. I will shield you with my body and keep you with my heart. My sword is yours. I don't know if you meant it when you said you loved me the other day-but I love you.”
I recommend picking up the first novel specifically for reading this one. An absolute recommendation from me.
Omg!! This book was so lovely. Most of the time sequels are very hit and miss, but this sequel was definitely better than the first.
Bridget and Gabe are both struggling heavily after the fall of the king. Bridget dealing with PTSD, while Gabe deals with intense anxiety. The angst is poignant and really allows the reader to understand the importance of speaking about these struggles.
With this, queerness is also a constant issue in this book—meaning the kingdom is still not entirely for the Lancelot laws. This reflection of society reacting to queerness hit a nerve for me (in a relatable way) reminding me of the struggles we still have with acceptance in our world today. But what really mattered to me was the way they never stopped fighting and let the haters rage on. A lot of books idealize a world without homophobia when that is not reality, but this world accepts that not everyone is ready to be loving, unfortunately, but that doesn’t mean you should stop being true to yourself. There was also an addition to more gender exploration in this novel, although subtly (cough, cough, Sir Bridget), which was also wonderful.
Below are two quotes toward the end of the story of Gabe and Bridget declaring/experiencing their truest loves, which I found very impactful:
“Gabriel kissed him, smiling, and Arthur's arms slid up around Gabriel's neck as he kissed him back. Arthur, the sky, the sea. In another life, perhaps he'd have been allowed peace like this all the time. He could close his eyes for a moment and pretend.
Imagine that they had all day, all week, to do nothing but walk and kiss and talk, and hold each other under the blankets at night, and remember how to be loved again.
Not in this life. But Arthur was here, and that was the part that mattered.”
“But knight or not, whether I'm a noble, a mercenary, a thiet, a damned monk... I swear myself in service to you. I will protect you, speak the truth to you always, honor you with my life and deeds. I will shield you with my body and keep you with my heart. My sword is yours. I don't know if you meant it when you said you loved me the other day-but I love you.”
I recommend picking up the first novel specifically for reading this one. An absolute recommendation from me.
April 8, 2026
I don’t think this book was necessary. We could’ve just had Gwen & Art Are Not in Love and been okay. This whole book is these two couples not being able to communicate and being angsty while on this random quest trying to improve the public opinion of Gabe after he said that gay people were cool. I think that it would’ve been better if it was fully just a romance. However, it is a quick read and entertaining! I just found myself not caring about any of the characters except for Arthur. How hard is it for people to communicate?????? I must remember they are teens. I must give them grace. But good lord.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc!
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc!
April 9, 2026
This was pretty much in line with the tone of the first book, but I felt a discrepancy between the tone (lighthearted and funny) and the subject matter (depression and PTSD). I liked Gwen and Art Are Not In Love a lot, but didn’t feel like it needed a sequel, and Book 2 felt that way. Like, not completely necessary, and a bit long and dragging because of that.
I’d still recommended if you enjoyed the first book and want to spend more time with all the characters.
I’d still recommended if you enjoyed the first book and want to spend more time with all the characters.
April 20, 2026
i’m 3.5 stars and a good second book! i was just really struggling to read it and it felt very slow to me. i love how it ended though and it was really cute!!
Read
August 10, 2025WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO GET AN ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the publisher for the early copy. I did enjoy the first book a great deal, and this leans more towards a 4.5 than a 5 star, but generally it's still quite an enjoyable book and made me laugh and grin a great deal. Since I don't have the best luck with sequels, especially with f/f stories, this speaks greatly of my enjoyment.
I'm not a fan of break-up stories in general, and this one walked the line of comfort in a lot of ways, but overall the heart worked, and it was nice to see where the characters found themselves and each other. The humor was still great, and the banter was fun, and I liked the way Croucher navigated the different plots. I also think end spoiler . I again find it odd I'm still reading so many stories about grief, but I suppose that's a lot of what life is. I don't feel particularly wiser after it all, but I do appreciate seeing others manage the more complicated aspects of it themselves, to hopefully come out more healed in some fashion. I also really loved .
One odd but not bad aspect is the inclusion of what seems very obviously to be .
I also appreciated .
If I have one criticism, it's that I had an early review copy that still had a few too many typos. It was obvious this was going to be edited more before it moves down the publishing line, but truly, maybe have someone give it at least one more full look-through. The typos aren't everywhere, but there are a number of them.
Overall, it's a very enjoyable follow-up. If you're wary of sequels in queer books, maybe give it a chance, since it's quite good.
I'm not a fan of break-up stories in general, and this one walked the line of comfort in a lot of ways, but overall the heart worked, and it was nice to see where the characters found themselves and each other. The humor was still great, and the banter was fun, and I liked the way Croucher navigated the different plots. I also think end spoiler . I again find it odd I'm still reading so many stories about grief, but I suppose that's a lot of what life is. I don't feel particularly wiser after it all, but I do appreciate seeing others manage the more complicated aspects of it themselves, to hopefully come out more healed in some fashion. I also really loved .
One odd but not bad aspect is the inclusion of what seems very obviously to be .
I also appreciated .
If I have one criticism, it's that I had an early review copy that still had a few too many typos. It was obvious this was going to be edited more before it moves down the publishing line, but truly, maybe have someone give it at least one more full look-through. The typos aren't everywhere, but there are a number of them.
Overall, it's a very enjoyable follow-up. If you're wary of sequels in queer books, maybe give it a chance, since it's quite good.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so scared going into this book that I wasn't even going to read it, if not for my bestie asking me to buddy read, since we'd both received arcs. I read an arc of book one before it came out, and loved the book, but as that was in 2023 and I haven't revisited the novel since, I was hesitant to move into this. Why read a whole other book that was just filled with pain and heart ache? Why not leave the fun characters I hazily remembered at their happily ever afters? But my bestie convinced me. So now we're here. And I am Emotional.
I began by rereading book one, since I remembered so little. I had quite a different experience upon reread. I think part of it was knowing that there would be a sequel allowed me to see the gaping holes that I hadn't noticed upon my first read. Yes, these characters were wonderful and captivating and I loved them. But there were so many wounds we did not see tended, so many cuts that could do nothing but scar. And yet the book ended. The story closed. And we were left to imagine hopeful pieces scooped up with dedicated hands and pieced back together into a perfectly square puzzle, a perfectly complete picture.
And upon finishing book one, I realized that I was desperate for book 2. I needed to see Bridget and Gabe's sides of the story. I needed to see how they carried on after so much suffering. And I needed to see Gwen and Art again, too. It was like reaching for old friends in the dark, unsure of what I would find, but clinging to the hope that there would be someone there, and that they would reach back.
This book is ... painful. But not as painful as I expected. It's filled with heart ache and failure to communicate and self isolation and self destructive tendencies. And normally this sort of thing stresses me to no end, causing me to often put the book down because I'm so thoroughly over stupid people doing stupid things. And while yes, these characters are operating and surprisingly minimal brain cells, I wasn't annoyed by it. Because they weren't doing the stupid things for stupid reasons. Their actions made sense. Their fears made sense. They were justified, because so much of them stemmed from things that were not resolved in book 1. I was buoyed along through the story with the hope and trust that there was another happy ending waiting at the end. And that gave me the strength I needed to carry on. (I say that as though this took me ages to get through. I read it in less than 14 hours, including a sleep break.)
I read primarily queer normative books, but books like this remind me of how important and empowering encountering homophobia in fiction can be, especially in a story so magical and fun like this one. It makes me feel hopeful, and powerful, and like anything is possible. I really liked the way it was handled, the reality and gravity of the politics of this world, and the hope on which they all stand and fight.
If you loved book one, you'll almost certainly love this one. And while it's a gut punch, it's not all gloom and doom and misery. Gwen and Art both have grown so much, and they keep this book from drowning in agony. Art especially is so sweet and good and wonderful and needs much many a hug. I was so proud watching them in this book. Their relationship to each other is one of my favorite things, too. They are so thoroughly /there/ for each other throughout everything, and act with the maturity brought by the hardships they've suffered.
This book is important. It's raw and emotional yet filled with the fantastic banter and shenanigans that made book one such a fun time. So if you're afraid for heart break, read on. Your heart will break, but it'll be a good kind of ache, and you'll be okay. Better than okay, even.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy!
I began by rereading book one, since I remembered so little. I had quite a different experience upon reread. I think part of it was knowing that there would be a sequel allowed me to see the gaping holes that I hadn't noticed upon my first read. Yes, these characters were wonderful and captivating and I loved them. But there were so many wounds we did not see tended, so many cuts that could do nothing but scar. And yet the book ended. The story closed. And we were left to imagine hopeful pieces scooped up with dedicated hands and pieced back together into a perfectly square puzzle, a perfectly complete picture.
And upon finishing book one, I realized that I was desperate for book 2. I needed to see Bridget and Gabe's sides of the story. I needed to see how they carried on after so much suffering. And I needed to see Gwen and Art again, too. It was like reaching for old friends in the dark, unsure of what I would find, but clinging to the hope that there would be someone there, and that they would reach back.
This book is ... painful. But not as painful as I expected. It's filled with heart ache and failure to communicate and self isolation and self destructive tendencies. And normally this sort of thing stresses me to no end, causing me to often put the book down because I'm so thoroughly over stupid people doing stupid things. And while yes, these characters are operating and surprisingly minimal brain cells, I wasn't annoyed by it. Because they weren't doing the stupid things for stupid reasons. Their actions made sense. Their fears made sense. They were justified, because so much of them stemmed from things that were not resolved in book 1. I was buoyed along through the story with the hope and trust that there was another happy ending waiting at the end. And that gave me the strength I needed to carry on. (I say that as though this took me ages to get through. I read it in less than 14 hours, including a sleep break.)
I read primarily queer normative books, but books like this remind me of how important and empowering encountering homophobia in fiction can be, especially in a story so magical and fun like this one. It makes me feel hopeful, and powerful, and like anything is possible. I really liked the way it was handled, the reality and gravity of the politics of this world, and the hope on which they all stand and fight.
If you loved book one, you'll almost certainly love this one. And while it's a gut punch, it's not all gloom and doom and misery. Gwen and Art both have grown so much, and they keep this book from drowning in agony. Art especially is so sweet and good and wonderful and needs much many a hug. I was so proud watching them in this book. Their relationship to each other is one of my favorite things, too. They are so thoroughly /there/ for each other throughout everything, and act with the maturity brought by the hardships they've suffered.
This book is important. It's raw and emotional yet filled with the fantastic banter and shenanigans that made book one such a fun time. So if you're afraid for heart break, read on. Your heart will break, but it'll be a good kind of ache, and you'll be okay. Better than okay, even.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Actual Rating: 4.25 Stars
Thank you to Saint Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! This comes out on August 11th.
(Note: this contains some spoilers for the first book in this series)
Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay is the sequel to one of my favorite books Gwen & Art Are Not in Love. This picks up after the events of that book, with Gabriel recently crowned king. Both Gabriel and Bridget are dealing with PTSD after the attempted uprising and deadly battle, manifesting in panic attacks for Gabe and an inability to compete in tournaments for Bridget.
Our favorite characters from Gwen & Art, and some new faces, depart on a PR tour to save Gabe’s image and find rumored Arthurian relics. Can Gabriel be the king his country deserves? Can Bridget get her jousting groove back? And will they find their way back to the courtly love that once seemed fated?
Lex Croucher is one of my absolute favorite authors and this is yet another book by them that I loved. It’s much more serious than Gwen & Art, as is likely expected after the death of Gwen and Gabe’s dad and the lives Bridget had to take to survive. I could see readers picking this up thinking it’s going to be a fun romp and being blindsided by how serious it is. Don’t get me wrong - there are many funny moments and the novel is full of Croucher’s signature wit and humor, but Gabe and Bridget are really struggling. I think Croucher did a great job portraying this. One of my favorite scenes was when the two of them bonded over their PTSD.
There were many scenes where I wanted to shake Bridget and Gabe until they talked about their feelings. It was great to follow their two distinct journeys to greater emotional intelligence. Gabe apologizing to Art and telling him he’s still in love with him was especially satisfying. I loved seeing their romance bloom anew. I’m a sucker for opposites attract and they fit it a T.
I will say that I missed Gwen and Art’s POVs, but at the same time it was nice to get a look into Gabe and Bridget’s heads.
I liked the gender exploration with Bridget - she chooses to be called sir, likes having her head shaved, and not being read as a girl.
I also loved our new characters and getting to spend more time with Adah who is a much more minor character in book one.
Overall, I enjoyed my time back with my favorite disaster gays and would absolutely be open to further books in this world if Croucher chooses to write more.
Thank you to Saint Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! This comes out on August 11th.
(Note: this contains some spoilers for the first book in this series)
Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay is the sequel to one of my favorite books Gwen & Art Are Not in Love. This picks up after the events of that book, with Gabriel recently crowned king. Both Gabriel and Bridget are dealing with PTSD after the attempted uprising and deadly battle, manifesting in panic attacks for Gabe and an inability to compete in tournaments for Bridget.
Our favorite characters from Gwen & Art, and some new faces, depart on a PR tour to save Gabe’s image and find rumored Arthurian relics. Can Gabriel be the king his country deserves? Can Bridget get her jousting groove back? And will they find their way back to the courtly love that once seemed fated?
Lex Croucher is one of my absolute favorite authors and this is yet another book by them that I loved. It’s much more serious than Gwen & Art, as is likely expected after the death of Gwen and Gabe’s dad and the lives Bridget had to take to survive. I could see readers picking this up thinking it’s going to be a fun romp and being blindsided by how serious it is. Don’t get me wrong - there are many funny moments and the novel is full of Croucher’s signature wit and humor, but Gabe and Bridget are really struggling. I think Croucher did a great job portraying this. One of my favorite scenes was when the two of them bonded over their PTSD.
There were many scenes where I wanted to shake Bridget and Gabe until they talked about their feelings. It was great to follow their two distinct journeys to greater emotional intelligence. Gabe apologizing to Art and telling him he’s still in love with him was especially satisfying. I loved seeing their romance bloom anew. I’m a sucker for opposites attract and they fit it a T.
I will say that I missed Gwen and Art’s POVs, but at the same time it was nice to get a look into Gabe and Bridget’s heads.
I liked the gender exploration with Bridget - she chooses to be called sir, likes having her head shaved, and not being read as a girl.
I also loved our new characters and getting to spend more time with Adah who is a much more minor character in book one.
Overall, I enjoyed my time back with my favorite disaster gays and would absolutely be open to further books in this world if Croucher chooses to write more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lex Croucher's books, although generally classified as Young Adult, tend to read younger in my opinion. Although the protagonists are generally older teens, the writing often feels simple to me, not only in vocabulary and grammar, but also in the way things are often spelled out clearly for the reader rather than being implied, and for that matter the plots, which are generally simple and straightforward. All of this was true of Gwen & Art Are Not in Love.
I say this not as criticism but commentary, because although some of that is still true of Bridget & Gabe Are Not OK—particularly the vocabulary and grammar—the plot is more mature, and things are sometimes less explicitly stated.
The story picks up a year after the end of the first book, and as the title spells of, things are not going well. Neither of the two couples are still together, though in each case they drifted apart rather than having a clean breakup. The trouble, as we quickly learn, is that Bridget and Gabriel are having a tough go of it—each in their own way it's struggling to process the trauma they experienced near the end of the first book.
And so, while the action in this book deals with a royal tour of the country to raise the new king's public profile—various public appearances interspersed with quests and meetings based on Arthurian legends—the real story is about the internal struggles of the two titles characters and their would-be partners.
Personally, I enjoyed this book much more than the first, exactly for that more introspective nature. Plus, some of the Arthurian interludes were quite funny. I will say that having some knowledge of Arthurian legends helps, because as I mentored earlier, not everything is completely spelled out.
**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I say this not as criticism but commentary, because although some of that is still true of Bridget & Gabe Are Not OK—particularly the vocabulary and grammar—the plot is more mature, and things are sometimes less explicitly stated.
The story picks up a year after the end of the first book, and as the title spells of, things are not going well. Neither of the two couples are still together, though in each case they drifted apart rather than having a clean breakup. The trouble, as we quickly learn, is that Bridget and Gabriel are having a tough go of it—each in their own way it's struggling to process the trauma they experienced near the end of the first book.
And so, while the action in this book deals with a royal tour of the country to raise the new king's public profile—various public appearances interspersed with quests and meetings based on Arthurian legends—the real story is about the internal struggles of the two titles characters and their would-be partners.
Personally, I enjoyed this book much more than the first, exactly for that more introspective nature. Plus, some of the Arthurian interludes were quite funny. I will say that having some knowledge of Arthurian legends helps, because as I mentored earlier, not everything is completely spelled out.
**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for the eARC
Look, I'll be honest, "Gwen and Art are not in love" was a good book, but I struggle with it. Not because of inherent issues coming from the book, but because the characters annoyed oj so very much. Did they act in a believable fashion for their age and history? Yes, absolutely. But it was still annoying.
Now, why did I request the sequel if I didn't enjoy the first book. I don't know, curiosity I guess. And because of the title. I enjoy books about mental struggle, especially when the first book ends in a "happy" place.
I'm so glad I read "Bridget and Gabe are not okay". I know a lot of people will be upset that our couples are struggling or not together at the start of this. I get it, it's not my fabourite narrative choice. But well, it works! Especially since the issues present in book 1, around communication, are still very much there. Are they annoying still? Of course they are! But I found myself more tolerant thise time, probably because panic attacks and PTSD are such huge topics, generally and personnaly. Croucher deals with them well enough, still keeping somewhat of a light tone but definitely darker than in the first book.
Added to the creative use of arthurian legends, it made for a nice read. It's definitely very modern despite taking place in medieval time, but we are warned and the choice makes sense. The excution is quite smart. Especially when it came down the the quest to check upon the Beast, Lady of the Lake and the Graal. It aligns well with the character's inner journey, creates movement and excuses for our couples to be in the same vicinity and to talk to each other.
Honestly, I really enjoy this, more than I thought I would ! It's sweet, sombre but still cute and humourous.
Look, I'll be honest, "Gwen and Art are not in love" was a good book, but I struggle with it. Not because of inherent issues coming from the book, but because the characters annoyed oj so very much. Did they act in a believable fashion for their age and history? Yes, absolutely. But it was still annoying.
Now, why did I request the sequel if I didn't enjoy the first book. I don't know, curiosity I guess. And because of the title. I enjoy books about mental struggle, especially when the first book ends in a "happy" place.
I'm so glad I read "Bridget and Gabe are not okay". I know a lot of people will be upset that our couples are struggling or not together at the start of this. I get it, it's not my fabourite narrative choice. But well, it works! Especially since the issues present in book 1, around communication, are still very much there. Are they annoying still? Of course they are! But I found myself more tolerant thise time, probably because panic attacks and PTSD are such huge topics, generally and personnaly. Croucher deals with them well enough, still keeping somewhat of a light tone but definitely darker than in the first book.
Added to the creative use of arthurian legends, it made for a nice read. It's definitely very modern despite taking place in medieval time, but we are warned and the choice makes sense. The excution is quite smart. Especially when it came down the the quest to check upon the Beast, Lady of the Lake and the Graal. It aligns well with the character's inner journey, creates movement and excuses for our couples to be in the same vicinity and to talk to each other.
Honestly, I really enjoy this, more than I thought I would ! It's sweet, sombre but still cute and humourous.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you so much to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press | Wednesday Books for providing an eARC in return for an honest review!
A very fun and surprisingly somber continuation of "Gwen and Art are not in love".
We follow our beloved, but now broken-up-for-reasons, Camelot Squad in the aftermath and fallout of the first books happening. Our title characters are very much as in the title - not okay. And who can honestly blame them?
We watch Gabe struggle to come to terms with the new reality of being king, having an amputated limb, chronic phantom pain and panic attacks as the cherry on top. Bridget struggles with PTSD, memory flashbacks and a very much shot nervous system.
The quest through England following the myths and tales, felt like a very elaborate rehabilitation / reconvalescene trip for the mentally exhausted - and it was delightful to read. Some chapters felt a tad dragged out, but the tension was held up nicely otherwise. We see the good, the bad and the ugly apsects of surviving a coup and the cups of a civil war, the loss of parent, ruler and family.
Croucher manages to twist comedic relief and gut-wrenching honest truths together very well. It's not like you go from belly-slapping-laughter to chocking sobs, but the transitions are short in some cases. The aspect of mental health issues was very tenderly and appropriately handled. The relief and happiness of the characters at the end (spoiler? i guess?!) was palpable and infectious. I finished the book with a big grin on my face.
One single star deduction for inventing medieval beer-pong. I think i could have done without that.
Definite recommendation for anyone who liked book 1! Silly knightly shenanigans, lady knights, and barely a straight person in view!
A very fun and surprisingly somber continuation of "Gwen and Art are not in love".
We follow our beloved, but now broken-up-for-reasons, Camelot Squad in the aftermath and fallout of the first books happening. Our title characters are very much as in the title - not okay. And who can honestly blame them?
We watch Gabe struggle to come to terms with the new reality of being king, having an amputated limb, chronic phantom pain and panic attacks as the cherry on top. Bridget struggles with PTSD, memory flashbacks and a very much shot nervous system.
The quest through England following the myths and tales, felt like a very elaborate rehabilitation / reconvalescene trip for the mentally exhausted - and it was delightful to read. Some chapters felt a tad dragged out, but the tension was held up nicely otherwise. We see the good, the bad and the ugly apsects of surviving a coup and the cups of a civil war, the loss of parent, ruler and family.
Croucher manages to twist comedic relief and gut-wrenching honest truths together very well. It's not like you go from belly-slapping-laughter to chocking sobs, but the transitions are short in some cases. The aspect of mental health issues was very tenderly and appropriately handled. The relief and happiness of the characters at the end (spoiler? i guess?!) was palpable and infectious. I finished the book with a big grin on my face.
One single star deduction for inventing medieval beer-pong. I think i could have done without that.
Definite recommendation for anyone who liked book 1! Silly knightly shenanigans, lady knights, and barely a straight person in view!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.75 ⭐️s rounded up.
A great sequel!!
First, it’s good to know going in that while this book does still have the humour from the first book, it takes a bit of a darker tone. Personally, I was a fan of that, but it’s good to know the shift in tone going in. I also love how this book not only focuses on Bridget and Gabriel’s struggles, but still makes sure to mention Gwen and Arthur’s as well (especially Gwen, my girl was going through it being everyone’s go-to person).
‘What were you supposed to do when all the things that had been second nature to you before suddenly felt like a language you didn’t speak?’
We get to see Bridget working through the aftermath of killing Lord Willard and how partaking in that battle and taking his life is still effecting her.
‘Gabriel was broken in ways nobody could fix, in ways he couldn’t even explain; he was drowning in the open air, dying of absolutely nothing, miles away from danger. Panicking.’
We get to see Gabriel working through his panic attacks, figuring out what causes them and how to either avoid them or help end them.
Bridget and Gabriel have had my heart since the first book and I loved getting to see more of them. I was a big fan of Bridget finally going to talk to Gabriel one-on-one in this book, and while it didn’t last long, it proved why I’ve wanted them to properly interact for so long as I loved their dynamic.
Finally, there’s a really great scene where Sidney, Bridget and Gwen all go and talk to Arthur, and Bridget says some really great stuff. I don’t want to spoil, so I won’t say what it is, but it’s about 70% of the way in and it was probably my favourite scene in the whole book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with an ARC!
A great sequel!!
First, it’s good to know going in that while this book does still have the humour from the first book, it takes a bit of a darker tone. Personally, I was a fan of that, but it’s good to know the shift in tone going in. I also love how this book not only focuses on Bridget and Gabriel’s struggles, but still makes sure to mention Gwen and Arthur’s as well (especially Gwen, my girl was going through it being everyone’s go-to person).
‘What were you supposed to do when all the things that had been second nature to you before suddenly felt like a language you didn’t speak?’
We get to see Bridget working through the aftermath of killing Lord Willard and how partaking in that battle and taking his life is still effecting her.
‘Gabriel was broken in ways nobody could fix, in ways he couldn’t even explain; he was drowning in the open air, dying of absolutely nothing, miles away from danger. Panicking.’
We get to see Gabriel working through his panic attacks, figuring out what causes them and how to either avoid them or help end them.
Bridget and Gabriel have had my heart since the first book and I loved getting to see more of them. I was a big fan of Bridget finally going to talk to Gabriel one-on-one in this book, and while it didn’t last long, it proved why I’ve wanted them to properly interact for so long as I loved their dynamic.
Finally, there’s a really great scene where Sidney, Bridget and Gwen all go and talk to Arthur, and Bridget says some really great stuff. I don’t want to spoil, so I won’t say what it is, but it’s about 70% of the way in and it was probably my favourite scene in the whole book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked Gwen & Art Are Not in Love a lot, but sadly Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay didn't really do it for me. The primary issue is probably that I just don't think the first book needed a sequel. It wrapped up the story really nicely and left us with joy from our characters' growth and triumphs and hope for their futures, but no real questions or burning issues to resolve.
Still, a compelling story would have made that less of an issue. But Bridge & Gabe Are Not Okay meanders from the jump, losing all momentum from the first book's dramatic concluding chapters. The central conflict largely hinges on miscommunication tropes and two of the four main characters' debilitating anxieties. Those anxieties make total sense from a character development perspective, but they really drag the story down and are honestly just plain boring to read about.
Arthur's character remains a highlight, bringing some much-needed lightheartedness to the proceedings. That lightheartedness is a big strength of Gwen & Art Are Not in Love, so it's sad to see it somewhat sidelined here. The closer incorporation of Arthurian legends served the story well, but I would've preferred much more of that and much less moping.
Even so, if you enjoyed the first book, are not bothered by miscommunication, and don't mind reading about once-fun characters now stuck in a stressy depressy phase, you'll likely get along with this book just fine. Three stars for the competent writing and for Arthur still being a hoot (and a bit for Merly Lucy, the poor child of divorce).
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Still, a compelling story would have made that less of an issue. But Bridge & Gabe Are Not Okay meanders from the jump, losing all momentum from the first book's dramatic concluding chapters. The central conflict largely hinges on miscommunication tropes and two of the four main characters' debilitating anxieties. Those anxieties make total sense from a character development perspective, but they really drag the story down and are honestly just plain boring to read about.
Arthur's character remains a highlight, bringing some much-needed lightheartedness to the proceedings. That lightheartedness is a big strength of Gwen & Art Are Not in Love, so it's sad to see it somewhat sidelined here. The closer incorporation of Arthurian legends served the story well, but I would've preferred much more of that and much less moping.
Even so, if you enjoyed the first book, are not bothered by miscommunication, and don't mind reading about once-fun characters now stuck in a stressy depressy phase, you'll likely get along with this book just fine. Three stars for the competent writing and for Arthur still being a hoot (and a bit for Merly Lucy, the poor child of divorce).
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the ARC.
This book aches in the most tender way.
It’s painful watching someone you love try to navigate the aftermath of something traumatic, especially when they insist on carrying it alone. Gabriel’s struggle is deeply human in the way he tries to protect the people he loves by pushing them away.
What makes this sequel so special is how these four characters and the people orbiting them show up for each other. Not perfectly. Not always gracefully. But earnestly. The story explores multiple relationship dynamics: siblings, lovers, friends, rivals-turned-allies. It’s a reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Community matters. Chosen family matters. Love isn’t just grand gestures...it’s staying.
We also get a deeper dive into Bridget’s internal battles, and that perspective adds so much emotional weight. Watching her question who she is outside of the “dashing knight” identity is just as compelling as any quest or political turmoil. The post-happily-ever-after reality feels honest: what happens after the victory feast? After the battle is won? Who are you when the spark dims?
I strongly encourage readers to read (or re-read) Gwen & Art Are Not In Love before picking this up. The book doesn’t spend much time reintroducing characters or recapping relationships (which I personally appreciate) so you’ll get so much more out of the emotional beats if the first story is fresh in your mind.
This isn’t just a continuation. It’s a healing journey, and a reminder that love—romantic, platonic, familial—is something you keep choosing.
This book aches in the most tender way.
It’s painful watching someone you love try to navigate the aftermath of something traumatic, especially when they insist on carrying it alone. Gabriel’s struggle is deeply human in the way he tries to protect the people he loves by pushing them away.
What makes this sequel so special is how these four characters and the people orbiting them show up for each other. Not perfectly. Not always gracefully. But earnestly. The story explores multiple relationship dynamics: siblings, lovers, friends, rivals-turned-allies. It’s a reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Community matters. Chosen family matters. Love isn’t just grand gestures...it’s staying.
We also get a deeper dive into Bridget’s internal battles, and that perspective adds so much emotional weight. Watching her question who she is outside of the “dashing knight” identity is just as compelling as any quest or political turmoil. The post-happily-ever-after reality feels honest: what happens after the victory feast? After the battle is won? Who are you when the spark dims?
I strongly encourage readers to read (or re-read) Gwen & Art Are Not In Love before picking this up. The book doesn’t spend much time reintroducing characters or recapping relationships (which I personally appreciate) so you’ll get so much more out of the emotional beats if the first story is fresh in your mind.
This isn’t just a continuation. It’s a healing journey, and a reminder that love—romantic, platonic, familial—is something you keep choosing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 stars
This was a delightful sequel to a very delightful book. While I initially wasn't certain I needed a follow on to the first one this book rapidly proved me wrong. There was a lot at the end of the first book that could use a bit of addressing and it was both interestingly and enjoyably covered here. I haven't read the first book in ages but this did a lovely job of sliding me gently back into the story, world, and characters so very well that I was reminded of everything I needed to know without feeling as if I were retreading absolutely everything. Impressively managed.
It did surprise me just how much I enjoyed revisiting this world and the characters, though this time for Bridget and Gabriel's point of view. I still enjoy all the characters I remember from the previous book and felt as if I got a great deal more insight into them. I also really enjoyed several new characters introduced here, particularly Sir Florian.
I really enjoyed the bit of further expanding on the world building and the bits and pieces of fallout from the previous book. This was a far more entertaining read than I had expected and went from a sequel I wasn't sure I needed to one I am very glad to have read. I think anybody that enjoyed the first book will find a great deal to enjoy in this one too, though I would definitely suggest having read that one first.
Overall this was a really pleasant surprise and improved on the first book for me, which a sequel should do if it can manage. A very solid four stars.
I received an eArc through Netgalley in exchange for my review but my opinions are my own.
This was a delightful sequel to a very delightful book. While I initially wasn't certain I needed a follow on to the first one this book rapidly proved me wrong. There was a lot at the end of the first book that could use a bit of addressing and it was both interestingly and enjoyably covered here. I haven't read the first book in ages but this did a lovely job of sliding me gently back into the story, world, and characters so very well that I was reminded of everything I needed to know without feeling as if I were retreading absolutely everything. Impressively managed.
It did surprise me just how much I enjoyed revisiting this world and the characters, though this time for Bridget and Gabriel's point of view. I still enjoy all the characters I remember from the previous book and felt as if I got a great deal more insight into them. I also really enjoyed several new characters introduced here, particularly Sir Florian.
I really enjoyed the bit of further expanding on the world building and the bits and pieces of fallout from the previous book. This was a far more entertaining read than I had expected and went from a sequel I wasn't sure I needed to one I am very glad to have read. I think anybody that enjoyed the first book will find a great deal to enjoy in this one too, though I would definitely suggest having read that one first.
Overall this was a really pleasant surprise and improved on the first book for me, which a sequel should do if it can manage. A very solid four stars.
I received an eArc through Netgalley in exchange for my review but my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay follows the events of Gwen & Art Are Not In Love, about a year after thr end of the first book. This story follows Gabe as he settles into his new role as the King and the aftermath of Bridget's heroism, it covers grief, anxiety, friendships, relationships and issues that arise when communication is lacking.
Lex Croucher has a way of making all their books engaging, fast to read and funny yet deeply meaningful. Bridget & Gabe is no exception.
The setting of this world is very interesting and the inclusion of folk tales and myths and legends was a fun addition. The Knights of the Roundtable was a very engaging storyline!
As always, Lex has the secret touch to making you fall in love with each and every character. Even with the grim subjects of the novel, there are still funny jokes and lighthearted moments. The anxiety and mental health representation is a big part of the story and very well done.
Unfortunately, it was missing some of the magic that G&A had. As a sequel, it was necessary to go over such themes as heartbreak and grief after the abrupt ending of the first book, but it is disorientating to start the book with both main couples not being together.
I had to take out a star because having modern slang like "beast mode" in my medieval rom com really took me out of the story at times.
All in all, Croucher's love oozes through the pages of this heartwarming romcom, the romances, the found family, the representation, the acceptance, the love of cats... what a hug for the soul!
Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay follows the events of Gwen & Art Are Not In Love, about a year after thr end of the first book. This story follows Gabe as he settles into his new role as the King and the aftermath of Bridget's heroism, it covers grief, anxiety, friendships, relationships and issues that arise when communication is lacking.
Lex Croucher has a way of making all their books engaging, fast to read and funny yet deeply meaningful. Bridget & Gabe is no exception.
The setting of this world is very interesting and the inclusion of folk tales and myths and legends was a fun addition. The Knights of the Roundtable was a very engaging storyline!
As always, Lex has the secret touch to making you fall in love with each and every character. Even with the grim subjects of the novel, there are still funny jokes and lighthearted moments. The anxiety and mental health representation is a big part of the story and very well done.
Unfortunately, it was missing some of the magic that G&A had. As a sequel, it was necessary to go over such themes as heartbreak and grief after the abrupt ending of the first book, but it is disorientating to start the book with both main couples not being together.
I had to take out a star because having modern slang like "beast mode" in my medieval rom com really took me out of the story at times.
All in all, Croucher's love oozes through the pages of this heartwarming romcom, the romances, the found family, the representation, the acceptance, the love of cats... what a hug for the soul!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really struggled with this one because I LOVED the previous book. In my mind, it practically sparkled on the page. There was wit and action and indelible characters you could not help but love.
This is word for word my review of Art in the last book: "Arthur is THE BEST, clearly the most fun/funny/endearing character in the book. The story sings whenever he's in the scene."
So I'm sad to report, in this book...there just is....no sparkle, no singing. Everyone is traumatized. Art makes a few passing jokes, but mostly he frets about Gabe, who can barely function anymore. Gwen fairs better (becoming more of a fully realized character with her own talents.) But she too spends most of the book pissed or sad about Bridget who also is a shell of herself.
This ended up being more of a book about PTSD and how to support a partner that is struggling in a world that does not accept queer people. It is less of a love story than a survival story. To be clear, it does an excellent job of portraying that story. But for readers of the last book, this huge tonal shift is a BIG adjustment.
I guess I liked these characters so much that after the last book I wanted them to have lives filled with love AND joy. To find them instead as war-scarred adults struggling with against the same systems of oppression that young queer people still face today was deeply sad.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
This is word for word my review of Art in the last book: "Arthur is THE BEST, clearly the most fun/funny/endearing character in the book. The story sings whenever he's in the scene."
So I'm sad to report, in this book...there just is....no sparkle, no singing. Everyone is traumatized. Art makes a few passing jokes, but mostly he frets about Gabe, who can barely function anymore. Gwen fairs better (becoming more of a fully realized character with her own talents.) But she too spends most of the book pissed or sad about Bridget who also is a shell of herself.
This ended up being more of a book about PTSD and how to support a partner that is struggling in a world that does not accept queer people. It is less of a love story than a survival story. To be clear, it does an excellent job of portraying that story. But for readers of the last book, this huge tonal shift is a BIG adjustment.
I guess I liked these characters so much that after the last book I wanted them to have lives filled with love AND joy. To find them instead as war-scarred adults struggling with against the same systems of oppression that young queer people still face today was deeply sad.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is probably my most anticipated book of 2026. I will never forget the experience of Art & Gwen are not in Love for the first time - it was unlike anything I’d ever read before and returning to Lex Croucher’s Camelot is a literal dream. As expected, I devoured this, but have had to sit on it a bit to gather my thoughts. On one hand, this story perfectly follows from where we left off. The first book ends hopefully, but also following great violence and tragedy. It tracks that these characters would now need to face their grief and trauma. As a reader I was chasing the effervescent joy I experienced reading the first book and struggled with reading some of my favorite characters in pain. But ultimately, I think it was very brave to write such a grounded follow up. There wouldn’t really be a point to this story if it didn’t take the characters into this darker, more complicated, place. The writing is excellent, as can always be counted on from Croucher, and I’m so grateful to read these characters growing up.
My only complaint is that I wish we got to know the Knights of the Roundtable a bit more. I do think the entire narrative would have been lightened by a big personality side-story, like what Sydney brought in the first book. This could have particularly elevated this story, given Bridget and Gabe’s personalities being more subtle than Gwen and Art’s.
Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday for access to the -ARC in exchange for this unbiased review. I’m always honored to be a Lex Croucher hype girl in my small corner of the internet.
My only complaint is that I wish we got to know the Knights of the Roundtable a bit more. I do think the entire narrative would have been lightened by a big personality side-story, like what Sydney brought in the first book. This could have particularly elevated this story, given Bridget and Gabe’s personalities being more subtle than Gwen and Art’s.
Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday for access to the -ARC in exchange for this unbiased review. I’m always honored to be a Lex Croucher hype girl in my small corner of the internet.
March 24, 2026
I loved the first book. This one, I have mixed feelings. I liked getting to see a continuation of the previous story (which ended too abruptly!) and spend more time with these characters. I didn’t love that the time we spent with them was relatively sad and unpleasant in a lot of places. Why did the author break up our beloved characters? I think this novel could have worked just as well with them all together supporting each other, and it would have been more enjoyable.
If you loved the first one then you would probably still enjoy reading this one, but it is quite different and I don’t think it was quite as magical.
Highlights:
-I love the authors writing style. Lots of humor, also serious stuff, all well blended together.
-This sequel felt like a natural extension of the first novel instead of like it was forced-in, and I liked that. The first novel ended too abruptly for me, so it makes sense that this exists.
-Tackling mental health issues is always a good thing in my opinion. Topics that are not discussed enough, or properly. This novel did a decent job.
-There were some beautiful and powerful moments.
Nitpicks:
-I don’t really like it when a book ends with people getting together, just to have them broken up at the start of the sequel. It seems like you’re undermining the whole point of the first novel? Starting out the book with a bad taste in my mouth wasn’t a great beginning.
-Plots hinging on a lack of communication are never great in my opinion; weak and frustrating to read.
-This sequel didn’t seem to quite have the same magic as the first one. It’s a lot more serious, which makes sense, but it was just missing some of the fun I guess?
-The storyline kind of wandered around and got lost at times. I liked that there was follow-up to the previous novel, but I don’t think this was the best; it probably could have been a novella?
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
If you loved the first one then you would probably still enjoy reading this one, but it is quite different and I don’t think it was quite as magical.
Highlights:
-I love the authors writing style. Lots of humor, also serious stuff, all well blended together.
-This sequel felt like a natural extension of the first novel instead of like it was forced-in, and I liked that. The first novel ended too abruptly for me, so it makes sense that this exists.
-Tackling mental health issues is always a good thing in my opinion. Topics that are not discussed enough, or properly. This novel did a decent job.
-There were some beautiful and powerful moments.
Nitpicks:
-I don’t really like it when a book ends with people getting together, just to have them broken up at the start of the sequel. It seems like you’re undermining the whole point of the first novel? Starting out the book with a bad taste in my mouth wasn’t a great beginning.
-Plots hinging on a lack of communication are never great in my opinion; weak and frustrating to read.
-This sequel didn’t seem to quite have the same magic as the first one. It’s a lot more serious, which makes sense, but it was just missing some of the fun I guess?
-The storyline kind of wandered around and got lost at times. I liked that there was follow-up to the previous novel, but I don’t think this was the best; it probably could have been a novella?
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews