So this is the first book I get to review here and I'm so glad it was Henry Hamlet's Heart!
I loved it, I loved the characters, they were great, I loved the conversation about sexuality that was well done, even with someone as young as Henry's brother!
But this is a 3.5 rating for me, even tho I loved the Simon Vs The Homosapiens Agenda vibes, this lacked sometimes deeper conversations between characters, even if it's just to let the reader know that the characters learned something. I felt there were resolution but we never go deeper than the surface.

Thank you, Charlesbridge, Charlesbridge Teen for the chance to read this book in exchange of an honest review.

Henry Hamlet doesn't know what to do after finishing his high school. His only truth is Len, his best friend, and how well they are paired. Henry is awkward and clumsy, Len is enigmatic and more confident and they always worked. That's until Henry discovers he's in love with his best friend, so what to do?

Henry Hamlet's Heart is one of the most sweet, charming and cute read I've read this year. If someone compares this book to fans of Becky Albertalli, who am I not to read it as soon as possible? And I fell in love with it right away.
First of all, Henry is a very relatable main character, a neurotic mess, awkward and clumsy and I felt so seen in this story. A beautiful, loving and funny gay coming of age story, about growing up, falling in love, learning how to love, letting things and people go and becoming more and more yourself.
I've loved these characters, they are extremely enjoyable. Mostly I felt very close to Henry, but his grandma is definitely one of my favourite character. This story is truly charming, sweet and so so recommended.

Henry's Hamlet Heart tells the story of Hamlet, Len, and their group of friends in the early 2000s in Australia as they start their last year of high school. One of their yearly traditions is to write their wants for that next year and burn them in a bonfire.

Hamlet and Len have been the closest of friends since forever despite their different personalities and when Hamlet looks over and accidentally reads what Len wrote down, new curiosity grows inside him. From that moment on I was sold on this book and couldn't set it down. It offers a very captivating and familiar read of the feelings of a first crush, how over consuming it can be and the anxieties of not knowing what the other person is feeling. Falling for your best friend in a all boys school is not an easy thing to go through.

Len's fears through the book feel real specially for a barely turned adult with a complicated home life. Hamlet describes Len as being able to charm everyone and he charmed even me the reader. Despite all the, sometimes, questionable choices he made, I kept rooting for him. It was painful at times, leaving me afraid their love would not survive all the rocks in the road, but the angst just makes for a better end of this story. Each character feels real in their portrayal and the banter between the group of friends was endearing.

In conclusion this book follows the friends-to-lovers trop while also being a coming of age and shows that we often don't know everything in life and what the future will hold but that's alright. That the things that matter are worth fighting for though. If that's something you enjoy, this book might also be for you! The little details of the 2000s made me feel back in my teenage years (myspace does get mentioned) and it made me feel closer to this story as well!

7/10
Henry Hamlets Heart by Rhiannon Wilde was a cute, queer coming of age story with a friends to lovers trope. The charatcers were incredibly likable and the writing was easy, yet on the poit with witty commentary from the protagonist Henry. All in all a solid read.

Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely adored this story. The characters are loveable, the friends group dynamic is great, and I loved Henry’s family!

We have the popular, experienced jock who is friends with the intellectual, inexperienced nerd. They’ve been best friends forever, and then after a dare, Henry starts to see Len in a new light.

I loved watching Henry grow as he figured out who he was and what he wanted. I felt like the author really captured that fear of not knowing if your feelings are returned. The fear of taking the next step and what it could do to a friendship.

We have a realistic friend group who constantly gave each other on, but when the chips are down, they’re by your side. We have two completely different family dynamics which adds to the drama too.

Such a fabulous story full of heart and hope.

Henry Hamlet's Heart was a coming of age story with a dash of romance and a good bit of slice of life thrown in. It had some fun banter, light-hearted moments and some school shenanigan - typical of people of that age.

Henry and Len were definitely likeable and I did adore how their relationship developed for the most part. Still there were some sections of the story that was slow due to the repetitive nature of the day-to-day events being shown of Henry's life. Getting to the romance was like slogging through mud as other conflicts arise around them while their story got very little in the ways of moving along their relationship arc.

However, when you thought things were about to work out, a hurdle was thrown towards that development leading to the last few parts of the book to have the main pair avoid and not talk to each other. This sometimes work in a number of novels but very seldom and for this one it really didn't.

My feelings towards this book had been on the ambivalent side but that final stretch was not enjoyable and quite unsatisfying for me.

Still there were a number of things that I did like about Henry Hamlet's Heart. I'd still recommend giving this book a try.

This would be 3.75 stars out of 5 stars for me.

Man. I was so instantly a fan of this one. I read it back in April (6 mo. ago) and then procrastinated writing a review, so I'm going to try and articulate this as best as I can:

I slowly fell in love with the author’s characters and felt like I knew them well throughout the entire book and then the last quarter of the book had me in a chokehold so tight I couldn’t put it down.

Henry’s compassion and intensity matched my own so effortlessly. I think of my own boyhood, of my sensitivity and my softness. I love how much of that henry embodies and also how much his dad does, too. “You think you’re the only one who feels things deeply?”

Henry's family in general. Ugh. The Rilke quotes. Hambam. All of it!!!

Also.....elderly queer representation!!!!!!

Every gay has an english teacher they LOVED.

Chapter 21 absolutely ruined me for multiple reasons, and i was an emotional mess by the end. IYKYK.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was an endearing, heartwarming read. It was a seamless blend of heart and heartache. I liked delving into Henry's journey and enjoying the ride.

Overall, I found this book a fun and sweet read, I just wish there had been more to it.
I think the characters on the whole were well written, but at times I wish we'd been able to dive a little deeper with them. We're told that Henry and Len have a lot of history, I wish more of that had been incorporated into the story instead of us just being told that. The characters have so much heart that was absolutely bursting out onto the page. At times Len felt a little one dimensional, but Henry was deeply relatable and real. I loved the side story about Henry's Gran and her girlfriend, wish we'd seen more of them!
I loved the Australian school setting, I really felt immersed into it. It was an intersting mix of intimately familiar with my own high school experiences (in Scotland), and yet different in ways which were fun to discover.
My main issue with this whole book was the pacing of it all. As much as I enjoyed the characters and setting, a book cannot be carried on that alone, and the plot was sadly lacking for me. Especially in the middle of the book I found that not much was really happening. I think this book could have benefitted from a few more subplots to develop side characters further, or simply a more complex main plot.
I worry that this review comes across as overly critical, because I do want to emphasise that I enjoyed this book, I had fun with this book. I just wish that it had been that little bit more for me.

Nope... definitely did not like this one.

1) First of all, it was boring. Their whole “relationship” and dynamic didn’t even make sense in my opinion.
The dialogues were cringe and awkward. The conversations never went anywhere. They start a conversation, interrupt each other constantly, then go “nothing”/“nevermind” and stop talking, then the next scene they start the cycle all over again. It adds nothing to the story and is just really frustrating.
Teenage boys are the worst kind of people and I stand by that. Some of the things they say just really make me uncomfortable :(
There was also some random incest story related to a side character thrown in there for who knows what reason or purpose.

2) There's like a tons of characters and even just in the first chapter we're introduced to 30 of them and I just couldn't be bothered to keep track of who was who.

3) Almost every page is filled with pop references, really just too many. What is with pop references in books and why can’t authors ever tone it down? (And can we please stop with the HP references?)

4) How is it even possible to become make out buddies with your best friend without ever even trying to talk about feelings. If you both clearly want to kiss each other what makes you think you both might not want more? Why did you think avoiding the talk was a good idea? It takes them way too much to even try to have a conversation about it.

5) I really can’t stand Len. He keep repressing his feelings and has to make it everyone’s problem. Henry is trying to talk about what they have, or even just asking him if he’s okay and Len just keeps calling him dramatic and snapping at him. He needs to get his shit together.

My real rating is 2.25/2.5 stars but because goodreads still doesn't have half stars, this book is getting a 2.

This book was THE CUTEST! I was kindly provided an eARC by Netgalley and the publisher, and now I desperately need my own copy!

This novel was everything I wanted, and single-handedly dragged me out of a months-long reading slump. Sure, It doesn’t have the most complex plot or unique characters, but it’s such a great time!!! And the banter between everyone makes this the PERFECT lighthearted romance.

The novel follows Henry Hamlet, who doesn’t know much about love … until he falls in love with his best friend. The friends-to-lovers trope is one of my absolute favorites, and it warmed my heart how realistic the portrayal of first love and coming to terms with yourself as a queer person felt!

I appreciated that homophobia didn’t play a big role in the conflict of the story, and that the majority of the focus was on Henry and Len’s personal growth. While there is a lack of communication between them, it only bugged me a little, because it felt relatable rather than frustrating. It just felt like the difficulties most people face when figuring out what it’s like to be in a relationship!

Overall, I highly recommend this to anyone who’s looking for a quick read, or a wonderful feel-good romance!

It's Henry Hamlet's last semester of high school and he's not sure what he wants to do when he's finished. His only talent seems to be his ability to make pretty much every situation awkward. Especially when compared to his best friend, Len, who is perfect in almost every way. They might be opposites, but their friendship has always been something that's worked.

Everything seems straightforward until Henry falls in love at a party. One kiss, and his life is changed forever. Len has always been there, but Henry never realized his feelings until that kiss. And that maybe Len has similar feelings, too. Now, Henry has to figure out if risking his friendship is worth falling in love for.

Thanks to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for an advanced copy of Henry Hamlet's Heart to review! One of the comp titles for this book is Red, White, & Royal Blue, and while I don't necessarily agree with that comparison, it did make me want to pick up this book.

Guys, the pining. If teenage pining is your jam, you'll love this book. The moment Henry and Len kiss, a light just clicks in Henry. Honestly, the chemistry between the two of them is really what makes this book. You can feel the yearning, the emotions surrounding first love. They want to be together, but they're not sure they'll be accepted. Wilde nails all of those emotions, bringing you on an emotional ride throughout the entire book.

However, just because there is an MLM romance doesn't mean it reads like Red, White, & Royal Blue. I actually think a better comp title for this would have been Heartstopper. For me, it read more like that story. Best friends, falling in love. One of them still trying to figure out their identity. It fits those vibes and that storyline to a tee.

The only thing that I think would have made this an absolutely stellar book was a better sense of the time. It's mentioned once that it's supposed to be like 2008 or something, but it's a blink and you'll miss it reference. It's also set in Australia, though, so maybe I just missed some of the references. The time period is important though, as Len and Hamlet are afraid of coming out. While this is still true for couples today, some of the homophobia and other things made a bit more sense.

All in all, if you love a good classic friends to lovers queer romance, you'll probably love this book!

• Set In 2008
• Australia
• Best Friends to Lovers

Henry Hamlet is in his final year of high school and has no idea what happens after he graduates. He has always hidden behind Len, his best friend. They are opposites, where Henry is awkward, Len is smooth. Henry hasn’t really been successful at talking to girls, but they gravitate towards Len. Until one night there is a dare that changes everything. Henry falls in love with the person who was dared to kiss him, but do thy return the same feelings?

I honestly read this straight through, barely any breaks, in less than 12 hours. I was addicted to Len. (I know Henry is the MC, but Len stole my heart, haha) I felt like I was Henry in the book because it was set in a time when I was in high school, the emo culture (that I’m still a proud member of), and it was so realistic. The little pop ups of Henry’s little brother, Hamish, was too adorable. There honestly wasn’t a character I didn’t like, other than John (but who doesn’t?).

<i>Thank you to Rhiannon Wilde and Charlesbridge Publishing, for the digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<i>

#HenryHamletsHeart #RhiannonWilde #CharlesbridgePublishing #NetGalley #ARC #eARC

Oh wow. This was so beautiful. I enjoyed every piece of this book so much. The writing was immaculate, and that made me love the characters so much. I like the realness of Henry and Len; they weren't perfect and I can totally relate to them at some point. The book was an easy read, though there were a few parts that could've been better.

This was the perfect book for me after a stressful month of school.

This was a sweet and endearing trip for me and what it was like to be a teenager! Personally being an Australian who has been living in Canada for the last 10 years, connecting with the "Aussie" setting, the way people talk and some of the general activities that Aussie teens do, was an extra delight for me.

I think this fares well for a coming-of-age story and is a worthy addition to the queer ya genre, which I think many young readers will absolutely enjoy.

I read this in one day, so can I definitely say I enjoyed it!

First of all, I loved the characters! Henry is awkward, funny and sometimes very clueless. I found him super relatable and as a result was totally invested in his story.
Len, on the other hand, is outgoing and cool and is the perfect counterpart to Henry.

And their friendship and love story was beautiful! I sometimes struggle with how the friends to lovers trope is executed in romance books, but I can wholeheartedly say that this book did it right! Their connection, all the tension … perfect!

The book discusses some heavier topics, but manages to never lose its more lighthearted tone. I really appreciated that!

The only thing I have to say is that I sometimes really wanted to read some stuff from Len’s perspective (I always love a dual POV!).

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!

I haven’t read anything by Rhiannon Wilde before, but this book was a success in my mind.

Henry Hamlet, like many young people, doesn’t really know what he wants to do when he’s done school. Henry is awkward, too honest, confused and a bit of a mess but he is balanced out by his best friend and opposite, Len.

A game of truth or dare one night, spurred on by some alcohol, ends with Henry and Len kissing. This is the spark that ignites a feeling that Henry is shocked by: what if there’s more?

I loved Henry’s ridiculous mind – probably because I’ve got a similar one myself! I thought that he was a great representation of the struggle that can sink onto us as we edge closer to adulthood. Henry is adorable and confused.

On the other hand, Len is more settled with himself. He is confident, quiet, commanding, and popular all at the same time. Len is the one that people are drawn to. For Len, there’s always been a friendship with Henry – a relationship they both rely on.

What’s great about this book is the way the friends all support one another. There are some digs and the usual friendly banter, but when it matters these friends support one another.

I’ll definitely read more by this author.

Henry Hamlet's Heart by @rhiannon_wilde sitting amongst my blue crystal pile. Thank you to @netgalley and @charlesbridgeteen for providing me with a copy for review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / ⭐ But bonus star for #loveozya so this is basically a 5⭐ novel.
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#henryhamletsheart is a beautiful read. I really enjoyed Henry, he is a lovely guy and totally 'Greg Aplin Citizenship' award material. There is something so likeable able Len and Henry from the first few chapters that really captured my attention. Honestly, I don't know how Henry got voted school captain because there are too many good qualities to him from the very start for a group of all boys school year 11's to vote for him 😅.
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There is a very nuanced depiction of sexuality here. I really appreciated the decision to not label any of the characters as gay or bisexual. I think it gives depth to both main characters to be explored. There is potentially more here then just a male male romance.
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I love all of these characters - and hate the ones we are meant to. I felt like every character introduced was given time and respect. All the characters had resolutions or moments to their stories. No wasted space here! Plus I appreciated the school homophobe bully not getting a third part scene.
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As an 09 schoolie, all of the late 2000's references landed. I was awaiting a reference to Australia premier emo boy band, Short Stack, but alas. I certainly felt like this book captured the era, including the text speak. Plus you always know you are in Queensland 😅.
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US release is 18 October 2022!!!!!!!! Highly recommend.

Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange on my honest review

I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the plot and how it’s a good book to read to help you get through the last year of school. I liked the references and jokes and it made me happy.

Although, I enjoyed this, and it was an easy read, there were a few moments I was bored and struggled to pick up again.

Despite this, i think others would really enjoy this

4 stars for this queer YA book about facing your last year of school while falling for your best friend. Henry Hamlets Heart is a story about understanding yourself, endings and new beginnings, and first love.

Read this book if you like:
- Queer best friends to lovers
- Mc that wears his heart on his sleeve and love interest that has a hard time talking about his feelings
- Seth Cohen from the OC
- Lucky You by The National
- Setting of school in Australia in the 2000s
- Supportive friend groups that joke and grow up together
- Popular football player who is best friends with the talkative socially awkward guy

All main characters were really likable and I would have loved to learn even more about them. I wish the ending would have been a little more extended. This gave me the rush like many good queer YA books do, and I read it very quickly!