Graham and Roxy (Roxana) have been best friends for eight years now, ever since he moved in next door to her and he spied her spying on him through the fence. The first thing she asked was which Hogwarts house he thought he would be sorted into. He hadn't yet read the Harry Potter books so they read them together. They are united in a love of all things geeky and are now a graphic novel team - he writes and she does the art.
Graham is ready to take their relationship to the next level. They are going to the New York City Comic Con together and when Graham discovers that their favorite author, the reclusive Robert Zinc, will be on a surprise panel, Graham takes it as a sign - he will procure tickets and proclaim his love for her at the Javits Center. All he has to do is camp out on line the night before. He talks his best bud, Casey into going with him. His confidence grows when he and his friend, are 101 online. Only, the next morning, the line breaks into a stampede and Graham is out of luck.
Oh Graham, Graham! You poor, earnest, clueless sap! The story is told from his POV so we really don't get a sense of what Roxy is feeling except through Graham's perception. He maintains his optimism for the weekend only to be thwarted when Roxy's best friend, Felicia, signs them all up for Speed Dating. When Roxy emerges, she isn't alone, a cool, handsome Brit has latched onto her like a barnacle she doesn't want shucked.
Readers will ache for Graham as he follows like a third wheel. Readers will root for Graham while wincing at his endearingly awkward, increasingly desperate attempts to save the day. Readers will laugh out loud, often; then feel a bit guilty for doing so. Readers who are also Comic Con fans will appreciate the setting and all of the sly in-jokes. Those who don't know what a Comic Con is will not be bored as the magic and energy of Comic Con is conveyed well. I found it rather fascinating that Ms. Tash frames this book over three days just as she did in her YA debut, Three Day Summer. I wonder if it was intentional. It was a great set-up in both books.
The supporting cast of characters are vividly drawn, dialogue is snappy, spot-on and frequently hilarious. I highly recommend this fun, fast read for lovers of romance, geekdom and/ or all things comics. Personally, I would also love it was produced as an audiobook. I cannot wait to booktalk this! I have one more before school lets out. It's the perfect summer read. Many thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity for this early read.
Sarvenaz Tash is offering a Pre-Order Swag Pack
Anyone who pre-orders The Geek's Guide to Unrequited Love or purchases it the week of release (up through Sunday 6/19) will receive an exclusive swag pack featuring a signed book plate, bookmarks, a postcard, and some adorkably nerdy stickers. All you have to do is email your proof of purchase and mailing address to geeksguidepreorder@gmail.com (This is international). More info here.
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