A review by indieandajean
Boyfriends, Volume One by refrainbow

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Thank you to Net Galley and WEBTOON Unscrolled for the ebook ARC of Boyfriends Volume One in return for my unbiased review. 

Boyfriends is an excellent example of the way in which Webtoon is increasing the accessibility of diverse stories to the general reader population, both via their free app and by their new publications. This graphic novel has a very positive depiction of LGBTQ+ relationships in college, particularly the depiction of the boys' polycule, and does not shy away from the ups and downs of relationships and life of those in their early adulthood. 

I loved the story and the art style, and found it to be a very fun and positive read. The art works well to create emotion on the page and is very enjoyable from a visual standpoint. 

At times the story is rather childish, the stereotypical personalities of the characters can feel limiting, and the disjointed nature of the storytelling can lead you to ask if you've missed something. Overall, despite this it is a genuinely fun read.

I would recommend this one to an audience of 18-30 year old LGBTQ+ folks and allies. This would be great particularly for those who are looking for something relating to the struggles and joys of college life, as despite the characters and relationships being very different from my own college experience, it made me feel nostalgic!  

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