Roll for Love: A Heartfelt Journey Through Coming-of-Age and Queer Friendship
Have you ever found a book that instantly feels like a warm hug? M.K. England’s Roll for Love is just that for me. I dove into this YA contemporary romance with high expectations, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Receiving an ARC from NetGalley and Running Press, I was blown away—this was the quickest 5⭐ I’ve given this year, and I didn’t even need to think twice. As I read on the bus, I alternated between grinning like a fool and tearing up at least twice. This story beautifully healed parts of my inner child.
Roll for Love is more than just a love story; it delicately weaves together themes of grief, community, and the all-too-relatable struggles of emerging adulthood. Characters Harper and Ollie grapple with their burgeoning identities, the weight of expectations, and the complicated feelings of closeted experiences. The authenticity in their struggles resonated deeply with me—who hasn’t felt the pressure of choosing a future direction at a mere 18 years old? It makes you pause and think: how do you decide what you want to do for the rest of your life?
One of the elements I adored was the inclusive portrayal of friendships within the LGBTQ+ community. Harper and Ollie are not alone; they’re surrounded by ace non-binary Ev, gay Brooks, and questioning Colton. Their dynamic felt like a warm embrace for anyone who has navigated identity issues. If you’ve ever yearned for that explicitly queer friend group, reading about them in Roll for Love felt like being welcomed into a comforting haven where you could be your true self.
A pivotal moment in the book challenges the traditional notion that LGBTQ+ individuals must escape their small-minded hometowns for acceptance. Through conversations with an elder couple, Harper and Ollie learn that invisibility won’t help create change. This resonated powerfully, especially as a Singaporean; it highlights the importance of planting roots where you are, even amid conservatism. The quote, "Besides, rural areas will never get more integrated if some of us don’t plant our rainbow flag and lead the way!" lingered with me long after I closed the book.
In addition, the novel tackles post-high school paths beyond the college narrative. It acknowledges not only the privilege of attending top universities but also validates the myriad ways one can pursue passions—apprenticeships, community colleges, and following your dreams without the heavy burden of student loans. It made me reflect on my own journey, recognizing that success isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Of course, the sapphic romance between Harper and Ollie melted my heart. Their transition from childhood friends to lovers felt so genuine and sweet. The natural tension of being out versus closeted was handled with palpable emotion, illustrating a struggle that many face. The depth of their relationship was memorable, particularly as they tackled misunderstandings in a way that felt both real and hopeful.
The interspersed D&D chapters added a fun layer, bringing a sense of camaraderie and adventure to the narrative. I may not be a D&D aficionado, but the allusions to shared nerdy experiences grounded their friendships further, making me reflect on my connections—finding your people is undeniably heartwarming.
Ultimately, Roll for Love is a story I’d recommend to any queer youth and especially to my 15-year-old self, who would have clung to every word. It’s a celebration of love, authenticity, and growth—a read that solidifies the voice and presence of queer teenagers in literature.
Whether you’re navigating your identity, supporting a friend, or just in search of a heartfelt read, Roll for Love is a book that leaves a lasting imprint on your heart. Go pick it up, and let it embrace you just as it did for me.
