Heartstopper Vol 1

“You can’t tell whether people are Gay by what they look like. And Gay or straight aren’t the only two options. Anyway it’s very rude to speculate about people’s sexuality”
– Miss Singh (Heartstopper Volume 1)

Charlie Spring has to put up with Nicholas Nelson who’s in year 11. Charlie is sceptical about his new bench mate. But when Nick’s pen explodes, making him blue in the right hand, a bond is formed. Meanwhile, Charlie who’s in a toxic relationship with Ben, finds himself falling for Nick. Nick saves Charlie from getting beaten up and inducts him into the Rugby team after seeing him on the track. Nick is doubtful about his sexuality but is increasingly drawn toward Charlie and invites him home.

What I liked the most was the cute moments made me smile like an idiot and the bad moments were gut-wrenching like how Ben used Charlie for his petty gains. I loved how everyone was so welcoming to Charlie in the Rugby team. The romance was a slow burn and I loved how it made me feel as I was reading romance after a long time. There’s South Asian representation and representation of its minor communities. The first volume ended on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read what happens in the second one.