A Heartfelt Dive into Twelfth Knight: A YA Shakespeare Retelling
I picked up Twelfth Knight by the incredibly talented author, Follmuth, because I’ve always been enchanted by the world of Shakespeare—so much drama and emotion packed into every line! Add to that a YA twist, and I was all in. With its promise of grumpy x sunshine, slow burn, and enemies to lovers tropes, I couldn’t resist the chance to dive into comfort and humor. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
At the heart of Twelfth Knight lies a beautiful exploration of vulnerability and the human need for connection. The story follows Viola Reyes, who seems to have the perfect life on the surface but struggles with the immense pressure of academics, friendships, and the weight of expectations. Her journey of self-discovery is intertwined with Jack Orsino’s—an injured football player grappling with identity after losing his passion. When they meet anonymously in the enchanting world of a role-playing game, everything begins to change. The incorporation of the titular game into their unfolding relationship had me absolutely screaming with joy!
What struck me most about Follmuth’s writing is the authenticity with which she tackles real issues. Unlike typical teen romcoms that lean heavily on cliché climaxes—think airport confessions or rain-soaked kisses—Twelfth Knight captures the everyday struggles and triumphs of adolescence. The conversations are relatable and grounded, making readers feel like they’re sharing these moments with the characters rather than just observing from afar.
Viola is such an impactful character. Watching her navigate the complexities of friendship was deeply resonant for me, as I feel a strong pang when thinking about the friendships we grow out of. Follmuth paints a vivid picture of how social media and peer pressure can distort self-worth. Viola’s struggle to be herself while trying to meet societal standards struck a chord, and I found myself wishing I could hug her and tell her she’s enough just as she is.
Then there’s Jack. Emotionally complex and endearing, he embodies that golden-retriever energy I find so wonderfully appealing! His journey through loss and reinvention reminded me of my own experiences in sports and the loss of a passion that has shaped me. The slow burn of his relationship with Viola felt genuine and made their eventual bond feel like a treasure discovered rather than mere plot fodder.
And let’s not forget the side characters. Olivia and Bash are endearing and relatable. Olivia’s experience as a "third parent" made my heart ache, while Bash’s gentle support and genuine love for his sister brought me to tears. Their dynamics served as a poignant reminder that family bonds can be just as intricate as romantic ones.
In a nutshell, Twelfth Knight is a genuine and comforting hug of a book that I wholeheartedly recommend. If you treasured the whimsical nature of young love and the nuance of friendships in transition, this is definitely your next read. It makes you feel seen and understood, and who wouldn’t want that?
So grab your favorite reading spot, maybe a cozy blanket, and prepare to dive into a story that feels like home. And honestly, just look at that cover—how could you resist? 💖