A review by natashaleighton_
Not for the Faint of Heart by Lex Croucher

adventurous emotional funny 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? Yes

5.0

Hilariously thrilling and utterly heartfelt, Lex Croucher delivers yet another marvellously queer, medieval Rom-com that I didn’t want to end! 

Not only did the banter-filled prose have me in stitches, but the emotional complexity and depth in all of our characters was phenomenal! Clem, Baxter, Kit, Morgan, Josie and Mariel all stole my heart with their mischievous antics, moral quandaries and surprisingly deep personal struggles. 

I was delighted that we got to explore a little hit beyond our two MCs — with glimpses into the backstories of several supporting characters, who I felt really benefitted from the added context. It was still brief, but really helped to understand Kit, Morgan and even Mariel’s mum a little better. 

Taking inspiration from the legend of Robin Hood (and his band of Merry Thieves) we delve headfirst into life amongst the Merry Men after Robin’s retirement and the legacy that his granddaughter, Mariel, has been trying to live up to. 

Constantly sidelined by her father and all but ignored by her fellow Captains, it wasn’t difficult to sympathise with Mariel’s frustrations and root for her (and her supportive, found family-esque team) to get the recognition and respect they so rightfully deserved. 

Though, I have to admit, it was fellow protagonist /POV character (and kidnapped healer), Clem that really helped cement this as a five star read for me. 

Her wit and lighthearted banter kept even the most intense, heartbreaking of scenes from getting too dark. And I loved the opening scene with the fox— it really set the whole tone, and worked as a nice little call back to the animated Disney version of Robin’s story.

The dynamics and romance between Clem and Mariel was wonderfully swoon-worthy too (if you like the only one bed trope then you’re almost guaranteed to love the only one horse scene) and I urge anyone in their sapphic, historical romance era to definitely consider checking this out. Though, as always, do be sure to check the TWs. 

Also, a huge thank you to Bloomsbury (and Bloomsbury Creators Circle) for the finished copy. 
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