There are no cheat codes for showmance. Seventeen-year-old gaymer Noah Mitchell has only one friend left: the wonderful, funny, strictly online-only MagePants69. After years playing RPGs together, they know everything about each other, except anything that would give away their real-life identities. And Noah is certain that if they could just meet in person, they would be soulmates. Noah would do anything to make this happen―including finally leaving his gaming chair to join a community theater show that he’s only mostly sure MagePants69 is performing in. Noah has never done anything like theater―he can’t sing, he can’t dance and he’s never willingly watched a musical―but he’ll have to go all in to have a chance at love.

With Noah’s mum performing in the lead role, and former friends waiting in the wings to sabotage his reputation, his plan to make MagePants69 fall in love with him might be a little more difficult than originally anticipated.

And the longer Noah waits to come clean, the more tangled his web of lies becomes. By opening night, he will have to decide if telling the truth is worth closing the curtain on his one shot at true love.

This novel is a touching and entertaining tale of young love, self-discovery and the challenges of growing up. The main character Noah Mitchell is an introverted, shy and relatable young teen who finds himself in a complicated web of lies and secrets. Despite his awkwardness and self-centeredness, he remains an endearing character that readers will find easy to identify with. Noah’s online crush, MagePants69, is revealed to be Eli, a charismatic but over-dramatic young man who later on becomes his boyfriend. The relationship between Noah and Eli is the heart of the novel, and it is treated with sensitivity and realism.

The major themes explored in the novel include family issues, secrecy, LGBTQ online bullying, self-esteem, online dating, underage drinking, cheating, bullying, body image issues, peer pressure, lying and manipulation. The themes are woven into the story in a way that is both subtle and impactful. Through Noah’s struggles, readers will learn about the challenges of navigating the complexities of relationships, sexuality and growing up.

The language and style of the novel is easy to read and understand, and the story is told from a single point of view, which I disliked since I also wanted to hear from Eli’s point of view. However, the single point of view provides a strong and intimate connection to Noah’s thoughts and experiences. The narrative style is simple and straightforward, allowing the reader to become fully immersed in the story. There are also textual references to J.R.R. Tolkien’s writing, foreshadowing of the relationship between Noah and Eli, and flashbacks on how their previous relationships ended which adds depth to the story and keeps the reader engaged.

The plot of Take a Bow Noah Mitchell is engaging and full of surprises. Noah’s plan to meet his online crush and potentially win their heart becomes increasingly complicated as his secrets are exposed. Despite the challenges he faces, Noah remains resilient and learns to forgive and stand up for himself. The climax of the novel is tense, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

Take a Bow Noah Mitchell is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that is perfect for young adults. It is a touching and entertaining story that will resonate with young adult readers and leave them rooting for Noah and his newfound love. Whether you’re a fan of musicals or RPGs, or simply enjoy a good coming-of-age story, this is a must-read.

• Weldon Ngetich