Fence: Disarmed

Gr 9 Up–The Kings Row fencing team, in all their dramatic glory, is on their way to France. They’ll be training at the esteemed Camp Menton to improve their techniques in the European fashion. What isn’t improving? Many of the boys’ relationships, which get more complicated with each training session. Relationships, fencing matches, homework—will the team get their act together for the state championship? Fans of Fence: Striking Distance will delight in another installment, and while this is also a lighthearted read, there is more emphasis on the romance than the comedy in this romantic comedy. Aiden and Harvard go through a series of miscommunications, pining, and longing glances, a slow-burn romance that readers will revel in or resent. Seiji and Nicholas once more bring most of the lighter entertainment, with their relationship really blossoming as their personalities are more fleshed out in this sequel. Digital art by Johanna the Mad shows each of the boys beautifully illustrated alongside their respective chapters. Brennan shows a diverse world (main characters are Black, white, and Japanese American, in addition to a variety of supporting characters of different races) where being gay is completely accepted. The only harm being done here is by Aidan, who has an extremely self-destructive streak.