Only Mostly Devastated

In the new queer YA rom-com from Sophie Gonzales, Perfect on Paper, Ollie and Will were a summer fling, but now they're classmates. When Will stops texting him back, Ollie is forced to confront the fact that the sweet, affectionate, and comfortably queer guy he knew from summer isn't the same one attending Collinswood High. With the noisy drama of their friends as the backdrop, Ollie must decide if he can trust Will with his heart again.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2020
Publisher: Hachette Children's Group

Shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2021!


Ollie and Will's summer romance has blossomed into a schoolmates' connection, but only one of them is openly out. This captivating tale blends elements of SIMON VS THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA with a modern-day, queer re-imagining of GREASE. As the last Wednesday of August arrives, Ollie confronts the disillusionment that Disney has woven about Happily Ever Afters. Despite the prince's promise to keep in touch, Ollie finds himself grappling with the decision to send another message, desperately seeking a reunion.


This seemingly insignificant encounter between a guy and another guy holds profound significance. The guy, who knows Ollie's deepest secrets and has witnessed his nakedness, has convinced Ollie of his genuine affection. The weight of this connection hangs heavy in the air, fueling Ollie's belief that something extraordinary must have happened to explain Will's disappearance.


As Ollie's summer romance transforms into a distant memory, he relocates to a new school, coincidentally attending Will's institution. However, the Will he encounters at Collinswood High is a different person entirely. This Will exudes charm, affection, and a comfortable queer identity, but beneath the surface, there are hints of a class clown, a basketball jock, and a somewhat dismissive attitude.


Ollie, determined not to pine for a relationship that isn't ready, resists the temptation to pursue Will. However, as school life repeatedly brings them together, from music classes to the lunch table, Ollie's resolve begins to weaken. The noisy drama of their friends, encompassing diverse personalities such as ambitious Juliette, frosty Lara, big-hearted Darnell, and king-jock Matt, serves as a backdrop to Ollie's internal conflict.


With a heavy heart, Ollie must make a decision that will shape the course of their future. The last time he connected with Will, he left a profound impact on both of their lives. As Ollie navigates the complexities of love, friendship, and identity, he realizes that sometimes, the Happily Ever Afters we desire may not be within our immediate reach, but they are still worth cherishing and striving for.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781444956481