A coming-of-age rom-com from debut author Page Powars that follows a trans teen who joins a boyfriend borrowing service masquerading as an Italian Club to prove he’s one of the guys—especially to its frustratingly handsome leader.

Noah Byrd is the perfect boy. At least, that’s what he needs to convince his new classmates of to prove his gender. His plan? Join the school’s illustrious (and secret) Borrow a Boyfriend Club, whose members rent themselves out for dates. Once he’s accepted among the bros, the “slip-ups” end.

But Noah’s interview is a flop. Desperate, he strikes a deal with the club’s prickly but attractive president, Asher. Noah will help them win an annual talent show—and in return, he’ll get a second shot to demonstrate his boyfriend skills in a series of tests that include romancing Asher himself.

If Noah can’t bring home the win, his best chance to prove that he’s man enough is gone. Yet even if he succeeds, he still loses . . . because the most important rule of the Borrow a Boyfriend Club is simple: no real boyfriends (or girlfriends) allowed. And as long as the club remains standing, Noah and Asher can never explore their growing feelings for one another.

FEATURED Praise

 
 

2023 Indies Introduce Kids selected title by the American Booksellers Association

Indie Next: Sept/Oct pick by booksellers country-wide

2023 Flying Starts selected title by Publishers Weekly

A Top Ten 2025 Rainbow List title

 

“In vulnerable first-person prose, Powars renders Noah’s feelings about his gender identity alongside sweet messaging surrounding the power of friendship and connection.” —Publishers Weekly

“A story that will delight and surprise the most well-read rom-com fans.” —Booklist

“Recommended for all libraries serving teens; this is one boyfriend they’ll want to borrow again and again.”—School Library Journal

“Filled with plenty of humorous and laugh-out-loud antics, this book is sure to sweep you off your feet. The characters are authentic and complex as they all try to fit into high school as well as figuring out who they are.” —American Book Association’s Indies Introduce

“Charmingly chaotic and keenly observant, with real emotional depth. Page Powars’s debut is an absolute joyride.” —Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Imogen, Obviously

“Sparkling with both tenderness and humor, Powars’s debut is a must-read about first love, identity, bravery, and embracing the unexpected.” —Ashley Herring Blake, award-winning author of Delilah Green Doesn't Care

“A joyous story of trans happiness that the world desperately needs.” —Mason Deaver, bestselling author of Okay, Cupid and I Wish You All the Best

“Page Powars is a comedic genius. An unmissable debut.” —Sophie Gonzales, international bestselling author of Only Mostly Devastated