The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway is the story of Maddie, a high schooler who lost her mom to cancer last year. As she travels with her dad on the familiar Renaissance Faire circuit, she tries to keep track of all the moments that she’ll always want to remember using tallies. When she meets Arthur, the exuberant and kind son of the new Faire owners, she is positive that they will never be friends. As the summer goes on, Arthur and Maddie (still not friends) go on road trips, adventures, and perform together. For the first time in her life, Maddie is playing a princess. But can Maddie ever truly let Arthur in, when she still feels like everyone will always leave? 

I was immediately drawn in by the cover and premise of the book. I loved that the setting involves Renaissance Faires, which always seem magical and filled with community. Maddie is such a lovable character, who is wrestling with grief from losing a parent. Maddie is a plus-size character who is learning what it feels like to be comfortable in her body and have confidence in herself. Arthur is the sweetest! What a fabulous book boyfriend and adventure companion. 

Schumacher’s writing is nuanced, including plenty of fun moments alongside poignant moments of processing grief and holding space for sadness. Maddie also struggles with the compulsion to keep tallies (tracking important or mundane events meaningful to her) after the death of her mom, which she is receiving professional support for. The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway is a heartfelt and charming book- I would highly recommend it!  This book would be perfect for readers who enjoy Emma Lord, Samantha Markum, and readers who love Renaissance Faires! 

Thank you to Ashley Schumacher, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.