How Gay Is It? Book Review of Outdrawn by Deanna Grey
Short answer: So gay, so fluffy, and so joyful—and it’s Black queer joy at that! Deanna Grey really said, “Let’s center Black sapphic love in all its glory,” and I couldn’t be happier about it.
The Fluffy Queer Vibes Breakdown
It’s not every day you get to see a romance that’s unapologetically sapphic and celebrates Black love, artistry, and joy. That alone made Outdrawn feel like a gift. Deanna Grey doesn’t just deliver a love story; she gives us two Black queer women who are ambitious, complex, and absolutely swoon-worthy.
Noah and Sage: Black Sapphic Queens
Noah Blue is sunshine incarnate. She’s sweet, optimistic, and creating a comic about lesbian mermaids (iconic). Her positivity is infectious, even as she struggles with burnout and self-doubt. Meanwhile, Sage Montgomery is her perfect foil: reserved, intense, and so guarded you’ll cheer every time Noah breaks through her walls.
Watching these two Black women fall in love felt so refreshing. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, support, and—most importantly—good communication. They’re not afraid to show their vulnerabilities, and that makes their love story feel authentic and deeply meaningful.
A Love Story That Centers Joy
Sometimes Black queer stories are weighed down by trauma, but Outdrawn centers joy. Sure, there’s tension and conflict, but the heart of the story is about two women finding happiness in each other and in themselves. It’s uplifting, affirming, and exactly what I needed.
Representation Matters
Let’s talk about the importance of seeing Black queer women in a fluffy romance. It’s not just that Noah and Sage are incredible characters—it’s that their love story is allowed to be soft, funny, sexy, and full of hope. Stories like this remind us that Black queer joy deserves to be celebrated just as much as anyone else’s.
How Gay Is It? Final Rating: 🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈 (5 out of 5 rainbows)
Outdrawn is a shining example of Black queer romance done right. It’s soft, sweet, and so full of love that I couldn’t stop smiling. If you’re looking for a book that celebrates Black sapphic joy, this is the one.
P.S. Deanna Grey, thank you for giving us this story. More Black queer fluff, please.
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