Gay the pray away

Praise

A Book Riot Best Young Adult Book of 2024, According to All the Lists

'The bravery shown in this book left me flabbergasted. It's authentically touching, crafted with equal measures of sweetness, concern, and unrelenting queer determination. For individuals raised within fundamentalism, those who have escaped it, or anyone who has struggled to be their authentic self in life's circumstances, this volume offers solace and support. I am deeply appreciative of its existence.'—Casey McQuiston, 1 New York Times best-selling author of Red, White & Royal Blue

'Through sincere and frequently personal storytelling, Natalie courageously explores the complexities of identity, faith, and queerness, bringing to light the powerful transformation stemming from accepting your true self, despite the expectations of those around you.'—Hayley Kiyoko, 1 New York Times best-selling author of Girls Like Girls

'Gay the Pray Away is a captivating first novel, brimming with self-exploration, authenticity, and, above all, affection. Naudus remarkably portrays a swoon-worthy burgeoning romance alongside a narrative of self-advocacy and personal liberation.'—Rachael Lippincott, 1 New York Times best-selling coauthor of She Gets the Girl

'Gay the Pray Away serves as both a comfort read and a reality check, a harrowing truth wrapped within a happily ever after. Naudus's tale is a necessary delight.'—Alix E. Harrow, New York Times best-selling author of Starling House

'Beautiful, gripping, and crafted with immense care, Gay the Pray Away is a vitally important book regarding how love and hope shine through the darkness. Natalie Naudus's debut establishes her as an author to watch.'—Ann Liang, New York Times best-selling author of I Hope This Doesn't Find You

'For any reader whose identity or sexuality has been restricted or stifled by religion, this book provides hope, compassion, and healing.'—Maia Kobabe, author of Gender Queer: A Memoir

'An intrepid, compassionate story, dealing with the dismantling of the damaging messages queer people internalize from religious extremism. Valerie's journey from darkness towards light is challenging to read at times, but observing her embrace of queer joy and learning to love herself is a miracle.'—Kelly Quindlen, best-selling author of She Drives Me Crazy

'Reading Gay the Pray Away feels like taking a deeply satisfying breath that warms and cleanses you from head to toe. Val's blossoming hope, marvel, and joy leap off the page, and will undoubtedly be a lifeline for those readers who see themselves reflected in her experience. Naudus has long been a narrator to respect, and is absolutely an author to keep an eye on now.'—Dahlia Adler, award-winning author of Cool for the Summer

'A touching, fiercely tender book I'll hold dear for a long time. Valerie's narrative radiates the hard-won and jubilant potential of self-discovery, of queer first love, of arriving at one's true self, with courageous and compelling sincerity.'—Christina Li, award-winning author of True Love and Other Impossible Odds

'A tender, queer coming-of-age story about finding oneself within an oppressive religious environment. An amazing debut!'—Julie Tieu, author of Fancy Meeting You Here

'Heart-wrenchingly sincere and beautifully resonant. I need additional books from Natalie Naudus, and immediately!'—Julie Abe, author of The Charmed List and Our Cursed Love

'Gay the Pray Away is a beautiful, hopeful narrative. Natalie Naudus has created multifaceted and life-like characters. I consumed this book in merely one afternoon.'—Ann Zhao, author of Dear Wendy

'As sweet as peach slices, Gay the Pray Away is a gentle, passionate, and optimistic tale of love overcoming fear.'—Elliott Gish, author of Grey Dog

'A moving odyssey of exploration, first love, and resilience, presenting a timely and crucial message. Many individuals require this story and remain unaware of it; I am hopeful they somehow discover it.'—Jessica Mary Best, author of Stars, Hide Your Fires

Product Details

• Paperback ISBN: 9781683695110
• Page Count: 256
• Release Date: May twentieth, two thousand twenty-five