Kate in Waiting

From #1 New York Times bestselling author and rom-com queen Becky Albertalli comes a buoyant new novel about daring to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight in love, life, and, yes, theater.

Contrary to popular belief, best friends Kate Garfield and Anderson Walker are not codependent. Carpooling to and from theater rehearsals? Environmentally sound and efficient. Consulting each other on every single life decision? Basic good judgment. Pining for the same guys from afar? Shared crushes are more fun anyway.

But when Kate and Andy's latest long-distance crush shows up at their school, everything goes off-script. Matt Olsson is talented and sweet, and Kate likes him. She really likes him. The only problem? So does Anderson.

Turns out, communal crushes aren't so fun when real feelings are involved. This one might even bring the curtains down on Kate and Anderson's friendship.

• A Hilarious Romantic Comedy: She likes him. Her best friend likes him, too. What happens when a shared crush gets a little too real in the halls of Roswell Hill High?
• Perfect for Theater Kids: A coming of age story packed with inside jokes, backstage drama, and the chaotic energy of putting on the school musical.
• Heartfelt LGBTQ+ Storyline: Features a sweet, funny, and touching queer romance that will have you rooting for everyone to find their happy ending.
• Codependent Best Friends: Kate and Anderson share everything—carpools, life decisions, and crushes. But this time, their unbreakable bond might be the first thing to break.

“The racially diverse cast (Anderson is Black; Kate is white) is likewise inclusive of gender and sexuality, ultimately underscoring the story’s ideal that love is love is love, especially when that love is friendship.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“The ever-popular Albertalli weighs friendship against romance in a novel that's by turns laugh-out-loud funny and thoughtfully characterized…. Packed with musical-theater references and sparkling dialogue, this journey of self-discovery sings.”

“Warm, heartfelt, and hilarious.”  - Buzzfeed

“A love letter to friendship and giving yourself the chance to shine bright in the spotlight, Albertalli delivers another timeless masterpiece.” - The Nerd Daily

“Endearingly heartfelt...gushing with laughs” - Shelf Awareness (starred review)

“While this book is absolutely cute and full of funny banter, it's perfectly balanced with a juicy plot and highly emotional moments.” - Business Insider

“Real chemistry between the different love interests in the book, authentic dialogue, supportive friendships, and Albertalli’s signature humor make this a must-read.  Flips the script on battling over a boy in the best way possible.” - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Albertalli has crafted a rom-com that’s not only sharp and funny, but distinguished by its casually diverse LGBTQ cast’s awareness that friendship (among friends, to be sure, but also siblings, and gasp, romantic interests) is as important as love.” - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“While theater fans will especially identify with the story, recognizing their passion in Kate’s own, the solid friendship and romance at its core will appeal to a broader audience.” - Horn Book Magazine

“[E]ndearing and charming... Reminiscent of Rachel Cohn and David Levithan’s Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List, Albertalli crafts a story that offers an honest and realistic look at high school relationships—romantic and platonic.” - School Library Journal