Jase Peeples Releases "Twirl!": A Celebratory Queer YA Romance Set in the World of Color Guard

Jase Peeples, recognized for his contributions to LGBTQ+ representation in young adult literature, has released his latest novel "Twirl!" to critical acclaim. Published by Evernight Teen on May 9, 2025, this 275-page novel is already being praised as a moving queer teen romance set in a vibrant, hopeful world that invites readers to celebrate love, rivalry, and the unique friendships forged in the high-energy environment of high school color guard teams .

Described as "Heartstopper meets Bring It On," "Twirl!" tells the story of teen boys from opposing color guard teams who find themselves competing on the field but falling in love off it. The novel explores the high stakes of competitive color guard, delving into the pressures, camaraderie, and personal growth that come with performing at this level . Peeples, drawing from his own experience as a former color guard champion, infuses the narrative with authentic details and heartfelt emotion.

In an interview shared on Instagram (Instagram: @jasepeeples), Peeples stated, "Color guard culture is vibrant, competitive, and full of passion—much like queer youth themselves. I wanted to create a story where LGBTQ+ teens could see themselves as both heroes and heartthrobs, deserving of love and a place to shine" .

"Twirl!" has been met with enthusiastic reviews from both mainstream and LGBTQ+ media. Kirkus Reviews called it "a moving queer teen romance set in a hopeful world that's hard to resist," highlighting its ability to blend the excitement of a sports rivalry with the tenderness of young love . The Bay Area Reporter praised the novel for its nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by queer teens in high school, particularly those involved in performing arts, and for its message affirming the importance of visibility and acceptance in youth sports and creative spaces .

The novel’s release was accompanied by a series of virtual readings and Q&A sessions, where LGBTQ+ youth and allies engaged with Peeples about the importance of authentic queer representation in young adult fiction. Many readers expressed appreciation for seeing their experiences reflected on the page, particularly the complexities of navigating identity, friendship, and romance within the unique subculture of color guard.

"Twirl!" arrives at a moment when LGBTQ+ representation in young adult literature is both flourishing and facing renewed challenges. Recent years have seen a surge of queer stories in mainstream publishing, yet many schools and libraries across the United States continue to debate access to such works. Peeples’s novel stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of LGBTQ+ authors and the ongoing demand for stories that center queer experiences in all their diversity .

The novel’s focus on color guard—a sport often overlooked in mainstream media—adds a layer of authenticity and celebration of difference. By spotlighting a competitive art form beloved in many high schools, "Twirl!" offers queer readers not only the thrill of first love, but also the joy of community and the courage to be seen.

Jase Peeples is an author, journalist, and former color guard champion known for his work advocating for LGBTQ+ youth and representation in media. In addition to "Twirl!", Peeples has contributed essays and stories to numerous publications, and frequently speaks on the importance of inclusive storytelling. As Peeples shared during a recent promotional event, "Every queer teen deserves to see themselves celebrated in stories—not just as sidekicks or cautionary tales, but as the stars of their own adventures" .

"Twirl!" is available now in paperback and digital formats from Evernight Teen and other major retailers .