The Switchboard is a delicious queer low fantasy novel, first on the Connections series, written by Christina K. Glover. Two great main characters, an original magic system and many feelings are some of the elements that made of this book a really enjoyable one, and which if you are looking for a nice queer fantasy, this is that kind of book.

Chief Operator Kittinger (Kit for friends) has overseen the flow of magic in the Between for centuries; a task that allows Earth's mages to perform their own magic. It's not an exciting life, but it's a good one; however, all of this is broken when the Shields, those that are supposed to protect them, try to gain control of the magic. Without other options, Kit stops the flux of magic from his switchboards and flees to the Earth, where he lands in the apartment of Henley Yu.
Henley has enough problems by himself, worrying about the storms that are being caused in by the broken magic, and his distant relationship with his father. The arrival of Kit will make him his accomplice and his ally, and despite not knowing fully about Kit, he will be forced to travel together to the Between and fight against the forces to restore magic.

With a thrilling style, we will follow the adventures of Kit and Henley in the Between, trying to fight against the Shield while looking to restore the order and magic; but in this enigmatic place, there are more secrets than what the eye can see. And not only that, because between our characters a bond will be formed, and losing this battle means the disappearing of the Between, Kit included.
To be fair, it's quite easy to relate with both, Henley and Kit. Kit is all responsibility, and even without knowing all about his identity, he tries to do what is correct; I also find adorable his tea addiction. Henley might be more brave, and excellently complements Kit's weaknesses; despite having his own problems, he will fight together with a complete unknown person for him.

Glover does an excellent job introducing this queer romancing sub-plot over the bigger arc; relative slow-burn in comparison with the pacing of the whole novel, but an addition that, in my opinion, helps you to create a emotional bond with the characters, as they are extremely cute.

Despite having some rough edges (such as throwing you directly into the world), Glover's debut is a great novel, perfect for those looking for a queer fantasy novel; she has a talent at creating characters and giving a original layer to the world. Can't wait to read her next books!