What do you think?
Rate this book
Valley Verified
When a fashion writer dives headfirst into the cutthroat Silicon Valley tech world, her future threatens to unravel in this addictive novel by Kyla Zhao, author of The Fraud Squad.
On paper, Zoe Zeng has made it in New York’s fashion world. After a string of unpaid internships, she’s now a fashion columnist at Chic, lives in a quaint apartment in Manhattan, and gets invited to exclusive industry events.
But life in New York City isn’t as chic as Zoe imagined. Her editor wants her to censor her opinions to please the big brands; she shares her “quaint” ( small) apartment with two roommates who never let her store kimchi in the fridge; and how is she supposed to afford the designer clothes expected for those parties on her meager salary?
Then one day, Zoe receives a job offer at FitPick, an app startup based in Silicon Valley. The tech salary and office perks are sweet, but moving across the country and switching to a totally new industry? Not so much. However, with her current career at a dead end, Zoe accepts the offer and swaps high fashion for high tech, haute couture for HTML. But she soon realizes that in an industry claiming to change the world for the better, not everyone’s intentions are pure. With an eight-figure investment on the line, Zoe must find a way to revamp FitPick's image despite Silicon Valley’s elitism and her icy colleagues. Or the company’s future will go up in smoke—and hers with it.
On paper, Zoe Zeng has made it in New York’s fashion world. After a string of unpaid internships, she’s now a fashion columnist at Chic, lives in a quaint apartment in Manhattan, and gets invited to exclusive industry events.
But life in New York City isn’t as chic as Zoe imagined. Her editor wants her to censor her opinions to please the big brands; she shares her “quaint” ( small) apartment with two roommates who never let her store kimchi in the fridge; and how is she supposed to afford the designer clothes expected for those parties on her meager salary?
Then one day, Zoe receives a job offer at FitPick, an app startup based in Silicon Valley. The tech salary and office perks are sweet, but moving across the country and switching to a totally new industry? Not so much. However, with her current career at a dead end, Zoe accepts the offer and swaps high fashion for high tech, haute couture for HTML. But she soon realizes that in an industry claiming to change the world for the better, not everyone’s intentions are pure. With an eight-figure investment on the line, Zoe must find a way to revamp FitPick's image despite Silicon Valley’s elitism and her icy colleagues. Or the company’s future will go up in smoke—and hers with it.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2024
54 people are currently reading
9660 people want to read
About the author
Kyla Zhao
6 books380 followersKyla Zhao’s books have been spotlighted by CBS, NBC, Good Morning America, Vogue, Elle, Buzzfeed, South China Morning Post, and more.
She has also been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, named a Tatler Leader of Tomorrow, and awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the California State Assembly for her contributions to Asian media representation.
Across genres and age groups, Kyla’s stories center women and girls of color who explore ambition, identity, and belonging in vibrant settings.
She has also been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, named a Tatler Leader of Tomorrow, and awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the California State Assembly for her contributions to Asian media representation.
Across genres and age groups, Kyla’s stories center women and girls of color who explore ambition, identity, and belonging in vibrant settings.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
February 1, 2024
**Many thanks to Berkley and Kyla Zhao for an ARC provided via NetGalley! Now available as of 1.16!!**
Zoe Zeng has always been a fashionista, with a style all her own...on AND off the page. As a writer for the fashion magazine, Chic, Zoe has found the perfect group of friends at her work, and gets to attend ALL of the hottest parties, fittings, and industry events. New York City has become home, and all of the pieces of her life seem to be falling into place. But Chic's agenda has often pushed Zoe into writing the sort of clickbait articles that the magazine wants...but has not allowed her the space to explore her own passion areas in the field of representation and diversity in fashion...and despite her success in getting to this point, she feels frustrated at the lack of freedom.
So when a tech mogul (named Bill Lawrence...no relation to the real-life TV director and showrunner, I hope! 🙄) approaches her at an industry event and pitches the idea of Zoe moving to LA to become his marketing director at a brand new startup called FitPick...she's MORE than intrigued. Silicon Valley? The glitz, the glamour...the PAYCHECK?! All that aside, the app is designed to let users pick the best of two looks from its users...and Zoe thinks this is the perfect chance to get her diverse fashionistas in front of MILLIONS, and take her career to new heights. Despite her reluctance to leave her friend circle in New York, Zoe takes this as an offer she can't refuse and heads for sunny California.
When she arrives, however, she finds that life amongst the Techie Set ISN'T quite what she imagined...and Zoe realizes she is in WAY over her head. See, the tech crowd doesn't care who's on the cover of Vogue...but they DO hang on the every word of the writer for Valley Verified, a magazine who projects who is hot and who is not in Silicon Valley. And then there's the small fact that FitPick is out to impress an Angel investor with a reputation...and let's just say he ISN'T easy to please. Navigating all of these uncharted waters (mostly) alone, Zoe starts to wonder...is she really cut out for life in the Valley? Or will she permanently STOP this start up...before it EVER gets the chance to take off?
Though I'm not much of a fashion plate myself, there's something FUN about reading this type of story. I figured this would be a little bit Devil Wears Prada, a little bit Carrie Bradshaw from SATC, and a little bit of Silicon Valley (yes, the aptly named HBO Comedy) all rolled into one...and I'm always a sucker for a story set in NYC (or California, for that matter!) At first, this was an easy enough book to read, and although I didn't feel much of an emotional connection, I figured once we got FULLY into the main plot in Silicon Valley, I would grow progressively more attached to the characters AND more invested in Zoe and her journey.
However...I think all of Zoe's maturity must have gotten stuck at the New York airport...because once she went to LA, I felt like she regressed back into teen-dom faster than a Boeing 747. Because of this, the book reads INCREDIBLY like YA, to the point where I actually went back a couple of times to check that it was NOT YA...but alas, it is not.
First off, all of Zoe's techie contemporaries in LA were some of the least believable characters I've read in some time. For highly educated adults with high paying jobs, some of their dialogue just felt bizarre and out of place for people I pictured to be in their mid to late twenties (or older!) For instance, at one point one of the guys said something was "Gucci"...and I'll be honest, I haven't heard a man use that word....well, EVER.. One of the main character traits of the Techie Bros was a love for hiking and Patagonia jackets (and again, not really seeing what's so offensive about Patagonia jackets? 🤔) and something about the entire group just didn't ring authentic to me.
Then there's the one thing more inauthentic to me than insta-love...insta-FRIENDSHIP between our MC and someone she literally meets out shopping. The two go from being strangers to besties in no time flat, and maybe I just don't have enough of these 'meet cute' type friendships to go off of in real life, but I just didn't understand how this person was always available for Zoe, was taking her along to workout classes etc., after knowing her for all of 5 minutes. Zoe also admits over and over she is ignoring her friends from home to some extent, doesn't treat them very well...and they STILL bend over backwards to help her at a moment's notice.
The driving force behind this one is an examination of the good and bad in tech and social media, and Zhao makes her stance on diversity and representation in the fashion VERY clear. Her MESSAGE is good and important; that being said, it was often presented as very stilted dialogue between characters that didn't feel authentic. While these conversations are important and SHOULD be happening frequently, the way Zoe made her points to her team just didn't feel REAL. There's also the infamous writer for Valley Verified, Rebecca Stiles, who apparently ONLY focuses on Zoe Zeng and FitPick as the subject for all of her articles (even though she is supposed to be commenting on ALL of the Fab v. Fad debates in the Valley)....trust me when I say by the THIRD article of hers, you'll be groaning each time you see her name pop up...yet again.
As if trying to FULLY explore the intersection of diversity in tech AND fashion in today's ultra-filtered, swipe happy existence wasn't enough...Zhao decided to make the third act a full-on #MeToo story. Why? To be honest...it's been days since I finished this one, and I still don't know. While again, the topic is timely and perfect fodder for drama, it was just one more layer this story didn't really need to feel complete and the 'emails' included in the scandal had me rolling my eyes a bit. I understand wanting to fully take down The Man (especially when said Man is NOT a good guy) but I think one plot point or the other would have sufficed.
And then the ending...may be one of THE most unrealistic business moves in history. Perhaps I just don't know as much about how employees ACTUALLY end up in the C suite...but let's just say that what Zhao was selling at the end?
I was NOT buying...or even putting on layaway.
Though there are so many important points about inclusion, beauty being in the eye of the beholder, female empowerment, risk vs. reward, confidence, etc. buried under the so-so predictable plot of this one...rather than Silicon Valley Girl Boss?
For Zoe? I'd simply shorten it to "Valley Girl."
3 stars
Zoe Zeng has always been a fashionista, with a style all her own...on AND off the page. As a writer for the fashion magazine, Chic, Zoe has found the perfect group of friends at her work, and gets to attend ALL of the hottest parties, fittings, and industry events. New York City has become home, and all of the pieces of her life seem to be falling into place. But Chic's agenda has often pushed Zoe into writing the sort of clickbait articles that the magazine wants...but has not allowed her the space to explore her own passion areas in the field of representation and diversity in fashion...and despite her success in getting to this point, she feels frustrated at the lack of freedom.
So when a tech mogul (named Bill Lawrence...no relation to the real-life TV director and showrunner, I hope! 🙄) approaches her at an industry event and pitches the idea of Zoe moving to LA to become his marketing director at a brand new startup called FitPick...she's MORE than intrigued. Silicon Valley? The glitz, the glamour...the PAYCHECK?! All that aside, the app is designed to let users pick the best of two looks from its users...and Zoe thinks this is the perfect chance to get her diverse fashionistas in front of MILLIONS, and take her career to new heights. Despite her reluctance to leave her friend circle in New York, Zoe takes this as an offer she can't refuse and heads for sunny California.
When she arrives, however, she finds that life amongst the Techie Set ISN'T quite what she imagined...and Zoe realizes she is in WAY over her head. See, the tech crowd doesn't care who's on the cover of Vogue...but they DO hang on the every word of the writer for Valley Verified, a magazine who projects who is hot and who is not in Silicon Valley. And then there's the small fact that FitPick is out to impress an Angel investor with a reputation...and let's just say he ISN'T easy to please. Navigating all of these uncharted waters (mostly) alone, Zoe starts to wonder...is she really cut out for life in the Valley? Or will she permanently STOP this start up...before it EVER gets the chance to take off?
Though I'm not much of a fashion plate myself, there's something FUN about reading this type of story. I figured this would be a little bit Devil Wears Prada, a little bit Carrie Bradshaw from SATC, and a little bit of Silicon Valley (yes, the aptly named HBO Comedy) all rolled into one...and I'm always a sucker for a story set in NYC (or California, for that matter!) At first, this was an easy enough book to read, and although I didn't feel much of an emotional connection, I figured once we got FULLY into the main plot in Silicon Valley, I would grow progressively more attached to the characters AND more invested in Zoe and her journey.
However...I think all of Zoe's maturity must have gotten stuck at the New York airport...because once she went to LA, I felt like she regressed back into teen-dom faster than a Boeing 747. Because of this, the book reads INCREDIBLY like YA, to the point where I actually went back a couple of times to check that it was NOT YA...but alas, it is not.
First off, all of Zoe's techie contemporaries in LA were some of the least believable characters I've read in some time. For highly educated adults with high paying jobs, some of their dialogue just felt bizarre and out of place for people I pictured to be in their mid to late twenties (or older!) For instance, at one point one of the guys said something was "Gucci"...and I'll be honest, I haven't heard a man use that word....well, EVER.. One of the main character traits of the Techie Bros was a love for hiking and Patagonia jackets (and again, not really seeing what's so offensive about Patagonia jackets? 🤔) and something about the entire group just didn't ring authentic to me.
Then there's the one thing more inauthentic to me than insta-love...insta-FRIENDSHIP between our MC and someone she literally meets out shopping. The two go from being strangers to besties in no time flat, and maybe I just don't have enough of these 'meet cute' type friendships to go off of in real life, but I just didn't understand how this person was always available for Zoe, was taking her along to workout classes etc., after knowing her for all of 5 minutes. Zoe also admits over and over she is ignoring her friends from home to some extent, doesn't treat them very well...and they STILL bend over backwards to help her at a moment's notice.
The driving force behind this one is an examination of the good and bad in tech and social media, and Zhao makes her stance on diversity and representation in the fashion VERY clear. Her MESSAGE is good and important; that being said, it was often presented as very stilted dialogue between characters that didn't feel authentic. While these conversations are important and SHOULD be happening frequently, the way Zoe made her points to her team just didn't feel REAL. There's also the infamous writer for Valley Verified, Rebecca Stiles, who apparently ONLY focuses on Zoe Zeng and FitPick as the subject for all of her articles (even though she is supposed to be commenting on ALL of the Fab v. Fad debates in the Valley)....trust me when I say by the THIRD article of hers, you'll be groaning each time you see her name pop up...yet again.
As if trying to FULLY explore the intersection of diversity in tech AND fashion in today's ultra-filtered, swipe happy existence wasn't enough...Zhao decided to make the third act a full-on #MeToo story. Why? To be honest...it's been days since I finished this one, and I still don't know. While again, the topic is timely and perfect fodder for drama, it was just one more layer this story didn't really need to feel complete and the 'emails' included in the scandal had me rolling my eyes a bit. I understand wanting to fully take down The Man (especially when said Man is NOT a good guy) but I think one plot point or the other would have sufficed.
And then the ending...may be one of THE most unrealistic business moves in history. Perhaps I just don't know as much about how employees ACTUALLY end up in the C suite...but let's just say that what Zhao was selling at the end?
I was NOT buying...or even putting on layaway.
Though there are so many important points about inclusion, beauty being in the eye of the beholder, female empowerment, risk vs. reward, confidence, etc. buried under the so-so predictable plot of this one...rather than Silicon Valley Girl Boss?
For Zoe? I'd simply shorten it to "Valley Girl."
3 stars
October 7, 2023
Exploring a storyline that seamlessly weaves the essence of "The Devil Wears Prada" with the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley is a truly irresistible endeavor. This book's ability to offer a thought-provoking and authentic perspective on the fashion industry is truly commendable. The author skillfully inserts surprising Easter eggs and references to real-life fashion bloggers and influencers, giving the narrative a rich and immersive texture. A standout feature is the cast of diverse characters and the genuine representation they bring, showcasing various backgrounds and cultures. Beyond that, the book delves into the crucial theme of resilience, teaching us how to armor ourselves with a thick skin and the mindset of a warrior, vital tools for navigating the cutthroat corporate landscape.
While the book maintains a subplot romance, it becomes evident that this aspect plays second fiddle to the more compelling and significant subjects at hand. This dynamic nudges the book into the realm of women's fiction, adding depth to its narrative layers.
Having previously enjoyed the author's works, I was pleased to find that this book carries forward the signature qualities that draw readers in, particularly the exploration of corporate rivalries within a reliable narrative tone. However, my sole qualm lies in the book's occasionally hurried pace. At times, it propels us into new timelines with little preparation, causing moments of confusion as we scramble to understand the context, characters, and ongoing events.
It is my hope that this breakneck pacing could be moderated somewhat, affording readers the opportunity to fully savor each incident and development without sacrificing the story's cohesion.
On the whole, I found the book's incisive critique of the corporate world, combined with themes of empowerment and multicultural diversity, to be the most engaging aspects. These elements prompt me to round up my initial 3.5-star assessment to a resolute 4 stars, underscoring the thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable nature of this read. I eagerly anticipate the author's next literary offering.
My heartfelt gratitude extends to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for graciously providing me with this digital reviewer's copy. Their generosity has allowed me to share these honest thoughts about the book.
medium.com
instagram
facebook
twitter
While the book maintains a subplot romance, it becomes evident that this aspect plays second fiddle to the more compelling and significant subjects at hand. This dynamic nudges the book into the realm of women's fiction, adding depth to its narrative layers.
Having previously enjoyed the author's works, I was pleased to find that this book carries forward the signature qualities that draw readers in, particularly the exploration of corporate rivalries within a reliable narrative tone. However, my sole qualm lies in the book's occasionally hurried pace. At times, it propels us into new timelines with little preparation, causing moments of confusion as we scramble to understand the context, characters, and ongoing events.
It is my hope that this breakneck pacing could be moderated somewhat, affording readers the opportunity to fully savor each incident and development without sacrificing the story's cohesion.
On the whole, I found the book's incisive critique of the corporate world, combined with themes of empowerment and multicultural diversity, to be the most engaging aspects. These elements prompt me to round up my initial 3.5-star assessment to a resolute 4 stars, underscoring the thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable nature of this read. I eagerly anticipate the author's next literary offering.
My heartfelt gratitude extends to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for graciously providing me with this digital reviewer's copy. Their generosity has allowed me to share these honest thoughts about the book.
medium.com
November 12, 2023
I wrote 'Valley Verified' at a time in my life when I was plagued by self-doubt and insecurity. And journaling my main character Zoe Zeng's story—which is fun and breezy on the surface—was how I tried to unravel + confront these complicated emotions. Most, if not all, of us are not strangers to imposter syndrome, and I hope we realize that none of us are alone in feeling this way. 'The Fraud Squad' will always be my baby, but this is the book of my heart—and I'm both incredibly nervous and incredibly excited to share it with you all. I hope you enjoy reading 'Valley Verified' as much as I did writing it.
January 13, 2024
This coming of age story was really sweet and fun. I liked that it wasn’t about the romance (although that was there) but really focused on the main character coming into herself. There were some nice humor moments especially with the supporting cast of characters. Zoe Zeng seems to have her dream - she writes articles for a fashion outlet in New York City, but she isn’t able to spend as much of her time writing about what she wants and she wonders if this is really the life for her. When she gets an offer to be the VP of marketing fo ran up and coming app related to the world of fashion she takes the leap to try something different. But when she gets there she misses her friends and doesn’t feel like she fits into the tech focused Silicone Valley group. When I started this book I wasn’t sure I would love it because I don’t particularly care about the tech or the fashion worlds, but the characters were so well written I cared very much what happened to them and that drew me into the story.
June 22, 2024
I enjoyed the characters in this "The Devil Wears Prada" meets Silicon Valley (with a dash of Gossip Girl thrown in there) contemporary novel. (It looks marketed as an adult novel, but it very much read like YA). It's a breezy read that I mainly had fun with.
The main character nearly ruined it, though. She is so wrapped up in her own insecurities nearly constantly that it gets unbearable to read at times. It dripped with those early-20s feelings of impostor syndrome; you couldn't pay me to go back to those years in my own life so this made for a frequently UNCOMFORTABLE reading experience. Also, if someone is so hyper focused on whether everyone is secretly thinking negative things about them, it's quite a self-involved headspace they will find themselves in and they'll likely miss obvious things right under their nose. That's what happened to the main character of this book; I wanted to scream into the book what I could clearly see, but she just couldn't.
The main character nearly ruined it, though. She is so wrapped up in her own insecurities nearly constantly that it gets unbearable to read at times. It dripped with those early-20s feelings of impostor syndrome; you couldn't pay me to go back to those years in my own life so this made for a frequently UNCOMFORTABLE reading experience. Also, if someone is so hyper focused on whether everyone is secretly thinking negative things about them, it's quite a self-involved headspace they will find themselves in and they'll likely miss obvious things right under their nose. That's what happened to the main character of this book; I wanted to scream into the book what I could clearly see, but she just couldn't.
January 25, 2024
3.5⭐️ I thought this was a cute read that offered an interesting look behind the scenes of a tech start up. As always, I was drawn into the coming of age element and seeing the character growth from beginning to end as she comes into her own. I also enjoyed the fun take on The Devil Wears Prada: Silicon Valley and found myself chuckling at times.
What did not work as well for me was the character development. While I did like Zoe and the gang, they felt very two-dimensional. I struggled to connect to them in any real meaningful way, which in turn prevented me from having a real rooting interest. I also struggled a bit with pacing. The story starts off with a bang and I felt like I was all in. And then at about the 30% mark, I felt the story begin to drag.
I listened to this one on audio, and while I didn’t necessarily love it, I did appreciate it for what it does have to offer. If you are someone who likes any of the tropes or plot points listed above, I would say to give this one a try.
Read if you like:
•Silicon Valley setting
•the world of fashion
•coming of age stories
•workplace drama
•the devil wears Prada
•AAPI rep
Thank you Berkley Pub and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
What did not work as well for me was the character development. While I did like Zoe and the gang, they felt very two-dimensional. I struggled to connect to them in any real meaningful way, which in turn prevented me from having a real rooting interest. I also struggled a bit with pacing. The story starts off with a bang and I felt like I was all in. And then at about the 30% mark, I felt the story begin to drag.
I listened to this one on audio, and while I didn’t necessarily love it, I did appreciate it for what it does have to offer. If you are someone who likes any of the tropes or plot points listed above, I would say to give this one a try.
Read if you like:
•Silicon Valley setting
•the world of fashion
•coming of age stories
•workplace drama
•the devil wears Prada
•AAPI rep
Thank you Berkley Pub and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
October 1, 2023
This was truly for the girlies that just want to have fun, and while I usually count myself among that number, there was something very lifeless about this reading experience. It was easy to get into, and while I was reading it was enjoyable enough, but the characters felt familiar in a referential sense and not because of anything the narrative had done to establish them in their own right here. It's very much the kind of book you could spend a day reading poolside and have a good enough time reading but it will in no way linger with you once you finish the final page and pack up your bag to go home.
The story follows Zoe as a chance encounter at a launch party she's writing up for her current job leads her to accept a new marketing role for a fashion-adjacent start-up across the country. Honestly, I could have had a better time here if this hadn't been set in the nebulous present and had really invested in being part of the late aughts. Instead, the book just kind of flounders for a lot of the run time. We have obligatory scenes of Zoe adjusting to a new work culture, her making friends, something of a low simmering office space romance that is given a moderate amount of page-time. I wasn't prepared for where the narrative goes, even with the Legally Blonde comparisons in the marketing. Is there a correlation? Absolutely, but if anything by that point in the narrative the book was so steeped in feeling referential that it just felt like another brick in that house, and a mislaid one at that given how disconnected it was all coming together.
I will likely continue to read what Zhao puts out because I did have a really good time with their debut, and while this didn't fully click with me, I did have an enjoyable enough time. If anything I would like the relationships, platonic and romantic, to feel more like these characters matter to each other. If nothing else just that would have gone a pretty long way to making the experience that much better as a reader.
The story follows Zoe as a chance encounter at a launch party she's writing up for her current job leads her to accept a new marketing role for a fashion-adjacent start-up across the country. Honestly, I could have had a better time here if this hadn't been set in the nebulous present and had really invested in being part of the late aughts. Instead, the book just kind of flounders for a lot of the run time. We have obligatory scenes of Zoe adjusting to a new work culture, her making friends, something of a low simmering office space romance that is given a moderate amount of page-time. I wasn't prepared for where the narrative goes, even with the Legally Blonde comparisons in the marketing. Is there a correlation? Absolutely, but if anything by that point in the narrative the book was so steeped in feeling referential that it just felt like another brick in that house, and a mislaid one at that given how disconnected it was all coming together.
I will likely continue to read what Zhao puts out because I did have a really good time with their debut, and while this didn't fully click with me, I did have an enjoyable enough time. If anything I would like the relationships, platonic and romantic, to feel more like these characters matter to each other. If nothing else just that would have gone a pretty long way to making the experience that much better as a reader.
February 10, 2024
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher (Berkley) for promotional purposes.
This was such a fun and empowering story!
I love fashion and I grew up in the Silicon Valley so naturally I loved the premise and thought it was executed well. The portrayal of the fashion industry and the tech industry felt current and tackled issues commonly seen in today’s world (for example, influencers photoshopping their photos before posting them). I also enjoyed that it explored the loneliness of moving to a new city and being away from friends and family.
The pacing was excellent. The story never felt rushed or dragged out. The writing style was also easy to follow and engaging, making it a quick read.
I loved all the characters (minus the villain). The main character, Zoe, is so lovable and you can’t help but root for her to succeed. All her friends and co-workers were amazing as well. Austin, Bram, Lillian, Damien, Cassie, Bjorn. I loved them all! I particularly liked Zoe’s friendship with Bernadette.
Lastly, I liked the female solidarity and their team up at the end. It’s always great to see women supporting other women, especially in a male dominated field like tech.
Overall, if you’re looking for an entertaining read with strong female characters, consider checking this one out!
This was such a fun and empowering story!
I love fashion and I grew up in the Silicon Valley so naturally I loved the premise and thought it was executed well. The portrayal of the fashion industry and the tech industry felt current and tackled issues commonly seen in today’s world (for example, influencers photoshopping their photos before posting them). I also enjoyed that it explored the loneliness of moving to a new city and being away from friends and family.
The pacing was excellent. The story never felt rushed or dragged out. The writing style was also easy to follow and engaging, making it a quick read.
I loved all the characters (minus the villain). The main character, Zoe, is so lovable and you can’t help but root for her to succeed. All her friends and co-workers were amazing as well. Austin, Bram, Lillian, Damien, Cassie, Bjorn. I loved them all! I particularly liked Zoe’s friendship with Bernadette.
Lastly, I liked the female solidarity and their team up at the end. It’s always great to see women supporting other women, especially in a male dominated field like tech.
Overall, if you’re looking for an entertaining read with strong female characters, consider checking this one out!
October 24, 2024
Overall thoughts - love the author's push to highlight certain issues but was a bit wordy. Would read her next work!
As a mashup of a few genres including contemporary literature, slow burn romance (subplot), and women's lit - I think I expected something different but not all simultaneously.
I loved our main character's (Zoe) fire and passion for her craft. I love fashion as well - and while I'm not always entrenched in the high-end brands that were dropped in Valley Verified - I know what looks good on me, what makes me feel confident, etc. There's a beauty in that Zoe's character does a fantastic job of highlighting. Dressing well doesn't have to be showy to make you feel good!! And it doesn't have to mean an invitation to think someone is intellectually inferior either.. spending a fraction of time on one's physical appearance, neatness, and being put together does not make an airhead.
I also loved how unreservedly passionate the discussion about the 'dignity' behind certain careers is. Many people look down on others because of their job titles, ets.. and, on the flip side, they revere someone because they hold a seemingly lofty position in a company.
What I loved about Valley Verified is that it made me think - but I didn't love that I felt like I needed to skip around 75 pages towards the 60% mark and still got the same effect from the story. This was a bit wordy - but I highly anticipate this author's other works because of the way she tackles issues!!
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews! 🦋
As a mashup of a few genres including contemporary literature, slow burn romance (subplot), and women's lit - I think I expected something different but not all simultaneously.
I loved our main character's (Zoe) fire and passion for her craft. I love fashion as well - and while I'm not always entrenched in the high-end brands that were dropped in Valley Verified - I know what looks good on me, what makes me feel confident, etc. There's a beauty in that Zoe's character does a fantastic job of highlighting. Dressing well doesn't have to be showy to make you feel good!! And it doesn't have to mean an invitation to think someone is intellectually inferior either.. spending a fraction of time on one's physical appearance, neatness, and being put together does not make an airhead.
I also loved how unreservedly passionate the discussion about the 'dignity' behind certain careers is. Many people look down on others because of their job titles, ets.. and, on the flip side, they revere someone because they hold a seemingly lofty position in a company.
What I loved about Valley Verified is that it made me think - but I didn't love that I felt like I needed to skip around 75 pages towards the 60% mark and still got the same effect from the story. This was a bit wordy - but I highly anticipate this author's other works because of the way she tackles issues!!
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews! 🦋
April 5, 2024
i absolutely loved this!! the writing and story were capturing right from the beginning, and I found it really addicting and hard to put down. It felt like a bingeable show that you keep clicking "next episode" on, except here it was "next chapter"
The friendships were amazing, I loved her both, her old friends from NYC and her new friends in LA. The dynamic of her and 3 of her male coworkers kinda reminded me of "New Girl". Although, the way she almost immediately had deep conversations with a couple of people kinda threw me off but...
The hints were cleverly and subtly placed (but I stilled guessed everything, so there wasn't any "plot twist" I was surprised about).
and it was so fun watching her create her marketing campaign and working in tech and talking about fashion and ahhhhshsj it's all so so good
highly recommend this one!! looking forward to reading more of Kyla's works :) I already expected to like it, but didn't expect it this much 🫶
The friendships were amazing, I loved her both, her old friends from NYC and her new friends in LA. The dynamic of her and 3 of her male coworkers kinda reminded me of "New Girl". Although, the way she almost immediately had deep conversations with a couple of people kinda threw me off but...
The hints were cleverly and subtly placed (but I stilled guessed everything, so there wasn't any "plot twist" I was surprised about).
and it was so fun watching her create her marketing campaign and working in tech and talking about fashion and ahhhhshsj it's all so so good
highly recommend this one!! looking forward to reading more of Kyla's works :) I already expected to like it, but didn't expect it this much 🫶
March 10, 2024
Having a background in both the fashion magazine and tech startups, I feel like this book is written for people like me. And reading about how Zoe navigates both industries, reminded me of how much I love/loathe them. Yes, it's a love-hate relationship I had with the magazine and tech startup.
I do share Zoe's love for the editorial, in fact, I miss it. I miss the rush of talking to people, going to events, trying out new things before it hits the market, and churning out stories that (hopefully) people find interesting. But like Zoe said in the book, the pay just ain't it.
Tech startups, on the other hand, have a steep learning curve. It's an industry that you either thrive or you drown. All of the tight deadlines, crazy hours, and product roadmaps, I've seen it all. And it's not something that I know I'll be in long-term. But kudos to anyone who's still working for a startup, these are the people that will truly shine under pressure and come up on top.
In Valley Verified, Kyla Zhao brought up a few topics that are not only relevant to our societies, but they're also something that people often brush aside. One of the major themes in the book is gender inequality in the tech business. It's overwhelmingly masculine. It's one thing for a tech bro to make a mistake (and they can afford to because look at all of their predecessors, how these people can make the most controversial remarks and still hail as the next coming of Christ), but when a woman does it? God forbid, she'd be dragged through the trenches with article after article detailing her misconduct. And don't even get me started with the hate comments.
Then there are also people like Rebecca Stiles, who worked in the tech industry and knows how notorious the industry can be towards women, and still write an article that everyone knows would leave a bad rep towards Zoe without doing her due diligence. In a world where women are constantly being viewed as the "inferior" gender, it makes my blood boil when I see women going after women instead of uplifting one another. Although, yes, she's merely reporting, the op-ed she did on Zoe was way harsher than the one on her male colleagues.
Lilian's character is an interesting one. She's portrayed as this boss bitch who doesn't take any nonsense. She's "antagonistic" towards Zoe in the beginning, judging her outfit, and questioning her decisions. I get where she's coming from because every decision can make or break a start-up. But later on, we learned that she, too, encountered sexual harassment and unlike Zoe, she's too afraid to speak up because there is too much at stake so she rather suck it up. That makes me wonder how many women out there suffer from the same fate.
Valley Verified is, of course, a story with a happy ending. In the end, Zoe managed to find incriminating information and go to the right person to kick the person off the company. I do hope that this book will give people the courage to stand up for themselves and fight for any injustice that they face.
I do have one comment for this book. While I can see Kyla Zhao planted seeds here and there to hint Damien and Zoe's relationship, it still feels a bit abrupt. I think the problem is that this is not a romance book, but a story about Zoe's journey. So the romance aspect is not as flashed out, and hence it feels a bit awkward when they both confess that they've been liking each other for a long time. And it also didn't help that Damien's an introvert and likes to keep things to himself. I think the book could benefit from a bit more emphasis on romance.
But all in all, great book. Now I need to grab The Fraud Squad to read.
I do share Zoe's love for the editorial, in fact, I miss it. I miss the rush of talking to people, going to events, trying out new things before it hits the market, and churning out stories that (hopefully) people find interesting. But like Zoe said in the book, the pay just ain't it.
Tech startups, on the other hand, have a steep learning curve. It's an industry that you either thrive or you drown. All of the tight deadlines, crazy hours, and product roadmaps, I've seen it all. And it's not something that I know I'll be in long-term. But kudos to anyone who's still working for a startup, these are the people that will truly shine under pressure and come up on top.
In Valley Verified, Kyla Zhao brought up a few topics that are not only relevant to our societies, but they're also something that people often brush aside. One of the major themes in the book is gender inequality in the tech business. It's overwhelmingly masculine. It's one thing for a tech bro to make a mistake (and they can afford to because look at all of their predecessors, how these people can make the most controversial remarks and still hail as the next coming of Christ), but when a woman does it? God forbid, she'd be dragged through the trenches with article after article detailing her misconduct. And don't even get me started with the hate comments.
Then there are also people like Rebecca Stiles, who worked in the tech industry and knows how notorious the industry can be towards women, and still write an article that everyone knows would leave a bad rep towards Zoe without doing her due diligence. In a world where women are constantly being viewed as the "inferior" gender, it makes my blood boil when I see women going after women instead of uplifting one another. Although, yes, she's merely reporting, the op-ed she did on Zoe was way harsher than the one on her male colleagues.
Lilian's character is an interesting one. She's portrayed as this boss bitch who doesn't take any nonsense. She's "antagonistic" towards Zoe in the beginning, judging her outfit, and questioning her decisions. I get where she's coming from because every decision can make or break a start-up. But later on, we learned that she, too, encountered sexual harassment and unlike Zoe, she's too afraid to speak up because there is too much at stake so she rather suck it up. That makes me wonder how many women out there suffer from the same fate.
Valley Verified is, of course, a story with a happy ending. In the end, Zoe managed to find incriminating information and go to the right person to kick the person off the company. I do hope that this book will give people the courage to stand up for themselves and fight for any injustice that they face.
I do have one comment for this book. While I can see Kyla Zhao planted seeds here and there to hint Damien and Zoe's relationship, it still feels a bit abrupt. I think the problem is that this is not a romance book, but a story about Zoe's journey. So the romance aspect is not as flashed out, and hence it feels a bit awkward when they both confess that they've been liking each other for a long time. And it also didn't help that Damien's an introvert and likes to keep things to himself. I think the book could benefit from a bit more emphasis on romance.
But all in all, great book. Now I need to grab The Fraud Squad to read.
Read
January 5, 2024Review to come
Thank you Berkley & PRHA for my gifted copies
Thank you Berkley & PRHA for my gifted copies
February 13, 2024
3.5⭐
Verified enjoyable!
This book gave me Emily In Paris vibes, featuring a spirited Zillenial moving cities for a glamorous job and occasionally being over in her head. Think loud outfits, Mindy-like best friend, and proving all the naysayers wrong.
My favourite aspect is undoubtedly the robust social commentary on so many important issues, such as the rampant sexism in Silicon Valley, plus the sexual harassment and lack of actual diversity (not just #woke diversity) in tech. I also adored The Fraud Squad references and Easter eggs!
Zoe is a deeply relatable protagonist; Imposter Syndrome is very much real and something I experience more than I would like. Her journey of self-discovery and growth was both enjoyable to read and satisfying to watch. I also loved all the other characters, but wish they were more developed and had stronger arcs.
The fashion bits, name-dropping of brands and gossip articles were all super fun to read. But what struck me most was that snippet of Damien's essay.... wow. It was incredibly well-written and made me wonder why the same quality isn't reflected in the rest of the novel or even the author's debut.
Overall, I wish everything had been more fleshed out, even the conflict. The potential and the talent is clearly there but somehow just doesn't shine as fully as it should. Nevertheless, this was a step-up from The Fraud Squad and a fun escapist read.
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the ARC.
Verified enjoyable!
This book gave me Emily In Paris vibes, featuring a spirited Zillenial moving cities for a glamorous job and occasionally being over in her head. Think loud outfits, Mindy-like best friend, and proving all the naysayers wrong.
My favourite aspect is undoubtedly the robust social commentary on so many important issues, such as the rampant sexism in Silicon Valley, plus the sexual harassment and lack of actual diversity (not just #woke diversity) in tech. I also adored The Fraud Squad references and Easter eggs!
Zoe is a deeply relatable protagonist; Imposter Syndrome is very much real and something I experience more than I would like. Her journey of self-discovery and growth was both enjoyable to read and satisfying to watch. I also loved all the other characters, but wish they were more developed and had stronger arcs.
The fashion bits, name-dropping of brands and gossip articles were all super fun to read. But what struck me most was that snippet of Damien's essay.... wow. It was incredibly well-written and made me wonder why the same quality isn't reflected in the rest of the novel or even the author's debut.
Overall, I wish everything had been more fleshed out, even the conflict. The potential and the talent is clearly there but somehow just doesn't shine as fully as it should. Nevertheless, this was a step-up from The Fraud Squad and a fun escapist read.
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the ARC.
March 23, 2025
BORING.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Oh my goodness I wouldn’t have even picked this up if it wasn’t gifted to me because blehhhhh. First, if you think this is a romance, it is not. There are some kisses but the relationship is poorly built and told instead of shown.
There were some good themes and discussions surrounding many facets of fashion, tech, etc. But I feel like it was poorly executed. The conversations seemed forced and inauthentic and this came off more like everything was being shoved in my face rather than a natural inclusion to topics that absolutely should be discussed.
The characters also provided a large disconnect for me. I didn’t care what happened to anyone and the FMC seemed to go backwards rather than forwards. Some of her actions and thoughts in the later half of the book made me incredibly frustrated.
I might have given this two stars but I never hit that “hate reading” point. Nothing set me off so badly that I was rage reading, I just didn’t care what was happening either.
Overall audience notes:
- Fiction
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, fatphobia, body shaming and sexual harassment
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Oh my goodness I wouldn’t have even picked this up if it wasn’t gifted to me because blehhhhh. First, if you think this is a romance, it is not. There are some kisses but the relationship is poorly built and told instead of shown.
There were some good themes and discussions surrounding many facets of fashion, tech, etc. But I feel like it was poorly executed. The conversations seemed forced and inauthentic and this came off more like everything was being shoved in my face rather than a natural inclusion to topics that absolutely should be discussed.
The characters also provided a large disconnect for me. I didn’t care what happened to anyone and the FMC seemed to go backwards rather than forwards. Some of her actions and thoughts in the later half of the book made me incredibly frustrated.
I might have given this two stars but I never hit that “hate reading” point. Nothing set me off so badly that I was rage reading, I just didn’t care what was happening either.
Overall audience notes:
- Fiction
- Language: low
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: misogyny, fatphobia, body shaming and sexual harassment
February 6, 2024
Rounding up from 2.5
Very lukewarm. Nothing inventive.
Very lukewarm. Nothing inventive.
January 16, 2024
I stayed up way too late finishing this book. So good!
full review coming soon
full review coming soon
May 20, 2024
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
while it’s an easy book to read and digest – it’s definitely one of those books you read as a palate cleanser, “valley verified” left me a bit disappointed. i did enjoy some aspects of it, like the female empowerment vibes and the romance, but eventually, they weren’t enough to carry the book for me.
the pacing is a little slow, especially at the start, but it picks up towards the middle – the book is quite easy to read. the writing felt a little juvenile for an adult book, truthfully it reads a bit ya to me, but it might be just a me problem. i did enjoy how the author interwove tech and fashion and how bite-size the tech info was, so it didn’t clutter the book nor was it impossible to understand.
the book starts with zoe being offered a VP job at a start-up after knowing the CEO for about 10 minutes, which put me off from the start because when does that happen. i understand this is fiction and all things are possible, but the story lost all credibility from the get-go. like at least make her go through an interview or something.
this tendency of the book to not let things develop is also visible when zoe befriends a person she met while shopping and they instantly become best friends. while i understand this is a feel-good type of book, it was annoying to see the main character get everything on a silver platter, so we get to the “action” part of the book. the romance was a bit more developed, but i get why we didn’t see a lot of it, since it’s not really the main focus of the story.
i also didn’t really like how prickly zoe was towards the only other woman in the firm. she’s instantly convinced lilian hates her because she’s not as welcoming as the rest of the team and because she doesn’t dress in fun clothes (which is apparently enough to look down on the mc because she has style). while i don’t hate zoe, i do think she’s very naïve and immature, especially during some scenes, but i don’t want to give spoilers.
so, while i did like some aspects of it, “valley verified” is simply not the book for me, but i do see why it might appeal to other readers. it’s a cute story about finding your place in the world and fighting for what you think is right and i can appreciate that.
while it’s an easy book to read and digest – it’s definitely one of those books you read as a palate cleanser, “valley verified” left me a bit disappointed. i did enjoy some aspects of it, like the female empowerment vibes and the romance, but eventually, they weren’t enough to carry the book for me.
the pacing is a little slow, especially at the start, but it picks up towards the middle – the book is quite easy to read. the writing felt a little juvenile for an adult book, truthfully it reads a bit ya to me, but it might be just a me problem. i did enjoy how the author interwove tech and fashion and how bite-size the tech info was, so it didn’t clutter the book nor was it impossible to understand.
the book starts with zoe being offered a VP job at a start-up after knowing the CEO for about 10 minutes, which put me off from the start because when does that happen. i understand this is fiction and all things are possible, but the story lost all credibility from the get-go. like at least make her go through an interview or something.
this tendency of the book to not let things develop is also visible when zoe befriends a person she met while shopping and they instantly become best friends. while i understand this is a feel-good type of book, it was annoying to see the main character get everything on a silver platter, so we get to the “action” part of the book. the romance was a bit more developed, but i get why we didn’t see a lot of it, since it’s not really the main focus of the story.
i also didn’t really like how prickly zoe was towards the only other woman in the firm. she’s instantly convinced lilian hates her because she’s not as welcoming as the rest of the team and because she doesn’t dress in fun clothes (which is apparently enough to look down on the mc because she has style). while i don’t hate zoe, i do think she’s very naïve and immature, especially during some scenes, but i don’t want to give spoilers.
so, while i did like some aspects of it, “valley verified” is simply not the book for me, but i do see why it might appeal to other readers. it’s a cute story about finding your place in the world and fighting for what you think is right and i can appreciate that.
March 5, 2024
This book was outside of my comfort zone, but I ended up really liking it. Although the writing wasn't super complex it felt like listening to a friend tell a story, which I loved. The book did explore some pretty heavy themes and in a very tasteful manner. Overall I really enjoyed this story and the little touch of romance as well. And that cover! Come on! Stunning!
January 9, 2024
Short Review: Alexa, play "Karma" by Taylor Swift.
"Don't stop giving yourself the chance to try and fail, to learn and grow. It's okay not to have your shit together -- no one does, no matter how much they look like they do on the surface."
Long Review: If this book had a play list it would include The Man and Karma by TS. While this book dealt with some deeper societal themes (f*ck the patriarchy!), the aspects I loved the most were the strong friendships and the way women supported other women. That made it such a feel good read. I really loved it. I can't wait to see what Zhao writes next!
"Don't stop giving yourself the chance to try and fail, to learn and grow. It's okay not to have your shit together -- no one does, no matter how much they look like they do on the surface."
Long Review: If this book had a play list it would include The Man and Karma by TS. While this book dealt with some deeper societal themes (f*ck the patriarchy!), the aspects I loved the most were the strong friendships and the way women supported other women. That made it such a feel good read. I really loved it. I can't wait to see what Zhao writes next!
Read
January 28, 2024
Trigger & Content Warnings
Misogyny
Fatphobia & body-shaming
Sexual harassment
Misogyny
Fatphobia & body-shaming
Sexual harassment
June 2, 2024
3.5 Stars
Silicon Valley gets the Devil Wears Prada treatment in this entertaining and relatable glimpse into the elusive world of tech startups, industry wide elitism and male dominated work culture our protagonist, Zoe finds herself faced with.
I found this a fun and engaging read with a protagonist, whose path to rediscovering herself (and redefining her identity outside of her career) was soo compelling. I loved how strongly Zoe champions diversity (especially as a fashion loving, plus sized reader myself.) And felt her ability to challenge traditional (euro-centric) beauty standards— by fighting for what she believes in, made her such a strong and endearing character that many readers are gonna adore.
It actually wasn’t until I finished that I found out that author, Kyla Zhao, has a background in fashion herself (previously writing for Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar in Singapore) and now works for a tech company in Silicon Valley— which definitely makes Zoe’s own experiences even more thought provoking.
Sexism and workplace harassment are two of the main focuses of narrative but I did enjoy the slow-burn romance we see develop between Zoe and love interest Damien. Though I do warn if your only here for the romance then you might be a little disappointed as it does take a back seat to the Zoe’s juggling of her workload, her friends back in New York and burgeoning friendship with consultant turned stylist Bernadette. If you’re new to romance however, then this is definitely a great starting place.
The supporting cast weren’t as in depth as I would’ve liked but their interactions were still incredibly engaging and entertaining. Lillian’s portrayal was especially interesting and I did enjoy getting to know her a little better.
Overall, a fairly quick and fun read that would be perfect for a readalong or Bookclub (especially as the UK edition contains questions at the back to help get discussions started.)
Also, a huge thank you to Headline for the PB copy.
Silicon Valley gets the Devil Wears Prada treatment in this entertaining and relatable glimpse into the elusive world of tech startups, industry wide elitism and male dominated work culture our protagonist, Zoe finds herself faced with.
I found this a fun and engaging read with a protagonist, whose path to rediscovering herself (and redefining her identity outside of her career) was soo compelling. I loved how strongly Zoe champions diversity (especially as a fashion loving, plus sized reader myself.) And felt her ability to challenge traditional (euro-centric) beauty standards— by fighting for what she believes in, made her such a strong and endearing character that many readers are gonna adore.
It actually wasn’t until I finished that I found out that author, Kyla Zhao, has a background in fashion herself (previously writing for Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar in Singapore) and now works for a tech company in Silicon Valley— which definitely makes Zoe’s own experiences even more thought provoking.
Sexism and workplace harassment are two of the main focuses of narrative but I did enjoy the slow-burn romance we see develop between Zoe and love interest Damien. Though I do warn if your only here for the romance then you might be a little disappointed as it does take a back seat to the Zoe’s juggling of her workload, her friends back in New York and burgeoning friendship with consultant turned stylist Bernadette. If you’re new to romance however, then this is definitely a great starting place.
The supporting cast weren’t as in depth as I would’ve liked but their interactions were still incredibly engaging and entertaining. Lillian’s portrayal was especially interesting and I did enjoy getting to know her a little better.
Overall, a fairly quick and fun read that would be perfect for a readalong or Bookclub (especially as the UK edition contains questions at the back to help get discussions started.)
Also, a huge thank you to Headline for the PB copy.
Read
August 11, 2023This was fine and fun, though it was a little bit caught up with never making its mind whether it was a romance without a lot of romance or a roman à clef or just general fiction, and it especially had so much fun namedropping Silicon Valley shit that I think occasionally Zhao forgot when she was both namedropping real people AND namedropping the made-up versions of them as if they exist in the same universe, so that was sloppy. Basically I think the failure here is in editing--a tighter novel would have picked either namedropping or clef-dropping, not both, and also I found myself constantly getting caught up with how the author's Singaporean-tinged, British-influenced English influenced all of the characters and the way they spoke, even though they were all supposed to be American-born, and it just kept throwing me because the rhythm was often off, the way they formed sentences wasn't accurate to the dialect of English they were supposed to be speaking, and the word choice was often British. Again, editing should have caught this! Do people not have internal ears when they read? (And write, not to place all the blame on editorial?) Sometimes I feel like Mugatu and like I'm the only person who notices when the wrong English for the location is being used in books and everyone else acts like they have no idea that English even has multiple dialects, which is actually like Mugatu but also a reverse Mugatu because what he notices is that they're all the same look, but anyway, I digress..
I can't tell whether
I can't tell whether
May 23, 2024
I wish this was satire, or young-adult fic or younger, or just something other than completely earnest and genuine - but it's not, and it's completely awful. A read that had me stunned with how vapid and surface-level everything is: plot, dialogue, actions, reasoning. The whole lot of it...
Hate how every individual seemed like a caricature set as their purpose in Zoe's life - her besties lacked substance outside of their fashion world quirks and ride=or-die love for Zoe, her coworkers were all exaggerations of tech-bro stereotypes, and Bernadette and Lillian both stand as pillars of women suffering under patriarchy.... And I don't even want to get into the entire mess that is Bill and the last act of the book.
Zoe's Asian ethnicity boils down to two things: filial piety, and an incessant desire for boba. And neither really contribute to her life in any foundational or meaningful way. Neither did her size apart from a few stray comments. Zoe serves as a mouthpiece and placeholder for those who want to be whisked away into different world where they suddenly double their income and confusion at the ask of some random guy. Also - she complains about being broke all the time, yet bankrolled her way somehow through unpaid New York internships and buying designer all the time? Come onnnn. Come on!!!!!!
And. Sorry. I have a soft spot for Damien - but still. Like, Zoe... Do you have no clue or the slightest hint of a radar around men and their whims? This man you find cute treats you differently than anyone else and you, with your accolades and writing prowess, can't pick up any hints whatsoever? Come on!!!!!
Look, I get it. You want to immortalize your illustrious shift from the fashion world into tech with a shiny book about it. Everyone loves the sparkles of fashion and tech and gets a kick out of reading it. But..... Gagh. Having an actual background in tech marketing and running the very influencer campaigns that Zoe tears her hair out over means that..... It's even more unbearable to get through the book because of how bullshit those parts are as well. Crying screaming.
The very last part of the book made me want to put my head in my hands and scream. It was not the hot take that the author clearly intended it to be.
....A celebratory cheers to never reading anything by Kyla Zhao again, for my sanity.
Hate how every individual seemed like a caricature set as their purpose in Zoe's life - her besties lacked substance outside of their fashion world quirks and ride=or-die love for Zoe, her coworkers were all exaggerations of tech-bro stereotypes, and Bernadette and Lillian both stand as pillars of women suffering under patriarchy.... And I don't even want to get into the entire mess that is Bill and the last act of the book.
Zoe's Asian ethnicity boils down to two things: filial piety, and an incessant desire for boba. And neither really contribute to her life in any foundational or meaningful way. Neither did her size apart from a few stray comments. Zoe serves as a mouthpiece and placeholder for those who want to be whisked away into different world where they suddenly double their income and confusion at the ask of some random guy. Also - she complains about being broke all the time, yet bankrolled her way somehow through unpaid New York internships and buying designer all the time? Come onnnn. Come on!!!!!!
And. Sorry. I have a soft spot for Damien - but still. Like, Zoe... Do you have no clue or the slightest hint of a radar around men and their whims? This man you find cute treats you differently than anyone else and you, with your accolades and writing prowess, can't pick up any hints whatsoever? Come on!!!!!
Look, I get it. You want to immortalize your illustrious shift from the fashion world into tech with a shiny book about it. Everyone loves the sparkles of fashion and tech and gets a kick out of reading it. But..... Gagh. Having an actual background in tech marketing and running the very influencer campaigns that Zoe tears her hair out over means that..... It's even more unbearable to get through the book because of how bullshit those parts are as well. Crying screaming.
The very last part of the book made me want to put my head in my hands and scream. It was not the hot take that the author clearly intended it to be.
....A celebratory cheers to never reading anything by Kyla Zhao again, for my sanity.
January 6, 2024
In theory, Zoe Zheng has stylized a successful career in fashion- working as a columnist for New York based imprint, Chic. But after downing copious amounts of overpriced lattes and sharing postage sized apartments, Zoe can’t help but wonder if there’s more to life than being a slave to fashion.
Then a chance meeting with the head of a Silicon Valley startup offers the promise of something different. The company, Fitpick, has a unique idea, and a sweet starting salary. Sure, it’s technology based and Zoe, tech challenged. But who says fashionistas can’t try something new on for size?
But soon after Zoe arrives on the West Coast she begins to miss the creature comforts of home. Although a new concept, Fitpick’s staff already seems to be a well oiled machine, Zoe the unwelcome third wheel. Determined to make her mark, Zoe fights to have her voice, and her ideas, be heard. After all, she’s managed to survive the world of cutthroat couture. How hard can pivoting to the province of programming really be?
Before long FitPick gets picked as the startup du jour. But just like in the world of fashion, trends come and go. Suddenly Zoe finds herself at the heart of the story, and the mercy of critique in the form of Valley Verified, the unofficial Lady Whistledown of tech world whistleblowers.
Valley Verified is a timely novel in an age where everyone and their mother is trying to be the next big thing alongside a slippery slope of trigger finger cancel culture. Author @kylajzhao cleverly captures this unnerving era, all while incorporating workplace dynamics and even a dash of romance. Readers who are looking for a refreshing take on the modern day woman should know that Valley Verified is the real deal.
Then a chance meeting with the head of a Silicon Valley startup offers the promise of something different. The company, Fitpick, has a unique idea, and a sweet starting salary. Sure, it’s technology based and Zoe, tech challenged. But who says fashionistas can’t try something new on for size?
But soon after Zoe arrives on the West Coast she begins to miss the creature comforts of home. Although a new concept, Fitpick’s staff already seems to be a well oiled machine, Zoe the unwelcome third wheel. Determined to make her mark, Zoe fights to have her voice, and her ideas, be heard. After all, she’s managed to survive the world of cutthroat couture. How hard can pivoting to the province of programming really be?
Before long FitPick gets picked as the startup du jour. But just like in the world of fashion, trends come and go. Suddenly Zoe finds herself at the heart of the story, and the mercy of critique in the form of Valley Verified, the unofficial Lady Whistledown of tech world whistleblowers.
Valley Verified is a timely novel in an age where everyone and their mother is trying to be the next big thing alongside a slippery slope of trigger finger cancel culture. Author @kylajzhao cleverly captures this unnerving era, all while incorporating workplace dynamics and even a dash of romance. Readers who are looking for a refreshing take on the modern day woman should know that Valley Verified is the real deal.
June 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This was such a good time!! I love coming across a contemporary that has the same lightness and tone of a romance balanced with character development, real life feelings and problems, without feeling TOO heavy!! This was a great balance, had fun side characters, and was very well paced.
It felt like I was reading a romance until I realized 50% in that they hadn’t even held hands or anything. The story was mainly focused on her job, relationships, and personal development. I really liked that! I want more books like this.
The side characters were fun, the progression of her confidence in her career was satisfying, and I enjoyed the journey! Also, I don’t usually read books this fast so it gets extra points for bingeability.
Excited to read the rest of this authors books 💕
This was such a good time!! I love coming across a contemporary that has the same lightness and tone of a romance balanced with character development, real life feelings and problems, without feeling TOO heavy!! This was a great balance, had fun side characters, and was very well paced.
It felt like I was reading a romance until I realized 50% in that they hadn’t even held hands or anything. The story was mainly focused on her job, relationships, and personal development. I really liked that! I want more books like this.
The side characters were fun, the progression of her confidence in her career was satisfying, and I enjoyed the journey! Also, I don’t usually read books this fast so it gets extra points for bingeability.
Excited to read the rest of this authors books 💕
January 25, 2024
Zoe Zeng has made it in New York’s fashion world. She’s a fashion magazine columnist at Chic, but it’s not everything she dreamed it would be. So when she receives a job offer at a fashion-based app startup called FitPick, she jumps at the chance, moving clear across the country from NYC to Silicon Valley. But Zoe soon realizes that the new job is more than she bargained for, and not everyone’s intentions align with hers.
I’m going to need someone to make this book into a movie right away! I could see so many of the scenes vividly in my mind’s eye. Zoe is so charming and colorful, and her character arc and growth over the course of the story had me rooting for her to succeed. I loved her fish-out-of-water moments as she adapts to life and (a lack of) fashion in the tech industry, and the banter between Zoe and her coworkers is thoroughly amusing. This story is cute and fun but with an edge of compelling commentary about inclusivity in the fashion industry and sexism in the tech industry.
Thanks for the free book @BerkleyPub! #BerkleyPartner #Berkley #gifted
I’m going to need someone to make this book into a movie right away! I could see so many of the scenes vividly in my mind’s eye. Zoe is so charming and colorful, and her character arc and growth over the course of the story had me rooting for her to succeed. I loved her fish-out-of-water moments as she adapts to life and (a lack of) fashion in the tech industry, and the banter between Zoe and her coworkers is thoroughly amusing. This story is cute and fun but with an edge of compelling commentary about inclusivity in the fashion industry and sexism in the tech industry.
Thanks for the free book @BerkleyPub! #BerkleyPartner #Berkley #gifted
December 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this coming of age story featuring Asian American fashion writer, Zoe who is finding life in NYC dissatisfying after making it nowhere in her current job. When she gets an offer to join a new tech startup, FitPick, she jumps at the chance and embraces the Silicon Valley life. Unfortunately trying to make it as a woman in a male dominated industry is no easy feat, especially when she discovers what a shady guy her boss is.
Full of female empowerment, found family and taking down the man justice, plus a touch of secret office romance and I was all in on this story. Great on audio too and perfect for fans of books like Technically yours by Denise Williams. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital copy and @prhaudio for complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Full of female empowerment, found family and taking down the man justice, plus a touch of secret office romance and I was all in on this story. Great on audio too and perfect for fans of books like Technically yours by Denise Williams. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital copy and @prhaudio for complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
February 10, 2024
This was a really fun, Devil Wears Prada/Disclosure mash-up, where the patriarchy of Silicon Valley clashes with high New York fashion, but brought bang up to date by the added pressure and intensive scrutiny of social media.
Zoe is a New York fashion journalist whose values and creativity are being stifled by an overpowering boss. She’s offered the opportunity to apply her skills and knowledge to a Cali-start-up, where, from the outset, she feels out of her depth. (Imposter syndrome, anybody?) Antics ensue.
I thoroughly enjoyed this audio book, which was a fast-paced easy read with some serious underlying messages. There’s strong friendships, a little romance, a lot of chauvinism and misogyny, high fashion, influencers, body positivity and cafe culture. What’s not to love?
Five stars from me, and a big thank you to NetGalley and Headline audio for the chance to read an ARC.
Valley Verified is out now.
Zoe is a New York fashion journalist whose values and creativity are being stifled by an overpowering boss. She’s offered the opportunity to apply her skills and knowledge to a Cali-start-up, where, from the outset, she feels out of her depth. (Imposter syndrome, anybody?) Antics ensue.
I thoroughly enjoyed this audio book, which was a fast-paced easy read with some serious underlying messages. There’s strong friendships, a little romance, a lot of chauvinism and misogyny, high fashion, influencers, body positivity and cafe culture. What’s not to love?
Five stars from me, and a big thank you to NetGalley and Headline audio for the chance to read an ARC.
Valley Verified is out now.
January 6, 2025
Pretty fun, quick read. I needed a quick read after just finishing a very long book, and this did the trick. Thought it would be fun as it was all about females in the tech industry (I.e. moi) and it was. Pretty simplistic and hilariously everyone lived happily ever after, but just what I needed. Nothing complex about this book.
December 15, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, author Kyla Zhao, and Berkley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
This book was unfortunately not for me. I was very intrigued by the fashion aspect side of it, and although I knew she would be going into the tech world, I did not expect for how much tech jargon or stereotypical start-up people/behavior/settings would be included. That is on me, as I am not into tech stuff at all personally and should have read the synopsis more carefully. Ultimately though, I also found the writing to be pretty basic, and Zoey's character irritated me quite a bit. I would have loved to see her friendships/relationships with her coworkers fleshed out more and had less time spent on a cheesy office romance that added nothing to the story. I also didn't like how Zoey was immediately against the only other woman in the office. There was too much "telling" and not "showing" of things happening in the book, and I felt like this was just a forgettable read for me.
This book was unfortunately not for me. I was very intrigued by the fashion aspect side of it, and although I knew she would be going into the tech world, I did not expect for how much tech jargon or stereotypical start-up people/behavior/settings would be included. That is on me, as I am not into tech stuff at all personally and should have read the synopsis more carefully. Ultimately though, I also found the writing to be pretty basic, and Zoey's character irritated me quite a bit. I would have loved to see her friendships/relationships with her coworkers fleshed out more and had less time spent on a cheesy office romance that added nothing to the story. I also didn't like how Zoey was immediately against the only other woman in the office. There was too much "telling" and not "showing" of things happening in the book, and I felt like this was just a forgettable read for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews