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Love on the Second Read
Emma Morales, tenacious romance book editor and proud cat lady, knows romance, but love? Nope. Thank you very much. Enter nerdy sci-fi and fantasy editor Kip Alegre, who quotes JRR Tolkien for breakfast and knows heartbreak all too well.
When Emma gets a career-changing sci-fi romance manuscript which may just save their publishing house from folding, she knows she must work with Kip if she wants to succeed. Sounds simple enough, right? But when well-meaning meddling best friends, an obsessive ex-boyfriend, and a beautiful ex-fiancée come into the picture, the job doesn’t seem so simple anymore. What starts out as a friendly―flirty―literary smackdown between Emma and Kip grows into something deeper than either of them had signed up for.
The deal was to edit the book, not their lives.
Emma and Kip may be willing to read the manuscript over and over again, but will they be willing to give love a second read?
When Emma gets a career-changing sci-fi romance manuscript which may just save their publishing house from folding, she knows she must work with Kip if she wants to succeed. Sounds simple enough, right? But when well-meaning meddling best friends, an obsessive ex-boyfriend, and a beautiful ex-fiancée come into the picture, the job doesn’t seem so simple anymore. What starts out as a friendly―flirty―literary smackdown between Emma and Kip grows into something deeper than either of them had signed up for.
The deal was to edit the book, not their lives.
Emma and Kip may be willing to read the manuscript over and over again, but will they be willing to give love a second read?
256 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
5189 people want to read
About the author
Mica De Leon
7 books70 followersMica De Leon is the author of six books published by Penguin Random House SEA. Her first novel, Love on the Second Read, is a rom-com set in the Philippines about two Filipino book editors. She is also the author of the Seedmage Cycle Trilogy books—Winds Of War, Veins Of Power, and Seeds Of Conquest—which is an epic, high fantasy trilogy inspired by Philippine myths and folklore.
She is a Filipino author of swoony romance comedy novels and epic fantasy novels, and she has won the Don Carlos Palanca Awards for Literature in 2019 and 2022 for her essays on romance, feminism, history, fantasy, and the Filipino identity. She is also the Executive Editor of one of the leading publishing houses in the Philippines and has produced over 200 books in her ten years there.
She likes walking on the beach, dogs, cats, swoony and spicy romance novels, epic, sci-fi-fantasy novels, Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere books, Pierce Brown’s Red Rising, and Taylor Swift. She is still trying (and failing) to meet all the impossible deadlines she gave herself five years ago.
Connect with her on Instagram and Tiktok at @micadeleonwrites and on Threads and X at @micadlwrites.
She is a Filipino author of swoony romance comedy novels and epic fantasy novels, and she has won the Don Carlos Palanca Awards for Literature in 2019 and 2022 for her essays on romance, feminism, history, fantasy, and the Filipino identity. She is also the Executive Editor of one of the leading publishing houses in the Philippines and has produced over 200 books in her ten years there.
She likes walking on the beach, dogs, cats, swoony and spicy romance novels, epic, sci-fi-fantasy novels, Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere books, Pierce Brown’s Red Rising, and Taylor Swift. She is still trying (and failing) to meet all the impossible deadlines she gave herself five years ago.
Connect with her on Instagram and Tiktok at @micadeleonwrites and on Threads and X at @micadlwrites.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 109 reviews
January 15, 2024
2.5 stars rounded to 3 ⭐️
A romance book set in the vibrant world of publishing in the Philippines? I am definitely in! The premise is good and it had a lot of potential but it kind of fell short for my liking. I got bits of Filipino things here and there but there wasn’t really that much. I want to see the cultures, the food, everything. Idk if it’s just me but when I read books with Filipino rep, it’s a need to see these things.
Moving on, we have the relationship between the MCs. I was really intrigued initially because who doesn’t love a romance book with two editors engaged in a rivalry of some sort but are forced to work together on editing a book? But even that felt really flat. Maybe it’s because I have read both Book Lovers (agent x editor but the story line is pretty much the same) and The Hating Game (office rivalry, which has the same vibe as this book). In addition, the ex pretty much takes up too much scenes in this book. He was there from the start up until the last few chapters of the book which pissed me off big time. What I found adorable though, is their literary banters/references.
Thank you for the eARC Penguin books SEA ✨
A romance book set in the vibrant world of publishing in the Philippines? I am definitely in! The premise is good and it had a lot of potential but it kind of fell short for my liking. I got bits of Filipino things here and there but there wasn’t really that much. I want to see the cultures, the food, everything. Idk if it’s just me but when I read books with Filipino rep, it’s a need to see these things.
Moving on, we have the relationship between the MCs. I was really intrigued initially because who doesn’t love a romance book with two editors engaged in a rivalry of some sort but are forced to work together on editing a book? But even that felt really flat. Maybe it’s because I have read both Book Lovers (agent x editor but the story line is pretty much the same) and The Hating Game (office rivalry, which has the same vibe as this book). In addition, the ex pretty much takes up too much scenes in this book. He was there from the start up until the last few chapters of the book which pissed me off big time. What I found adorable though, is their literary banters/references.
Thank you for the eARC Penguin books SEA ✨
November 10, 2023
This book has been a DREAM COME TURE for me as a brown publicist working in publishing!!! To be able to ideate on the campaign and help take it to the whole world has been a journey.
But here's what I love love love about this book. Keeping the publicist in my aside, and awakening the book reviewer in me, Mica De Leon's writing is so easy to consume and easy to follow. It's catchy, has the right pacing and she throws in so much heart and banter that it's hard to read this book without not smiling or gushing every few pages.
One of the lines that stood out for me the MOST when I first read a very very very early draft of this book and what still remains in the final copy is -
“I’m not saying it’s bad to put your heart and soul in everything you do, but you’ve got to leave some for yourself. And you’ve got to leave room for others to fill themselves up with their own hearts and souls. You can’t fix every problem by breaking off pieces of you.”
Love On The Second Read is a love letter to books, publishing and second-chance romance. But it is also about finding yourself, forgiving yourself, moving on, finding new joys, and 'happily ever afters' after you thought you would never find it!!!! Such a heartwarming debut!!!
But here's what I love love love about this book. Keeping the publicist in my aside, and awakening the book reviewer in me, Mica De Leon's writing is so easy to consume and easy to follow. It's catchy, has the right pacing and she throws in so much heart and banter that it's hard to read this book without not smiling or gushing every few pages.
One of the lines that stood out for me the MOST when I first read a very very very early draft of this book and what still remains in the final copy is -
“I’m not saying it’s bad to put your heart and soul in everything you do, but you’ve got to leave some for yourself. And you’ve got to leave room for others to fill themselves up with their own hearts and souls. You can’t fix every problem by breaking off pieces of you.”
Love On The Second Read is a love letter to books, publishing and second-chance romance. But it is also about finding yourself, forgiving yourself, moving on, finding new joys, and 'happily ever afters' after you thought you would never find it!!!! Such a heartwarming debut!!!
January 16, 2024
Read
this book is the latest star of my daydreams and delusions, and for good reason! ᵔᴗᵔ
love on the second read by mica de leon features:
✶ clashing book editors
✶ romcom vs sci-fi fantasy
✶ a floundering local publishing house
✶ nerdy text smackdowns
✶ tension-filled literary banter
✶ a reluctant collaboration
✶ and one manuscript that changes everything
love on the second read is a perfect marriage of some of booksta and booktok’s favourite new adult romcoms, it’s the nerdy love child of: beach read, the hating game and book lovers.
but what sets it apart is the setting: the book publishing industry in the philippines! as an overworked filipino corporate girlie, the scenarios emma and kip find themselves in (late night overtimes, jollibee deliveries, factory visits) are ones i live out myself! so reading this book had me giggling and kicking my feet as my romanticised delusions played out on the page.
some of my personal highlights:
☀︎ the princess bride appreciation
☀︎ nerdy book banter nerdy book banter
☀︎ the sports fest moment??
☀︎ kip’s low-key skinship while he and emma had a work expo and then walking off to lunch holding hands
☀︎ janey, emma’s work bestie being an all-rounder marketing girlie
☀︎ their dynamic with office printers/cutters (lol, why are office devices like that??)
☀︎ the backstory behind the nickname buttercup
the overall pacing of this book was so well done by mica de leon, the writing-style and characterisations were engaging and never at all boring, the scenarios our leads found themselves in were both relatable but if relatability had a premium subscription.
and underneath all the fantastic, sexy, nerdy banter and pockets of drama throughout the story, the love and appreciation for the book publishing industry shines through the words— a testament to mica’s many years working as a book editor and the love she herself has for her job.
i adored this book and am really kilig (filipino for giddy) that we filipinos have representation in the new adult romcom sphere through emma and kip! love on the second read stands it’s own and even trumps some of the more known titles in this genre.
i am very keen to read more from this author, whether she delives into more of emma’s neck of the woods (romance) or into kip’s (sci fi fantasy). can’t wait for what she comes up with next.
this book is the latest star of my daydreams and delusions, and for good reason! ᵔᴗᵔ
love on the second read by mica de leon features:
✶ clashing book editors
✶ romcom vs sci-fi fantasy
✶ a floundering local publishing house
✶ nerdy text smackdowns
✶ tension-filled literary banter
✶ a reluctant collaboration
✶ and one manuscript that changes everything
love on the second read is a perfect marriage of some of booksta and booktok’s favourite new adult romcoms, it’s the nerdy love child of: beach read, the hating game and book lovers.
but what sets it apart is the setting: the book publishing industry in the philippines! as an overworked filipino corporate girlie, the scenarios emma and kip find themselves in (late night overtimes, jollibee deliveries, factory visits) are ones i live out myself! so reading this book had me giggling and kicking my feet as my romanticised delusions played out on the page.
some of my personal highlights:
☀︎ the princess bride appreciation
☀︎ nerdy book banter nerdy book banter
☀︎ the sports fest moment??
☀︎ kip’s low-key skinship while he and emma had a work expo and then walking off to lunch holding hands
☀︎ janey, emma’s work bestie being an all-rounder marketing girlie
☀︎ their dynamic with office printers/cutters (lol, why are office devices like that??)
☀︎ the backstory behind the nickname buttercup
the overall pacing of this book was so well done by mica de leon, the writing-style and characterisations were engaging and never at all boring, the scenarios our leads found themselves in were both relatable but if relatability had a premium subscription.
and underneath all the fantastic, sexy, nerdy banter and pockets of drama throughout the story, the love and appreciation for the book publishing industry shines through the words— a testament to mica’s many years working as a book editor and the love she herself has for her job.
i adored this book and am really kilig (filipino for giddy) that we filipinos have representation in the new adult romcom sphere through emma and kip! love on the second read stands it’s own and even trumps some of the more known titles in this genre.
i am very keen to read more from this author, whether she delives into more of emma’s neck of the woods (romance) or into kip’s (sci fi fantasy). can’t wait for what she comes up with next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2024
That was such a fun read! You know the vibes that 2000s Filipino rom-coms give? Love on the Second Read feels a little bit like that, only less sexist (lol) and packed full to bursting with literary references. Also, I have been yearning for a rivals-to-lovers office romance where the actions of the main characters to each other are just irritating/annoying and not valid grounds for an HR complaint (for reference, I tweeted this in 2021) and FINALLY, Mica De Leon has answered my prayers. Kip and Emma, she a romance editor and he an SFF editor at the same publishing house, have to get over their petty games of one-upmanship to collaborate on a crossover genre novel that could jumpstart their company's flagging sales. This book features them navigating their respective hang-ups about love and previous relationships all while balancing some very interesting bookish dilemmas, and I had a great time throughout the entire journey. Lemme just say that if you happen to like the exploration of how previous relationships and heartbreaks can affect one's current outlook on life and love, then this is definitely the book for you.
De Leon also explores the concept of genres, heavily quoting Neil Gaiman's various essays and speeches where he discusses the fluidity of genre and the futility of genre snobbery. Of course, the obvious example is the manuscript that Kip and Emma have to work on, a novel of crossover appeal which features science fiction, fantasy, and romantic elements. But the beauty of this book is that Love On the Second Read itself contains multitudes: of course, it has very obvious themes of romance and intimacy, but those are interspersed with moments of self-discovery and self-determination, both for Emma and Kip. It made the story deeper and more meaningful for me.
De Leon also explores the concept of genres, heavily quoting Neil Gaiman's various essays and speeches where he discusses the fluidity of genre and the futility of genre snobbery. Of course, the obvious example is the manuscript that Kip and Emma have to work on, a novel of crossover appeal which features science fiction, fantasy, and romantic elements. But the beauty of this book is that Love On the Second Read itself contains multitudes: of course, it has very obvious themes of romance and intimacy, but those are interspersed with moments of self-discovery and self-determination, both for Emma and Kip. It made the story deeper and more meaningful for me.
February 6, 2025
Emma dan Kip adalah dua orang editor yang sering saling menyerang dan beradu argumen. Emma memegang lini romansa, sementara Kip memegang fiksi ilmiah dan fantasy. Ketika salah satu penulis andalan Emma, Amora, mengirimkan naskah yang berbeda dari biasanya, Emma tahu kalau naskah itu akan jatuh ke tangan Kip. Tapi Emma tidak akan semudah itu untuk menyerah.
Hingga akhirnya itulah yang terjadi. Emma dan Kip diberi tanggung jawab menjadi editor bagi naskah terbaru Amora. Kedekatan mereka akhirnya membuat hubungan mereka berubah arah. Hanya saja Kip terlihat ragu, karena mantan pacar Emma masih sering muncul di sekitar mereka.
Trope benci jadi suka dan office romance, ditambah berada di dalam dunia per-buku-an mungkin menjadi nilai tambah dari novel asal Filipina ini. Bagian Emma dan Kip saling beradu kutipan buku itu menarik, juga mengenai beberapa detail tentang literatur di setiap awal bab.
Hingga akhirnya itulah yang terjadi. Emma dan Kip diberi tanggung jawab menjadi editor bagi naskah terbaru Amora. Kedekatan mereka akhirnya membuat hubungan mereka berubah arah. Hanya saja Kip terlihat ragu, karena mantan pacar Emma masih sering muncul di sekitar mereka.
Trope benci jadi suka dan office romance, ditambah berada di dalam dunia per-buku-an mungkin menjadi nilai tambah dari novel asal Filipina ini. Bagian Emma dan Kip saling beradu kutipan buku itu menarik, juga mengenai beberapa detail tentang literatur di setiap awal bab.
January 2, 2025
Love on the Second Read berkisah tentang Emma Morales yang merupakan seorang editor buku romansa. Penerbit tempatnya bekerja sedang bangkrut dan dia terancam harus mencari pekerjaan lain.
Sebuah naskah romansa fiksi ilmiah yang diterimanya dari salah satu penulis mungkin menjadi kunci untuk menyelamatkan
penerbit dan karirnya.
Tapi untuk menjadikan naskah ini berhasil dia harus bekerja sama dengan Kip Alegre- editor buku fantasi dan fiksi ilmiah-yang sering membuat penulis tertekan dan rivalnya sendiri!
Emma tidak punya pilihan. Di tengah sibuknya menggarap naskah bersama Kip, dia juga harus menghadapi mantan pacar yang masih terobsesi padanya.
Bagaimanakah Emma melalui semuanya? Apa yang akan dilakukannya ketika kebersamaannya bersama Kip menumbuhkan sesuatu dihatinya?
___________________
Office romance + rivals to lovers??? I’M HOOKED! ✨😆💖
Aku suka banget buku ini! Beneran tipe bacaan yang ringan dan bikin ikut salting! Pokoknya baca buku romansa kaya gini tuh gak usah mikirin ini itu, cukup nikmati aja dan berhalu ria. Wkwk
Apa lagi buat booklovers bakalan makin suka sama buku ini. Kedua tokoh utamanya editor disebuah penerbitan, jadi dapat gambaran gimana proses terbitnya sebuah buku dan banyak hal-hal perbukuan lainnya yang muncul diceritanya.
Terus Kip ini idaman banget sih. As booknerd aku suka bayangin gimana sih rasanya punya pacar yang sehobi? Yang beneran ngerti apa yang aku omongin. Kip adalah jawabannya. 🫶🏻
Emma dan Kip dua2nya kan booknerd, jadi suka saling manggil pake nama tokoh fiksi dari buku, atau pas ngobrol tuh sambil adu kutipan dari buku-buku gitu. Gemes bangeet! Pokoknya aku puas karena banyak refensinya tuh dari buku2 yang udah aku baca, jadi aku paham mereka ngomongin apa. 😌
Jadi apa lagi yang kamu tunggu? Baca buku ini sekarang jugaaaa! ✨💖
Sebuah naskah romansa fiksi ilmiah yang diterimanya dari salah satu penulis mungkin menjadi kunci untuk menyelamatkan
penerbit dan karirnya.
Tapi untuk menjadikan naskah ini berhasil dia harus bekerja sama dengan Kip Alegre- editor buku fantasi dan fiksi ilmiah-yang sering membuat penulis tertekan dan rivalnya sendiri!
Emma tidak punya pilihan. Di tengah sibuknya menggarap naskah bersama Kip, dia juga harus menghadapi mantan pacar yang masih terobsesi padanya.
Bagaimanakah Emma melalui semuanya? Apa yang akan dilakukannya ketika kebersamaannya bersama Kip menumbuhkan sesuatu dihatinya?
___________________
Office romance + rivals to lovers??? I’M HOOKED! ✨😆💖
Aku suka banget buku ini! Beneran tipe bacaan yang ringan dan bikin ikut salting! Pokoknya baca buku romansa kaya gini tuh gak usah mikirin ini itu, cukup nikmati aja dan berhalu ria. Wkwk
Apa lagi buat booklovers bakalan makin suka sama buku ini. Kedua tokoh utamanya editor disebuah penerbitan, jadi dapat gambaran gimana proses terbitnya sebuah buku dan banyak hal-hal perbukuan lainnya yang muncul diceritanya.
Terus Kip ini idaman banget sih. As booknerd aku suka bayangin gimana sih rasanya punya pacar yang sehobi? Yang beneran ngerti apa yang aku omongin. Kip adalah jawabannya. 🫶🏻
Emma dan Kip dua2nya kan booknerd, jadi suka saling manggil pake nama tokoh fiksi dari buku, atau pas ngobrol tuh sambil adu kutipan dari buku-buku gitu. Gemes bangeet! Pokoknya aku puas karena banyak refensinya tuh dari buku2 yang udah aku baca, jadi aku paham mereka ngomongin apa. 😌
Jadi apa lagi yang kamu tunggu? Baca buku ini sekarang jugaaaa! ✨💖
December 27, 2023
Rating: 2.5 stars
A little disclaimer: I've been known to be very generous in rating books, except for when it comes to romance novels. It's not because I'm against romance, in fact, quite the opposite - I'm still a hopeless romantic in my relentless quest to find romantic stories that I can root for. It's just that I have grown pretty bitter over the years of the fact that romance seems to exist only for other people and within pages of books specifically for characters I can't relate to. As much as I wanted to love this novel, it did unfortunately fall short for me in so many ways.
For one, since it was written by a Filipino author, I thought the book would bring more Filipino cultures within the story. It was one of the reasons I chose this book, so I was left rather disappointed. There were also too many romantic tropes happening between the could-be should-be lovers, which, for me was a little too on the nose to be an exciting read. I felt like the epilogue was completely unnecessary as well. I already liked the ending before the epilogue.
It did, however, make a lot of references to popular books and movies. The book publishing process was also pretty detailed, for those who might be interested. I did find some of the things said to be pretty funny, witty and relatable. Sadly, there were more parts that made me cringe and roll my eyes because of how overused they were in romance novels.
Overall, this was not a bad book per se, it was just not meant for me. Thank you for reading my review. If I could ask for a favour, I'd love to know that one title of a romance novel that you think a bitter hopeless romantic like me should try. I'm not giving up! Leave me a suggestion!
A little disclaimer: I've been known to be very generous in rating books, except for when it comes to romance novels. It's not because I'm against romance, in fact, quite the opposite - I'm still a hopeless romantic in my relentless quest to find romantic stories that I can root for. It's just that I have grown pretty bitter over the years of the fact that romance seems to exist only for other people and within pages of books specifically for characters I can't relate to. As much as I wanted to love this novel, it did unfortunately fall short for me in so many ways.
For one, since it was written by a Filipino author, I thought the book would bring more Filipino cultures within the story. It was one of the reasons I chose this book, so I was left rather disappointed. There were also too many romantic tropes happening between the could-be should-be lovers, which, for me was a little too on the nose to be an exciting read. I felt like the epilogue was completely unnecessary as well. I already liked the ending before the epilogue.
It did, however, make a lot of references to popular books and movies. The book publishing process was also pretty detailed, for those who might be interested. I did find some of the things said to be pretty funny, witty and relatable. Sadly, there were more parts that made me cringe and roll my eyes because of how overused they were in romance novels.
Overall, this was not a bad book per se, it was just not meant for me. Thank you for reading my review. If I could ask for a favour, I'd love to know that one title of a romance novel that you think a bitter hopeless romantic like me should try. I'm not giving up! Leave me a suggestion!
December 26, 2023
WHAT DID I JUST READ? HOW COULD SOMETHING BE THIS PERFECT?
When I finished reading this book, I couldn't help but grin ear to ear because this book was so perfect and so good. It is books like this that make me believe in the power of love and happiness.
It's a story of two book editors, Kip and Emma. One is a master of science fiction while the other is a pro in editing romance novels. When they both come together to work on the same book, things start taking shape. But of course, there's a lot more than just romance in it. There are feelings of insecurity, of not being someone's first choice and feeling guilty for falling out of love before the other person did. But this is what made it a perfect read for me. It was so real yet so dreamy. I was blushing so hard while reading about Emma and Kip and I just wanted them to be together and live happily ever after.
It is perfect in every sense. It has friendship, romance, smut, emotions and a bunch of wholesome moments that will make you go "Aww".
Read this if you enjoy:
- enemies to lovers
- second chances
- moderate steamy scenes
- emotional elements
When I finished reading this book, I couldn't help but grin ear to ear because this book was so perfect and so good. It is books like this that make me believe in the power of love and happiness.
It's a story of two book editors, Kip and Emma. One is a master of science fiction while the other is a pro in editing romance novels. When they both come together to work on the same book, things start taking shape. But of course, there's a lot more than just romance in it. There are feelings of insecurity, of not being someone's first choice and feeling guilty for falling out of love before the other person did. But this is what made it a perfect read for me. It was so real yet so dreamy. I was blushing so hard while reading about Emma and Kip and I just wanted them to be together and live happily ever after.
It is perfect in every sense. It has friendship, romance, smut, emotions and a bunch of wholesome moments that will make you go "Aww".
Read this if you enjoy:
- enemies to lovers
- second chances
- moderate steamy scenes
- emotional elements
April 8, 2025
3,6🌟
"Semua romansa adalah kisah cinta, tapi tidak semu kisah cinta adalah romansa."
Emma dan Kip merupakan editor di sebuah perusahaan penerbitan buku. Emma biasa menangani naskah novel romance, sedangkan Kip biasa menangani naskah novel fantasi.
Emma dan Kip kerap berselisih dan bahkan sering melontarkan kalimat-kalimat sarkas untuk membuktikan siapa yg lebih kutu buku diantara mereka. Mereka bahkan sering mengganti-ganti nama panggilan masing-masing dengan nama tokoh yg ada di buku.
Keduanya terpaksa harus bekerja sama karena penulis yg biasa dipegang Emma mengajukan naskah baru bertema romance fantasy. Hal tsb membuat hubungan keduanya menjadi lebih dekat.
Sepertinya ini novel dari penulis Filipina pertama yg kubaca. Ceritanya menarik, mengangkat tema enemy to lovers yg berlatar di dunia penerbitan buku.
Disini selain kita dikasih lihat gimana perkembangan hubungan Emma dan Kip yg berubah dari benci jadi saling suka, kita juga akan diperlihatkan dengan bagaimana proses sebuah buku sampe bisa terbit, proses editing dsb. Jadi bikin kita tau gimana step by step sebuah buku sebelum terbit ke pasaran.
Selain itu topik per-mantan-an juga dibahas di novel ini, dan bikin ceritanya jadi lebih menarik dan berwarna.
Hanya saja aku merasa hubungan Emma dan Kip disini perubahannya terlalu cepat dan terburu-buru, tau-tau kok udah saling suka aja mereka. Tapi terlepas dari itu romansa diantara mereka ini cute banget dan menarik buat diikuti.
Oh iya tokoh lain dinovel ini yg bikin salfok itu ada Janey, teman dari Emma yg ceplas ceplos dan lucu. Tiap kemunculan dia tuh menghibur banget pokoknya.
Overall aku cukup menikmati baca novel ini, ceritanya menarik, lumayan bikin salting bacanya. Dan kita jadi tau gimana proses terbit sebuah buku, walau aku merasa ada terjemahan yg kaku dan ada kata-kata yg bikin bingung, tapi novel ini masih worth to read kok. Buat yg pengen tau gimana kisah Kip dan Emma yg sama-sama booknerd boleh banget baca novel ini.
"Semua romansa adalah kisah cinta, tapi tidak semu kisah cinta adalah romansa."
Emma dan Kip merupakan editor di sebuah perusahaan penerbitan buku. Emma biasa menangani naskah novel romance, sedangkan Kip biasa menangani naskah novel fantasi.
Emma dan Kip kerap berselisih dan bahkan sering melontarkan kalimat-kalimat sarkas untuk membuktikan siapa yg lebih kutu buku diantara mereka. Mereka bahkan sering mengganti-ganti nama panggilan masing-masing dengan nama tokoh yg ada di buku.
Keduanya terpaksa harus bekerja sama karena penulis yg biasa dipegang Emma mengajukan naskah baru bertema romance fantasy. Hal tsb membuat hubungan keduanya menjadi lebih dekat.
Sepertinya ini novel dari penulis Filipina pertama yg kubaca. Ceritanya menarik, mengangkat tema enemy to lovers yg berlatar di dunia penerbitan buku.
Disini selain kita dikasih lihat gimana perkembangan hubungan Emma dan Kip yg berubah dari benci jadi saling suka, kita juga akan diperlihatkan dengan bagaimana proses sebuah buku sampe bisa terbit, proses editing dsb. Jadi bikin kita tau gimana step by step sebuah buku sebelum terbit ke pasaran.
Selain itu topik per-mantan-an juga dibahas di novel ini, dan bikin ceritanya jadi lebih menarik dan berwarna.
Hanya saja aku merasa hubungan Emma dan Kip disini perubahannya terlalu cepat dan terburu-buru, tau-tau kok udah saling suka aja mereka. Tapi terlepas dari itu romansa diantara mereka ini cute banget dan menarik buat diikuti.
Oh iya tokoh lain dinovel ini yg bikin salfok itu ada Janey, teman dari Emma yg ceplas ceplos dan lucu. Tiap kemunculan dia tuh menghibur banget pokoknya.
Overall aku cukup menikmati baca novel ini, ceritanya menarik, lumayan bikin salting bacanya. Dan kita jadi tau gimana proses terbit sebuah buku, walau aku merasa ada terjemahan yg kaku dan ada kata-kata yg bikin bingung, tapi novel ini masih worth to read kok. Buat yg pengen tau gimana kisah Kip dan Emma yg sama-sama booknerd boleh banget baca novel ini.
March 17, 2024
This book is exceptionally lovely! I've always been a fan of books about books and this one just captures my whole heart. From the pacing, to the relatable characters, the bookish references and the romance. There were also so many relatable moments, alongside many foods for thoughts. The writer did a wonderful job with this one and I'm glad to have picked it up.
October 17, 2023
Charming and sweet with enough bite to keep things interesting, in LOVE ON THE SECOND READ author Mica De Leon delivers the rom-com feels readers crave. Bursting with clever literary banter and sprinkled with intriguing glimpses behind the scenes of the publishing industry, this story is, in a word, delightful.
March 9, 2024
Love on the Second Read is a delightful romance that revolves around two rival editors, Emma, who is a romance editor, and Kip, who is a science fiction editor.
The story is set in a publishing house that is on the verge of shutting down. Emma and Kip, who are rivals in their respective genres, are forced to collaborate on an important project that could save the company, which is editing the best-selling author’s latest manuscript, a sci-fi romance. Emma and Kip have no choice but to put aside their differences and work together on this project. As they work together, they discover a growing attraction between them, which is complicated by their love-hate relationship.
Though I felt that their relationship developed too quickly, it's exciting to see how their relationship continues to grow. I was looking forward to seeing how they’ll come together and blend their unique styles to create a book that combines the best of both literary worlds.
Besides, this book vividly portrays the inner workings of a busy publishing house. Through the eyes of Emma, Kip, and their colleagues, we witness the immense effort and dedication required to prepare books for publication. It's not an easy task, but their passion and commitment shine through on every page.
Honestly, I found myself more interested in their work than in their romantic relationship. While the romance is okay, I couldn't help but question why Emma, the romance editor, didn't realize that being friends with an ex-boyfriend who still has feelings for you is a major no-no.
Overall, this book is an enjoyable book that you can easily read in a day. It is a recommended read for those who love an exciting workplace romance that provides a glimpse into the publishing industry.
3.5 ★
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy :)
The story is set in a publishing house that is on the verge of shutting down. Emma and Kip, who are rivals in their respective genres, are forced to collaborate on an important project that could save the company, which is editing the best-selling author’s latest manuscript, a sci-fi romance. Emma and Kip have no choice but to put aside their differences and work together on this project. As they work together, they discover a growing attraction between them, which is complicated by their love-hate relationship.
Though I felt that their relationship developed too quickly, it's exciting to see how their relationship continues to grow. I was looking forward to seeing how they’ll come together and blend their unique styles to create a book that combines the best of both literary worlds.
Besides, this book vividly portrays the inner workings of a busy publishing house. Through the eyes of Emma, Kip, and their colleagues, we witness the immense effort and dedication required to prepare books for publication. It's not an easy task, but their passion and commitment shine through on every page.
Honestly, I found myself more interested in their work than in their romantic relationship. While the romance is okay, I couldn't help but question why Emma, the romance editor, didn't realize that being friends with an ex-boyfriend who still has feelings for you is a major no-no.
Overall, this book is an enjoyable book that you can easily read in a day. It is a recommended read for those who love an exciting workplace romance that provides a glimpse into the publishing industry.
3.5 ★
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy :)
July 16, 2024
Sadly I was quite disappointed with the book. I appreciated the author‘s enthusiasm for SFF tropes and the editing buisiness. I also loved that this romance actually spanned ober multiple months, where the development of their relationship actually slowly developed.
Now to the part that I liked and didn‘t like: Nick. I totally see how his character developed the story. But suddenly, rather than the heartbroken singer, who got broken up out of no-where with no explanation ever given, he became the villain who was borderline abusive and that only for one scene? It was just so odd that all of this abuse came out in the last 30 pages or so and then is forgotten about again. Although that brings us to Emma and lastly, the parts that I didn‘t like.
Emma was a rather weird character. I‘m all for characters having flaws. Their development propels the story. But I still wasn‘t able to understand the switching between „oh let‘s fight each other with annoyingly cheesy book references“ and „Heck, even his grunt amid the noise of the cheering crowd made the warm well in the pit of her stomach boil…“ (p 92) (GIRL JUST FUCK HIM ALREADY😭). Still, I can appreciate her development and how much she has grown over the course of the story.
The second point is the premise. „A workplace romance between two editors set against the backdrops of the vibrant Philippine book publishing scene“.
Workplace romance? Check☑️
Editors? Check☑️
Vibrant Philippine book publishing scene? Sadly no. A big problem of our characters was what they should do with their lives because their publishing house is potentially being closed. They literally discuss how small the publishing scene is and how difficult it would be to find another job. So that was misguiding.
Lastly, the writing would‘ve profited from a bit of editing (I know, ironic). I will put this paragraph here to show what I mean:
„As he continued to talk about Sanderson‘s laws, all her mind could process was how jacked he was. She has only known him as the SFF nerd who wore nerdy glasses and nerdy shirts and had the dorkiest, most adorable smile she had ever seen on a person in her six years in the company. He looked so much different before the lockdown. He filled out his nerd shirts more now than he did back then.“
We get it. He‘s a nerd. If that would be the first time this has been mentioned, it would‘ve been okay. But it‘s been said countless of times. Yes he’s a nerd. Yes she’s a nerd. YES THEY ARE ALL NERDS!
Also, sometimes the word choices felt clunky. Like in this instance:
„… nothing past touching and fondling and kissing, none of the pornographic things that Emma had wanted Kip to do to her and her to him“ (p128)
Yikes.
The story also put had odd priorities and put emphasis on some unimportant things (aka her friend knowingly being the side-chick of a guy and no one caring about it) and forgets others. Kip‘s and Emma‘s FIRST date was on VALENTINE‘S DAY and we didn‘t even witness it? Rather we have Emma telling us about it while she‘s meeting her ex in form of a very short flashback.
There is so much more I could criticize, but I think I‘ve got the most important things down. All in all, I‘m just a bit disappointed.
Now to the part that I liked and didn‘t like: Nick. I totally see how his character developed the story. But suddenly, rather than the heartbroken singer, who got broken up out of no-where with no explanation ever given, he became the villain who was borderline abusive and that only for one scene? It was just so odd that all of this abuse came out in the last 30 pages or so and then is forgotten about again. Although that brings us to Emma and lastly, the parts that I didn‘t like.
Emma was a rather weird character. I‘m all for characters having flaws. Their development propels the story. But I still wasn‘t able to understand the switching between „oh let‘s fight each other with annoyingly cheesy book references“ and „Heck, even his grunt amid the noise of the cheering crowd made the warm well in the pit of her stomach boil…“ (p 92) (GIRL JUST FUCK HIM ALREADY😭). Still, I can appreciate her development and how much she has grown over the course of the story.
The second point is the premise. „A workplace romance between two editors set against the backdrops of the vibrant Philippine book publishing scene“.
Workplace romance? Check☑️
Editors? Check☑️
Vibrant Philippine book publishing scene? Sadly no. A big problem of our characters was what they should do with their lives because their publishing house is potentially being closed. They literally discuss how small the publishing scene is and how difficult it would be to find another job. So that was misguiding.
Lastly, the writing would‘ve profited from a bit of editing (I know, ironic). I will put this paragraph here to show what I mean:
„As he continued to talk about Sanderson‘s laws, all her mind could process was how jacked he was. She has only known him as the SFF nerd who wore nerdy glasses and nerdy shirts and had the dorkiest, most adorable smile she had ever seen on a person in her six years in the company. He looked so much different before the lockdown. He filled out his nerd shirts more now than he did back then.“
We get it. He‘s a nerd. If that would be the first time this has been mentioned, it would‘ve been okay. But it‘s been said countless of times. Yes he’s a nerd. Yes she’s a nerd. YES THEY ARE ALL NERDS!
Also, sometimes the word choices felt clunky. Like in this instance:
„… nothing past touching and fondling and kissing, none of the pornographic things that Emma had wanted Kip to do to her and her to him“ (p128)
Yikes.
The story also put had odd priorities and put emphasis on some unimportant things (aka her friend knowingly being the side-chick of a guy and no one caring about it) and forgets others. Kip‘s and Emma‘s FIRST date was on VALENTINE‘S DAY and we didn‘t even witness it? Rather we have Emma telling us about it while she‘s meeting her ex in form of a very short flashback.
There is so much more I could criticize, but I think I‘ve got the most important things down. All in all, I‘m just a bit disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2023
All of us ever struggle with letting go or trusting fate, but life always works out for the best.
On ✔️personal growth ✔️relationship complexities and ✔️the nuanced emotions tied to love.
Following Emma's journey of self-discovery and love, her evolving romance with Kip unfolds against the backdrop of the publishing world, which is a unique setting that unravels the topic of passion, intimacy, and the challenges of navigating past relationships. The story delves into the intricacies of modern romance, addressing themes of second chances, the impact of past choices, and the pursuit of genuine connection.
We get to meet well-developed characters, which De Leon portrays their personalities, motivations, and growth throughout the narrative. It's easy to feel connected with Emma's character, as De Leon created a space for us to understand her struggles, decisions, and romantic entanglements. Light read, beginner-friendly, and decent pacing. Love the interplay of intimacy with broader themes of self-discovery that made 'Love on the Second Read' an enjoyable romance novel.
A realistic portrayal of love's challenges makes the story appealing, especially to those seeking an engaging romantic read. De Leon shows that sometimes, letting go of the past and embracing the present can lead to a fateful and fulfilling connection. What matters is that we live in the present and make the most of it. Exploration of one's choices and the unseen forces that shape romantic destinies offers a nuanced perspective on love, timing, and personal growth.
On ✔️personal growth ✔️relationship complexities and ✔️the nuanced emotions tied to love.
Following Emma's journey of self-discovery and love, her evolving romance with Kip unfolds against the backdrop of the publishing world, which is a unique setting that unravels the topic of passion, intimacy, and the challenges of navigating past relationships. The story delves into the intricacies of modern romance, addressing themes of second chances, the impact of past choices, and the pursuit of genuine connection.
We get to meet well-developed characters, which De Leon portrays their personalities, motivations, and growth throughout the narrative. It's easy to feel connected with Emma's character, as De Leon created a space for us to understand her struggles, decisions, and romantic entanglements. Light read, beginner-friendly, and decent pacing. Love the interplay of intimacy with broader themes of self-discovery that made 'Love on the Second Read' an enjoyable romance novel.
A realistic portrayal of love's challenges makes the story appealing, especially to those seeking an engaging romantic read. De Leon shows that sometimes, letting go of the past and embracing the present can lead to a fateful and fulfilling connection. What matters is that we live in the present and make the most of it. Exploration of one's choices and the unseen forces that shape romantic destinies offers a nuanced perspective on love, timing, and personal growth.
January 21, 2024
- book’s not out yet and I’m already convinced this will get me working for a publishing firm and look for my workplace romance -
update: the book is out and I finally read it. It indeed made me want to switch a career path and work for publishing 😩 I’d also like to raise a petition to bring back 2000s filipino rom coms and make this book an adaptation 🤞🙏
ps: kip alegre living in the same hometown as mine? where tf is my kip alegre then 🤨
update: the book is out and I finally read it. It indeed made me want to switch a career path and work for publishing 😩 I’d also like to raise a petition to bring back 2000s filipino rom coms and make this book an adaptation 🤞🙏
ps: kip alegre living in the same hometown as mine? where tf is my kip alegre then 🤨
March 30, 2024
A LITTLE BACKSTORY ON PICKING THIS BOOK
As soon as Penguin started posting and marketing about Love on the Second Read I was completely intrigued by the title, cover and the blurb. I wanted to read it right away. Come on, which booklover doesn't love a bookish book set up at the backdrop of a publishing house? This book was actually a dream come true moment for me. I was mentally screaming, sign me up, already! Just when I thought my chance to read and review this book I association with Penguin SEA is gone, Chai's email came as an antidote to my broken heart. I jumped in at the first opportunity to get my hands on this book. Thanks again Chai!
As someone with a considerable amount of experience from the publishing industry I was able to relate to this book at so many levels, right from signing a deal with the authors, making the book and finally publishing it. On top of it, reading South East Asian fictions has always been tremendous experience and all the Asian fictions I have ready by Penguin SEA hasn't let me dow. So, as a matter of fact, even before starting this book, I had a gut feeling I will be enjoying this read. I was hoping this book would serve as a door to witness Filipino lifestyle and culture.
The journey of this book is something not only booklovers but also all the individuals from the publishing industry should absolutely experience it.
STORYLINE
Love on the Second Read is the story of Emma Morales who is romance fiction editor at one of the biggest publishing houses in Philippines. Emma is recovering from her mother's death and a breakup of her long term relationship. The declining sales rate of books on whole due to the pandemic and upraise in digital consumption of content, Emma's dream job and her beloved company is at stake.
Like an answer to all of Emma's prayers, one of the bestselling authors of Emma comes out of her prolonged writer's block and provide the bestest manuscript of her career. This book has the potential to change the fate of their publishing house but the only problem is, Emma's author has written a Sci-Fi romance fiction instead of her regular romance genre.
Kip, the Sci-fi editor is the archnemesis of Emma at work. This book forces both Emma and Kip to work together. The forced proximity gradually leads to harmless flirting which deepens into something more which either of them signed up for. Will they ace in both their personal and professional life or will they let their personal life sabotage their career? That's the story of Love on the second read.
THE NERDY BOOKARAZZI’S TAKE ON THE BOOK
First of all, this book has all the hit romance tropes, starting from workplace romance, enemy to love interest, forced proximity, second chances, handsome ex waiting to patch-up and what not? Do you think a book can not be good with these tropes?
Love on the Second Read is a like a Taylor Swift song lyric, you cannot miss the Taylor Swift reference and the poetic writing style of the author. All the chapters' names also sounds a little bit like Ms.Swift's song title. The author has also mentioned a playlist to set up the mood of the book, do check out this author curator playlist, you will be grateful.
This book speaks elaborately speaks about the functionings of the publishing house. Only someone who has closely worked in the industry will be able to provide such an authentic note on the publishing industry. The everyday work routine of Emma and Kip has been beautifully captured. Through this book, the readers will get to know how much in advance, the publishing houses plan their book releases and how the editors fight the world to protect their author's work and do the best thing for the authors and the books. I absolutely loved every single part about their work.
The nerdy book references, literary banter and smackdown that runs between the lead characters throughout the book is something that will make the book nerds laugh and blush internally while reading this awesome book.
The storyline was pretty straight-forward and the pace of the book was also fast. Kip's character has built and developed meticulously, loved Emma's POV on Kip. Loved seeing Kip through Emma's eye. Emma's best friend is the voice of the readers, whenever Emma does something unfathomable, she give a hard reality check. We all need a friend like that. These two best friends' idea of spending a quality time together is going to the gym and doing heavy workouts, that's something I totally adored and at the same time would die if my best friend makes me do it. Lolz.
The only drawback of this book was there was only little representation about the Filipino side. Once of the major reasons why I picked up this book was I wanted to mentally travel to Philippines through this book and understand the culture and food over there but unfortunately that wasn't covered much in this book. At most instance I felt like I was reading a book based in US or UK. Additionally, certain instances were too cheesy to handle.
Most of the chapters ended with a cliffhanger unreasonably. Let's say if the lead characters go on a date, the author completed the chapter there with a cliffhanger and never talks about it in the next chapter. She would totally skip this date and move on with the plot. It was like turning someone on and leaving to die. Why, Mica? Why? Why would you do that to us? This was heartbreaking! I would've love to read these parts in much more detail.
The editing process, how both the lead characters fight to eliminate or add the important plotlines with regards to their respective genres was totally interesting to read. The way both of them try to teach each other about their genres was extremely technical and informative. If you are someone who would like to know about the underlines depths of romance or Sci-fi and fantasy, you would definitely love these parts.
The preparation for the bookfair was interesting to read. As a booklover, seeing the behind scenes of book fair prep was like experiencing Alice's excitement in wonderland.
We all know how an author feels while seeing their book getting published and placed in a stall on a bookfair for the first time. It is like they are proudly showing off their baby on which they've put in all their efforts and time. When someone purchase the book and appreciate it, they will be extremely exhilarated. This is common knowledge, but this book makes you understand, that's how an editor also feels when they see their authors' book get published and reaches heights. Both the author and editor put in the same amount of effort and love in a book. It is the authors who takes the centre stage and the editor would happily stay behind the screen and feel equally happy and proud of the book.
On the whole, this book is a treat to all the book lovers and you would get to know a great deal about the publishing house and their processes. This book has everything that is expected out of a rom-com.
My rating for this book would be 3 out of 5 stars
As soon as Penguin started posting and marketing about Love on the Second Read I was completely intrigued by the title, cover and the blurb. I wanted to read it right away. Come on, which booklover doesn't love a bookish book set up at the backdrop of a publishing house? This book was actually a dream come true moment for me. I was mentally screaming, sign me up, already! Just when I thought my chance to read and review this book I association with Penguin SEA is gone, Chai's email came as an antidote to my broken heart. I jumped in at the first opportunity to get my hands on this book. Thanks again Chai!
As someone with a considerable amount of experience from the publishing industry I was able to relate to this book at so many levels, right from signing a deal with the authors, making the book and finally publishing it. On top of it, reading South East Asian fictions has always been tremendous experience and all the Asian fictions I have ready by Penguin SEA hasn't let me dow. So, as a matter of fact, even before starting this book, I had a gut feeling I will be enjoying this read. I was hoping this book would serve as a door to witness Filipino lifestyle and culture.
The journey of this book is something not only booklovers but also all the individuals from the publishing industry should absolutely experience it.
STORYLINE
Love on the Second Read is the story of Emma Morales who is romance fiction editor at one of the biggest publishing houses in Philippines. Emma is recovering from her mother's death and a breakup of her long term relationship. The declining sales rate of books on whole due to the pandemic and upraise in digital consumption of content, Emma's dream job and her beloved company is at stake.
Like an answer to all of Emma's prayers, one of the bestselling authors of Emma comes out of her prolonged writer's block and provide the bestest manuscript of her career. This book has the potential to change the fate of their publishing house but the only problem is, Emma's author has written a Sci-Fi romance fiction instead of her regular romance genre.
Kip, the Sci-fi editor is the archnemesis of Emma at work. This book forces both Emma and Kip to work together. The forced proximity gradually leads to harmless flirting which deepens into something more which either of them signed up for. Will they ace in both their personal and professional life or will they let their personal life sabotage their career? That's the story of Love on the second read.
THE NERDY BOOKARAZZI’S TAKE ON THE BOOK
First of all, this book has all the hit romance tropes, starting from workplace romance, enemy to love interest, forced proximity, second chances, handsome ex waiting to patch-up and what not? Do you think a book can not be good with these tropes?
Love on the Second Read is a like a Taylor Swift song lyric, you cannot miss the Taylor Swift reference and the poetic writing style of the author. All the chapters' names also sounds a little bit like Ms.Swift's song title. The author has also mentioned a playlist to set up the mood of the book, do check out this author curator playlist, you will be grateful.
This book speaks elaborately speaks about the functionings of the publishing house. Only someone who has closely worked in the industry will be able to provide such an authentic note on the publishing industry. The everyday work routine of Emma and Kip has been beautifully captured. Through this book, the readers will get to know how much in advance, the publishing houses plan their book releases and how the editors fight the world to protect their author's work and do the best thing for the authors and the books. I absolutely loved every single part about their work.
The nerdy book references, literary banter and smackdown that runs between the lead characters throughout the book is something that will make the book nerds laugh and blush internally while reading this awesome book.
The storyline was pretty straight-forward and the pace of the book was also fast. Kip's character has built and developed meticulously, loved Emma's POV on Kip. Loved seeing Kip through Emma's eye. Emma's best friend is the voice of the readers, whenever Emma does something unfathomable, she give a hard reality check. We all need a friend like that. These two best friends' idea of spending a quality time together is going to the gym and doing heavy workouts, that's something I totally adored and at the same time would die if my best friend makes me do it. Lolz.
The only drawback of this book was there was only little representation about the Filipino side. Once of the major reasons why I picked up this book was I wanted to mentally travel to Philippines through this book and understand the culture and food over there but unfortunately that wasn't covered much in this book. At most instance I felt like I was reading a book based in US or UK. Additionally, certain instances were too cheesy to handle.
Most of the chapters ended with a cliffhanger unreasonably. Let's say if the lead characters go on a date, the author completed the chapter there with a cliffhanger and never talks about it in the next chapter. She would totally skip this date and move on with the plot. It was like turning someone on and leaving to die. Why, Mica? Why? Why would you do that to us? This was heartbreaking! I would've love to read these parts in much more detail.
The editing process, how both the lead characters fight to eliminate or add the important plotlines with regards to their respective genres was totally interesting to read. The way both of them try to teach each other about their genres was extremely technical and informative. If you are someone who would like to know about the underlines depths of romance or Sci-fi and fantasy, you would definitely love these parts.
The preparation for the bookfair was interesting to read. As a booklover, seeing the behind scenes of book fair prep was like experiencing Alice's excitement in wonderland.
We all know how an author feels while seeing their book getting published and placed in a stall on a bookfair for the first time. It is like they are proudly showing off their baby on which they've put in all their efforts and time. When someone purchase the book and appreciate it, they will be extremely exhilarated. This is common knowledge, but this book makes you understand, that's how an editor also feels when they see their authors' book get published and reaches heights. Both the author and editor put in the same amount of effort and love in a book. It is the authors who takes the centre stage and the editor would happily stay behind the screen and feel equally happy and proud of the book.
On the whole, this book is a treat to all the book lovers and you would get to know a great deal about the publishing house and their processes. This book has everything that is expected out of a rom-com.
My rating for this book would be 3 out of 5 stars
December 26, 2023
Love on Second Read is an exciting journey through the realm of romance combined with a dash of nerdy charm. :')
I think it should go without saying that I adore the rivals-to-lovers trope in romances. Do you know what makes that trope 100 times better? Having a bookish theme in the plot, of course! The competitive publishing industry serves as the backdrop for Love on the Second Read - a factor that made me instantly interested in reading the story when I first read the blurb a few months back. The author didn't disappoint with the setting of the story. The behind-the-scenes look into the publishing world made the book so intriguing to me!
The book played out like a cheesy, addictive rom-com movie that I'd love to binge-watch on a gloomy day, for an instant mood-boost. I loved seeing Kip and Emma's romance develop with the struggles that they faced with their jobs. The literary banter, the chemistry, the competitive attitude between the both of them, the sudden change of feelings, the realization that you might like the other person more than just a friend - all of these factors/instances made Love on the Second Read entertaining to read. I would have liked a bit more development and slow pacing in the romance plotline though. Even though the book was a light-hearted read, the author portrayed the themes of self-love and self-discovery through the main characters perfectly. I especially loved seeing Emma's growth, and how she navigated her feelings for Kip carefully by tackling her insecurities from past experiences.
If you're looking for a book with lovable characters, a touch of drama, literary banter, and references along with charming characters, don't look any further. Get a copy of Love on the Second Read NOW! <3 Many thanks to Penguin Random House SEA for sending a review copy my way! <3
I think it should go without saying that I adore the rivals-to-lovers trope in romances. Do you know what makes that trope 100 times better? Having a bookish theme in the plot, of course! The competitive publishing industry serves as the backdrop for Love on the Second Read - a factor that made me instantly interested in reading the story when I first read the blurb a few months back. The author didn't disappoint with the setting of the story. The behind-the-scenes look into the publishing world made the book so intriguing to me!
The book played out like a cheesy, addictive rom-com movie that I'd love to binge-watch on a gloomy day, for an instant mood-boost. I loved seeing Kip and Emma's romance develop with the struggles that they faced with their jobs. The literary banter, the chemistry, the competitive attitude between the both of them, the sudden change of feelings, the realization that you might like the other person more than just a friend - all of these factors/instances made Love on the Second Read entertaining to read. I would have liked a bit more development and slow pacing in the romance plotline though. Even though the book was a light-hearted read, the author portrayed the themes of self-love and self-discovery through the main characters perfectly. I especially loved seeing Emma's growth, and how she navigated her feelings for Kip carefully by tackling her insecurities from past experiences.
If you're looking for a book with lovable characters, a touch of drama, literary banter, and references along with charming characters, don't look any further. Get a copy of Love on the Second Read NOW! <3 Many thanks to Penguin Random House SEA for sending a review copy my way! <3
February 4, 2025
Actual rating: 3,5
Emma menangani bagian romansa, sedangkan Kip sciene-fiction dan fantasi. Dua bagian yang biasanya bertolak belakang dan kebetulan Emma membanci Kip. Sampai salah satu penulis potensial favorit Emma (dan penerbit) menyetorkan naskah sci-fi dengan sentuhan romansa. Genre yang baru untuk si penulis.
Kepala redaksi mengarahkan agar naskah itu diserahkan ke Kip yang lebih cocok dengan genre, tapi Emma tidak setuju karena penulisnya baru mengalami writer's block selama berbulan-bulan dan takut kabur jika harus dieditori Kip yang terkenal bermulut (atau berkomentar) pedas.
Keputusan final dan Emma jelas kecewa. Tapi, anehnya Kip yang selalu adu ledek literasi dengannya mendadak jadi kalem dan rela-rela saja harus berbagi naskah yang sama. Lebih aneh lagi, Emma merasakan kupu-kupu terbang ketika perhatian Kip melebihi hari biasa.
Trope favorit sebenarnya. Enggak ada tapi, hanya beberapa bagian yang bagiku kurang klik saja. Karakter Emma dan Kip nggak ada yang aneh atau gompal. Bagian Kip nggak bisa terima posisinya di nomor dua bukan hal yang aneh mengingat masa lalunya (walaupun kalau dipikir-pikir dari sisi keluarganya kurang digali). Emma juga oke-oke aja walaupun bagiku dia nggak bisa tegas ke mantannya yang toxic itu. Eh, alasan putusnya kurang jelas. Cuma dari penuturan Emma, jadi rasanya jomplang.
Adu kutipannya terasa nggak relate. Well, untuk ukuran orang yang terobsesi dengan membaca, bacaanku nggak bisa dibandingkan dengan Kip dan Emma (apalagi ortunya Kip!). Lebih indahnya lagi, kelihatan nggak ada unsur book shaming di sini, walaupun Emma dan Kip punya bidang editing yang berbeda. Kip baca novel-novel romance, Emma juga baca novel sci-fi.
Yah, cuma itu yang bisa kureviu. Mungkin kalau aku langsung reviu setelah baca bakal lebih banyak poin yang dibahas, tapi kelamaan ngendon jadi lupa mau ngoceh apa aja. Romance yang menyenangkan, meskipun nggak menggebu-gebu.
Emma menangani bagian romansa, sedangkan Kip sciene-fiction dan fantasi. Dua bagian yang biasanya bertolak belakang dan kebetulan Emma membanci Kip. Sampai salah satu penulis potensial favorit Emma (dan penerbit) menyetorkan naskah sci-fi dengan sentuhan romansa. Genre yang baru untuk si penulis.
Kepala redaksi mengarahkan agar naskah itu diserahkan ke Kip yang lebih cocok dengan genre, tapi Emma tidak setuju karena penulisnya baru mengalami writer's block selama berbulan-bulan dan takut kabur jika harus dieditori Kip yang terkenal bermulut (atau berkomentar) pedas.
Keputusan final dan Emma jelas kecewa. Tapi, anehnya Kip yang selalu adu ledek literasi dengannya mendadak jadi kalem dan rela-rela saja harus berbagi naskah yang sama. Lebih aneh lagi, Emma merasakan kupu-kupu terbang ketika perhatian Kip melebihi hari biasa.
Trope favorit sebenarnya. Enggak ada tapi, hanya beberapa bagian yang bagiku kurang klik saja. Karakter Emma dan Kip nggak ada yang aneh atau gompal. Bagian Kip nggak bisa terima posisinya di nomor dua bukan hal yang aneh mengingat masa lalunya (walaupun kalau dipikir-pikir dari sisi keluarganya kurang digali). Emma juga oke-oke aja walaupun bagiku dia nggak bisa tegas ke mantannya yang toxic itu. Eh, alasan putusnya kurang jelas. Cuma dari penuturan Emma, jadi rasanya jomplang.
Adu kutipannya terasa nggak relate. Well, untuk ukuran orang yang terobsesi dengan membaca, bacaanku nggak bisa dibandingkan dengan Kip dan Emma (apalagi ortunya Kip!). Lebih indahnya lagi, kelihatan nggak ada unsur book shaming di sini, walaupun Emma dan Kip punya bidang editing yang berbeda. Kip baca novel-novel romance, Emma juga baca novel sci-fi.
Yah, cuma itu yang bisa kureviu. Mungkin kalau aku langsung reviu setelah baca bakal lebih banyak poin yang dibahas, tapi kelamaan ngendon jadi lupa mau ngoceh apa aja. Romance yang menyenangkan, meskipun nggak menggebu-gebu.
November 26, 2023
Thank you Penguin Books SEA!
Release date: 12/10/23
Love on the Second Read already captured my love on my first read. Itʼs a short, sweet story revolving around two book editors, Kip and Emma—specializing in SFF and romance, respectively. Amora, Emmaʼs esteemed writer, submits an unexpected manuscript, and itʼs a SFF romance. Uncertain about critiquing its SFF elements, Emma, who despises Kip, reluctantly teams up with him, they are forced to work together, and that leads to something 😘🤭🌶️!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed their chemistry and the sexual tension—they are so “Better Than the Movies” coded. Romcom tropes win me over, no matter how cheesy they seem to be. Though, sometimes I found their development to be too fast. I wouldnʼt market this as an “enemies-to-lovers” story because that phase was shortened here. I would probably describe this more as a workplace romance. And I kinda wish we had gotten more of their background. I found myself not too invested in the conflict, I just wanted them to flirt with each other. 🤣 All things considered, it could really use another 100 pages.
I found Mica De Leon’s writing style to be the most captivating. While most of the romance I read features simple and easy-to-follow writing, here, itʼs both simple and enigmatic. De Leonʼs writing style doesn’t feel forced—it flows naturally and connects well with the theme of each chapter. I would eagerly pick up another book by her!
Release date: 12/10/23
Love on the Second Read already captured my love on my first read. Itʼs a short, sweet story revolving around two book editors, Kip and Emma—specializing in SFF and romance, respectively. Amora, Emmaʼs esteemed writer, submits an unexpected manuscript, and itʼs a SFF romance. Uncertain about critiquing its SFF elements, Emma, who despises Kip, reluctantly teams up with him, they are forced to work together, and that leads to something 😘🤭🌶️!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed their chemistry and the sexual tension—they are so “Better Than the Movies” coded. Romcom tropes win me over, no matter how cheesy they seem to be. Though, sometimes I found their development to be too fast. I wouldnʼt market this as an “enemies-to-lovers” story because that phase was shortened here. I would probably describe this more as a workplace romance. And I kinda wish we had gotten more of their background. I found myself not too invested in the conflict, I just wanted them to flirt with each other. 🤣 All things considered, it could really use another 100 pages.
I found Mica De Leon’s writing style to be the most captivating. While most of the romance I read features simple and easy-to-follow writing, here, itʼs both simple and enigmatic. De Leonʼs writing style doesn’t feel forced—it flows naturally and connects well with the theme of each chapter. I would eagerly pick up another book by her!
January 1, 2024
Bookworms, what's better than a romcom? A romcom set in the publishing industry! Emma and Kip are two rival editors, with Emma handling the romance genre and Kip supervising the science-fiction genre. When their publishing house is in the brink of bankruptcy, Emma receives the opportunity of a lifetime. Her romance author has sent her the draft of her book that is sure to hit through the charts. But the catch is, the book is genre-bending into science fiction and only Kip's expertise can help her out. Not only are they forced to work together on the book, but they have to also swerve through Emma's crazy, obsessive ex, and Kip's trauma of falling in love again.
This book is filled with literary banters and nerdy references are thrown all over the book. I loved how we get to see what happens behind the scenes in a publishing house through this book. In just 200 or so pages, it manages to perfectly capture the essence of a romcom— the love-hate relationship at first, then the secret glances and admission of admiration, then the realization and the trying out, and of course the crazy steamy encounters. It's a fast paced book, and I felt that Emma and Kip's relationship starts too soon, so I definitely would have loved more angst in it! Nevermind the obvious romcom-y ending, because this book will give you all the hallmark romcom vibes if you are looking for one.
This book is filled with literary banters and nerdy references are thrown all over the book. I loved how we get to see what happens behind the scenes in a publishing house through this book. In just 200 or so pages, it manages to perfectly capture the essence of a romcom— the love-hate relationship at first, then the secret glances and admission of admiration, then the realization and the trying out, and of course the crazy steamy encounters. It's a fast paced book, and I felt that Emma and Kip's relationship starts too soon, so I definitely would have loved more angst in it! Nevermind the obvious romcom-y ending, because this book will give you all the hallmark romcom vibes if you are looking for one.
November 26, 2023
Received an ARC from Penguin RH SEA but this is a honest review as a chicklit x rom com sucker: I LOVE IT 💖 It was a love story between 2 book editors, Emma (romance editor) and Kip (sci-fi editor). Both were book nerds involved in long term literary reference battle and suddenly they had to work together because the best-selling author that Emma usually worked with suddenly wrote... sci-fi romance 😳
The premise and the plot were simple but what made me giggle endlessly were the nerdy bookish & rom com cliche references! From Star Wars to Lord of The Rings, from Jane Austen to Love Actually! It was so geekily cute and almost gave me diabetes (of course not loterally) but when it comes to sexual tension, oooh, it was hottt 😳
Really glad to read a SEA chicklit with some subtle SEA cultural aspects and reality, for example, being very realistic about chasing someone who was going abroad in the airport then remembering you don't have the visa (LMAO).
Recommended for those who are in need of light and joyful reading experience, any chicklit lovers and hopeless romantic geeks all over South East Asia! 👍🏻
The premise and the plot were simple but what made me giggle endlessly were the nerdy bookish & rom com cliche references! From Star Wars to Lord of The Rings, from Jane Austen to Love Actually! It was so geekily cute and almost gave me diabetes (of course not loterally) but when it comes to sexual tension, oooh, it was hottt 😳
Really glad to read a SEA chicklit with some subtle SEA cultural aspects and reality, for example, being very realistic about chasing someone who was going abroad in the airport then remembering you don't have the visa (LMAO).
Recommended for those who are in need of light and joyful reading experience, any chicklit lovers and hopeless romantic geeks all over South East Asia! 👍🏻
December 18, 2023
Love on the Second Read by Mica De Leon is a delightful romance novel that brings together two unlikely lovers in a workplace romance setting, Emma who is a romance book editor, and Kip who is nerdy fantasy science fiction editor.
When Emma receives a career-changing sci-fi romance manuscript, she knows she must work with Kip to succeed. However, things get complicated when well-meaning meddling best friends, an obsessive ex-boyfriend, and a beautiful ex-fiancée enter the picture.
This novel is filled with humor, charm, and enemies-to-lovers swoon, making it an absolute winner for rom-com fans. The story starts with a friendly-flirty-literary smackdown between Emma and Kip, but as they work together, their relationship develops, and they begin to fall for each other.
In this book, the author explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the importance of giving love a second read, as Emma and Kip navigate their feelings and the challenges they face. Emma and Kip both are quirky and nerdy, and the fit together like a piece of puzzle.
Despite their banter, this book has its own personal touch on heartfelt moments which added depth to their characters. This is my first book by Mica De Leon and I like her writing style because it is engaging and witty, making the story enjoyable and entertaining to read.
Since this book offers a fun peek into the publishing industry it provide an entertaining and relatable experience for me and other readers.
Overall, Love on the Second Read is a super-sweet workplace romance that will appeal to fans of the genre. Since it is set in the world of publishing and is filled with literary references, it is a must-read for rom-com fans and book lovers alike.
When Emma receives a career-changing sci-fi romance manuscript, she knows she must work with Kip to succeed. However, things get complicated when well-meaning meddling best friends, an obsessive ex-boyfriend, and a beautiful ex-fiancée enter the picture.
This novel is filled with humor, charm, and enemies-to-lovers swoon, making it an absolute winner for rom-com fans. The story starts with a friendly-flirty-literary smackdown between Emma and Kip, but as they work together, their relationship develops, and they begin to fall for each other.
In this book, the author explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the importance of giving love a second read, as Emma and Kip navigate their feelings and the challenges they face. Emma and Kip both are quirky and nerdy, and the fit together like a piece of puzzle.
Despite their banter, this book has its own personal touch on heartfelt moments which added depth to their characters. This is my first book by Mica De Leon and I like her writing style because it is engaging and witty, making the story enjoyable and entertaining to read.
Since this book offers a fun peek into the publishing industry it provide an entertaining and relatable experience for me and other readers.
Overall, Love on the Second Read is a super-sweet workplace romance that will appeal to fans of the genre. Since it is set in the world of publishing and is filled with literary references, it is a must-read for rom-com fans and book lovers alike.
January 21, 2024
Love on the Second Read by Mica De Leon is set in the book publishing industry where long rival editors are bound together by a project and end up falling in love. This book is so relatable to me as a fellow editor and it's such a light and delightful read.
All the publishing and editor parts just hit the spot for me. Some of them were so relatable that I just keep bursting out in laughter. This book completely describe life as an editor so well which is why it was such a delight to read.
Honestly, the romance is just okay. The conflict was pretty predictable and not out of the ordinary. I was just really more invested in their work rather than romantic life. But it really felt like I was watching a romcom filipino movie which I really enjoy watching.
All in all, this is a good read and I'm glad to have picked it up. So, I recommend you to go and read this book.
All the publishing and editor parts just hit the spot for me. Some of them were so relatable that I just keep bursting out in laughter. This book completely describe life as an editor so well which is why it was such a delight to read.
Honestly, the romance is just okay. The conflict was pretty predictable and not out of the ordinary. I was just really more invested in their work rather than romantic life. But it really felt like I was watching a romcom filipino movie which I really enjoy watching.
All in all, this is a good read and I'm glad to have picked it up. So, I recommend you to go and read this book.
January 20, 2024
Loveeeeee the literary references in this book. But I think that's the only thing that I truly enjoy in this book.
Maybe it's the length of the book, I feel like this is too short to develop a relationship. It just felt a bit rushed.
And boy oh boy, what's with our FMC? Why is she such an oblivious, naive woman? She works in publishing and she heads the romance department. She should know that being "friends" with her ex is a BIG NO NO. Why would you write her like that?
I was also kinda hoping to see more of the Filipino culture in this book as well, seeing how this takes place in the Philippines. But alas, we weren't granted.
Maybe it's the length of the book, I feel like this is too short to develop a relationship. It just felt a bit rushed.
And boy oh boy, what's with our FMC? Why is she such an oblivious, naive woman? She works in publishing and she heads the romance department. She should know that being "friends" with her ex is a BIG NO NO. Why would you write her like that?
I was also kinda hoping to see more of the Filipino culture in this book as well, seeing how this takes place in the Philippines. But alas, we weren't granted.
January 15, 2024
A cutesy book!! Emma and Kip are fellow book editors who are in a constant wordy, book referency fight with each other. When they finally have to work together to edit a masterpiece of a book, Emma and Kip can't help but start falling in love with each other.
This book has nerds, rom-com trope settings and a very happy ending!
This book has nerds, rom-com trope settings and a very happy ending!
Read
November 16, 2023the literary banter between Emma & Kip was awesome & never boring. i really loved it. oh, how i LOVED them 😩💛
December 17, 2023
Romance fans will have fun with this I just know it 😭😂
This was just sweet and entertaining from start to finish. This gave me a lot of insights in the publishing scene here in the Philippines (and did it also reignite my dreams of working in publishing? Yeah kind of 😆) The story also played well with a lot of romance tropes, which can get funny and meta. On the other hand, this also discussed writing and tropes in science fiction and fantasy worlds, which was also entertaining for me.
Loved Emma and Kip as main characters. They're just the biggest nerds! But I also loved getting to know their journey and development as characters. They weren't perfect, for sure, (especially Emma with some of her questionable decisions lol), but I was rooting for them to grow.
I guess I just wished there was more time or more scenes where we see their relationship develop (or maybe this is just me wanting a lot of pining angst 😂) Either way, definitely wanted more on that area.
Also looking back as a whole, this book really fits with romcoms or love stories loved by many Filipinos! Most Filipinos are hopeless romantics and want that happy ending. It can get messy, it can get frustrating, but love is almost always something most of us really bet on.
Anyway overall, this was good. I'm not the most avid romance reader, but I did enjoy this!
Exact rating: 3.5
CW: sexual content on-page, death of a parent, grief, mentions of H*rry P*tter as well
Find me elsewhere: Instagram | Twitter | Blog
(Thank you so much to Penguin Books SEA for sending over an ARC! This, of course, did not affect my overall opinion of the book.)
This was just sweet and entertaining from start to finish. This gave me a lot of insights in the publishing scene here in the Philippines (and did it also reignite my dreams of working in publishing? Yeah kind of 😆) The story also played well with a lot of romance tropes, which can get funny and meta. On the other hand, this also discussed writing and tropes in science fiction and fantasy worlds, which was also entertaining for me.
Loved Emma and Kip as main characters. They're just the biggest nerds! But I also loved getting to know their journey and development as characters. They weren't perfect, for sure, (especially Emma with some of her questionable decisions lol), but I was rooting for them to grow.
I guess I just wished there was more time or more scenes where we see their relationship develop (or maybe this is just me wanting a lot of pining angst 😂) Either way, definitely wanted more on that area.
Also looking back as a whole, this book really fits with romcoms or love stories loved by many Filipinos! Most Filipinos are hopeless romantics and want that happy ending. It can get messy, it can get frustrating, but love is almost always something most of us really bet on.
Anyway overall, this was good. I'm not the most avid romance reader, but I did enjoy this!
Exact rating: 3.5
CW: sexual content on-page, death of a parent, grief, mentions of H*rry P*tter as well
Find me elsewhere: Instagram | Twitter | Blog
(Thank you so much to Penguin Books SEA for sending over an ARC! This, of course, did not affect my overall opinion of the book.)
June 29, 2024
GRABE THE KILIGGGGGGGGGGGGG
December 24, 2023
This is cute yet nerdy romance where the leads are from the book publishing house.
I believe it's enough to convince you to pick it up!!!
🤭❤️
Emma, our protagonist is a romance book editor and cat lady. She is living her romance fantasy by the script and books while Kip is an expert of sci-fi and fantasy books. Both belong to different genres and they have different perspectives but one thing is common between them i.e. their love for books. Both are ready to challenge each other with nerdy references but what if they have to work together? Romance with sci-fi 🌝🌚 interesting script right?
Their firm is at the edge of closing down and this one script is the last hope to recover from this situation!
So, simply pick up this cozy romcom and thank the author for penning down this heartwarming tale and even me too if you are adding this in your tbr ❤️ after reading this review 😜
The book was easy breezy read, trust me! The narration is super easy and Emma is such an amazing bibliophile character... literally i could easily relate to her.
I believe it's enough to convince you to pick it up!!!
🤭❤️
Emma, our protagonist is a romance book editor and cat lady. She is living her romance fantasy by the script and books while Kip is an expert of sci-fi and fantasy books. Both belong to different genres and they have different perspectives but one thing is common between them i.e. their love for books. Both are ready to challenge each other with nerdy references but what if they have to work together? Romance with sci-fi 🌝🌚 interesting script right?
Their firm is at the edge of closing down and this one script is the last hope to recover from this situation!
So, simply pick up this cozy romcom and thank the author for penning down this heartwarming tale and even me too if you are adding this in your tbr ❤️ after reading this review 😜
The book was easy breezy read, trust me! The narration is super easy and Emma is such an amazing bibliophile character... literally i could easily relate to her.
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