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This Place is Magic #1.5
This Song is Ours: Stories from This Place is Magic
For everyone who found comfort, laughter, and warmth within the pages of This Place is Magic, this collection offers a chance to step beyond that orange door and stay a little longer.
Through eight interconnected stories, each told from the perspective of a different character, spend more time with Eunjae, Jiyeon, and the members of Apollo while they face the choices they’ve made and the future that awaits them. Hear all the gossip. Spy on the group chat. Lounge by the pool with some K-pop idols hiding from the public eye. In every story, discover what happened over the course of a summer filled with new experiences and shifting relationships.
A continuing exploration of brotherhood, family, and fame, This Song is Ours expands a beloved world while also serving as a bridge to the duology’s forthcoming conclusion. Irene Te returns with the humor and heart that captivated readers of her debut novel, inviting them to linger in the cozy booths at Wanna Waffle, stroll along sun-soaked suburban streets, and shout from the balconies of grand seaside hotels. Enjoy a front row seat as loyalties are tested, love endures… and one impulsive revenge plot changes everything.
Through eight interconnected stories, each told from the perspective of a different character, spend more time with Eunjae, Jiyeon, and the members of Apollo while they face the choices they’ve made and the future that awaits them. Hear all the gossip. Spy on the group chat. Lounge by the pool with some K-pop idols hiding from the public eye. In every story, discover what happened over the course of a summer filled with new experiences and shifting relationships.
A continuing exploration of brotherhood, family, and fame, This Song is Ours expands a beloved world while also serving as a bridge to the duology’s forthcoming conclusion. Irene Te returns with the humor and heart that captivated readers of her debut novel, inviting them to linger in the cozy booths at Wanna Waffle, stroll along sun-soaked suburban streets, and shout from the balconies of grand seaside hotels. Enjoy a front row seat as loyalties are tested, love endures… and one impulsive revenge plot changes everything.
- GenresRomance
284 pages, Paperback
Published January 7, 2025
2 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 8, 2025
Honestly loved every moment in this read from every member, the group chats were Hilarious and we got a bit of feel for everyone’s personalities …(more please)
I’m going to (im)patiently wait for a book for each member, Danny, everyone 👀🤞🏼
Eunjae and Jiyeon's first date was just the cutest & definitely need more of it! I cannot wait for more of everything honestly 😍🫶🏻
I’m going to (im)patiently wait for a book for each member, Danny, everyone 👀🤞🏼
Eunjae and Jiyeon's first date was just the cutest & definitely need more of it! I cannot wait for more of everything honestly 😍🫶🏻
January 5, 2025
I loved every bit and glimpse that this book gave us into each member. These short stories are exactly what I was desperate for after This Place is Magic!!
Each member’s personality really made itself present and we even got more of our certified Energy Conservationist™️ Jeannie. In fact, I need MORE of their personalities… author-nim!! Give each member his own book!! And Denny!! And the Han parents!!
Being the sucker for romance that I am, I loved Eunjae and Jiyeon’s first date. I NEED MORE!! More dates! More yearning!! More simping!!
That being said, I cannot wait for This Place is Home. Because truly, I have found a home within Apollo and Wanna Waffle and The Hans and even each Denny-dubbed safehouse.
I’m desperately waiting for my pc of the hammer boy and one day, I aspire to own TPIM/Apollo merch. Forever a Sunshine, Cindy!!!!
Thank you Irene Te for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Each member’s personality really made itself present and we even got more of our certified Energy Conservationist™️ Jeannie. In fact, I need MORE of their personalities… author-nim!! Give each member his own book!! And Denny!! And the Han parents!!
Being the sucker for romance that I am, I loved Eunjae and Jiyeon’s first date. I NEED MORE!! More dates! More yearning!! More simping!!
That being said, I cannot wait for This Place is Home. Because truly, I have found a home within Apollo and Wanna Waffle and The Hans and even each Denny-dubbed safehouse.
I’m desperately waiting for my pc of the hammer boy and one day, I aspire to own TPIM/Apollo merch. Forever a Sunshine, Cindy!!!!
Thank you Irene Te for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2025
I have written a small review for each of the story´s and though I don't feel like there really are any big spoilers but of course I don't know what you consider a spoiler. this was just so you are warned.
The name of the game + insert #1-2
I don't usually have favorites in groups, but if I had to choose I'd probably choose Max (and Eunjae ofc) so i don't think the book could have a better start, just so funny.
S.O.S. + insert #3
i could say something about the hong twins but i got to ask: who is in the sunny costume?
also their reaction to the photocards.
True story + insert #4
first i want to mention that i love Denny's resources, it just add some sort of mystery, also i might change what i said before, if i should choose a favorit i could also be Nicky, i am basically trying to find the funniest member and then call them my favorit
“But what if - and just hear me out, okay? What if , just for fun, you challenged Ari to a duel?”
“Sometimes I tell people that I went into a coma for two years. It's more fun that way.”
“he can't be both your brother and you son” “he´s both!”
“bet you can't”
I just thought I needed to add that.i
Meet the parents + insert #5
I really liked to “see” the break point MV and I got to read more about Jaehwan. And like the others it was funny but I think I can stop saying it since it is rather obvious at this point.
Silver medal + insert 6#
Hearing about Jungwoo was also interesting, especially since I kind of disliked him before so getting more information about him makes it much easier to understand why Eunjae forgave him. “Ryan! I know you can hear me! The signs were all There! It's like I've taught you nothing.” AND THEN HE SAYS SOMETHING IN ALL CAPS but i can't say what, that would be kind of a spoiler.
Rules + insert #7
Now it's getting a bit harder because I also like Kei, I mean he has a cat. i didn't know jaehwan have to be away for two years, and how is it first now that i realize how often Namgyu says: aww.
Code orange + insert #8
I also really like Denny so i am so happy about this chapter but it feels like a spoiler to tell you what exactly happens but know it's something to look forward to, and then there was the u shine MV that was pretty hillary's i was laughing so much when i read about their hair especially jungwoo, just why.
Not asking much (that includes the transcribed from the group chat and Normal things)
I really liked the birthday, especially from Jiyeon´s POV. I just thought the end of that part was a bit sad and it feels like it just keeps being more sad even though it's sweet.
conclusion: i really need to figure out my favorite character for TPIH.
5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The name of the game + insert #1-2
I don't usually have favorites in groups, but if I had to choose I'd probably choose Max (and Eunjae ofc) so i don't think the book could have a better start, just so funny.
S.O.S. + insert #3
i could say something about the hong twins but i got to ask: who is in the sunny costume?
also their reaction to the photocards.
True story + insert #4
first i want to mention that i love Denny's resources, it just add some sort of mystery, also i might change what i said before, if i should choose a favorit i could also be Nicky, i am basically trying to find the funniest member and then call them my favorit
“But what if - and just hear me out, okay? What if , just for fun, you challenged Ari to a duel?”
“Sometimes I tell people that I went into a coma for two years. It's more fun that way.”
“he can't be both your brother and you son” “he´s both!”
“bet you can't”
I just thought I needed to add that.i
Meet the parents + insert #5
I really liked to “see” the break point MV and I got to read more about Jaehwan. And like the others it was funny but I think I can stop saying it since it is rather obvious at this point.
Silver medal + insert 6#
Hearing about Jungwoo was also interesting, especially since I kind of disliked him before so getting more information about him makes it much easier to understand why Eunjae forgave him. “Ryan! I know you can hear me! The signs were all There! It's like I've taught you nothing.” AND THEN HE SAYS SOMETHING IN ALL CAPS but i can't say what, that would be kind of a spoiler.
Rules + insert #7
Now it's getting a bit harder because I also like Kei, I mean he has a cat. i didn't know jaehwan have to be away for two years, and how is it first now that i realize how often Namgyu says: aww.
Code orange + insert #8
I also really like Denny so i am so happy about this chapter but it feels like a spoiler to tell you what exactly happens but know it's something to look forward to, and then there was the u shine MV that was pretty hillary's i was laughing so much when i read about their hair especially jungwoo, just why.
Not asking much (that includes the transcribed from the group chat and Normal things)
I really liked the birthday, especially from Jiyeon´s POV. I just thought the end of that part was a bit sad and it feels like it just keeps being more sad even though it's sweet.
conclusion: i really need to figure out my favorite character for TPIH.
5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2025
A joyous, playful installment of a series that is shaping up to be spectacular from start to finish! Irene Te's characters are so loving and entertaining. I laughed out loud more times during this compilation of stories than I expected to by far, and that's going in knowing the first book was hilarious, but the banter and teasing in this was so funny, often times more than it had any right to be. The sass levels have never been higher.
There's a touch of mystery, though! The Hazel Lim of it all, who is inside the Sunny mascot costume, what will become of Captain Husband Material Dennis?
Irene develops some dynamics and sets things up for the sequel while also resolving a few minor developments of book one and giving us closure for it. It's a fantastic way to bridge the gap between instalments in a duology.
With the state of the world being what it is, I went into a slightly depressive reading slump during my time reading this book, and reading the second half really snapped me out of it and helped get me moving and motivated again.
I think Nicky has become my favorite member of Apollo, but hey, Kazu is amazing too. We got to see more of the other boys and learn more about their day to day relationships and living situation, as well as some more scenes of Wanna Waffle. And some teases about what may be coming our way from the sequel!
I was so happy and grateful to receive an ARC of this book and can't wait to see what's in store for the characters going forward.
Random notes:
-Dennis using reverse psychology to get his way, always hilarious and fantastic
-Jiyeon getting recognized while Eunjae is anonymous? Iconic. She is the moment.
-I weirdly ship Kazu and Dennis and just couldn't tell you why. I feel like there's something there.
-I cannot believe the mystery surrounding Hazel Lim. She's a diva for sure. Love her.
-Sunny and his murderous ways must be protected at all costs. He can have a little violence, as a treat.
-IDKY but the best part was them showing Dennis their music videos and trying to explain to him that the art of the KPOP music video is about VIBES. IT'S JUST VIBES.
There's a touch of mystery, though! The Hazel Lim of it all, who is inside the Sunny mascot costume, what will become of Captain Husband Material Dennis?
Irene develops some dynamics and sets things up for the sequel while also resolving a few minor developments of book one and giving us closure for it. It's a fantastic way to bridge the gap between instalments in a duology.
With the state of the world being what it is, I went into a slightly depressive reading slump during my time reading this book, and reading the second half really snapped me out of it and helped get me moving and motivated again.
I think Nicky has become my favorite member of Apollo, but hey, Kazu is amazing too. We got to see more of the other boys and learn more about their day to day relationships and living situation, as well as some more scenes of Wanna Waffle. And some teases about what may be coming our way from the sequel!
I was so happy and grateful to receive an ARC of this book and can't wait to see what's in store for the characters going forward.
Random notes:
-Dennis using reverse psychology to get his way, always hilarious and fantastic
-Jiyeon getting recognized while Eunjae is anonymous? Iconic. She is the moment.
-I weirdly ship Kazu and Dennis and just couldn't tell you why. I feel like there's something there.
-I cannot believe the mystery surrounding Hazel Lim. She's a diva for sure. Love her.
-Sunny and his murderous ways must be protected at all costs. He can have a little violence, as a treat.
-IDKY but the best part was them showing Dennis their music videos and trying to explain to him that the art of the KPOP music video is about VIBES. IT'S JUST VIBES.
January 30, 2025
"This Song is Ours" is a wonderful short story collection that takes place in the world of "This Place is Magic"! This book is so much fun and provides an insightful look into the characters' lives and a great peek into what they've been up to since we last saw them in book 1. Jeannie is such a fun character! Reading "S.O.S" I found myself laughing so much! I really enjoyed seeing more of her character in this collection. Eunjae and Jiyeon's first date was perfect! I loved reading about that. And the interactions between the brothers were so funny and heartwarming at the same time. Other things I loved seeing in this book were the song lyrics and the descriptions of Apollo's music videos! And Denny's comments and reactions! This made me feel even more immersed in the world of Apollo, Sunshines, Wanna Waffle, and all of the characters we know and love. This is a book about found family, friendship/brotherhood, love, and growth. This is the perfect book to read whenever you are missing these characters and their world! "This Song is Ours" is beautiful, sweet, fun, and oh so cozy! I think even readers who haven't yet read "This Place is Magic" will enjoy this book. This book and series is amazing! I cannot recommend reading (and re-reading them) highly enough! Entering the world of "This Place is Magic" will provide you with a sweet, fun, and cozy world that you will want to revisit again and again. Read these books! You will be so glad you did. I can't wait for the next book!
Thank you very much to the author for the great opportunity of being a part of her ARC Team again and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
Thank you very much to the author for the great opportunity of being a part of her ARC Team again and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
January 19, 2025
A adorable return back into the Wanna Waffle world with our favorite boyband Apollo and a look into their life and possible future. Filled with heartwarming moments, mischief, and just a sweet atmosphere, this was such a cute return into one of my favorite cozy reads. I adored the first book and this book expands on both the band members, the family, the fame, and of course the romance! This book serves as a bridge for the duology's forthcoming conclusion and I would absolutely recommend picking this series up if you love cozy cute romances or sweet k-drama vibes. I love the way each of the characters are so well fleshed out and distinct from one another ( I am of course, a Max bias girl). The interactions between the band and the Hans was so sweet and you just feel like you can make yourself right at home with them. I adore the way Irene writes these characters and the world she builds. If Apollo was a real band you bet I would be buying their concert tickets and following along with all the band drama. Its a cute read and an overall great series that I definitely would recommend!
Release Date: January 7,2025
Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)
*Thanks Irene Te for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Release Date: January 7,2025
Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)
*Thanks Irene Te for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
December 21, 2024
Disclaimer: I was on the ARC team for this story. However, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Absolutely adored all the short stories!! I love how Irene made this fictional Kpop group so incredibly lovable (which you get to see more in this book since they are all short stories and focus on different characters). And don't even get my started on the menace known as Sunny!! lol
I will not talk about my favorite parts since they will be spoilers, but... I'll just say I have wound up loving Nicky than I thought I would (though again all the characters I already thought were very lovable) lol
All in all, it's a very good (and at times incredibly hilarious) collection of connected short stories. I loved it so much I literally couldn't put it done and finished it all in one sitting lol
To read these stories, you need to have read This Place is Magic first, or else you will be very confused and lost.
Absolutely adored all the short stories!! I love how Irene made this fictional Kpop group so incredibly lovable (which you get to see more in this book since they are all short stories and focus on different characters). And don't even get my started on the menace known as Sunny!! lol
I will not talk about my favorite parts since they will be spoilers, but... I'll just say I have wound up loving Nicky than I thought I would (though again all the characters I already thought were very lovable) lol
All in all, it's a very good (and at times incredibly hilarious) collection of connected short stories. I loved it so much I literally couldn't put it done and finished it all in one sitting lol
To read these stories, you need to have read This Place is Magic first, or else you will be very confused and lost.
November 19, 2025
thank you so much to the author for the early copy!! all opinions are my own!
if there are no fans of this series, it's because i left this world 😍😭
despite the author saying there is no need to read this one before the 2nd one, i do say it's kinda necessary because now i finally recognized all of Apollo's members and how each of their personalities shine and match with the MCs. i loved each of the stories because they tell so much of how everything works for them and how the 2nd book is going to play out, which i cannoy wait to pick up because it's already out 😍😍 and of course, i laughed SO MUCH while reading the group chats and the descriptions of their videos and their reactions, they were just golden and so well written. the meaning of the book almost made me sob, they truly love each other and i love these dynamics 💜💜
if you haven't read it yet, please pick up the series, it's sooo worth it 😭
if there are no fans of this series, it's because i left this world 😍😭
despite the author saying there is no need to read this one before the 2nd one, i do say it's kinda necessary because now i finally recognized all of Apollo's members and how each of their personalities shine and match with the MCs. i loved each of the stories because they tell so much of how everything works for them and how the 2nd book is going to play out, which i cannoy wait to pick up because it's already out 😍😍 and of course, i laughed SO MUCH while reading the group chats and the descriptions of their videos and their reactions, they were just golden and so well written. the meaning of the book almost made me sob, they truly love each other and i love these dynamics 💜💜
if you haven't read it yet, please pick up the series, it's sooo worth it 😭
January 7, 2025
This Song is Ours by @irenewritesthings drops TOMORROW! This is the second installment in the This Place is Magic universe and brings several short stories that give us a window into what the boys have been up to since we left them all at Wanna Waffle.
Max is also getting unnecessary grief because he is a sweet baby angel.
PROS:
💜K-Pop
🧇Found Family
💜Soulmates
🧇Fake dating
💜Sibling rivalry
🧇Fan shenanigans
CONS:
💜Those photo card shenanigans had my heart rate through the roof.
🧇Why does everybody have to give my bias (Max) such a hard time? He is an angel.
🧇🧇🧇🧇🧇 out of five perfectly cooked characters waffles smothered in syrup
Max is also getting unnecessary grief because he is a sweet baby angel.
PROS:
💜K-Pop
🧇Found Family
💜Soulmates
🧇Fake dating
💜Sibling rivalry
🧇Fan shenanigans
CONS:
💜Those photo card shenanigans had my heart rate through the roof.
🧇Why does everybody have to give my bias (Max) such a hard time? He is an angel.
🧇🧇🧇🧇🧇 out of five perfectly cooked characters waffles smothered in syrup
January 8, 2025
ARC Review ✨️
☆Wonderful short story collection♡
I was so excited to read this as soon as I heard about it! I loved This Place is Magic so much, and I loved this one even more. The author has such a magical and enchanting writing style✨️🙌 The different perspectives really made each story so much more unique😍🖤
I really loved how the collection was a snip it as to what the characters have been doing since the first book. Each story is short, fast-paced, and brings so much to the table!
Tropes:
💞Found family
💞collection of short stories
💞k-pop
💞Fake dating
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC!
☆Wonderful short story collection♡
I was so excited to read this as soon as I heard about it! I loved This Place is Magic so much, and I loved this one even more. The author has such a magical and enchanting writing style✨️🙌 The different perspectives really made each story so much more unique😍🖤
I really loved how the collection was a snip it as to what the characters have been doing since the first book. Each story is short, fast-paced, and brings so much to the table!
Tropes:
💞Found family
💞collection of short stories
💞k-pop
💞Fake dating
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC!
November 14, 2025
TSIO is the perfect bridge between TPIM and the second book, TPIH (This Place is Home), it is coming out very soon!
I still LOVED Eunjae and Jiyeon. Their chemistry is so natural and sweet — the kind that makes your heart ache and grin at the same time.
Every chapter had me completely hooked. From the chaotic energy of Apollo to the cozy chaos of Wanna Waffle and every moment with Denny, I’ve truly found a home within these pages. Each short story brought something new to love about the characters in the TPIM world.
By the end, I was laughing and crying. Irene built a world that feels like coming home — warm, funny, emotional, and deeply human. This Song Is Ours is filled with banter, heart, and moments that make you want to hug the book. I can’t wait for This Place Is Home, because honestly? I already feel like I’ve found one here.
I received a review copy of This Song is Ours from Irene. This review is voluntary and 100% honest.
I still LOVED Eunjae and Jiyeon. Their chemistry is so natural and sweet — the kind that makes your heart ache and grin at the same time.
Every chapter had me completely hooked. From the chaotic energy of Apollo to the cozy chaos of Wanna Waffle and every moment with Denny, I’ve truly found a home within these pages. Each short story brought something new to love about the characters in the TPIM world.
By the end, I was laughing and crying. Irene built a world that feels like coming home — warm, funny, emotional, and deeply human. This Song Is Ours is filled with banter, heart, and moments that make you want to hug the book. I can’t wait for This Place Is Home, because honestly? I already feel like I’ve found one here.
I received a review copy of This Song is Ours from Irene. This review is voluntary and 100% honest.
January 8, 2025
🌟 4.5/5
Get yourself boba tea and waffles and snuggle up with this book with more stories from the Apollo boys and their friends. 💜
I love the fact these were all short, yet interconnected, stories. It was the perfect read during the busy holidays, allowing me to read something cute and cozy during quiet times. If you missed the Apollo boys, this will give you your chaotic, brotherly love fix.
While you don't necessarily need to read This Place is Magic first, having a refresher of the story enhances the reading experience.
Get yourself boba tea and waffles and snuggle up with this book with more stories from the Apollo boys and their friends. 💜
I love the fact these were all short, yet interconnected, stories. It was the perfect read during the busy holidays, allowing me to read something cute and cozy during quiet times. If you missed the Apollo boys, this will give you your chaotic, brotherly love fix.
While you don't necessarily need to read This Place is Magic first, having a refresher of the story enhances the reading experience.
December 29, 2024
This was such a wonderful addition to the series. The glimpse into different characters’ perspectives hit great, and I challenge you not to pick a new favorite. (For me, it was always Nicky…)
I love that so much was done in a short amount of time—nothing was extraneous, just perfect. And I cried reading the last story, which was genuinely beautiful. Irene Te always has gorgeous covers and amazing writing skills.
I love that so much was done in a short amount of time—nothing was extraneous, just perfect. And I cried reading the last story, which was genuinely beautiful. Irene Te always has gorgeous covers and amazing writing skills.
August 3, 2025
I loved This Place Is Magic, so I was so happy that Irene wrote this book.
This Song Is Ours is a collection of short stories about the characters from This Place Is Magic. The humor is always spot on with Irene. I simply love this author and all her stories.
*Banter
*K-Pop
*Found Family
If you read This Place Is Magic, you should definitely read TSIO.
This Song Is Ours is a collection of short stories about the characters from This Place Is Magic. The humor is always spot on with Irene. I simply love this author and all her stories.
*Banter
*K-Pop
*Found Family
If you read This Place Is Magic, you should definitely read TSIO.
January 2, 2025
I absolutely loved these stories, I can't have enough of these characters.
It was great to be able to get a glimpse of different perspectives and get to know everyone a little more.
I might not be sure who's my favourite anymore...
It was great to be able to get a glimpse of different perspectives and get to know everyone a little more.
I might not be sure who's my favourite anymore...
February 13, 2025
A sweet collection of stories that is really a way for fans of the story to get to know the characters and Apollo members better. I love the quick banter and the lighthearted drama. This is the perfect book to curl up with on a dreary day and a cozy blanket. Such a fun read!
January 11, 2025
A really cute series of vignettes revisiting the folks from This Place is Magic in the weeks after the climaxing events of that story.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews