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One & Only
In Five Years meets a millennial The Joy Luck Club in the adult debut from the author of YA Reese Pick Throwback— a funny and fresh love story of a woman thrown a curveball by fate, and the family secret that will make her question everything.
She’s seen what her happily ever after looks like. And it’s not him.
Cassia Park believes in soul mates. Fated love stories. It’s her family business, after all—for centuries, from Korea to Los Angeles, the Park women have peered into clients’ past lives to find their one true love, their “fated”. This magical secret is why One & Only Matchmaking has a 100% guarantee … for everyone but Cassia.
Afraid of ending up like her mom, Cassia asked to be told her fated—ten years ago. Now she’s days from turning forty and she still hasn’t found him.
Enter Ellis. He’s twenty-eight, indecently handsome, and not destined to be the love of her life. But destiny has more than one curveball ready, and her surprising connection with Ellis might be the key that unlocks finding her fated—and reveals a family secret that will make her question everything she’s ever her family, her belief in love, and truth itself.
Cassia will have to decide if she’ll follow her fate … or make her own.
She’s seen what her happily ever after looks like. And it’s not him.
Cassia Park believes in soul mates. Fated love stories. It’s her family business, after all—for centuries, from Korea to Los Angeles, the Park women have peered into clients’ past lives to find their one true love, their “fated”. This magical secret is why One & Only Matchmaking has a 100% guarantee … for everyone but Cassia.
Afraid of ending up like her mom, Cassia asked to be told her fated—ten years ago. Now she’s days from turning forty and she still hasn’t found him.
Enter Ellis. He’s twenty-eight, indecently handsome, and not destined to be the love of her life. But destiny has more than one curveball ready, and her surprising connection with Ellis might be the key that unlocks finding her fated—and reveals a family secret that will make her question everything she’s ever her family, her belief in love, and truth itself.
Cassia will have to decide if she’ll follow her fate … or make her own.
Audible Audio
First published February 3, 2026
1891 people are currently reading
35464 people want to read
About the author
Maurene Goo
25 books1,690 followersMaurene Goo is the critically acclaimed author of young adult novels, including I BELIEVE IN A THING CALLED LOVE and THROWBACK. She's also written for Marvel's Silk series and lives and writes in Los Angeles with her husband, son, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 737 reviews
February 10, 2026
if i could magically determine people's soulmates no one would ever hear the end of it
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
(review to come)
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
(review to come)
February 17, 2026
what an adorable romance for feb!!! i started reading this but heard how good the audiobook was, so i shifted to the audiobook and can confirm it’s so good 🎧 i binged the audio in one day doing chores, puzzles, working out etc.
this was so cute & exactly what i needed in a book right now. i personal loooove romance + magical realism combo’s and this has a good combo of both and the magic is realistic imo too
read if you like: books by Ashley Poston or Rebecca Serle
i liked so much about it—the magic/“fated” plot, the setting, the love triangle (ish?!), the family elements. that said, the first half was stronger than the second half for me. i wish we had more resolution with one of the MMC’a and with what became of the office (trying to keep this spoiler free!).
TLDR: another fab pick from Read with Jenna’s book club!!
this was so cute & exactly what i needed in a book right now. i personal loooove romance + magical realism combo’s and this has a good combo of both and the magic is realistic imo too
read if you like: books by Ashley Poston or Rebecca Serle
i liked so much about it—the magic/“fated” plot, the setting, the love triangle (ish?!), the family elements. that said, the first half was stronger than the second half for me. i wish we had more resolution with one of the MMC’a and with what became of the office (trying to keep this spoiler free!).
TLDR: another fab pick from Read with Jenna’s book club!!
February 14, 2026
3⭐️
This book was...an experience. 😭
This was feel-good and funny and sweet but also so insane?
I found the concept of this book to be really unique and interesting and I really loved how fast of a read it was! It was so easy to get into and the relationships and friendships and family conversations were just so funny and entertaining. However, I wasn't the biggest fan of our FMC. I didn't really connect with her personality and I found some of her actions throughout this book to be extremely selfish. If you read this, were you team Ellis or team Daniel? Cause me? I absolutely LOVED Ellis. I know her and Daniel were supposed to be fated mates, but I think with the way this book was written it was really hard to fall in love with Cassia and Daniel's chemistry.
There honestly wasn't a whole lot to this book other than a sweet, fun time. I have to say though, there were so many wild moments in this book especially when Daniel and Ellis got into a whole fist-fight. I was like, two grown ass men fighting over a woman who honestly acts so selfish? Wild behavior to me. This book felt so unrealistic and so out there, but hey, I guess it was fun so maybe that makes up for it?
Overall, this book was a good time but if you're looking for something more substantial then I'd probably skip this one. This would be a good palette cleanser to read after something heavy and can definitely be read in 1 or 2 sittings. I'm glad I read this, but it just wasn't anything special unfortunately.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 🌼🩵
I need a feel-good, pick-me-up romance after my heartbreaking last read 😭
This was my February BOTM pick and they can always be a hit or miss so I hope I like this <3
This book was...an experience. 😭
This was feel-good and funny and sweet but also so insane?
I found the concept of this book to be really unique and interesting and I really loved how fast of a read it was! It was so easy to get into and the relationships and friendships and family conversations were just so funny and entertaining. However, I wasn't the biggest fan of our FMC. I didn't really connect with her personality and I found some of her actions throughout this book to be extremely selfish. If you read this, were you team Ellis or team Daniel? Cause me? I absolutely LOVED Ellis. I know her and Daniel were supposed to be fated mates, but I think with the way this book was written it was really hard to fall in love with Cassia and Daniel's chemistry.
There honestly wasn't a whole lot to this book other than a sweet, fun time. I have to say though, there were so many wild moments in this book especially when Daniel and Ellis got into a whole fist-fight. I was like, two grown ass men fighting over a woman who honestly acts so selfish? Wild behavior to me. This book felt so unrealistic and so out there, but hey, I guess it was fun so maybe that makes up for it?
Overall, this book was a good time but if you're looking for something more substantial then I'd probably skip this one. This would be a good palette cleanser to read after something heavy and can definitely be read in 1 or 2 sittings. I'm glad I read this, but it just wasn't anything special unfortunately.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 🌼🩵
I need a feel-good, pick-me-up romance after my heartbreaking last read 😭
This was my February BOTM pick and they can always be a hit or miss so I hope I like this <3
January 7, 2026
What a beautiful rom-com! Surely to be a big hit once released in 2026.
This is how you write an adult romance and one of the best romance books I've read in awhile! Finally, a FMC I can relate to: Asian woman in her 40s navigating life.
One & Only by Maurene Goo is a warm, heartfelt love story that feels both intimate and universal. It makes you consider the idea of fate, especially when expectations begin to blur with real life.
Cassia Park works in her family’s long-running matchmaking business, a tradition built on certainty and an impressive record of success. This is where the magical realism takes place: the family has the ability to jump into past timelines to see who someone’s true love is. But who is Cassia’s one true love?
For years, Cassia has known the name of the person she is supposedly meant to love, even though she has never met him. Love has always felt predetermined to her, until an unexpected bike accident introduces Ellis into her life. He stays with her, calls for help, and keeps her company when she needs it most. For Ellis, the connection is instant. For Cassia, it is much more complicated. The chemistry is undeniable, but she believes her future is already mapped out.
This novel explores love in all its messy and beautiful forms. It looks at the pressure of expectations, the risk of missing what is right in front of you, and the freedom that comes from letting go of perfection. And truly, Ellis is impossible not to love. I fell for him just as much as I fell for this story.
While there is a touch of magical realism in it, it veers towards Cassia's newfound love and Korean culture. One & Only It is filled with humor, emotional moments, family history, and cultural elements, all woven into a story about choosing what you want rather than what is expected of you. Cassia’s journey from believing completely in destiny to realizing she might have a choice of her own is refreshing and relatable. I cannot wait to read more from Goo!
Thank you to Maurene Goo, Putnam Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
This is how you write an adult romance and one of the best romance books I've read in awhile! Finally, a FMC I can relate to: Asian woman in her 40s navigating life.
One & Only by Maurene Goo is a warm, heartfelt love story that feels both intimate and universal. It makes you consider the idea of fate, especially when expectations begin to blur with real life.
Cassia Park works in her family’s long-running matchmaking business, a tradition built on certainty and an impressive record of success. This is where the magical realism takes place: the family has the ability to jump into past timelines to see who someone’s true love is. But who is Cassia’s one true love?
For years, Cassia has known the name of the person she is supposedly meant to love, even though she has never met him. Love has always felt predetermined to her, until an unexpected bike accident introduces Ellis into her life. He stays with her, calls for help, and keeps her company when she needs it most. For Ellis, the connection is instant. For Cassia, it is much more complicated. The chemistry is undeniable, but she believes her future is already mapped out.
This novel explores love in all its messy and beautiful forms. It looks at the pressure of expectations, the risk of missing what is right in front of you, and the freedom that comes from letting go of perfection. And truly, Ellis is impossible not to love. I fell for him just as much as I fell for this story.
While there is a touch of magical realism in it, it veers towards Cassia's newfound love and Korean culture. One & Only It is filled with humor, emotional moments, family history, and cultural elements, all woven into a story about choosing what you want rather than what is expected of you. Cassia’s journey from believing completely in destiny to realizing she might have a choice of her own is refreshing and relatable. I cannot wait to read more from Goo!
Thank you to Maurene Goo, Putnam Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
February 18, 2026
the setup…
Cassia (Cass) Park is almost 40-years old and an essential part of the family business, One & Only Matchmaking. She’s inherited the “gift” of face reading from her ancestors where she can see into clients’ past lives and find their one true love. Cass learned the name of her fated match ten years ago (Daniel Nam) but they haven’t been able to find him and she’s patiently waiting for him. Enter Ellis, a gorgeous 28-year old landscape architect who’s charming and everything she’d love in a mate. He’s not Daniel so she resists getting closer but it’s hard. And then, something extraordinary happens that calls into question all she’s ever believed in about fated love and soulmates.
the heart of the story…
I’m not a fan of “love triangles” and there’s a tiny whiff of that here but not in the traditional sense. And let me be clear…I adored this story. Cass is a self assured, talented woman surrounded by loving family and a great bestie. Ellis comes from a wonderful family and he’s a great person, intuitive, respectful and kind. Cass couldn’t help be drawn to him and their romance was captivating. The elusive “Daniel’ was always in the background…until he wasn’t.
the narration…
Jeena Yi is a wonderful storyteller and this is the ultimate one with so many angles. I loved her voices for Cass, the great aunt and grandmother as well as the male roles.
the bottom line…
I connected with Cass, her family, the mystical aspects, Ellis and Daniel as if I had a personal stake in the outcome. That’s fine writing and storytelling. I had a team preference, which I won’t share and my heart was wrenched as the story progressed. Thanks to Jenna for selecting this book as it probably would not have reached my radar. It was a wonderful listening experience. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Cassia (Cass) Park is almost 40-years old and an essential part of the family business, One & Only Matchmaking. She’s inherited the “gift” of face reading from her ancestors where she can see into clients’ past lives and find their one true love. Cass learned the name of her fated match ten years ago (Daniel Nam) but they haven’t been able to find him and she’s patiently waiting for him. Enter Ellis, a gorgeous 28-year old landscape architect who’s charming and everything she’d love in a mate. He’s not Daniel so she resists getting closer but it’s hard. And then, something extraordinary happens that calls into question all she’s ever believed in about fated love and soulmates.
the heart of the story…
I’m not a fan of “love triangles” and there’s a tiny whiff of that here but not in the traditional sense. And let me be clear…I adored this story. Cass is a self assured, talented woman surrounded by loving family and a great bestie. Ellis comes from a wonderful family and he’s a great person, intuitive, respectful and kind. Cass couldn’t help be drawn to him and their romance was captivating. The elusive “Daniel’ was always in the background…until he wasn’t.
the narration…
Jeena Yi is a wonderful storyteller and this is the ultimate one with so many angles. I loved her voices for Cass, the great aunt and grandmother as well as the male roles.
the bottom line…
I connected with Cass, her family, the mystical aspects, Ellis and Daniel as if I had a personal stake in the outcome. That’s fine writing and storytelling. I had a team preference, which I won’t share and my heart was wrenched as the story progressed. Thanks to Jenna for selecting this book as it probably would not have reached my radar. It was a wonderful listening experience. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
October 18, 2025
A really nice magical realism romance. A wonderful main character and lots of fun side characters. I think the idea of a soulmate is fascinating so I was really into where this story was gonna go!
February 21, 2026
matchmaking is hit or miss for me as a plot and this was so sweet!!!
from the second this was released i knew i would be reading it! i just felt really interested in the story which is odd because it’s pretty much a love triangle and i HATE those. thankfully this one was written pretty well and i didn’t feel overly connected to either man, plus i knew who she was ending up with from like page twenty.
cassia is a matchmaker, but like seriously. she can see people’s past lives and determine who their “fated” match is. now that cassia is turning forty, and been looking for her fated for ten years, she’s feeling a bit lost. even more so when she meets ellis, a guy too young for her even if he’s perfect. through a series of perfectly timed run-ins, complicated feelings for his boss, and a wedding filled with tension, cassia struggles to choose between her told future and the one she could make herself. i really enjoyed the conversations that were had about knowing the future and knowing if the powers the women have are helpful or incredibly unhelpful.
i really liked ellis, i thought his character was perfect which duh, we knew this would happen. cassia is sort of a major villain but it’s in the name of love so i rooting for her. she played with that entire company and i loved that. the way i’d never stop gossiping about the whole situation if i worked there… just saying. overall this book was strong but i kinda lacked an emotional connection to the story, i only felt moved or invested when cassia met with her father. so a four star but it’s just a solid book, nothing crazy.
from the second this was released i knew i would be reading it! i just felt really interested in the story which is odd because it’s pretty much a love triangle and i HATE those. thankfully this one was written pretty well and i didn’t feel overly connected to either man, plus i knew who she was ending up with from like page twenty.
cassia is a matchmaker, but like seriously. she can see people’s past lives and determine who their “fated” match is. now that cassia is turning forty, and been looking for her fated for ten years, she’s feeling a bit lost. even more so when she meets ellis, a guy too young for her even if he’s perfect. through a series of perfectly timed run-ins, complicated feelings for his boss, and a wedding filled with tension, cassia struggles to choose between her told future and the one she could make herself. i really enjoyed the conversations that were had about knowing the future and knowing if the powers the women have are helpful or incredibly unhelpful.
i really liked ellis, i thought his character was perfect which duh, we knew this would happen. cassia is sort of a major villain but it’s in the name of love so i rooting for her. she played with that entire company and i loved that. the way i’d never stop gossiping about the whole situation if i worked there… just saying. overall this book was strong but i kinda lacked an emotional connection to the story, i only felt moved or invested when cassia met with her father. so a four star but it’s just a solid book, nothing crazy.
January 19, 2026
I was so excited that Maureen Goo went to adult novels because I loved her YA books so much. The story was great and I loved the face reading and the past lives. The romance was so messy like I had so much second hand embarrassment at the shit she was doing but like I get it.
February 5, 2026
The premise and bones of this novel are great and I love the touch of magical realism with heavy nod to Korean culture. That's all I enjoyed.
The overuse of current lingo is too much. Who says "af" in a sentence? And what 40 year old woman says "bro" as much as Cassia? And if someone was telling me they loved me for the first time and followed it up with, "I really fucking do", ick. I cuss a lot so to make me clutch my pearls is a tough task.
And Cassia, my goodness. Disaster. You're going to destroy your fated relationship for a guy you hooked up with for ONE WEEKEND?????? O N E. This is what pissed me off the entire novel. She's such a horrible person to be playing two men at the same time. Daniel deserved way better. The whiplash she gave these men was so unnecessary.
All that being said, again, I love the idea of an invisible string tying you to your person. It made me warm and fuzzy inside. But then annoyed because Cassia sucked. Do with that what you will.
The overuse of current lingo is too much. Who says "af" in a sentence? And what 40 year old woman says "bro" as much as Cassia? And if someone was telling me they loved me for the first time and followed it up with, "I really fucking do", ick. I cuss a lot so to make me clutch my pearls is a tough task.
And Cassia, my goodness. Disaster. You're going to destroy your fated relationship for a guy you hooked up with for ONE WEEKEND?????? O N E. This is what pissed me off the entire novel. She's such a horrible person to be playing two men at the same time. Daniel deserved way better. The whiplash she gave these men was so unnecessary.
All that being said, again, I love the idea of an invisible string tying you to your person. It made me warm and fuzzy inside. But then annoyed because Cassia sucked. Do with that what you will.
February 10, 2026
Magical realism and a love triangle! Two of my biggest buzz words! Cassia Park is the director of operations at One & Only, her family’s elite matchmaking service with a 100% success rate! With the women in her family being able to see past lives and past loves, it was so whimsical and fascinating, and I loved learning the ins and outs of how they've monetized their magical gift.
Though Cassia has known for years that her fated match is Daniel Nam, her search for him has been unsuccessful. That is until he shows up at the absolute worst possible time—right after Cassia forms a passionate, unexpected connection with Ellis, a man 11 years her junior! I wanted to be frustrated with Cassia at times, because she definitely unfairly plays with the hearts of these two men, but with her entire life and family legacy built around the idea of a single fated match, it’s hard to blame her.
Cassia is truly pulled in two different directions of happiness, and I loved the tension! It’s very much a fate vs. choice story, and while it’s pretty clear who Cassia will end up with, that didn’t stop me from loving the adventure with Daniel and Ellis—or the layered family drama underneath! And that final chapter. Gah! I loved it.
(heat level: mostly fade-to-black + 1 mild open-door scene)
Though Cassia has known for years that her fated match is Daniel Nam, her search for him has been unsuccessful. That is until he shows up at the absolute worst possible time—right after Cassia forms a passionate, unexpected connection with Ellis, a man 11 years her junior! I wanted to be frustrated with Cassia at times, because she definitely unfairly plays with the hearts of these two men, but with her entire life and family legacy built around the idea of a single fated match, it’s hard to blame her.
Cassia is truly pulled in two different directions of happiness, and I loved the tension! It’s very much a fate vs. choice story, and while it’s pretty clear who Cassia will end up with, that didn’t stop me from loving the adventure with Daniel and Ellis—or the layered family drama underneath! And that final chapter. Gah! I loved it.
(heat level: mostly fade-to-black + 1 mild open-door scene)
February 17, 2026
One & Only by Maurene Goo was the perfect romance book for Valentine’s week. It’s a funny, swoony, and heartfelt romance with a touch of magical realism. The story features Cassia Park, a 40-year old woman looking for her “fated” partner. Her family runs a matchmaking business in Beverly Hills that relies on their centuries old ability to read people’s faces and see their one true love. Drama ensues when Cassia gets stuck in a love triangle and has to choose between destiny and love.
I thought the novel was a great mix of comedy, romance, and family drama. It provides an authentic seeming look into Korean culture and life in Los Angeles. I especially enjoyed the best friend relationship and Cassia’s banter with Ellis. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Jeena Yi, through my library’s Libby app. I would recommend listening to this one as the narrator has a compelling voice that brought out the emotion of the various characters. Ultimately this novel took a great premise and turned it into a charming, breezy romance. 3.75/5⭐️
I thought the novel was a great mix of comedy, romance, and family drama. It provides an authentic seeming look into Korean culture and life in Los Angeles. I especially enjoyed the best friend relationship and Cassia’s banter with Ellis. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Jeena Yi, through my library’s Libby app. I would recommend listening to this one as the narrator has a compelling voice that brought out the emotion of the various characters. Ultimately this novel took a great premise and turned it into a charming, breezy romance. 3.75/5⭐️
February 7, 2026
Great romcom magical realism leans heavily into the “what ifs”— what if your family had a Legacy to determine someone’s faded soulmate? What if you knew from a young age, the name of your soulmate and had never found him? What if you grieved the loss of your mother and the loss of her long-term love?
This is a clever scenario and descriptive setting. I appreciated learning more about the Korean culture and the dichotomy between the daughter of a rich tradition in living in everyday American life. Cassia has just turned 40 and is having a fling with a 28 year-old named Ellis that we really like. She is pretty snarky but likable and driven an ambitious. Her faded is named Daniel Nam. Soon she finds out that Ellis‘s boss is named Daniel Nam.
A few tropes that we don’t typically get in romances these days, there’s an age gap, but she is older than he is. Also, the love triangle is not done very frequently, and I thought it was done really well here. It’s very much a character driven romance. Cassia, Ellis and Daniel are each really unique and good characters. We’d want to be friends with them. I also really appreciate her grandmother and great aunt. I’m glad that there were no racial stereotypes in their voice acting on the audiobook.
If you enjoy magical realism in contemporary romance, don’t miss this one, well kind of repetitive and predictable, it’s very cute. A nice escape.
This is a clever scenario and descriptive setting. I appreciated learning more about the Korean culture and the dichotomy between the daughter of a rich tradition in living in everyday American life. Cassia has just turned 40 and is having a fling with a 28 year-old named Ellis that we really like. She is pretty snarky but likable and driven an ambitious. Her faded is named Daniel Nam. Soon she finds out that Ellis‘s boss is named Daniel Nam.
A few tropes that we don’t typically get in romances these days, there’s an age gap, but she is older than he is. Also, the love triangle is not done very frequently, and I thought it was done really well here. It’s very much a character driven romance. Cassia, Ellis and Daniel are each really unique and good characters. We’d want to be friends with them. I also really appreciate her grandmother and great aunt. I’m glad that there were no racial stereotypes in their voice acting on the audiobook.
If you enjoy magical realism in contemporary romance, don’t miss this one, well kind of repetitive and predictable, it’s very cute. A nice escape.
December 7, 2025
I can't tell you how refreshing it is to get an advanced reading copy of a romance novel where the protagonist is not 20-24 years old, bright eyed and bushy tailed, new to love and willing to accept everything that comes their way.
Cassia is not that and I love her for it. With her 40th birthday rapidly approaching and her one true love nowhere to be found, Cassia's beginning to wonder if she's going to end up alone. The family business, after all, rides on finding people their One & Only, and she is determined not to end up like her mom, who bucked the matchmaking trend and ended up alone.
Cassia's journey to find her soulmate has heartbreak, reconciliation, family drama, hot younger dudes, the best friend you could ever hope for, evil swan boats, a cursed cockatoo, and of course...a happy ending. What an adorable read.
Thanks so much to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this.
Cassia is not that and I love her for it. With her 40th birthday rapidly approaching and her one true love nowhere to be found, Cassia's beginning to wonder if she's going to end up alone. The family business, after all, rides on finding people their One & Only, and she is determined not to end up like her mom, who bucked the matchmaking trend and ended up alone.
Cassia's journey to find her soulmate has heartbreak, reconciliation, family drama, hot younger dudes, the best friend you could ever hope for, evil swan boats, a cursed cockatoo, and of course...a happy ending. What an adorable read.
Thanks so much to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this.
February 12, 2026
Book Review #putnampartner 🌼
thank you so much partner @putnambooks for the gifted copy!
One & Only
by Maurene Goo
out now!
Cassia Park believes in soul mates. Fated love stories. It’s her family business, after all—for centuries, from Korea to Los Angeles, Park women have peered into clients’ past lives to find their one true love, their fated. This magical secret is why One & Only Matchmaking has a 100% guarantee…for everyone but Cassia.
For ten years, Cass has been searching for her fated, a man named Daniel Nam. But he’s still nowhere to be found.
And so, on the eve of her 40th birthday, Cass decides to do something for herself. She impulsively has a fling with Ellis. He’s twenty-eight, indecently handsome, and not destined to be the love of her life. But she’s surprised by their connection and their fling feels like something more—up to the moment he introduces her to his boss…Daniel Nam.
💛 My thoughts:
If I could give this book infinite stars, I absolutely would! This is magical realism done right. The generational Korean matchmaking magic was completely captivating. The way past lives and fate are woven into a modern love story felt both whimsical and emotional. It wasn’t just a cute concept… it had weight, history, and heart. Cassia stole my heart. Watching her wrestle with destiny versus choice felt so real. The idea of spending ten years waiting for your “fated” person only to unexpectedly connect with someone who isn’t supposed to be yours? How do you even choose?? The tension between fate and free will was EVERYTHING. And I have to say… I especially loved the age gap. It added such an interesting layer and made the romance feel fresh and different. This story is layered, romantic, and powerful. It’s about love, but it’s also about identity, family legacy, and deciding whether you’re brave enough to write your own story. A new all time favorite for me and one I’ll be recommending for a very, very long time.
Happy reading 📖🌼💛
thank you so much partner @putnambooks for the gifted copy!
One & Only
by Maurene Goo
out now!
Cassia Park believes in soul mates. Fated love stories. It’s her family business, after all—for centuries, from Korea to Los Angeles, Park women have peered into clients’ past lives to find their one true love, their fated. This magical secret is why One & Only Matchmaking has a 100% guarantee…for everyone but Cassia.
For ten years, Cass has been searching for her fated, a man named Daniel Nam. But he’s still nowhere to be found.
And so, on the eve of her 40th birthday, Cass decides to do something for herself. She impulsively has a fling with Ellis. He’s twenty-eight, indecently handsome, and not destined to be the love of her life. But she’s surprised by their connection and their fling feels like something more—up to the moment he introduces her to his boss…Daniel Nam.
💛 My thoughts:
If I could give this book infinite stars, I absolutely would! This is magical realism done right. The generational Korean matchmaking magic was completely captivating. The way past lives and fate are woven into a modern love story felt both whimsical and emotional. It wasn’t just a cute concept… it had weight, history, and heart. Cassia stole my heart. Watching her wrestle with destiny versus choice felt so real. The idea of spending ten years waiting for your “fated” person only to unexpectedly connect with someone who isn’t supposed to be yours? How do you even choose?? The tension between fate and free will was EVERYTHING. And I have to say… I especially loved the age gap. It added such an interesting layer and made the romance feel fresh and different. This story is layered, romantic, and powerful. It’s about love, but it’s also about identity, family legacy, and deciding whether you’re brave enough to write your own story. A new all time favorite for me and one I’ll be recommending for a very, very long time.
Happy reading 📖🌼💛
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February 11, 2026Read my full review of One & Only on YA All Day AND check out my post on New Spring Romances to read, complete with spice level!
If you're up for a little spring romance, I LOVED this one.
I'm not usually a big magical realism fan, but this book wove family dynamics, Korean face reading, a quest for love, and questions about fate and destiny all up in a funny, moving, poignant package.
Cassia is successful and loved by family and friends, but she's missing two things: her beloved mother, who passed away years ago, and her one true love. This is a bit awkward, as Cassia's family runs a dating service that uses both the ancient Korean tradition of face reading and a little magic to discover the name of that person's fated true love. Cassia knows the name of her guy but can't find him. So when she meets cute with a younger guy, she can have a little fun while she's waiting for The One, right?
Such a funny and moving story! Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
If you're up for a little spring romance, I LOVED this one.
I'm not usually a big magical realism fan, but this book wove family dynamics, Korean face reading, a quest for love, and questions about fate and destiny all up in a funny, moving, poignant package.
Cassia is successful and loved by family and friends, but she's missing two things: her beloved mother, who passed away years ago, and her one true love. This is a bit awkward, as Cassia's family runs a dating service that uses both the ancient Korean tradition of face reading and a little magic to discover the name of that person's fated true love. Cassia knows the name of her guy but can't find him. So when she meets cute with a younger guy, she can have a little fun while she's waiting for The One, right?
Such a funny and moving story! Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
February 20, 2026
Oh I really loved this one. Loved how it begs the question that even if fate and soulmates are real, how does human free will/choice/life play into it? The ending was also so good and really tied the together nicely and I think did answer the question the book poses. Only critique is some of the writing was a little repetitive and chunky but it didn’t deter from the story too much.
February 16, 2026
I AM BEAMING. MY CHEEKS HURT. I BELIEVE IN A THING CALLED LOVE!
February 7, 2026
Not another love triangle + age gap story 😩
And of course it ends with a baby. Because apparently that’s the only happy ending?
women don’t need a ‘fated one’,we can just live, love, and enjoy life at any age.
And of course it ends with a baby. Because apparently that’s the only happy ending?
women don’t need a ‘fated one’,we can just live, love, and enjoy life at any age.
December 21, 2025
Someone call Celine Song and Greta Lee, because One and Only by Maureen Goo is practically begging for a screen adaptation. This book has all the makings of a feel-good rom-com. It's snappy, fresh, and delivered with culture and heart.
Cassia, approaching her 40th birthday, is a matchmaker working at One & Only, her family’s face-reading matchmaking service. Since her grandmother once read her face and declared her fate match to be someone named Daniel, Cassia has been searching for him ever since. But just as time begins to slip away, she meets Ellis, a carefree, charming 28-year-old who completely sweeps her off her feet. Honey, the twist? Ellis's boss is none other than Daniel, her long-waited match.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a compelling love triangle, and this is my first time diving into a Maureen Goo novel but it certainly won’t be my last. The book leans heavily into the territory of film Materialist, but where that film sparked mixed reactions (we all know Pedro's character was the choice, let's be real), One and Only offers a more grounded, emotionally satisfying experience... until the ending.
That said, this was still such a pleasure to read. Fast-paced and full of cultural texture. Even if the ending didn’t land for me, the ride was worth it.
Thank you so much Putnam Books for the digital arc.
Cassia, approaching her 40th birthday, is a matchmaker working at One & Only, her family’s face-reading matchmaking service. Since her grandmother once read her face and declared her fate match to be someone named Daniel, Cassia has been searching for him ever since. But just as time begins to slip away, she meets Ellis, a carefree, charming 28-year-old who completely sweeps her off her feet. Honey, the twist? Ellis's boss is none other than Daniel, her long-waited match.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a compelling love triangle, and this is my first time diving into a Maureen Goo novel but it certainly won’t be my last. The book leans heavily into the territory of film Materialist, but where that film sparked mixed reactions (we all know Pedro's character was the choice, let's be real), One and Only offers a more grounded, emotionally satisfying experience... until the ending.
That said, this was still such a pleasure to read. Fast-paced and full of cultural texture. Even if the ending didn’t land for me, the ride was worth it.
Thank you so much Putnam Books for the digital arc.
February 8, 2026
3.5⭐️
I love my romance novels with a dollop of magical realism, so I was eager to get my hands on this book.
❤️There was a lot I enjoyed!
-LA setting with mouth-watering food descriptions
-Asian representation
-Tight community of friends and family
-Love triangle (This isn’t my favorite trope, but it works here!)
-Cinnamon roll MMC
-“Older” (40-ish) FMC
🥰If you enjoyed Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle, this is for you!
🤷♀️Why not five stars?
A four or five star romance rating usually means that I really connected with the main character(s). I struggled to connect with Cassia, and I think it was because she often seemed/acted younger than 40.
I get that she’s hot, and she’s got the whole boss-babe thing going on, but the rate at which these guys fell for her seemed a little unrealistic to me.
I read that this is the author’s first adult novel, and that comes across. It felt YA at times. Notably, the frequent dropping of f-bombs indicates that she’s used to writing for a younger audience.
⚠️Profanity: 4/5 (around 5-10 per chapter; I usually reserve a 4/5 profanity rating for more than ten instances per chapter, but I’m erring on the side of caution. Readers who don’t mind probably won’t notice, but if you’re sensitive to lots of profanity, it will feel like a lot.)
Sexual: 3/5 (One very lengthy cracked door scene at the end of chapter seven. It doesn’t go into anatomical details, but it’s beyond fade-to-black. DM me if you’re curious.)
I love my romance novels with a dollop of magical realism, so I was eager to get my hands on this book.
❤️There was a lot I enjoyed!
-LA setting with mouth-watering food descriptions
-Asian representation
-Tight community of friends and family
-Love triangle (This isn’t my favorite trope, but it works here!)
-Cinnamon roll MMC
-“Older” (40-ish) FMC
🥰If you enjoyed Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle, this is for you!
🤷♀️Why not five stars?
A four or five star romance rating usually means that I really connected with the main character(s). I struggled to connect with Cassia, and I think it was because she often seemed/acted younger than 40.
I get that she’s hot, and she’s got the whole boss-babe thing going on, but the rate at which these guys fell for her seemed a little unrealistic to me.
I read that this is the author’s first adult novel, and that comes across. It felt YA at times. Notably, the frequent dropping of f-bombs indicates that she’s used to writing for a younger audience.
⚠️Profanity: 4/5 (around 5-10 per chapter; I usually reserve a 4/5 profanity rating for more than ten instances per chapter, but I’m erring on the side of caution. Readers who don’t mind probably won’t notice, but if you’re sensitive to lots of profanity, it will feel like a lot.)
Sexual: 3/5 (One very lengthy cracked door scene at the end of chapter seven. It doesn’t go into anatomical details, but it’s beyond fade-to-black. DM me if you’re curious.)
February 18, 2026
What a fun, beautiful read! I instantly fell in love with the premise-- Cass, born into a matchmaking family, is destined to find her match. I was sucked in within the first chapter. As Cass crashes into Ellis, I found myself rooting for this landscaping architect who had undeniable chemistry. But, in a hilarious twist, Ellis' boss is Cassia's fated match. As she navigates her family's matchmaking fate, mixed with her longing for Ellis, I was chuckling, swooning, cringing and wondering who she would end up with. Absolutely loved this book! Thanks to #NetGalley and Putnam Books for the ARC.
February 10, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ fans of Ashley Poston, this is for US. Wow wow WOW, I loved this book! Magical Realism meets romance in the best way, with rich cukture interwoven through the whole story. This authors writing really endeared me to all of the characters, b it ESPECIALLY our Mmc. Lots of funny moments and plenty of heartwarming ones too! A story of family as much as a story of romanctic love.
November 10, 2025
Oh, I looooooved this.
Maurene Goo’s adult debut features a story about Cassia, who not only believes in soulmates, but sells them. Her multi-generational family business matchmakes clients with their “fated” by looking into their past lives. Cassia knows the name of her own fated, but has yet to find him. Enter Ellis. He’s not her match, and yet, she can’t deny their chemistry. So when she DOES meet her fated, she has to contend with following her fate…or making her own. Throw in long-held family secrets, an age-gap romance, and a bit of magical realism, and you get a book that is so unique, so romantic, and so compulsively readable, you’ll have finished in only a few sittings.
A book I would absolutely recommend and re-read. Swoony and charming AF.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
Maurene Goo’s adult debut features a story about Cassia, who not only believes in soulmates, but sells them. Her multi-generational family business matchmakes clients with their “fated” by looking into their past lives. Cassia knows the name of her own fated, but has yet to find him. Enter Ellis. He’s not her match, and yet, she can’t deny their chemistry. So when she DOES meet her fated, she has to contend with following her fate…or making her own. Throw in long-held family secrets, an age-gap romance, and a bit of magical realism, and you get a book that is so unique, so romantic, and so compulsively readable, you’ll have finished in only a few sittings.
A book I would absolutely recommend and re-read. Swoony and charming AF.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
February 7, 2026
5 GLOWING stars 🙂↕️
there’s just something about magical realism that always hits, and One & Only is absolutely NO exception!!!
this is the story of a Korean-American woman named Cassia whose family has been in the matchmaking business for centuries. they participate in the ancient art of face reading, but the twist? they can see into peoples’ past lives to determine their fated; their one true love.
with a multitude of mixed feelings towards her approaching 40th birthday, Cass finds herself drawn to a man that is all wrong for her, on paper, but something just feels so right - until he introduces her to his boss…who happens to BE HER FATED!!!
this book was a story of family, folklore, friendship, romance, grief, and learning how to choose YOURSELF over all else. I will be screaming my love of this book from the rooftops for the rest of time, tysm!!!!
there’s just something about magical realism that always hits, and One & Only is absolutely NO exception!!!
this is the story of a Korean-American woman named Cassia whose family has been in the matchmaking business for centuries. they participate in the ancient art of face reading, but the twist? they can see into peoples’ past lives to determine their fated; their one true love.
with a multitude of mixed feelings towards her approaching 40th birthday, Cass finds herself drawn to a man that is all wrong for her, on paper, but something just feels so right - until he introduces her to his boss…who happens to BE HER FATED!!!
this book was a story of family, folklore, friendship, romance, grief, and learning how to choose YOURSELF over all else. I will be screaming my love of this book from the rooftops for the rest of time, tysm!!!!
January 29, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
First five star read of 2026!!! If you love a family centered, finding yourself, independent woman kind of book this is for you. Plus, add in a little mystic magic with the family business in this one and it makes it all the more special. This book with give you all the feels you want and more...so much more. Please read this, you'll regret it if you don't.
First five star read of 2026!!! If you love a family centered, finding yourself, independent woman kind of book this is for you. Plus, add in a little mystic magic with the family business in this one and it makes it all the more special. This book with give you all the feels you want and more...so much more. Please read this, you'll regret it if you don't.
February 11, 2026
I tumbled straight into this story. Really really enjoyed it all and surprised myself the whole time as there is a love triangle situation and I’m not a particular fan of that — and YET, here I was just so invested!! The premise here is so good, the side characters, the family and friendships. I really enjoyed it. Just an incredibly sweet book. I particularly loved how the MFC felt young for a 40 year old — being 40 feels so completely grown to me but then I suddenly realize I’m two years away from that and I still feel like a kid most of the time (like who let me be an adult) and I just appreciate how true she felt. Also, I love birds sooooooo.
February 22, 2026
Loved it! Loved the 'magical' aspects and the family love!
February 13, 2026
3.5-3.75
February 17, 2026
3.5 stars
It was very predictable but still cute
It was very predictable but still cute
February 6, 2026
The main character of this cute novel, Cassia, works at her family’s matchmaking business. To the outside world, they say they use their family’s long tradition of using the ancients Korean art of face matching, which is part of their business. But what they don’t disclose is that for hundreds of years, the women in their family have had a special power - when they study your face, they also get a glimpse of your past life which shows them who your love was in that life - and what their name is in this life! Cassia is on the verge of turning 40 but still hasn’t been able to find her fated match that her grandmother predicted ten years before. But just when she finds another guy who she seems to click with, that’s when her fated pops up - as this new guy’s boss!
This was really an adorable book - a fun and original take on a love triangle with a little bit of magic realism. I really enjoyed all the characters - Cassia, both men, Cassia’s close but intense family and friends. Loved the Korean culture and Korean food descriptions as well. I had previously read and loved Maurene Goo’s YA book Throwback, and this is her adult debut. It felt a little like a less zany Jesse Q Sutanto book, so if you like those you might like this as well. Plus it’s this month’s Read With Jenna selection! Definitely a lighter than usual choice for Jenna, but a cute and sweet romance for Valentine’s month.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my e-ARC (out now); all opinions are my own.
This was really an adorable book - a fun and original take on a love triangle with a little bit of magic realism. I really enjoyed all the characters - Cassia, both men, Cassia’s close but intense family and friends. Loved the Korean culture and Korean food descriptions as well. I had previously read and loved Maurene Goo’s YA book Throwback, and this is her adult debut. It felt a little like a less zany Jesse Q Sutanto book, so if you like those you might like this as well. Plus it’s this month’s Read With Jenna selection! Definitely a lighter than usual choice for Jenna, but a cute and sweet romance for Valentine’s month.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my e-ARC (out now); all opinions are my own.
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