What do you think?
Rate this book
Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts: A Sweet, Slow Burn, Found Family, Coming-of-Age Tennis Romance Set in London
Crazy Rich Asians meets Bend It Like Beckham in this outrageously fun, Filipino-flavored romance.
When Jomar's tennis ambitions crash into Mitchelle's wounded heart during one charmingly disastrous karaoke night, they'll discover that the biggest matches aren't played on courts—but in learning to love despite the ghosts of the past.
Jomar Montalbano thinks he's ready for anything. A rising tennis star from the Philippines, he lands in London with one suitcase, one college scholarship, and zero idea how to survive without rice. He's counting on a few wins on the court—but definitely not falling for Mitchelle Tanner.
She's the quiet girl with a vintage camera, a craving for halo-halo, and a smile that hides as much as it shows. Half-American, half-Filipina, and fully impossible to read.
He's used to power and control—but around her, he's completely unstrung.
From vulnerable confessions in a darkroom's glow to rallies that feel like Wimbledon wins, Jomar discovers that love—like tennis—is all about timing, risk, and knowing when to fight for the point.
Set in London's rainy alleys and sunlit parks, woven with island warmth and humor, Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts is an adventure about home, heart, and the courage to choose love against all odds.
Love at 18 isn't always a mistake. Sometimes it's a miracle.
Early Reader
“Wow, I absolutely loved this book! That's all I did all afternoon! I’m amazed by how perfectly you describe Filipino food (have you tried it all?), how you write tennis like a pro, and how you bring London’s sights to life (I know them all!). This will completely click with readers everywhere!”
“A fabulous romance that captures all the delicious tension of young love! From the heart-fluttering uncertainty of first texts to those vulnerable first touches, this story perfectly evokes the magic and mishaps of new relationships. The richly drawn tennis backdrop and mouthwatering Filipino food descriptions add irresistible flavor, while the international setting brings authentic travel challenges to life. With its will-they-won’t-they spark and gorgeous prose (‘She whispers as if letting a secret slip out in the dark’), this is a love story that will resonate with anyone who remembers—or is experiencing—their first breathtaking romance. Brava!”
Content This story social alcohol use, mild profanity, depictions of past romantic trauma, and competitive sports pressure.
While handled with care, please prioritize your wellbeing. The story ultimately celebrates healing and joyful connection.
When Jomar's tennis ambitions crash into Mitchelle's wounded heart during one charmingly disastrous karaoke night, they'll discover that the biggest matches aren't played on courts—but in learning to love despite the ghosts of the past.
Jomar Montalbano thinks he's ready for anything. A rising tennis star from the Philippines, he lands in London with one suitcase, one college scholarship, and zero idea how to survive without rice. He's counting on a few wins on the court—but definitely not falling for Mitchelle Tanner.
She's the quiet girl with a vintage camera, a craving for halo-halo, and a smile that hides as much as it shows. Half-American, half-Filipina, and fully impossible to read.
He's used to power and control—but around her, he's completely unstrung.
From vulnerable confessions in a darkroom's glow to rallies that feel like Wimbledon wins, Jomar discovers that love—like tennis—is all about timing, risk, and knowing when to fight for the point.
Set in London's rainy alleys and sunlit parks, woven with island warmth and humor, Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts is an adventure about home, heart, and the courage to choose love against all odds.
Love at 18 isn't always a mistake. Sometimes it's a miracle.
Early Reader
“Wow, I absolutely loved this book! That's all I did all afternoon! I’m amazed by how perfectly you describe Filipino food (have you tried it all?), how you write tennis like a pro, and how you bring London’s sights to life (I know them all!). This will completely click with readers everywhere!”
“A fabulous romance that captures all the delicious tension of young love! From the heart-fluttering uncertainty of first texts to those vulnerable first touches, this story perfectly evokes the magic and mishaps of new relationships. The richly drawn tennis backdrop and mouthwatering Filipino food descriptions add irresistible flavor, while the international setting brings authentic travel challenges to life. With its will-they-won’t-they spark and gorgeous prose (‘She whispers as if letting a secret slip out in the dark’), this is a love story that will resonate with anyone who remembers—or is experiencing—their first breathtaking romance. Brava!”
Content This story social alcohol use, mild profanity, depictions of past romantic trauma, and competitive sports pressure.
While handled with care, please prioritize your wellbeing. The story ultimately celebrates healing and joyful connection.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
4 people are currently reading
830 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 5, 2025
“I won’t give up on you… if you don’t give up on me.” Words from Jomar to Michelle, after their worlds finally settle. Jomar is scholarship good at tennis; hence, his presence at UCL. He’s also a beacon of hope for his family, a rising star from the Philippines to London. Michelle, the introverted girl who hides behind the camera, captures his attention. Half American and Filipino, she feels like she never fits in until Jomar and the Villegas include her in their tiny group.
Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts by Melanie, is a slow ban tennis romance set against the backdrop of London. I really loved how the author added Filipino culture from the food to the words. The character act must be applauded. The gentle wit and humor between the two was so cute, as well as the simmering tension.
“Love at eighteen isn’t always a mistake; sometimes it’s a miracle.” The author writes describing the powerful connection between the protagonists. A fun, easy coming-of-age romance. I highly recommend it.
Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts by Melanie, is a slow ban tennis romance set against the backdrop of London. I really loved how the author added Filipino culture from the food to the words. The character act must be applauded. The gentle wit and humor between the two was so cute, as well as the simmering tension.
“Love at eighteen isn’t always a mistake; sometimes it’s a miracle.” The author writes describing the powerful connection between the protagonists. A fun, easy coming-of-age romance. I highly recommend it.
Read
August 31, 2025Dear Reader,
This book came from my heart in ways I never expected.
After my parents' bitter divorce when I was young, I grew up estranged from my father. When he died of pancreatic cancer two years ago, he was almost a stranger to me. Writing Jomar and Mitch's story became my way of imagining what a close father-daughter relationship might have looked like—the kind I wished I could have had with my own dad.
I’ve been asked… is Jomar real? In a way, yes and no.
He is a composite of the good men in my life: my Uncle Tony, a Rhodes Scholar from the Philippines who let me sit on his knee watching Wimbledon as a little girl; my husband, Oliver, who is so driven and focused but has the biggest heart—loyal, understanding, and protective to his core; and echoes of my first boyfriend from Mindanao, a tennis player who taught me what "Gihigugma" means during one brief, sweet summer before he joined the Air Force.
As for Mitch…
At the London Book Fair, I met an officer from the Philippine National Book Development Board with a most unusual name: Mitchelle. She told me that after the Bible, romance is the most beloved genre throughout the islands. The NBDB’s mission is to encourage literacy, and I knew I wanted to contribute.
Working with a passionate Filipino writing group, this story was born—a romance for a new generation that celebrates Pinoy culture while exploring universal themes of family, dreams, and finding your place in the world.
This book is for you if you love:
* Sweet, clean romance that gives you all the fluttery kilig feelings.
* Fun, coming-of-age stories rich with authentic cultural details.
* Found family bonds that feel like home.
* Tennis (but you don't need to know the sport!)
* The dynamic energy of London as a backdrop for new beginnings.
* Stories about sacrifice, friendship, and the courage to chase big dreams.
* Diverse characters navigating the beautiful complexity of living between cultures.
As a first-generation immigrant, "Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts" is my love letter to the Philippines, to the incredible men and women who shaped me, and to the father-daughter bond I always imagined.
With love and gratitude… Thank you for giving my heart’s work a chance. ❤️
This book came from my heart in ways I never expected.
After my parents' bitter divorce when I was young, I grew up estranged from my father. When he died of pancreatic cancer two years ago, he was almost a stranger to me. Writing Jomar and Mitch's story became my way of imagining what a close father-daughter relationship might have looked like—the kind I wished I could have had with my own dad.
I’ve been asked… is Jomar real? In a way, yes and no.
He is a composite of the good men in my life: my Uncle Tony, a Rhodes Scholar from the Philippines who let me sit on his knee watching Wimbledon as a little girl; my husband, Oliver, who is so driven and focused but has the biggest heart—loyal, understanding, and protective to his core; and echoes of my first boyfriend from Mindanao, a tennis player who taught me what "Gihigugma" means during one brief, sweet summer before he joined the Air Force.
As for Mitch…
At the London Book Fair, I met an officer from the Philippine National Book Development Board with a most unusual name: Mitchelle. She told me that after the Bible, romance is the most beloved genre throughout the islands. The NBDB’s mission is to encourage literacy, and I knew I wanted to contribute.
Working with a passionate Filipino writing group, this story was born—a romance for a new generation that celebrates Pinoy culture while exploring universal themes of family, dreams, and finding your place in the world.
This book is for you if you love:
* Sweet, clean romance that gives you all the fluttery kilig feelings.
* Fun, coming-of-age stories rich with authentic cultural details.
* Found family bonds that feel like home.
* Tennis (but you don't need to know the sport!)
* The dynamic energy of London as a backdrop for new beginnings.
* Stories about sacrifice, friendship, and the courage to chase big dreams.
* Diverse characters navigating the beautiful complexity of living between cultures.
As a first-generation immigrant, "Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts" is my love letter to the Philippines, to the incredible men and women who shaped me, and to the father-daughter bond I always imagined.
With love and gratitude… Thank you for giving my heart’s work a chance. ❤️
May 7, 2026
I love how this book tackles and introduces Filipino culture in a book. It's such a refreshing way to see Filipino culture being appreciated in a book. I hope everyone can love it as much as I did.
January 14, 2026
Cute, calming, cozy, and sincere, but also bordering on corny and cringey. There's also a lot of telling rather than showing in terms of characterization, and several plot points felt like half-baked ideas that didn't mesh well with the overall narrative.
December 20, 2025
Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts was an incredible read about young romance that blossoms with honesty and love. Jomar and Mitchelle brought out the best in one another and helped each other grow through trust, patience and genuine care. The book captures love beautifully- not as something that is always perfect, but something that is deep and real. The symbolic purple headband was an adorable addition to the story, where it acted as a key to bringing Jomar and Mitchelle together.
I loved when Jomar landed in London and asked all the right questions about retailers- like why is Boots named after shoes?! It was funny to understand all the British references as he navigated this new city. My favourite character would definitely be Noel, the best friend Jomar makes at the airport on his way to London. Noel is hilarious and honestly the funny and lovable side character!
The representation of the Filipino community was wholesomely included in this book- which I absolutely loved! It was intriguing to read about food dishes, culture and Tagalog phrases!
I loved when Jomar landed in London and asked all the right questions about retailers- like why is Boots named after shoes?! It was funny to understand all the British references as he navigated this new city. My favourite character would definitely be Noel, the best friend Jomar makes at the airport on his way to London. Noel is hilarious and honestly the funny and lovable side character!
The representation of the Filipino community was wholesomely included in this book- which I absolutely loved! It was intriguing to read about food dishes, culture and Tagalog phrases!
October 30, 2025
A Captivating Sweet Love Story
GIHIGUGMA, ACE OF HEARTS: A Sweet, Slow Burn, Found Family, Coming-of-Age Tennis Romance Set in London by Melanie King-Smith is an engaging romance story that you won't be able to put down once you start reading. The plot follows Jomar, a Filipino youth who travels to London to pursue a scholarship. Jomar's life takes an exciting turn as he enters a new world of self-discovery, making new friends and finding love along the way.
Will Jomar achieve his dreams, or will he get lost in the distractions and youthful mischief that come with college life? The author excels in both plot and character development, painting vivid scenes that make reading the book feel like watching a movie.
Melanie's storytelling skills are exceptional; she avoids filler content and unnecessary details, keeping the narrative short, clear, suspenseful, and immersive. Additionally, she employs a balanced sense of humor and a conversational tone, making the story even more engaging.
The pacing of the book complements the storyline perfectly. It highlights the importance of parental guidance in helping the youth stay on the right path. Even while far from home, Jomar's mother keeps reminding him to stay focused on his studies and ambitions. It’s fascinating to see how both Mitch and Jomar refocus on their dreams before ultimately declaring "gihigugma" or "I love you"
The book is well-written and professionally edited, containing no grammatical errors. If you enjoy coming-of-age stories, you will definitely fall in love with Jomar, Mitch, and their friends.
GIHIGUGMA, ACE OF HEARTS: A Sweet, Slow Burn, Found Family, Coming-of-Age Tennis Romance Set in London by Melanie King-Smith is an engaging romance story that you won't be able to put down once you start reading. The plot follows Jomar, a Filipino youth who travels to London to pursue a scholarship. Jomar's life takes an exciting turn as he enters a new world of self-discovery, making new friends and finding love along the way.
Will Jomar achieve his dreams, or will he get lost in the distractions and youthful mischief that come with college life? The author excels in both plot and character development, painting vivid scenes that make reading the book feel like watching a movie.
Melanie's storytelling skills are exceptional; she avoids filler content and unnecessary details, keeping the narrative short, clear, suspenseful, and immersive. Additionally, she employs a balanced sense of humor and a conversational tone, making the story even more engaging.
The pacing of the book complements the storyline perfectly. It highlights the importance of parental guidance in helping the youth stay on the right path. Even while far from home, Jomar's mother keeps reminding him to stay focused on his studies and ambitions. It’s fascinating to see how both Mitch and Jomar refocus on their dreams before ultimately declaring "gihigugma" or "I love you"
The book is well-written and professionally edited, containing no grammatical errors. If you enjoy coming-of-age stories, you will definitely fall in love with Jomar, Mitch, and their friends.
September 15, 2025
I went in expecting a fun, Filipino-flavored rom-com and it delivered that in spades, but what surprised me was the tenderness beneath the humor.
Jomar is such a lovable mix of confidence and cluelessness. His passion for tennis is undeniable, but it’s the moments when he struggles off the court: longing for familiar food, stumbling through cultural shocks, or being completely undone by Mitchelle, that made me root for him the most. Mitchelle, on the other hand, is the kind of heroine who lingers with you: quiet yet strong, carrying unspoken hurts while still reaching for joy. Their chemistry sparkles from the very first (disastrous but hilarious) karaoke night.
What I really enjoyed was how the story blended London’s gray skies with the warmth of Filipino culture. From halo-halo cravings to the karaoke scenes, it felt like a love letter to community and home. At its core, though, this is a story about the courage to love, to let someone in despite past heartbreak, and to believe that being 18 doesn’t make your feelings any less real.
It’s witty, heartfelt, and just the right amount of swoony.
Jomar is such a lovable mix of confidence and cluelessness. His passion for tennis is undeniable, but it’s the moments when he struggles off the court: longing for familiar food, stumbling through cultural shocks, or being completely undone by Mitchelle, that made me root for him the most. Mitchelle, on the other hand, is the kind of heroine who lingers with you: quiet yet strong, carrying unspoken hurts while still reaching for joy. Their chemistry sparkles from the very first (disastrous but hilarious) karaoke night.
What I really enjoyed was how the story blended London’s gray skies with the warmth of Filipino culture. From halo-halo cravings to the karaoke scenes, it felt like a love letter to community and home. At its core, though, this is a story about the courage to love, to let someone in despite past heartbreak, and to believe that being 18 doesn’t make your feelings any less real.
It’s witty, heartfelt, and just the right amount of swoony.
October 11, 2025
A love match you’ll root for
This is the kind of story that quietly steals your heart and refuses to let go. It’s a tender, slow burn romance that blends the excitement of chasing dreams with the vulnerability of falling in love for the first time. Set against the cozy, rain drenched streets of London, this coming of age novel captures what it means to find home in another person.
King Smith’s writing is heartfelt and vivid, balancing humor, warmth, and introspection. The Filipino touches, from food to language, add a beautiful layer of authenticity, making the story feel both personal and universal. Beyond the romance, it’s a story about identity, belonging, and the courage to open your heart after loss.
The book is sweet without being saccharine, emotional without being heavy, a perfect read for anyone who loves found family stories, slow burn romance, and characters who feel beautifully real. It’s a charming reminder that love, like tennis, is all about heart, timing, and taking the shot when it matters most.
This is the kind of story that quietly steals your heart and refuses to let go. It’s a tender, slow burn romance that blends the excitement of chasing dreams with the vulnerability of falling in love for the first time. Set against the cozy, rain drenched streets of London, this coming of age novel captures what it means to find home in another person.
King Smith’s writing is heartfelt and vivid, balancing humor, warmth, and introspection. The Filipino touches, from food to language, add a beautiful layer of authenticity, making the story feel both personal and universal. Beyond the romance, it’s a story about identity, belonging, and the courage to open your heart after loss.
The book is sweet without being saccharine, emotional without being heavy, a perfect read for anyone who loves found family stories, slow burn romance, and characters who feel beautifully real. It’s a charming reminder that love, like tennis, is all about heart, timing, and taking the shot when it matters most.
November 1, 2025
GIHIGUGMA, ACE OF HEARTS offers something a little different from the usual teen romance. Jomar’s a Filipino tennis star trying to find his footing in London, while Mitchelle’s calm presence and hidden pain make her instantly intriguing. Together, they navigate culture shock, competition, and first love’s unpredictable rhythm.
The author clearly knows tennis—the details feel authentic and energetic—but what keeps the story moving is its warmth. The humor, the food, and the emotional honesty all give it heart. You don’t need to love sports to appreciate how much Jomar’s passion mirrors his struggle to open up.
There’s heart in every detail. Still, the quiet openness of the ending fits. The book's pace is slightly slow . It was very hard to let it go. It’s not flashy or forced, just real. When it ends, you sort of sit there thinking about them—Jomar, Mitchelle, all of it. Love rarely does.
Beautifully written and full of heart, GIHIGUGMA, ACE OF HEARTS shines despite a few moments that could be tighter.
The author clearly knows tennis—the details feel authentic and energetic—but what keeps the story moving is its warmth. The humor, the food, and the emotional honesty all give it heart. You don’t need to love sports to appreciate how much Jomar’s passion mirrors his struggle to open up.
There’s heart in every detail. Still, the quiet openness of the ending fits. The book's pace is slightly slow . It was very hard to let it go. It’s not flashy or forced, just real. When it ends, you sort of sit there thinking about them—Jomar, Mitchelle, all of it. Love rarely does.
Beautifully written and full of heart, GIHIGUGMA, ACE OF HEARTS shines despite a few moments that could be tighter.
October 11, 2025
such a wholesome romance!
Love the romance between Jomar and Michelle!!
What makes this novel shine is its authenticity. The vivid descriptions of Filipino food, the precise language of tennis, and the atmospheric London settings create a world that feels lived-in and real. The romance itself is handled with remarkable care and displays all the nuances of first love.
My favorite aspect was Jomar and Michelle feeling like fully realized people. His struggle to navigate a new country grounds the story, while her guardedness adds necessary complexity. Their dynamic feels earned and deeply romantic, balancing humor and heart throughout.
Love the romance between Jomar and Michelle!!
What makes this novel shine is its authenticity. The vivid descriptions of Filipino food, the precise language of tennis, and the atmospheric London settings create a world that feels lived-in and real. The romance itself is handled with remarkable care and displays all the nuances of first love.
My favorite aspect was Jomar and Michelle feeling like fully realized people. His struggle to navigate a new country grounds the story, while her guardedness adds necessary complexity. Their dynamic feels earned and deeply romantic, balancing humor and heart throughout.
September 9, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of the book, “Gihiguagma, Ace of Hearts,” from the author via Voracious Readers Only. This book was very endearing and uplifting. It touched on the challenges of cultural diversity and determination to change whether it be generationally or emotionally beyond past hurts. The author did a great job writing characters. I do wish that the female protagonist got to have a bit more development as the ending approached like the male did but other than that it was a very sweet young romance
October 20, 2025
Have a tissue handy on the day you allow for this delightful, sweet, slow burn, contemporary, found family, coming-of-age, culture-clash, tennis romance between two 18-year-olds, Joseph Maria Antonio Montalbano from Davao in the Philippines, and photographer Mitchelle Tanner from San Francisco, who meet in London and find adventure, alcohol, England, and humor.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
This was such a heartwarming love story. I loved how Mitch and Jomar’s struggles as exchanges students were portrayed and how they had to find their “found family” in London. I also loved all the references to Filipino culture and foods.
Thank you Goodreads for the e-ARC!
Thank you Goodreads for the e-ARC!
January 13, 2026
I really wanted to read this because 1) I’m Filipino, 2) I immigrated to the US 3) my husband is from the UK and 4) we both played tennis. There are so many parallels of my life that I can relate to from this short and sweet story.
This book is a soft, slow-burn hug disguised as a rom-com with a Filipino soul 🇵🇭 and a London postcode 🇬🇧 I went in expecting a cute, culture-forward romance and stayed for the feelings (and the food!)
Yes, there’s young love 💕 Yes, it’s tender, earnest and occasionally makes you want to yell “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” 📢 But underneath the flirting and tennis metaphors 🎾 is a genuinely sweet story about being far from home ✈️, craving comfort food 🍲 and figuring out who you are when you’re stuck between cultures, expectations and dreams.
Jomar landing in London and immediately questioning why Boots doesn’t sell boots is peak fish-out-of-water comedy
What really shines is the Filipino representation: food 🥘, Tagalog phrases, karaoke 🎤, family dynamics that’s all woven in so naturally it feels lived-in, not performative. It’s giving halo-halo cravings 🍧, auntie energy 💅 and community-as-survival vibes, which I absolutely loved. The contrast between gloomy London skies 🌧️ and the warmth of Filipino culture ☀️ works beautifully like sunshine smuggled into a gray city.
The romance itself is soft, sincere and un-cynical 💖 It treats first love with respect instead of rolling its eyes at it. Is it low-stakes? Yes. Could it use a little more tension? Also yes. But sometimes you don’t want chaos, you want cozy ❤️
This book feels like a love letter 💌 to culture, family, community and the terrifying courage it takes to love someone (or yourself) when you’re young and unsure. You don’t need to care about tennis 🎾 or know Filipino culture going in. You just need a heart, decent timing and a willingness to feel things. And maybe a snack 🧁, because the food descriptions made me so hungry! 😏
🎾 YA Contemporary Romance
📸 Found Family
🎾 Filipino/Asian Immigrant Experience (Own Voices)
📸 Sports Romance (Tennis)
🎾 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
📸 Sweet/ No Spice
🎾 Dual POV
📸Coming of Age
Thank you to @rrbooktours @melanie.kingsmith for the #gifted copy of this book!
This book is a soft, slow-burn hug disguised as a rom-com with a Filipino soul 🇵🇭 and a London postcode 🇬🇧 I went in expecting a cute, culture-forward romance and stayed for the feelings (and the food!)
Yes, there’s young love 💕 Yes, it’s tender, earnest and occasionally makes you want to yell “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” 📢 But underneath the flirting and tennis metaphors 🎾 is a genuinely sweet story about being far from home ✈️, craving comfort food 🍲 and figuring out who you are when you’re stuck between cultures, expectations and dreams.
Jomar landing in London and immediately questioning why Boots doesn’t sell boots is peak fish-out-of-water comedy
What really shines is the Filipino representation: food 🥘, Tagalog phrases, karaoke 🎤, family dynamics that’s all woven in so naturally it feels lived-in, not performative. It’s giving halo-halo cravings 🍧, auntie energy 💅 and community-as-survival vibes, which I absolutely loved. The contrast between gloomy London skies 🌧️ and the warmth of Filipino culture ☀️ works beautifully like sunshine smuggled into a gray city.
The romance itself is soft, sincere and un-cynical 💖 It treats first love with respect instead of rolling its eyes at it. Is it low-stakes? Yes. Could it use a little more tension? Also yes. But sometimes you don’t want chaos, you want cozy ❤️
This book feels like a love letter 💌 to culture, family, community and the terrifying courage it takes to love someone (or yourself) when you’re young and unsure. You don’t need to care about tennis 🎾 or know Filipino culture going in. You just need a heart, decent timing and a willingness to feel things. And maybe a snack 🧁, because the food descriptions made me so hungry! 😏
🎾 YA Contemporary Romance
📸 Found Family
🎾 Filipino/Asian Immigrant Experience (Own Voices)
📸 Sports Romance (Tennis)
🎾 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
📸 Sweet/ No Spice
🎾 Dual POV
📸Coming of Age
Thank you to @rrbooktours @melanie.kingsmith for the #gifted copy of this book!
January 12, 2026
This book was a really sweet surprise for me. I’ve been intentionally stepping outside my usual genre comfort zone this year, and this sweet contemporary sports romance ended up being quite endearing. This was charming and genuinely enjoyable in a way that made it easy to keep turning the pages.
The nods to Filipino culture added so much warmth and personality, and I really enjoyed the family dynamics. There’s pressure and expectation, sure, but it’s balanced with love and care in a way that felt authentic rather than heavy-handed. The friendships were fun, the romance itself was soft and earnest, and overall the book had a cozy, feel-good energy that made it a pleasant reading experience.
That said, not everything landed for me. The central conflict felt a bit forced and popped up so suddenly that it pulled me out of the story, even though I liked what the conflict represented in terms of growth and healing. There’s also a mentor figure who appears midway through the book and then disappears just as quickly, which felt unnecessary, especially since the story already had a coach who could have filled that role perfectly well. I was also frustrated by how other women were portrayed; there’s some unnecessary judgment and sidelining that left me wishing for more nuance and friendships or good relationships in general between women. Our main character is really the only one without any faults.
Still, despite those issues, this book very much feels like a love letter to culture, to family, to community, and to young love. It’s earnest, optimistic, and clearly written with a lot of affection. While I think the story could have used a bit more narrative tension to balance it, I found it endearing and uplifting overall. A lovely pick if you’re in the mood for something gentle, culturally rich, and easy to fall into.
Thank you to R&R Booktours and the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
The nods to Filipino culture added so much warmth and personality, and I really enjoyed the family dynamics. There’s pressure and expectation, sure, but it’s balanced with love and care in a way that felt authentic rather than heavy-handed. The friendships were fun, the romance itself was soft and earnest, and overall the book had a cozy, feel-good energy that made it a pleasant reading experience.
That said, not everything landed for me. The central conflict felt a bit forced and popped up so suddenly that it pulled me out of the story, even though I liked what the conflict represented in terms of growth and healing. There’s also a mentor figure who appears midway through the book and then disappears just as quickly, which felt unnecessary, especially since the story already had a coach who could have filled that role perfectly well. I was also frustrated by how other women were portrayed; there’s some unnecessary judgment and sidelining that left me wishing for more nuance and friendships or good relationships in general between women. Our main character is really the only one without any faults.
Still, despite those issues, this book very much feels like a love letter to culture, to family, to community, and to young love. It’s earnest, optimistic, and clearly written with a lot of affection. While I think the story could have used a bit more narrative tension to balance it, I found it endearing and uplifting overall. A lovely pick if you’re in the mood for something gentle, culturally rich, and easy to fall into.
Thank you to R&R Booktours and the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
January 5, 2026
Jomar Montalbano arrives to London with his missing luggage, a college scholarship, and his ambitions to be the best tennis player. He leaves everything he knows and loves behind in the Philippines after receiving a tennis scholarship for a London college. Thankfully, Jomar meets fellow tennis player Noel at the airport, who takes him under his wing. He also encounters a mysterious woman at the airport, but did not think to ask for her number. Noel shows him London and takes him to a pub, where he sees the mysterious woman again but she runs off before he could talk to her. For Jomar, maybe it is a sign to put all his focus onto tennis and not dating. Yet, he cannot get his mind off of her until one fateful encounter at Noel’s family party and then he finally meets her, Mitchelle Tanner. They instantly have a connection, and they both are feeling the happiest in their lives. However, pressure from tennis and trauma from a past relationship surfaces. Can these two get through it together or will their relationship end before it can start?
This was such a cute read, I was so happy when Jomar and Mitchelle finally met. Their moments together were so cute and just made me so happy to see them together. I also really enjoyed reading about the friendship between Jomar and Noel as well. I wish the book went into more depth with the complicated relationship between Mitch and her mom, I felt like that storyline fell flat and would have loved to read more about her being a business major despite having a passion for art. I am normally not a big fan of long romance books, but felt like this book could have been a bit longer to dive into the complexities of the friendships and relationships in this book. I was thrown off by the portrayal of Girlie, Mitch’s stepsister, which shows a dislike of Mitch from Girlie’s POV but nothing seemed out of place via Mitch’s POV. I would have loved to read more about this relationship. Lastly, the book has multiple POVs, which I usually love in books but hate when the author does not label the names for a shift in POV. So there were times where I was confused about who was talking. It would not have been too bad if it was only the POVs from the main characters, but the author also included some small POVs from minor characters. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and loved the incorporation of Filipino culture throughout the book. A warning to everyone, you will crave a lot of Filipino food after reading this book. Thank you so much to Melanie King-Smith and R & R Book Tours for this gifted copy of Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts!
Visit my blog for more book reviews: https://christinaschapterblog.com
This was such a cute read, I was so happy when Jomar and Mitchelle finally met. Their moments together were so cute and just made me so happy to see them together. I also really enjoyed reading about the friendship between Jomar and Noel as well. I wish the book went into more depth with the complicated relationship between Mitch and her mom, I felt like that storyline fell flat and would have loved to read more about her being a business major despite having a passion for art. I am normally not a big fan of long romance books, but felt like this book could have been a bit longer to dive into the complexities of the friendships and relationships in this book. I was thrown off by the portrayal of Girlie, Mitch’s stepsister, which shows a dislike of Mitch from Girlie’s POV but nothing seemed out of place via Mitch’s POV. I would have loved to read more about this relationship. Lastly, the book has multiple POVs, which I usually love in books but hate when the author does not label the names for a shift in POV. So there were times where I was confused about who was talking. It would not have been too bad if it was only the POVs from the main characters, but the author also included some small POVs from minor characters. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and loved the incorporation of Filipino culture throughout the book. A warning to everyone, you will crave a lot of Filipino food after reading this book. Thank you so much to Melanie King-Smith and R & R Book Tours for this gifted copy of Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts!
Visit my blog for more book reviews: https://christinaschapterblog.com
November 2, 2025
Growing up is confusing. You want to move ahead, but you don’t want to lose where you came from. Ace of Hearts shows that feeling really well. It’s not just a story about tennis or romance. It’s about two young people trying to figure out who they are, what they want, and where they truly belong.
The story focuses on Jomar Montalbano and Mitchelle "Mitch" Tanner, two young adults figuring out their complex identities. Jomar wants to make his family proud. Mitch wants to be seen for who she really is, not who others expect her to be. The book shows how cultural displacement and self-discovery shape young adulthood. It shows their struggle of navigating between worlds—Filipino and Western, family and independence, dream and duty. For example, Jomar's journey from Davao to London is an emotional and spiritual migration, not just geographical. As his mother says at the airport, “You can take the Filipino out of the Philippines, but you can’t take the Pinoy from his heart.” While Mitch's struggles are different. She's half-Filipina, half-American, and feels pressure to be perfect because of her mother’s high expectations.
The author cleverly uses sports and photography to showcase the novel's characters. Tennis isn't just a game but a metaphor for growth. While photography shows a search for truth. What the author is saying is that love can help people stay grounded even when life changes completely. It is something you choose and work for, not just something you feel.
Spanning 40 chapters, the writing is simple, and the chapters are short and move quickly. The dialogue feels natural, as the use of British slang makes it relatable. Also, the tone is warm, funny, and emotional without being dramatic.
The book also highlights Filipino culture—food, humor, language, and the idea of community. However, you don’t need to know tennis or Filipino culture to enjoy it. It is that rich. You just need the courage to love someone or yourself. You don't need perfection.
The story focuses on Jomar Montalbano and Mitchelle "Mitch" Tanner, two young adults figuring out their complex identities. Jomar wants to make his family proud. Mitch wants to be seen for who she really is, not who others expect her to be. The book shows how cultural displacement and self-discovery shape young adulthood. It shows their struggle of navigating between worlds—Filipino and Western, family and independence, dream and duty. For example, Jomar's journey from Davao to London is an emotional and spiritual migration, not just geographical. As his mother says at the airport, “You can take the Filipino out of the Philippines, but you can’t take the Pinoy from his heart.” While Mitch's struggles are different. She's half-Filipina, half-American, and feels pressure to be perfect because of her mother’s high expectations.
The author cleverly uses sports and photography to showcase the novel's characters. Tennis isn't just a game but a metaphor for growth. While photography shows a search for truth. What the author is saying is that love can help people stay grounded even when life changes completely. It is something you choose and work for, not just something you feel.
Spanning 40 chapters, the writing is simple, and the chapters are short and move quickly. The dialogue feels natural, as the use of British slang makes it relatable. Also, the tone is warm, funny, and emotional without being dramatic.
The book also highlights Filipino culture—food, humor, language, and the idea of community. However, you don’t need to know tennis or Filipino culture to enjoy it. It is that rich. You just need the courage to love someone or yourself. You don't need perfection.
January 16, 2026
This is not my usual genre,this was actually my first sports/contemporary romance, and I absolutely loved it. Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts was sweet, heartfelt, and surprisingly emotional. Melainie King-Smith had me laughing throughout with the witty, playful dialogue between characters, and then, when I least expected it, hit me with the very real, gut-punch emotions of love, longing, and growth.
The story follows Jomar, a talented tennis player, and Mitch, a photographer, who meet by fate while traveling to London to attend university. Jomar is leaving the Philippines for the first time to chase his dream, while Mitch, who is half Filipino and more familiar with London, brings her own perspective on identity, family, and belonging. What starts as a chance meeting grows into something deeper as they find community, friendship, and a sense of home through the Filipino connections they make along the way.
This book shines in its found-family dynamics and emotional authenticity. The friendships feel genuine, the romance is soft and cozy, and the coming-of-age elements make the story feel grounded and relatable. It’s comforting without being boring, emotional without being overwhelming, and incredibly easy to fall into.
If you’re looking for a feel-good, cozy sports romance with heart, humor, and meaningful representation, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
The story follows Jomar, a talented tennis player, and Mitch, a photographer, who meet by fate while traveling to London to attend university. Jomar is leaving the Philippines for the first time to chase his dream, while Mitch, who is half Filipino and more familiar with London, brings her own perspective on identity, family, and belonging. What starts as a chance meeting grows into something deeper as they find community, friendship, and a sense of home through the Filipino connections they make along the way.
This book shines in its found-family dynamics and emotional authenticity. The friendships feel genuine, the romance is soft and cozy, and the coming-of-age elements make the story feel grounded and relatable. It’s comforting without being boring, emotional without being overwhelming, and incredibly easy to fall into.
If you’re looking for a feel-good, cozy sports romance with heart, humor, and meaningful representation, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
January 15, 2026
“And somewhere between the swing and the stars, between shadows and safelight, something settles between them. Something good.”
A perfectly sweet coming of age story. With plenty of Filipino representation and what it’s like to find yourself away from home.
The individual stories of our MCs are full of depth and family, whether it’s estranged or tight knit. When the friendship and romance begin I couldn’t hell but smile. This book had me giggly and all up in my feelings. As it is more YA there is no spice, but the yearning makes up for it.
“Capture him in his best light.” “I always do,” she whispers, slipping the film into her bag. 🫶🏼
I adore the way our MCs fawn over each other at a distance. It made it that much sweeter when they finally admit their feelings.
The turmoil they both endure is so real. I felt like I was talking/listening to a close friend and their problems.
Melanie does an amazing job at representing how family oriented Filipino families can be, while simultaneously showing familial relationships that are beginning to strain. I can’t wait for her to write more! The side characters definitely have enough depth to write them into an interconnected series 👀
Thank you for my eARC 🫶🏼
This book will forever live in my heart 💗
A perfectly sweet coming of age story. With plenty of Filipino representation and what it’s like to find yourself away from home.
The individual stories of our MCs are full of depth and family, whether it’s estranged or tight knit. When the friendship and romance begin I couldn’t hell but smile. This book had me giggly and all up in my feelings. As it is more YA there is no spice, but the yearning makes up for it.
“Capture him in his best light.” “I always do,” she whispers, slipping the film into her bag. 🫶🏼
I adore the way our MCs fawn over each other at a distance. It made it that much sweeter when they finally admit their feelings.
The turmoil they both endure is so real. I felt like I was talking/listening to a close friend and their problems.
Melanie does an amazing job at representing how family oriented Filipino families can be, while simultaneously showing familial relationships that are beginning to strain. I can’t wait for her to write more! The side characters definitely have enough depth to write them into an interconnected series 👀
Thank you for my eARC 🫶🏼
This book will forever live in my heart 💗
January 15, 2026
"Just a boy, a city, and a fragment of fate in his pocket."
-Melanie King-Smith in Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts
I LOVED Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts. Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts follows the love story between Jomar and Mitch as they meet each other, fall in love, go through a minor series of miscommunications, and fall in love again. The inclusion of both tennis and photography was well done and all of the characters felt like real people. Such a quick read and so tenderly sweet. I can't recommend this enough.
As a Filipino American I felt seen by this title and the love story between Jomar and Mitch was one I absolutely fell for. The description of Filipino food was to die for and made my mouth water as I read. The writing, pacing, and ending all felt like they tied together in a neat way and I can't wait to see what else Melanie King-Smith comes out with.
I only wish that the cover was different; I feel like the AI art (or if it's not AI, an AI style of art) could turn a lot of people away from the masterful romance writing inside of it. I fell in love with the story and love poured into the writing despite disliking the cover.
-Melanie King-Smith in Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts
I LOVED Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts. Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts follows the love story between Jomar and Mitch as they meet each other, fall in love, go through a minor series of miscommunications, and fall in love again. The inclusion of both tennis and photography was well done and all of the characters felt like real people. Such a quick read and so tenderly sweet. I can't recommend this enough.
As a Filipino American I felt seen by this title and the love story between Jomar and Mitch was one I absolutely fell for. The description of Filipino food was to die for and made my mouth water as I read. The writing, pacing, and ending all felt like they tied together in a neat way and I can't wait to see what else Melanie King-Smith comes out with.
I only wish that the cover was different; I feel like the AI art (or if it's not AI, an AI style of art) could turn a lot of people away from the masterful romance writing inside of it. I fell in love with the story and love poured into the writing despite disliking the cover.
Did Not Finish
December 18, 2025This is a Young Adult/Coming of Age Romance. I just could not get into this book. I read 28% before DNFing this book, but the story just never pulled me into it. I never want to pick this book back. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
January 6, 2026
‘Gihiguma, Ace of Hearts’ is a warm, charming read that leans fully into joy and sincerity. The story shines in its quieter moments—shared jokes, small acts of kindness, and the natural ease that grows between the characters over time. Rather than relying on heavy drama, the book keeps things light and engaging, letting humor and emotional honesty drive the plot forward.
The romance unfolds at a gentle pace given the length of the book, but even as a young adult romance between college students the emotions and drives of the characters often felt a little too unrealistic for me to love this the way I wanted to (hence the 4 stars). But I know this is probably a perfect read for readers who enjoy contemporary romance more than I do!
That being said, the writing was lilting and lovely, and I enjoyed the setting and cultural touches immensely which added color without overwhelming the story. Overall, this is a feel-good novel that’s easy to sink into and hard not to smile at, perfect for readers looking for something sweet, hopeful, and heart-forward!
The romance unfolds at a gentle pace given the length of the book, but even as a young adult romance between college students the emotions and drives of the characters often felt a little too unrealistic for me to love this the way I wanted to (hence the 4 stars). But I know this is probably a perfect read for readers who enjoy contemporary romance more than I do!
That being said, the writing was lilting and lovely, and I enjoyed the setting and cultural touches immensely which added color without overwhelming the story. Overall, this is a feel-good novel that’s easy to sink into and hard not to smile at, perfect for readers looking for something sweet, hopeful, and heart-forward!
December 30, 2025
A beautifully written book with complex and likable characters. It's so nice to come across a clean YA book that checks all the boxes. The love story of Mitch and Jomar is one that leaves you breathless and satisfied. Thank you so much Melanie King-Smith for sending me a copy of the book. The connection that you make with your readers is one that is rare. I look forward to reading any future books that you release.
October 30, 2025
Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts - 3.75/5 stars
*This was sent to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op and Melanie King-Smith via Netgalley for an honest review; thank you so much for the opportunity*
Trigger/ Content Warnings
Mentions of alcohol usage
Brief descriptions of past romantic trauma
Depictions of academic and competitive sports pressure
Review
This book follows a mostly dual third person narrative of the two love interests Jomar and Mitch who first meet at the baggage claim of Heathrow airport and continue to pop up in each other's new lives in London. I think the romance between the two was adorable but cliché. That's not necessarily a bad thing, they're popular tropes for a reason, but this book is a clear 'he fell first, she fell harder' and 'miscommunication till finale where it is resolved' kind of romance story. For some that may be a turn off but I do think if you're looking for a short romantic read then this is a good book to reach of. There is also a brief Cinderella plot point that is the motivator for another meet cute that I did think was particularly adorable.
Then for the tennis. This book may seem like a full sports romance, as I assumed it to be but that's not totally true. Whilst the main motivator for Jomar to be in London is his university scholarship for his tennis abilities, tennis is not the primary focus as that is simply the characters of Jomar and Mitch and their romance which I appreciated as I am not a big tennis fan myself. The most I know about tennis is from PE lessons at school and whenever my dad watches big matches on the TV downstairs (my favourite being anything wheelchair tennis related although this book is able bodied tennis related). So I did appreciate how you can go into this book with a brief knowledge of tennis and still come out enjoying it, as I did myself.
Jomar was a really interesting character and I did connect to him which is always appreciated in a book. I thought his struggles with academic and completive sports pressure was realistic and well handled as well as his struggle to fit into a new culture and homesickness. Being from the Philippines himself, he missed not only his family, friends and tennis coach, but also his food, culture and even the weather he was used to. Thanks to his new friends and found family, he was able to explore his new city and find pieces of home, however small. The same found family that was able to get the best out of him, not only in his tennis but also on a more deep emotional level which was sweet to see. He was a proper gentleman, did not push boundaries, took things slow and I could definitely see how he ended up with the girl.
Mitch was an equally interesting character as her struggles with being part Filipino, part American and then being in England were raw and a clear source of anxiety for her. She was insecure about her Tagalog pronunciations, feeling too white for Filipino but too Asian for American which was not helped by growing up away from her Filipino father and instead with her over-bearing mother. Mitch's relationship with her dad was probably one of my favourite parts of the novel as it reminded me so much of my own father. For example, him handing her £20 "just in case" in an unspoken 'be safe, love you' kind of way was something my dad has done many times with me, as well as me helping out with DIY projects like when Mitch and her dad build a swing in their back garden together. Her past romantic experience was handled well but still could be distressing to read for some. It is the cause of her and Jomar's miscommunication and break up as well as Mitch's overall relationship insecurities as she struggles to trust men in her life, especially potential partners. As stated I think this was written well however I am not a big fan of miscommunication tropes in books so whilst it was handled well, it did still feel a little unnecessary and more just to increase the book's already short length than for the character's sake. As with most of the time I read books with this trope I end up wishing they could have just had a conversation sooner although I do realise I am asking for a lot of emotional maturity for 18/19 year olds.
My main criticism is that this book is too short. Whilst I did state this is a quick read as a positive, I feel it still would have benefitted with at least one extra chapter between the ending and their miscommunication as it left the ending feeling slightly rushed. Also the ending in general seemed a bit rushed which made me very grateful for the epilogue but even then it felt like they're was something missing and left me wanting a little more romance.
Finally, as a complete outsider, the Filipino references and language additions can be hard to follow at times however the author has done their best to accommodate for that and often gives translations alongside them. For example, the descriptions of specific Filipino foods started with the name and then a description in English of what it comprised of. All of these were beautifully described and absolutely made me hungry whilst reading!
Overall
Overall, this book is a cute, quick read that is very clearly a love letter to Filipino culture! If you're into Filipino stories (or #OwnVoices in general) and/or tennis romances then this book is for you. I also really recommend it to those of us who love a found family book as this definitely lives up to others I've read, making me feel like I was witnessing real life, long lasting bonds form which was wonderful to see.
My Links!
Instagram | TikTok | Blog
"Imperfectly perfect for him. Just the way she is."
*This was sent to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op and Melanie King-Smith via Netgalley for an honest review; thank you so much for the opportunity*
Trigger/ Content Warnings
Mentions of alcohol usage
Brief descriptions of past romantic trauma
Depictions of academic and competitive sports pressure
Review
This book follows a mostly dual third person narrative of the two love interests Jomar and Mitch who first meet at the baggage claim of Heathrow airport and continue to pop up in each other's new lives in London. I think the romance between the two was adorable but cliché. That's not necessarily a bad thing, they're popular tropes for a reason, but this book is a clear 'he fell first, she fell harder' and 'miscommunication till finale where it is resolved' kind of romance story. For some that may be a turn off but I do think if you're looking for a short romantic read then this is a good book to reach of. There is also a brief Cinderella plot point that is the motivator for another meet cute that I did think was particularly adorable.
Then for the tennis. This book may seem like a full sports romance, as I assumed it to be but that's not totally true. Whilst the main motivator for Jomar to be in London is his university scholarship for his tennis abilities, tennis is not the primary focus as that is simply the characters of Jomar and Mitch and their romance which I appreciated as I am not a big tennis fan myself. The most I know about tennis is from PE lessons at school and whenever my dad watches big matches on the TV downstairs (my favourite being anything wheelchair tennis related although this book is able bodied tennis related). So I did appreciate how you can go into this book with a brief knowledge of tennis and still come out enjoying it, as I did myself.
Jomar was a really interesting character and I did connect to him which is always appreciated in a book. I thought his struggles with academic and completive sports pressure was realistic and well handled as well as his struggle to fit into a new culture and homesickness. Being from the Philippines himself, he missed not only his family, friends and tennis coach, but also his food, culture and even the weather he was used to. Thanks to his new friends and found family, he was able to explore his new city and find pieces of home, however small. The same found family that was able to get the best out of him, not only in his tennis but also on a more deep emotional level which was sweet to see. He was a proper gentleman, did not push boundaries, took things slow and I could definitely see how he ended up with the girl.
Mitch was an equally interesting character as her struggles with being part Filipino, part American and then being in England were raw and a clear source of anxiety for her. She was insecure about her Tagalog pronunciations, feeling too white for Filipino but too Asian for American which was not helped by growing up away from her Filipino father and instead with her over-bearing mother. Mitch's relationship with her dad was probably one of my favourite parts of the novel as it reminded me so much of my own father. For example, him handing her £20 "just in case" in an unspoken 'be safe, love you' kind of way was something my dad has done many times with me, as well as me helping out with DIY projects like when Mitch and her dad build a swing in their back garden together. Her past romantic experience was handled well but still could be distressing to read for some. It is the cause of her and Jomar's miscommunication and break up as well as Mitch's overall relationship insecurities as she struggles to trust men in her life, especially potential partners. As stated I think this was written well however I am not a big fan of miscommunication tropes in books so whilst it was handled well, it did still feel a little unnecessary and more just to increase the book's already short length than for the character's sake. As with most of the time I read books with this trope I end up wishing they could have just had a conversation sooner although I do realise I am asking for a lot of emotional maturity for 18/19 year olds.
My main criticism is that this book is too short. Whilst I did state this is a quick read as a positive, I feel it still would have benefitted with at least one extra chapter between the ending and their miscommunication as it left the ending feeling slightly rushed. Also the ending in general seemed a bit rushed which made me very grateful for the epilogue but even then it felt like they're was something missing and left me wanting a little more romance.
Finally, as a complete outsider, the Filipino references and language additions can be hard to follow at times however the author has done their best to accommodate for that and often gives translations alongside them. For example, the descriptions of specific Filipino foods started with the name and then a description in English of what it comprised of. All of these were beautifully described and absolutely made me hungry whilst reading!
Overall
Overall, this book is a cute, quick read that is very clearly a love letter to Filipino culture! If you're into Filipino stories (or #OwnVoices in general) and/or tennis romances then this book is for you. I also really recommend it to those of us who love a found family book as this definitely lives up to others I've read, making me feel like I was witnessing real life, long lasting bonds form which was wonderful to see.
My Links!
Instagram | TikTok | Blog
February 5, 2026
Ace of Hearts belongs to the Young Adult genre, but if you’re a reader of a mature age, as I am, this charming gem of a story will make you feel young again. Loaded with the overcharged, hyper-analyzed emotions of young love, this book returns the reader to the time of early romances and world-changing smiles.
The story centers around two characters, Jomar and Mitch (Mitchelle). Both are of Filipino descent and are displaced from their homes, seeking a better life through education and sport: Jomar, the ace tennis player, and Mitch, the smart girl looking to get smarter.
Early on, we see Jomar leaving his close-knit family for London. Even before the plane departs, the young man is severely homesick. He’s through and through a “Mama’s Boy” but flies to London, on scholarship to a prestigious university, with his heart and mind set on Wimbledon.
Upon landing, Jomar meets a fellow Filipino tennis prodigy, Noel, who, knowing the ins and outs of travel and of arriving fresh to a new city and school, takes Jomar under his wing and adopts him into his family.
Once settled in London, Jomar’s yearning for home presents itself by seeking out the most authentic Filipino food they can find. Rather than embrace the experiences, culture, and food a new city has to offer, Jomar is only interested in making his new home as similar as possible to the one he left behind.
I assume King-Smith was once a Londoner, as pages fill with accolades over the ancient city in its modern form. If the reader has been to or is from London, they will surely note specific details about the city. If the reader is like me and has never set foot there, then the detailed nuances King-Smith describes run a little long and rich in description and adoration.
There is no question that Ace of Hearts is a niche story specific to Pinoy culture, especially Philippine cuisine. It will also create a special connection if the reader happens to be a tennis aficionado. I know little of Philippine cuisine, and even less about tennis, but King-Smith does a spectacular job of whetting appetites and building a racketball fever.
King-Smith’s love language of young adults on the verge of their dreams is on point. Her dialogue rings true of a smitten boy’s sweetness and charm, matched by the bashful, yet daring impulses of a girl thoroughly adored. Ace of Hearts is cute, passionate and panicked with love on the edge of success or failure.
Mitch comes into the story via a large family gathering heaped with Filipino food and fun, where Jomar instantly swoons over her like a lovestruck fawn. At first, the cautious couple find themselves inseparable, and the new relationship challenges the focus and purpose of both young students.
Things move along nicely, and the blossoming love story is pleasing in its tenderness and excitement. Then, a seemingly mundane interaction triggers Mitch and Jomar, but for different reasons and in different ways. As is often the case with young adults falling in love, communication fails to keep pace with emotion, and the relationship enters a precarious state.
King-Smith does well here, introducing a sharp, dramatic turn and conveying the fragility of new love with a deft touch of tenderness. The reader is suddenly burning through sentences and turning pages, hoping and rooting for Jomar and Mitch to find their way out of the crisis.
From an editor and book reviewer’s eye, there are a few things a reader might pick up on. There’s a tendency for writers to fall in love with certain phrases or descriptions, and it shouldn’t be held against them; writers catch the wave of inspiration and write as if they are listening and watching to their characters more than creating them.
King-Smith is no different. As mentioned, the early rapture on London’s best, felt overindulgent, and later, King-Smith has a runaway with a favourite character trait, repeating it abundantly on consecutive pages. That is not a criticism of the author, but rather one against the editor. A watchful and dedicated editor would have risked upsetting the client by red-slashing the repetition, or at the very least suggested alternative words to convey the same action. This is a minor gripe, but as an editor and book reviewer, those things stand out.
Keeping to my rule of no spoilers in my reviews, I’ll stop short of detailing the outcome of King-Smith’s Filipino young-love story. Ace of Hearts charms and entertains. I caught myself smiling as I read, rather won over by the hopeful and enchanting story. The book meets the genre criteria in length (224 pages) and in the depth required for the characters and plot.
For King-Smith’s target audience, Filipinos, Ace of Hearts will undoubtedly evoke tender memories of family, food, and newfound love. Game. Set. Match. With that in mind, I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
The story centers around two characters, Jomar and Mitch (Mitchelle). Both are of Filipino descent and are displaced from their homes, seeking a better life through education and sport: Jomar, the ace tennis player, and Mitch, the smart girl looking to get smarter.
Early on, we see Jomar leaving his close-knit family for London. Even before the plane departs, the young man is severely homesick. He’s through and through a “Mama’s Boy” but flies to London, on scholarship to a prestigious university, with his heart and mind set on Wimbledon.
Upon landing, Jomar meets a fellow Filipino tennis prodigy, Noel, who, knowing the ins and outs of travel and of arriving fresh to a new city and school, takes Jomar under his wing and adopts him into his family.
Once settled in London, Jomar’s yearning for home presents itself by seeking out the most authentic Filipino food they can find. Rather than embrace the experiences, culture, and food a new city has to offer, Jomar is only interested in making his new home as similar as possible to the one he left behind.
I assume King-Smith was once a Londoner, as pages fill with accolades over the ancient city in its modern form. If the reader has been to or is from London, they will surely note specific details about the city. If the reader is like me and has never set foot there, then the detailed nuances King-Smith describes run a little long and rich in description and adoration.
There is no question that Ace of Hearts is a niche story specific to Pinoy culture, especially Philippine cuisine. It will also create a special connection if the reader happens to be a tennis aficionado. I know little of Philippine cuisine, and even less about tennis, but King-Smith does a spectacular job of whetting appetites and building a racketball fever.
King-Smith’s love language of young adults on the verge of their dreams is on point. Her dialogue rings true of a smitten boy’s sweetness and charm, matched by the bashful, yet daring impulses of a girl thoroughly adored. Ace of Hearts is cute, passionate and panicked with love on the edge of success or failure.
Mitch comes into the story via a large family gathering heaped with Filipino food and fun, where Jomar instantly swoons over her like a lovestruck fawn. At first, the cautious couple find themselves inseparable, and the new relationship challenges the focus and purpose of both young students.
Things move along nicely, and the blossoming love story is pleasing in its tenderness and excitement. Then, a seemingly mundane interaction triggers Mitch and Jomar, but for different reasons and in different ways. As is often the case with young adults falling in love, communication fails to keep pace with emotion, and the relationship enters a precarious state.
King-Smith does well here, introducing a sharp, dramatic turn and conveying the fragility of new love with a deft touch of tenderness. The reader is suddenly burning through sentences and turning pages, hoping and rooting for Jomar and Mitch to find their way out of the crisis.
From an editor and book reviewer’s eye, there are a few things a reader might pick up on. There’s a tendency for writers to fall in love with certain phrases or descriptions, and it shouldn’t be held against them; writers catch the wave of inspiration and write as if they are listening and watching to their characters more than creating them.
King-Smith is no different. As mentioned, the early rapture on London’s best, felt overindulgent, and later, King-Smith has a runaway with a favourite character trait, repeating it abundantly on consecutive pages. That is not a criticism of the author, but rather one against the editor. A watchful and dedicated editor would have risked upsetting the client by red-slashing the repetition, or at the very least suggested alternative words to convey the same action. This is a minor gripe, but as an editor and book reviewer, those things stand out.
Keeping to my rule of no spoilers in my reviews, I’ll stop short of detailing the outcome of King-Smith’s Filipino young-love story. Ace of Hearts charms and entertains. I caught myself smiling as I read, rather won over by the hopeful and enchanting story. The book meets the genre criteria in length (224 pages) and in the depth required for the characters and plot.
For King-Smith’s target audience, Filipinos, Ace of Hearts will undoubtedly evoke tender memories of family, food, and newfound love. Game. Set. Match. With that in mind, I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
September 19, 2025
This book made my heart so happy with how simple but sweet the love story between Jomar and Mitch is. From their first meeting, they worked through their individual issues to make their relationship work. I loved how significant their Filipino heritage was to their characters, from Jomar’s homesickness for family and culture to Mitch’s struggle with juggling multiple cultures. This book was a beautiful coming-of-age story because the characters each struggled with pressure from their families, but were learning how to follow their own dreams. This book makes me wish there were more tennis romance books because it’s such an underrepresented sport.
Mitch’s relationship with her dad was so sweet, and I loved seeing all the hobbies they shared. Her dad’s small gestures (like slipping her £20 notes) are so reminiscent of so many immigrant fathers and the little ways they show their love. He was so encouraging of her and her passions, and it was really nice to see their interactions.
The only complaint I have is that I wish this book had been longer and delved deeper into the story. I would have loved to see more character development for Jomar and Mitch because there was so much potential with their characters. Also, I wanted to learn more about Alasdair and his role as a mentor for Jomar.
Overall, I loved the found family and cozy vibes of this book. Jomar exploring London was great and took me back to my own college years studying abroad in London.
Mitch’s relationship with her dad was so sweet, and I loved seeing all the hobbies they shared. Her dad’s small gestures (like slipping her £20 notes) are so reminiscent of so many immigrant fathers and the little ways they show their love. He was so encouraging of her and her passions, and it was really nice to see their interactions.
The only complaint I have is that I wish this book had been longer and delved deeper into the story. I would have loved to see more character development for Jomar and Mitch because there was so much potential with their characters. Also, I wanted to learn more about Alasdair and his role as a mentor for Jomar.
Overall, I loved the found family and cozy vibes of this book. Jomar exploring London was great and took me back to my own college years studying abroad in London.
September 8, 2025
This narrative is a blithe, saccharine, gushy, and tender love story featuring Jomar Montalbano, a tennis athletic scholar from the Philippines, and Mitchelle Tanner, a Filipino-American from California, against the backdrop of one of the UK's premier universities, UCL (University College London).
As a Filipino-American, I am impressed that the author showcased Filipino culture and cuisine unabashedly and with ardent pride in this uniquely conceptualized novel. The book's formatted dialogue was also interspersed with the local dialects inherent in the Philippines, such as Tagalog and Visayan, which is rare for a publication, as the mainstream literary world is not flooded with Filipino-inspired characters and therefore not exposed to the languages used in the archipelago.
This is a chance for the world to get a glimpse of a heart-fluttering romance from a Pinoy's point of view. This fictional work also caters to those readers who have a gustatory inquisitiveness about the nature of Filipino food.
As a Filipino-American, I am impressed that the author showcased Filipino culture and cuisine unabashedly and with ardent pride in this uniquely conceptualized novel. The book's formatted dialogue was also interspersed with the local dialects inherent in the Philippines, such as Tagalog and Visayan, which is rare for a publication, as the mainstream literary world is not flooded with Filipino-inspired characters and therefore not exposed to the languages used in the archipelago.
This is a chance for the world to get a glimpse of a heart-fluttering romance from a Pinoy's point of view. This fictional work also caters to those readers who have a gustatory inquisitiveness about the nature of Filipino food.
March 31, 2026
I had the honor of winning this book in a giveaway on instagram, and I was SO excited to start it! This was my first tennis romance, and I absolutely loved it. 🎾
The inclusion of Filipino culture and Tagalog was so much fun to read and learn about, I really enjoyed reading about all the yummy foods as well (some i’ve had and loved, while others i’ve never heard of!) 🍛
I adored Mitch, she was such a sweet fmc and her relationship with her mother added a deeper meaning to the story. The way she navigated life really resonated with me! I also loved Jomar, though his little “fling” with Girlie most definitely upset me.
I was so so close to rating this five stars until the miscommunication and third act breakup happened! They were doing sooo well, so I had some frustrations during that time. Though, i’m very happy everything worked out in the end.🤍
Side character shout out, Noel was a solid friend. He really was there for his people from start to finish, I would love to read a sequel with his life!☺️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑
The inclusion of Filipino culture and Tagalog was so much fun to read and learn about, I really enjoyed reading about all the yummy foods as well (some i’ve had and loved, while others i’ve never heard of!) 🍛
I adored Mitch, she was such a sweet fmc and her relationship with her mother added a deeper meaning to the story. The way she navigated life really resonated with me! I also loved Jomar, though his little “fling” with Girlie most definitely upset me.
I was so so close to rating this five stars until the miscommunication and third act breakup happened! They were doing sooo well, so I had some frustrations during that time. Though, i’m very happy everything worked out in the end.🤍
Side character shout out, Noel was a solid friend. He really was there for his people from start to finish, I would love to read a sequel with his life!☺️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑
March 8, 2026
I picked this up as an ARC because the premise sounded fun. A Filipino tennis player in London, karaoke nights, halo-halo cravings, and a coming-of-age romance. On paper it felt like something that should have been charming and easy to root for, especially since London is my favorite city in the world.
Unfortunately, the story did not quite come together for me. Several plot points are introduced but never fully resolved, and by the end it felt like only the romance itself was tied up while other threads faded into the background. I also struggled to fully understand how the central relationship developed, as Jomar and Mitch seemed to fall for each other very quickly.
That said, I still appreciate the premise and the Filipino touches throughout the story. So while this one did not fully work for me, I am still glad to see more Filipino voices and stories out there.
Unfortunately, the story did not quite come together for me. Several plot points are introduced but never fully resolved, and by the end it felt like only the romance itself was tied up while other threads faded into the background. I also struggled to fully understand how the central relationship developed, as Jomar and Mitch seemed to fall for each other very quickly.
That said, I still appreciate the premise and the Filipino touches throughout the story. So while this one did not fully work for me, I am still glad to see more Filipino voices and stories out there.
October 7, 2025
Jomar is far from home on his way to start college when he sees Mitch at the airport and feels a connection but then she's gone. His new friend and fellow tennis player Noel takes him in when his phone dies, he loses his boarding pass, and the airline loses his luggage. Mitch and Jomar build on their connection when they meet again but she gets scared that he will hurt her like her athletic ex and her step sister comes between them. They were both young in their approach to the relationship. I enjoyed reading about all the interesting food they ate.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews