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Beautifully Mistaken
Not yet published
Expected 6 Mar 26Five years ago, she chose money over love. Now, he holds the power to destroy her.
Beautifully Mistaken is a heart-fluttering slow-burn contemporary romance with the depth and emotional tension of a K-drama—perfect for fans of forbidden love, fated encounters, and slow-building chemistry.
When novelist Sunwoo steps into an upscale host bar in Seoul for story research, she never expects to meet Ian—a captivating man with a velvet voice, too many secrets, and a gaze that sees straight through her. What begins as a three-day interview turns into something deeper. Riskier. And far more intimate than either of them anticipated.
As their connection intensifies, so do the ghosts of a past neither of them fully remembers. Forced to confront old wounds and dangerous family secrets, Sunwoo and Ian must is their bond strong enough to survive the truth?
Set against the glittering backdrop of Seoul’s nightlife and its quiet, vulnerable moments, Beautifully Mistaken delivers slow-burning romantic suspense, emotional payoff, and the unmistakable pulse of K-romance.
While the story builds toward emotional intensity and dramatic tension, it also contains strong romantic comedy elements—witty banter, humorous misunderstandings, and a lighthearted tone in many scenes. These moments of levity not only add charm and warmth but also deepen the contrast with the darker, more poignant turns the story takes. With well-developed characters and shifting emotional layers, the novel seamlessly blends the vibrancy of rom-com with the resonance of drama and the intrigue of suspense.
Beautifully Mistaken is a heart-fluttering slow-burn contemporary romance with the depth and emotional tension of a K-drama—perfect for fans of forbidden love, fated encounters, and slow-building chemistry.
When novelist Sunwoo steps into an upscale host bar in Seoul for story research, she never expects to meet Ian—a captivating man with a velvet voice, too many secrets, and a gaze that sees straight through her. What begins as a three-day interview turns into something deeper. Riskier. And far more intimate than either of them anticipated.
As their connection intensifies, so do the ghosts of a past neither of them fully remembers. Forced to confront old wounds and dangerous family secrets, Sunwoo and Ian must is their bond strong enough to survive the truth?
Set against the glittering backdrop of Seoul’s nightlife and its quiet, vulnerable moments, Beautifully Mistaken delivers slow-burning romantic suspense, emotional payoff, and the unmistakable pulse of K-romance.
While the story builds toward emotional intensity and dramatic tension, it also contains strong romantic comedy elements—witty banter, humorous misunderstandings, and a lighthearted tone in many scenes. These moments of levity not only add charm and warmth but also deepen the contrast with the darker, more poignant turns the story takes. With well-developed characters and shifting emotional layers, the novel seamlessly blends the vibrancy of rom-com with the resonance of drama and the intrigue of suspense.
- GenresRomance
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 6, 2026
6 people are currently reading
4503 people want to read
About the author
Ji Sunyoun
1 book31 followersJi Sunyoun spent years leading the administration department at a Japanese-owned corporation, overseeing everything from accounting and finance to HR and general affairs. With her days rooted in structure, numbers, and responsibility, becoming a romance author was the last thing she expected.
But when health challenges led her to leave the corporate world behind, and her sister gently encouraged her to try writing, she gave it a chance—just once.
That single step changed everything.
Since 2018, she has been writing emotionally rich, character-driven stories—and has published two romance novels in Korean. What began as a reluctant experiment has become her greatest joy, and she now finds true fulfillment in creating stories that make others laugh, ache, and fall in love.
Beautifully Mistaken is her English-language debut under the Purple Romanticism imprint.
She also illustrated the cover herself, combining her love for visual storytelling with the emotional pulse of K-romance.
Originally written in Korean, the novel has been reimagined for global readers with the same depth and heart as the original.
If you'd like to request an advance review copy (ARC), feel free to reach out!
But when health challenges led her to leave the corporate world behind, and her sister gently encouraged her to try writing, she gave it a chance—just once.
That single step changed everything.
Since 2018, she has been writing emotionally rich, character-driven stories—and has published two romance novels in Korean. What began as a reluctant experiment has become her greatest joy, and she now finds true fulfillment in creating stories that make others laugh, ache, and fall in love.
Beautifully Mistaken is her English-language debut under the Purple Romanticism imprint.
She also illustrated the cover herself, combining her love for visual storytelling with the emotional pulse of K-romance.
Originally written in Korean, the novel has been reimagined for global readers with the same depth and heart as the original.
If you'd like to request an advance review copy (ARC), feel free to reach out!
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
![Profile Image for Saranya ⋆☕︎ ˖ [hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1771566012i%2F187457635._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⋆˚࿔ 𝟐.𝟕𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬!
Ahh! This was an amazing Galentine's Day read for me.
We are taken into Seoul’s neon-lit nightlife, where novelist Sunwoo meets Ian, a man whose secrets could unravel her world. What begins as research quickly turns into a dangerous, slow-burn entanglement.
Reading this felt like watching an actual K-drama unfold- complete with the loyal best friend who always stands by the fmc, the slow-burn tension and the kind of dramatic pauses that made my heart ache.
The story was narrated in third person, which worked fine for me, but at times the writing style felt a bit off to me. There were some inconsistencies- for example, there was a time where some secrets were shared, but it felt as if it was already revealed in the book way before they were shared among the characters.
Sunwoo is flawed yet compelling, torn between ambition and vulnerability. Her confessional honesty made her so relatable. And Ian- well, he was so enigmatic! His secrets were both alluring and devastating. His presence feels like a storm I could not look away from.
The chemistry was slow-building, almost agonizing in its restraint. Every glance, every word exchanged felt loaded with meaning. I’m sure that fans of K-drama style romance will savour the emotional push-and-pull.
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽:
𖹭 choices between love and survival
𖹭 the haunting weight of past mistakes
𖹭 the K-drama depth
𖹭 the slow-burn pacing
That ending left me completely restless. I am actually spiraling! I can't believe I have to wait for the next book to see how this ends.
Overall, it was really sweet.
Galentine's Day spent well ✌︎︎
Pre-read:
K-drama style rom?
Okay:D
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Ahh! This was an amazing Galentine's Day read for me.
We are taken into Seoul’s neon-lit nightlife, where novelist Sunwoo meets Ian, a man whose secrets could unravel her world. What begins as research quickly turns into a dangerous, slow-burn entanglement.
Reading this felt like watching an actual K-drama unfold- complete with the loyal best friend who always stands by the fmc, the slow-burn tension and the kind of dramatic pauses that made my heart ache.
The story was narrated in third person, which worked fine for me, but at times the writing style felt a bit off to me. There were some inconsistencies- for example, there was a time where some secrets were shared, but it felt as if it was already revealed in the book way before they were shared among the characters.
Sunwoo is flawed yet compelling, torn between ambition and vulnerability. Her confessional honesty made her so relatable. And Ian- well, he was so enigmatic! His secrets were both alluring and devastating. His presence feels like a storm I could not look away from.
The chemistry was slow-building, almost agonizing in its restraint. Every glance, every word exchanged felt loaded with meaning. I’m sure that fans of K-drama style romance will savour the emotional push-and-pull.
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽:
𖹭 choices between love and survival
𖹭 the haunting weight of past mistakes
𖹭 the K-drama depth
𖹭 the slow-burn pacing
That ending left me completely restless. I am actually spiraling! I can't believe I have to wait for the next book to see how this ends.
Overall, it was really sweet.
Galentine's Day spent well ✌︎︎
Pre-read:
K-drama style rom?
Okay:D
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I rated this 4 Stars
This story surprised me in the best way. It starts off slow and almost deceptively soft, but there’s an undercurrent of mystery from the very beginning that kept me curious. At around 11%, I was intrigued but not fully hooked yet — mostly wondering who Ian really was, why he reacted so strongly to Sunwoo at the host bar, and what happened in their past that pushed them apart.
By the time I hit 32%, the tone shifted. The meet‑cutes were adorable, the diary‑entry vibe reminded me of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and Sunwoo’s innocence felt genuinely sweet. But underneath the cuteness, the mystery kept tightening. I found myself asking bigger questions:
- How did Sunwoo fall for Ian the first time?
- Why did his father interfere?
- Why does she feel so familiar to him?
- And how does she end up with Minhyuk in the present?
Then the story really takes off.
Around 82%, the book detonates twist after twist. I audibly gasped in Chapter 26 — the reveal about Sunwoo’s past completely recontextualized everything I’d read up to that point. From there, the pacing becomes relentless. Every chapter drops another shocking piece of information, especially about Heera and her involvement in Ian’s life. By 84%, I was fully in “jaw on the floor” mode.
What I didn’t expect was how much of the book would take place in the past — almost the entire story is a flashback, and it works. It lets you live the relationship, not just hear about it. So when the truth about the accident finally comes out in the last few chapters, it hits with full emotional force.
The ending is a cliffhanger in the truest sense: satisfying in the moment, but leaving me desperate for answers. I need to know what really happened, how the villains’ scheme plays out, and how the present‑day fallout will unravel.
One thing I really appreciated: the cultural footnotes and fictional place explanations. They added clarity without breaking immersion.
Final Thoughts:
The beginning of this book felt closer to a 3.5 for me — soft, slow, and a little meandering — but once the mystery threads tightened, the story found its momentum. By the midpoint, I was fully invested, and the final third delivered twist after twist with incredible emotional payoff. The ending alone pushed this firmly into 4‑star territory for me. A strong, surprising read that left me eager for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story surprised me in the best way. It starts off slow and almost deceptively soft, but there’s an undercurrent of mystery from the very beginning that kept me curious. At around 11%, I was intrigued but not fully hooked yet — mostly wondering who Ian really was, why he reacted so strongly to Sunwoo at the host bar, and what happened in their past that pushed them apart.
By the time I hit 32%, the tone shifted. The meet‑cutes were adorable, the diary‑entry vibe reminded me of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and Sunwoo’s innocence felt genuinely sweet. But underneath the cuteness, the mystery kept tightening. I found myself asking bigger questions:
- How did Sunwoo fall for Ian the first time?
- Why did his father interfere?
- Why does she feel so familiar to him?
- And how does she end up with Minhyuk in the present?
Then the story really takes off.
Around 82%, the book detonates twist after twist. I audibly gasped in Chapter 26 — the reveal about Sunwoo’s past completely recontextualized everything I’d read up to that point. From there, the pacing becomes relentless. Every chapter drops another shocking piece of information, especially about Heera and her involvement in Ian’s life. By 84%, I was fully in “jaw on the floor” mode.
What I didn’t expect was how much of the book would take place in the past — almost the entire story is a flashback, and it works. It lets you live the relationship, not just hear about it. So when the truth about the accident finally comes out in the last few chapters, it hits with full emotional force.
The ending is a cliffhanger in the truest sense: satisfying in the moment, but leaving me desperate for answers. I need to know what really happened, how the villains’ scheme plays out, and how the present‑day fallout will unravel.
One thing I really appreciated: the cultural footnotes and fictional place explanations. They added clarity without breaking immersion.
Final Thoughts:
The beginning of this book felt closer to a 3.5 for me — soft, slow, and a little meandering — but once the mystery threads tightened, the story found its momentum. By the midpoint, I was fully invested, and the final third delivered twist after twist with incredible emotional payoff. The ending alone pushed this firmly into 4‑star territory for me. A strong, surprising read that left me eager for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book stayed with me longer than I expected.
Not because anything dramatic or explosive happened, but because of how quietly everything unfolded. The emotions are restrained, almost intentionally held back, and that made them feel more honest and deeply felt. There’s a softness to the storytelling that reminded me of the kind of emotional pacing I love in Korean dramas — where meaning lives in silences, pauses, and unspoken feelings rather than grand declarations.I was especially drawn to the way the characters hesitate, circling around their emotions instead of naming them outright. There’s a constant tension between wanting and holding back, between connection and self-protection, and that push and pull felt uncomfortably familiar in the best way. As someone who loves Korean culture and K-dramas, this emotional subtlety really worked for me, and the story didn’t disappoint in that regard.What I appreciated most was the lack of over-explanation. The book never tells you how to feel or what to think. Instead, it allows moments to exist as they are — slightly unresolved, slightly unfinished — much like real relationships that don’t always come with clear answers or closure.
This isn’t a loud book, but it lingers. Long after I finished reading, I found myself still thinking about the emotions, the quiet connections, and everything left unsaid. Sometimes, it’s that quietness that speaks the loudest.
Not because anything dramatic or explosive happened, but because of how quietly everything unfolded. The emotions are restrained, almost intentionally held back, and that made them feel more honest and deeply felt. There’s a softness to the storytelling that reminded me of the kind of emotional pacing I love in Korean dramas — where meaning lives in silences, pauses, and unspoken feelings rather than grand declarations.I was especially drawn to the way the characters hesitate, circling around their emotions instead of naming them outright. There’s a constant tension between wanting and holding back, between connection and self-protection, and that push and pull felt uncomfortably familiar in the best way. As someone who loves Korean culture and K-dramas, this emotional subtlety really worked for me, and the story didn’t disappoint in that regard.What I appreciated most was the lack of over-explanation. The book never tells you how to feel or what to think. Instead, it allows moments to exist as they are — slightly unresolved, slightly unfinished — much like real relationships that don’t always come with clear answers or closure.
This isn’t a loud book, but it lingers. Long after I finished reading, I found myself still thinking about the emotions, the quiet connections, and everything left unsaid. Sometimes, it’s that quietness that speaks the loudest.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Could. Not. Stop. Reading."
This book ruined my sleep schedule and I have no regrets. I started it thinking I’d read a few chapters before bed—and ended up finishing the entire thing in one go. Ji Sunyoun’s writing is addictive in the best way: sharp dialogue, sizzling tension, and emotional stakes that hit hard.
Sunwoo and Ian’s story gripped me from the first page. The push-pull. The past. The secrets. The kisses. I had to know what would happen next—and now that I’ve reached the end, all I can think is: when is Book 2 coming out?!
If you’re into complicated characters, romantic tension that hurts so good, and late-night reading marathons that leave you wrecked in the best way, Beautifully Mistaken is a must-read. I already know I’ll be rereading this one while I wait (impatiently) for the sequel.
This book ruined my sleep schedule and I have no regrets. I started it thinking I’d read a few chapters before bed—and ended up finishing the entire thing in one go. Ji Sunyoun’s writing is addictive in the best way: sharp dialogue, sizzling tension, and emotional stakes that hit hard.
Sunwoo and Ian’s story gripped me from the first page. The push-pull. The past. The secrets. The kisses. I had to know what would happen next—and now that I’ve reached the end, all I can think is: when is Book 2 coming out?!
If you’re into complicated characters, romantic tension that hurts so good, and late-night reading marathons that leave you wrecked in the best way, Beautifully Mistaken is a must-read. I already know I’ll be rereading this one while I wait (impatiently) for the sequel.
February 1, 2026
Beautifully written immersive love story with characters who have mysterious secrets and past.
The development of Ian and Sunwoo’s feelings was instant but the pace of their relationship was slow and cute. Ian and Sunwoo were reluctant to pursue a relationship. So much romantic tension gets built up.
At times I didn’t like Sunwoos inexperience and the way Ian described his past treatment of women. I loved their characters though. Great character and relationship development.
The slow reveal of the mysterious secrets and past was drawn out perfectly. The last 10% of the book got very intense. It had me flying through the pages but also not wanting it to be over yet.
That cliffhanger, I’m desperate to know how their relationship and story continues! Many parts of the story were predictable but I still loved getting to see it be told.
The book cover is so beautiful. Perfection.
I will reread this book again right before the release of the second book.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The development of Ian and Sunwoo’s feelings was instant but the pace of their relationship was slow and cute. Ian and Sunwoo were reluctant to pursue a relationship. So much romantic tension gets built up.
At times I didn’t like Sunwoos inexperience and the way Ian described his past treatment of women. I loved their characters though. Great character and relationship development.
The slow reveal of the mysterious secrets and past was drawn out perfectly. The last 10% of the book got very intense. It had me flying through the pages but also not wanting it to be over yet.
That cliffhanger, I’m desperate to know how their relationship and story continues! Many parts of the story were predictable but I still loved getting to see it be told.
The book cover is so beautiful. Perfection.
I will reread this book again right before the release of the second book.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gripping slow-burn romance with undeniable K-drama energy.
The chemistry between Sunwoo and lan is intense from the very first encounter, and the emotional tension kept me turning pages late into the night. Sharp dialogue, layered characters, and a past that refuses to stay buried-this story is addictive, heartfelt, and beautifully paced. I'm already desperate for Book 2.
The chemistry between Sunwoo and lan is intense from the very first encounter, and the emotional tension kept me turning pages late into the night. Sharp dialogue, layered characters, and a past that refuses to stay buried-this story is addictive, heartfelt, and beautifully paced. I'm already desperate for Book 2.
January 25, 2026
I’d like to thank the publisher’s off NetGalley that provided me an ARC of this book to read. Therefore, I would aim to keep any spoilers out of this review and exclusively provide you with what I think about the story as whole.
This book is a contemporary romance novel set in the backdrops of Korea revolving around Sunwoo, a novelist and Ian, a previously orphaned hunk of a man. Note, previously. You have to read the book to know more ;)
This book reads really well. If you like K-drama rom coms, then this book is right up your alley because it really reads like one! I felt like I was watching a TV show unravel right before my eyes. I liked how the author weaved the story between these two characters. There were things I could predict, things I had an inkling off but didn’t expect it to be written the way it was! What I mean is that it was revealed in a good way! It almost felt fated how these two kept coming together. There were times I could really related to Sunwoo. She reminded the naive version of me. The me before I had ever dated any guy and was a tad socially awkward. However, there were moments that this girl really pissed me off. I mean she did get a bit annoying. Like, excuse moi, Minhyunk (???!!!). Girl, if he came briefly and went away, let it gooooo. Let it flow. On the other hand, Ian, despite being a male character, I could also relate to him too. His periods of isolation and loneliness in the way it was written really resonated with me. How alienated he felt, and OMG what an epic douche bag his dad is. I really want him to have a happy ending. Like this mans been through a lot, and sometimes you start to vouch for that character. The more I read, the more I started having a soft spot for Ian. On the whole, a solid 4-star read! Book two I hope is on the way too!!
P.S. Since it is culturally Korean, I really loved the little footnotes for us non-korean readers or readers unfamiliar with the Korean culture that provide better insight into what that meant when used in context. I appreciated that and I feel like it added authenticity to the novel.
This book is a contemporary romance novel set in the backdrops of Korea revolving around Sunwoo, a novelist and Ian, a previously orphaned hunk of a man. Note, previously. You have to read the book to know more ;)
This book reads really well. If you like K-drama rom coms, then this book is right up your alley because it really reads like one! I felt like I was watching a TV show unravel right before my eyes. I liked how the author weaved the story between these two characters. There were things I could predict, things I had an inkling off but didn’t expect it to be written the way it was! What I mean is that it was revealed in a good way! It almost felt fated how these two kept coming together. There were times I could really related to Sunwoo. She reminded the naive version of me. The me before I had ever dated any guy and was a tad socially awkward. However, there were moments that this girl really pissed me off. I mean she did get a bit annoying. Like, excuse moi, Minhyunk (???!!!). Girl, if he came briefly and went away, let it gooooo. Let it flow. On the other hand, Ian, despite being a male character, I could also relate to him too. His periods of isolation and loneliness in the way it was written really resonated with me. How alienated he felt, and OMG what an epic douche bag his dad is. I really want him to have a happy ending. Like this mans been through a lot, and sometimes you start to vouch for that character. The more I read, the more I started having a soft spot for Ian. On the whole, a solid 4-star read! Book two I hope is on the way too!!
P.S. Since it is culturally Korean, I really loved the little footnotes for us non-korean readers or readers unfamiliar with the Korean culture that provide better insight into what that meant when used in context. I appreciated that and I feel like it added authenticity to the novel.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you to @victoryediting for a advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
This novel reads like the best kind of K‑drama, the kind you start at midnight promising one episode and suddenly it’s 4 a.m. Set against the neon glow of Seoul’s nightlife, the story follows two characters whose chemistry is undeniable, inconvenient, and utterly addictive. The author leans into the slow burn, every stolen glance, every almost-confession, every moment of witty banter feels like a spark waiting to catch fire.
Their relationship is tangled in expectations, family pressure, and the unspoken rules of the world they inhabit. Yet the tension never feels melodramatic. Instead, it’s intimate and grounded, the kind of longing that makes your chest tighten because you get why they can’t stay away from each other.
What really elevates the book is the dialogue. The banter is sharp, funny, and emotionally loaded, the kind of back‑and‑forth that makes you grin.
A beautifully atmospheric, emotionally charged romance that delivers everything you want from a K‑drama in book form
This novel reads like the best kind of K‑drama, the kind you start at midnight promising one episode and suddenly it’s 4 a.m. Set against the neon glow of Seoul’s nightlife, the story follows two characters whose chemistry is undeniable, inconvenient, and utterly addictive. The author leans into the slow burn, every stolen glance, every almost-confession, every moment of witty banter feels like a spark waiting to catch fire.
Their relationship is tangled in expectations, family pressure, and the unspoken rules of the world they inhabit. Yet the tension never feels melodramatic. Instead, it’s intimate and grounded, the kind of longing that makes your chest tighten because you get why they can’t stay away from each other.
What really elevates the book is the dialogue. The banter is sharp, funny, and emotionally loaded, the kind of back‑and‑forth that makes you grin.
A beautifully atmospheric, emotionally charged romance that delivers everything you want from a K‑drama in book form
February 8, 2026
⭐️3.75
I really enjoyed this book for how easy to read it was but I think with my own stopping and starting I got a bit frustrated by the surface levelness…
also I didn’t know this was going to be a series! Sooo that was a bit frustrating.
Thank you to the publisher for this arc.
I really enjoyed this book for how easy to read it was but I think with my own stopping and starting I got a bit frustrated by the surface levelness…
also I didn’t know this was going to be a series! Sooo that was a bit frustrating.
Thank you to the publisher for this arc.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Couldn’t resist this ‘KDrama’ book ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ which gave me so much more of an emotional hit than watching a ‘Kdramas romance on screen. None of that ‘wide open eyed stare’ when kissed etc. it is an M/F Romance.
‘Beautifully Mistaken’ is Volume 1 in a duet or maybe a series telling the story of Sunwoo and Ian. It is full of mystery and intrigue with a myriad of side characters, some ‘ride or die’ best friends and some very dangerous jealous ones who will stop at nothing to get what they want, money no object, no price too high. The story belongs to Ian and Sunwoo who are the main characters.
Sunwoo is a young aspiring writer and while investigating character and location background for her next publication she dresses to look the part of a very classy fashionable woman, helped by Jiyeon her well connected best friend, and they visit the best club in Seoul where the male hosts entertain wealthy women, encouraging them to buy more drinks etc.
This is how Sunwoo meets Ian Ryu, a very handsome Seoulite, with the most amazing pale blue eyes. It wasn’t a great start and in the following days she feels she is being stalked by Ian, as he keeps cropping up in her life.
Each time they meet they discover something that takes them back to their childhood, an orphanage run by nuns, strange memories of an accident.
Sunwoo has lead a sheltered life and has rosy coloured view of romance, Ian, never wants to be in a relationship again, he learned the hard way about relationships, both romantic and family. Now it’s too late, Sunwoo has had all ‘her firsts’, she is committed. There is no holding back.
I loved seeing how Ian slowly lowered his barriers and fell slowly in love with Sunwoo and also how brave Sunwoo was in getting him to admit his attraction to her.
It is the past and the family and acquaintances of Ian who give this story a foreboding and dark atmosphere, Sunwoo is so innocent yet firm and strong when she needs to be. I admired her character when she didn’t shy away from some of the situations thrust upon her by Bae Heera, the evil woman, with more money than sense to realise when she is not wanted, and she wants to get Sunwoo out of Ian’s life.
There is so much in this story that will grab you and pull you into following each and every strand of intrigue and mystery, plus have you rooting for Ian and Sunwoo. Getting closer to a lot of truths, the author leaves us hanging when Sunwoo goes to visit Ian to share some important information and she collapses before she can get a word out.
I received a free advance review copy of ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ and I am leaving this honest and unbiased review voluntarily.
I’m so invested into ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ at this point. I can’t bear waiting till later in the year for Volume 2 which I hope will clear up most, if not all, of the mysterious history of both Ian and Sunwoo. Also there are some side characters I want to see receiving their well deserved punishment. Loved this and hope the sequel is published earlier than the date suggested at end of the this book.
Couldn’t resist this ‘KDrama’ book ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ which gave me so much more of an emotional hit than watching a ‘Kdramas romance on screen. None of that ‘wide open eyed stare’ when kissed etc. it is an M/F Romance.
‘Beautifully Mistaken’ is Volume 1 in a duet or maybe a series telling the story of Sunwoo and Ian. It is full of mystery and intrigue with a myriad of side characters, some ‘ride or die’ best friends and some very dangerous jealous ones who will stop at nothing to get what they want, money no object, no price too high. The story belongs to Ian and Sunwoo who are the main characters.
Sunwoo is a young aspiring writer and while investigating character and location background for her next publication she dresses to look the part of a very classy fashionable woman, helped by Jiyeon her well connected best friend, and they visit the best club in Seoul where the male hosts entertain wealthy women, encouraging them to buy more drinks etc.
This is how Sunwoo meets Ian Ryu, a very handsome Seoulite, with the most amazing pale blue eyes. It wasn’t a great start and in the following days she feels she is being stalked by Ian, as he keeps cropping up in her life.
Each time they meet they discover something that takes them back to their childhood, an orphanage run by nuns, strange memories of an accident.
Sunwoo has lead a sheltered life and has rosy coloured view of romance, Ian, never wants to be in a relationship again, he learned the hard way about relationships, both romantic and family. Now it’s too late, Sunwoo has had all ‘her firsts’, she is committed. There is no holding back.
I loved seeing how Ian slowly lowered his barriers and fell slowly in love with Sunwoo and also how brave Sunwoo was in getting him to admit his attraction to her.
It is the past and the family and acquaintances of Ian who give this story a foreboding and dark atmosphere, Sunwoo is so innocent yet firm and strong when she needs to be. I admired her character when she didn’t shy away from some of the situations thrust upon her by Bae Heera, the evil woman, with more money than sense to realise when she is not wanted, and she wants to get Sunwoo out of Ian’s life.
There is so much in this story that will grab you and pull you into following each and every strand of intrigue and mystery, plus have you rooting for Ian and Sunwoo. Getting closer to a lot of truths, the author leaves us hanging when Sunwoo goes to visit Ian to share some important information and she collapses before she can get a word out.
I received a free advance review copy of ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ and I am leaving this honest and unbiased review voluntarily.
I’m so invested into ‘Beautifully Mistaken’ at this point. I can’t bear waiting till later in the year for Volume 2 which I hope will clear up most, if not all, of the mysterious history of both Ian and Sunwoo. Also there are some side characters I want to see receiving their well deserved punishment. Loved this and hope the sequel is published earlier than the date suggested at end of the this book.
Review of advance copy
While searching for a Korean drama–style novel, I came across Beautifully Mistaken by Ji Sunyoun and had the opportunity to read it through an Advance Reader Copy (ARC). Originally written in Korean and later translated into English, the story drew me in almost immediately. From the very first chapter, I found myself completely hooked.
The author’s descriptive writing effortlessly immerses the reader in the world of the story. She skillfully develops the two main characters—Sunwoo, a shy and reserved novelist, and Ian, a strikingly handsome man burdened by a troubled and mysterious past—and brings their unlikely collision of worlds vividly to life. The way the settings, atmosphere, and emotional undercurrents are portrayed makes each scene feel tangible, as if you are quietly present, observing the characters as their interactions unfold.
What stood out to me most was how naturally the novel weaves in Korean culture, everyday life, and distinct locations throughout South Korea. These details add a strong sense of authenticity and deepen the overall immersion. As you read, the outside world seems to fade away—a hallmark of a truly engaging novel.
Each character feels distinct and well-defined, and watching them evolve over the course of the story is genuinely compelling. At times, the narrative is layered with secrets, mystery, self-doubt, shyness, and tension; at others, it shifts seamlessly into humor, sarcasm, tragedy, desire, romance, and love. The storytelling flows so smoothly that it’s easy to imagine this novel adapted into a Korean drama mini-series.
Even readers who are not typically fans of Korean dramas will likely appreciate how beautifully written and emotionally absorbing this book is. From beginning to end, Beautifully Mistaken is an entertaining and indulgent read.
★★★★★ 5 stars.
The author’s descriptive writing effortlessly immerses the reader in the world of the story. She skillfully develops the two main characters—Sunwoo, a shy and reserved novelist, and Ian, a strikingly handsome man burdened by a troubled and mysterious past—and brings their unlikely collision of worlds vividly to life. The way the settings, atmosphere, and emotional undercurrents are portrayed makes each scene feel tangible, as if you are quietly present, observing the characters as their interactions unfold.
What stood out to me most was how naturally the novel weaves in Korean culture, everyday life, and distinct locations throughout South Korea. These details add a strong sense of authenticity and deepen the overall immersion. As you read, the outside world seems to fade away—a hallmark of a truly engaging novel.
Each character feels distinct and well-defined, and watching them evolve over the course of the story is genuinely compelling. At times, the narrative is layered with secrets, mystery, self-doubt, shyness, and tension; at others, it shifts seamlessly into humor, sarcasm, tragedy, desire, romance, and love. The storytelling flows so smoothly that it’s easy to imagine this novel adapted into a Korean drama mini-series.
Even readers who are not typically fans of Korean dramas will likely appreciate how beautifully written and emotionally absorbing this book is. From beginning to end, Beautifully Mistaken is an entertaining and indulgent read.
★★★★★ 5 stars.
February 11, 2026
As a Kdrama lover, reading this book really felt like a Kdrama in book format. I would start reading a chapter before bed but I would end up binging until 3 A.M. The story felt a bit cliché (CEOs and amnesia included) and I knew the twists and turns of it, but this didn't make it less enjoyable for me. The chemistry between the main characters made it more of a cozy rom-com rather than the suspense that was promised in the description but I'm all for it. The characters were well rounded with intense backstories. As a reader you can feel the emotional depth and understand their internal conflict.
Apart from the story, I really liked that the book had footnotes explaining certain words, places and cultural elements for the readers that are unfamiliar with Korean culture. I hope that the fellow readers that pick up this book will do it with an open mind and won't judge it by comparing it to the western standart (when it comes to the main characters).
Thank you NetGalley, Ji Sunyoun, and Purple Romanticism for the eARC in exchange for an honest opinion. I'm gonna keep an eye out for the second book in the series.
Apart from the story, I really liked that the book had footnotes explaining certain words, places and cultural elements for the readers that are unfamiliar with Korean culture. I hope that the fellow readers that pick up this book will do it with an open mind and won't judge it by comparing it to the western standart (when it comes to the main characters).
Thank you NetGalley, Ji Sunyoun, and Purple Romanticism for the eARC in exchange for an honest opinion. I'm gonna keep an eye out for the second book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. My honest review is below.
Publication date 06/03/2026
Rating 4.5
Beautifully Mistaken was such a well-written book, and I genuinely struggled to put my Kindle down while reading it. From the very beginning, the story pulls you in and keeps you invested right through to the end.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the characters. They felt properly fleshed out, and every one of them was enjoyable to read about. I especially loved how the story felt almost like a prequel — like we were seeing the beginning of everything unfold — which made me even more excited for what’s to come.
The plot moved with real fluidity and never felt slow or dragged out. That said, the changing perspectives could be slightly confusing at times, and I occasionally had to pause to reorient myself. Still, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
Overall, I’d rate Beautifully Mistaken a solid 4.5 stars. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you after you’ve finished, and I honestly can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Publication date 06/03/2026
Rating 4.5
Beautifully Mistaken was such a well-written book, and I genuinely struggled to put my Kindle down while reading it. From the very beginning, the story pulls you in and keeps you invested right through to the end.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the characters. They felt properly fleshed out, and every one of them was enjoyable to read about. I especially loved how the story felt almost like a prequel — like we were seeing the beginning of everything unfold — which made me even more excited for what’s to come.
The plot moved with real fluidity and never felt slow or dragged out. That said, the changing perspectives could be slightly confusing at times, and I occasionally had to pause to reorient myself. Still, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
Overall, I’d rate Beautifully Mistaken a solid 4.5 stars. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you after you’ve finished, and I honestly can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5!
I read this as an advanced reader copy from Book Sirens.
I went into this story not expecting to learn much about Korean culture, so that aspect was a pleasant surprise. The cultural details added depth and gave me a better understanding of the story.
The story itself was engaging, but at times it was a little hard to follow due to the number of POVs packed into a single chapter. Switching perspectives so frequently pulled me out of the flow now and then. That said, I genuinely liked the characters, and their development over the course of the book kept me invested. Each one felt thoughtfully written.
A big cliffhanger! It definitely left me wanting to know what happens next. Overall, an enjoyable read with strong characters and an unexpected cultural learning experience, even if the structure didn’t always work for me.
I read this as an advanced reader copy from Book Sirens.
I went into this story not expecting to learn much about Korean culture, so that aspect was a pleasant surprise. The cultural details added depth and gave me a better understanding of the story.
The story itself was engaging, but at times it was a little hard to follow due to the number of POVs packed into a single chapter. Switching perspectives so frequently pulled me out of the flow now and then. That said, I genuinely liked the characters, and their development over the course of the book kept me invested. Each one felt thoughtfully written.
A big cliffhanger! It definitely left me wanting to know what happens next. Overall, an enjoyable read with strong characters and an unexpected cultural learning experience, even if the structure didn’t always work for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a very cute and romantic story that feels like you are watching a kdrama that leaves you hanging at the end. It develops and unravels slowly, however it keeps the reader engaged with all the emotional turmoil of the characters. Beware that it is written in third person, I was not prepared for that, and that it does end on a cliffhanger. The wording might feel different than mainstream American romances, but that may be my own perspective because of the point of view it’s written in and is no issue to deeply feel and understand the story and its characters. There a couple of words that have footnotes for words that don’t really have a literal translation to English. I really enjoyed learning those terms and thought it was thoughtful of the author to include. I can not wait to see how Ian’s and Sunwoo’s story ends in the second book of the duology!
Thank you for the ARC.
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
This felt so much like a K-drama, and I mean that in the best way. The slow burn, the emotional tension, the lingering looks and unresolved feelings. It’s exactly how I like my Korean dramas, so I was pretty sold from the start.
I liked that it didn’t rush the romance. The story takes its time letting the emotions build, and I actually enjoyed sitting in that space, just feeling everything alongside the characters. It’s more about the connection and the emotional pull than big dramatic moments, which worked really well for me.
Overall, I genuinely had a good time with this one and found myself really enjoying the vibe and the pacing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ji Sunyoun, and Purple Romanticism for the eARC.
This felt so much like a K-drama, and I mean that in the best way. The slow burn, the emotional tension, the lingering looks and unresolved feelings. It’s exactly how I like my Korean dramas, so I was pretty sold from the start.
I liked that it didn’t rush the romance. The story takes its time letting the emotions build, and I actually enjoyed sitting in that space, just feeling everything alongside the characters. It’s more about the connection and the emotional pull than big dramatic moments, which worked really well for me.
Overall, I genuinely had a good time with this one and found myself really enjoying the vibe and the pacing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ji Sunyoun, and Purple Romanticism for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From light and playful to suspenseful. This book has all the right elements to keep you up at night wondering how it ends. I loved the multiple POV’s and how well the characters played off each other. It made me laugh and then be sad and get all the feels in between. Such a great read.
From light and playful to suspenseful. This book has all the right elements to keep you up at night wondering how it ends. I loved the multiple POV’s and how well the characters played off each other. It made me laugh and then be sad and get all the feels in between. Such a great read.
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