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Casually Yours
"The chemistry and banter are fire." —Kirkus Reviews
Dani Tsai and Parker Tran grew up inseparable in middle-of-nowhere Silverpine, Oregon. She was the bookish girl, introverted and dreamy; he was the quintessential boy next door: charming, popular, and destined to be a football star. They were an unlikely pair of best friends—until they left for college and their friendship came to an unexpected end.
In the seven years since, Dani has moved on to pursue a writing career in New York City, where she’s determined to keep her distance from the boy she once called her best friend, even if it means staying away from her hometown. That is until a chance encounter brings her face-to-face with Parker again, who is now a hotshot sports marketing director on a temporary assignment in New York. He’s traded his jersey and cleats for designer suits and an Aston Martin, and even more puzzling is that he seems to think they can be friends again. Try as she might, Dani can’t resist his pull. Sparks fly, and an impulsive kiss leads to heated nights in his hotel suite. They make a tentative agreement: Until Parker leaves New York, they’ll keep things casual—just sex, no strings attached.
Easier said than done. Challenges arise as Dani and Parker attempt to keep their relationship on the down low, especially when a sudden return to Silverpine forces them to sneak around their nosy families. As revelations about their past come to light, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep feelings out of the mix. In this second-chance, open-door romance and debut novel, the lines are bound to blur between lust and something deeper. Walls begin to crumble, and Dani and Parker soon find themselves far too close for casual.
Dani Tsai and Parker Tran grew up inseparable in middle-of-nowhere Silverpine, Oregon. She was the bookish girl, introverted and dreamy; he was the quintessential boy next door: charming, popular, and destined to be a football star. They were an unlikely pair of best friends—until they left for college and their friendship came to an unexpected end.
In the seven years since, Dani has moved on to pursue a writing career in New York City, where she’s determined to keep her distance from the boy she once called her best friend, even if it means staying away from her hometown. That is until a chance encounter brings her face-to-face with Parker again, who is now a hotshot sports marketing director on a temporary assignment in New York. He’s traded his jersey and cleats for designer suits and an Aston Martin, and even more puzzling is that he seems to think they can be friends again. Try as she might, Dani can’t resist his pull. Sparks fly, and an impulsive kiss leads to heated nights in his hotel suite. They make a tentative agreement: Until Parker leaves New York, they’ll keep things casual—just sex, no strings attached.
Easier said than done. Challenges arise as Dani and Parker attempt to keep their relationship on the down low, especially when a sudden return to Silverpine forces them to sneak around their nosy families. As revelations about their past come to light, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep feelings out of the mix. In this second-chance, open-door romance and debut novel, the lines are bound to blur between lust and something deeper. Walls begin to crumble, and Dani and Parker soon find themselves far too close for casual.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2026
About the author
Vivian Jia Lac
1 book29 followersVivian Jia Lac is a Chinese-Vietnamese Canadian author. She writes contemporary romance packed with banter and chemistry, centering Asian characters at the heart of her stories. Raised on movie nights that included Chinese cinema and a screening of Titanic when she was far too young, Vivian credits her mother for sparking her love of writing. She is a University of Toronto graduate with degrees in Film Studies and East Asian Studies, and currently resides in Toronto with her dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 21, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ This book had me kicking my feet with delight and wishing I fell in love with the boy next door!
June 13, 2026
Casually Yours by Vivian Jia Lac is an amazing debut contemporary romance novel.
Casually Yours includes a storyline including friends-to-lovers, nerd x jock, and second chance.
I would highly recommend adding to your TBR!
Casually Yours includes a storyline including friends-to-lovers, nerd x jock, and second chance.
I would highly recommend adding to your TBR!
April 21, 2026
This was CUTE!! FMC was hilarious, and the MMC was an ex Oregon football player?! Pair that with a realistic conflict, their hometown being set outside of Portland, and so many adorable moments in between. Had To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before vibes. I flew through this one and want MORE!
April 20, 2026
This was so cute!
May 18, 2026
Real Rating: 4.5 stars
This was such a cute read. I love a friends-to-estranged-enemies-to-lovers. The way this book had me in an emotional chokehold too??? I cried, I laughed, I wanted to hop into the book and hug these two dummies. I loved it.
Dani and Parker became best friends at the age of seven and were basically inseparable until university put them on opposite coasts. After Parker ghosts Dani, leaving her waiting at Grand Central for hours, Dani resolves to build a life that doesn't include him. Until fate has them meeting again one night in New York City.
You feel their connection right away. All the history and emotion and everything that hasn't been said between them. The tension and banter was immaculate, and the chemistry between them was off the charts. The references they had - culturally, pop culturally, inside jokes - were also great touches that helped to show their history. I also felt like that meme half the time, where it's like, "I understood that reference!" Ents, remedial chaos theory, Game of Thrones. I felt so solidly in their world, and I loved all of Dani's debates with people.
And though it was fun getting to know them in the present, I especially liked the flashbacks. Seeing them grow over time and even seeing sparks fly when they were younger really solidified their relationship for me.
I also loved their families - the love that Parker's family had for Dani and her father was so wholesome and I love that they built this closeness together over the years. Cô, especially, made my heart warm. The way she's such a consistent part of Dani's life throughout the year was so wonderful. The bromance between their dads was also adorable.
Casually Yours is such a fun debut, and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Vivian Jia Lac!
TW: ethnic fetishism, racism, parental estrangement, sexual content, alcohol consumption; mentions injury detail
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
World Building: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Pacing: 4.5/5
Overall: 4.5/5
Finished copy gifted via Vivian Jia Lac by Third State Books in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a cute read. I love a friends-to-estranged-enemies-to-lovers. The way this book had me in an emotional chokehold too??? I cried, I laughed, I wanted to hop into the book and hug these two dummies. I loved it.
Dani and Parker became best friends at the age of seven and were basically inseparable until university put them on opposite coasts. After Parker ghosts Dani, leaving her waiting at Grand Central for hours, Dani resolves to build a life that doesn't include him. Until fate has them meeting again one night in New York City.
You feel their connection right away. All the history and emotion and everything that hasn't been said between them. The tension and banter was immaculate, and the chemistry between them was off the charts. The references they had - culturally, pop culturally, inside jokes - were also great touches that helped to show their history. I also felt like that meme half the time, where it's like, "I understood that reference!" Ents, remedial chaos theory, Game of Thrones. I felt so solidly in their world, and I loved all of Dani's debates with people.
And though it was fun getting to know them in the present, I especially liked the flashbacks. Seeing them grow over time and even seeing sparks fly when they were younger really solidified their relationship for me.
I also loved their families - the love that Parker's family had for Dani and her father was so wholesome and I love that they built this closeness together over the years. Cô, especially, made my heart warm. The way she's such a consistent part of Dani's life throughout the year was so wonderful. The bromance between their dads was also adorable.
Casually Yours is such a fun debut, and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Vivian Jia Lac!
TW: ethnic fetishism, racism, parental estrangement, sexual content, alcohol consumption; mentions injury detail
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
World Building: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Pacing: 4.5/5
Overall: 4.5/5
Finished copy gifted via Vivian Jia Lac by Third State Books in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2026
Cute romance ☺️
May 6, 2026
4.5 stars :) This book was so cute and an easy read. even easier to not put down! The romantic moments, whether it be tense or sweet, had me smiling and feeling giddy for these characters
June 23, 2026
Earnest, sweet, and a tad spicy, Casually Yours is a surprisingly fresh spin on modern romance. While it follows the conventions of the genre, it is perhaps one of the few romance novels I have read to usurp my expectations, and I absolutely adore that.
Dani and Parker are a delightfully vexing couple. More than once, I was like, “Oh, come on, now, guys, you can do this.” And I found myself rooting for them, even when they wavered, which they did quite often.
I had trouble categorizing this romance at first, as it has strong second-chance elements with the collapse of their childhood friendship and their reunion in NYC. However, it doesn’t quite fit that label. Additionally, the two quickly become friends with benefits, and the romantic elements build from there. Or perhaps it’s their ability to recognize what was always there that grows. Dani’s inability to accept the relationship is understandable given her history of abandonment, and I thought she was a well-fleshed-out character with easily recognizable and sympathetic motivations. I have a soft spot for dorky characters with a side of snark, and Dani fills that role well. Vivian Jia Lac’s use of humor really shines in this narrative, and I laughed often.
Parker, like most love interests, is a catch but not without his flaws.
I particularly love the tie-ins to their childhood friendship, such as Mario Kart and VHS movies.
If you're looking for a breezy summer read or something to absorb on the train into the city, this is one for you.
Dani and Parker are a delightfully vexing couple. More than once, I was like, “Oh, come on, now, guys, you can do this.” And I found myself rooting for them, even when they wavered, which they did quite often.
I had trouble categorizing this romance at first, as it has strong second-chance elements with the collapse of their childhood friendship and their reunion in NYC. However, it doesn’t quite fit that label. Additionally, the two quickly become friends with benefits, and the romantic elements build from there. Or perhaps it’s their ability to recognize what was always there that grows. Dani’s inability to accept the relationship is understandable given her history of abandonment, and I thought she was a well-fleshed-out character with easily recognizable and sympathetic motivations. I have a soft spot for dorky characters with a side of snark, and Dani fills that role well. Vivian Jia Lac’s use of humor really shines in this narrative, and I laughed often.
Parker, like most love interests, is a catch but not without his flaws.
I particularly love the tie-ins to their childhood friendship, such as Mario Kart and VHS movies.
If you're looking for a breezy summer read or something to absorb on the train into the city, this is one for you.
June 8, 2026
CASUALLY YOURS is a second chance romance that is both wholesome and steamy. Childhood friends to strangers to lovers, Dani and Parker’s story is an emotional rollercoaster - from meeting again to navigating a complicated “casual” thing - I laughed, I cringed, and I swooned.
I absolutely love the Vietnamese and Taiwanese representation in Lac’s book and need more! Dani and Parker live next to each other and she calls his parents Cô and Chú, has extremely Vietnamese parties with them (the karaoke, che thai, and the hennessy lolol), and is essentially part of their family. It’s so wholesome and lovely that I couldn’t help but love both their families.
Lac has a way of writing characters who feel very real - doing great, but also kind of maybe falling apart. It was so refreshing to read about a professional who might not have it all together, but definitely knows what she wants in life and people/friends. The romance is slow and builds over time, jumping back between their past and present to slowly reveal to readers what went wrong that turned them into strangers, which worked for me and kept me anticipating.
I truly adored this novel and cannot wait to read more from this author.
I absolutely love the Vietnamese and Taiwanese representation in Lac’s book and need more! Dani and Parker live next to each other and she calls his parents Cô and Chú, has extremely Vietnamese parties with them (the karaoke, che thai, and the hennessy lolol), and is essentially part of their family. It’s so wholesome and lovely that I couldn’t help but love both their families.
Lac has a way of writing characters who feel very real - doing great, but also kind of maybe falling apart. It was so refreshing to read about a professional who might not have it all together, but definitely knows what she wants in life and people/friends. The romance is slow and builds over time, jumping back between their past and present to slowly reveal to readers what went wrong that turned them into strangers, which worked for me and kept me anticipating.
I truly adored this novel and cannot wait to read more from this author.
June 29, 2026
This was a slow-burning romance about Parker & Dani, who were given a second chance at love. Without the over the top drama or grand romantic gestures, I normally read. While I do love those moments, Ms. Jia Lac proves in this story that they are not always needed. Showing up when it matters, and choosing each other day after day. These are the moments relationships are built on.
When Parker finally came at Dani the right way, it absolutely struck romantic gold for me. I was already invested, but that scene hit me with all the feels.
“I know that I want to be with you. Ever since we were kids, it was all I ever wanted.”
I loved the movie references throughout the book. They added another layer to Dani and Parker’s journey, making their story feel even more meaningful.
Overall, this is a beautiful story about second chances, growth, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable with someone who once held your heart. Dani and Parker’s journey reminded me that love isn’t just about finding the right person… It’s about doing the work to keep choosing them.
So if you’re anything like me and love a good Hallmark-style romance, this is exactly that. 🥹💕
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
When Parker finally came at Dani the right way, it absolutely struck romantic gold for me. I was already invested, but that scene hit me with all the feels.
“I know that I want to be with you. Ever since we were kids, it was all I ever wanted.”
I loved the movie references throughout the book. They added another layer to Dani and Parker’s journey, making their story feel even more meaningful.
Overall, this is a beautiful story about second chances, growth, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable with someone who once held your heart. Dani and Parker’s journey reminded me that love isn’t just about finding the right person… It’s about doing the work to keep choosing them.
So if you’re anything like me and love a good Hallmark-style romance, this is exactly that. 🥹💕
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
June 18, 2026
As a fan of Asian dramas, this book immediately felt like the kind of rom-com I would binge in a single weekend. Dani and Parker were once inseparable, but life pulled them in different directions. Years later, a chance reunion forces them to confront the feelings and history they left behind. Their journey back to each other was what kept me turning the pages.
One of my favorite elements of the story was the flashbacks. Each glimpse into the past helped me understand how they became the people they are in the present. The story is told entirely through Dani's perspective. While I enjoyed being in her head, I kept wishing for Parker's POV. There were several moments where hearing his thoughts would have added more depth.
The supporting characters also left an impression. Parker's mother, Cô, brought humor and heart to every scene she appeared in. The author also sparked my curiosity about Nathan and his girlfriend. The story mentions Nathan's girlfriend, Irene, but he is still single in the epilogue. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy.
One of my favorite elements of the story was the flashbacks. Each glimpse into the past helped me understand how they became the people they are in the present. The story is told entirely through Dani's perspective. While I enjoyed being in her head, I kept wishing for Parker's POV. There were several moments where hearing his thoughts would have added more depth.
The supporting characters also left an impression. Parker's mother, Cô, brought humor and heart to every scene she appeared in. The author also sparked my curiosity about Nathan and his girlfriend. The story mentions Nathan's girlfriend, Irene, but he is still single in the epilogue. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy.
June 21, 2026
Ahh what a CUTE romance!! This was so refreshing and engaging. Vivian has crafted a wonderful friends-to-lovers, second chance romance (and I don't say this lightly as a die-hard enemies-to-lovers fan).
The way Vivian set up the beginning of this story was perfect for building the angst, and getting snippets of their back story made me want to desperately keep reading. I had to force myself to put this down at 1am as it had me so hooked.
There is some fabulous banter, and some truly funny lines that had me laughing. It really gave me romcom vibes, whilst also having such realistic characters. Dani is incredibly relatable and a great FMC - my standout character though was Cô. Please can I spend a Thanksgiving with her?!
I'd definitely recommend picking this book up, and I will be keeping my eye out for future books from Vivian! What a stellar debut!
Thank you to the author for a copy, and for giving me the opportunity to share my honest thoughts.
The way Vivian set up the beginning of this story was perfect for building the angst, and getting snippets of their back story made me want to desperately keep reading. I had to force myself to put this down at 1am as it had me so hooked.
There is some fabulous banter, and some truly funny lines that had me laughing. It really gave me romcom vibes, whilst also having such realistic characters. Dani is incredibly relatable and a great FMC - my standout character though was Cô. Please can I spend a Thanksgiving with her?!
I'd definitely recommend picking this book up, and I will be keeping my eye out for future books from Vivian! What a stellar debut!
Thank you to the author for a copy, and for giving me the opportunity to share my honest thoughts.
June 14, 2026
i LOVED this book! Parker and Dani’s love story was so real and so emotional — all the feels. i loved Dani’s heart, her sentimentality, and her being unapologetically herself. Parker is the ultimate book boyfriend and i loved his journey from struggling with expressing feelings to becoming even more larger than life. the story was well done and i love how this could be someone’s love story in real life. the pacing was good and the story kept my attention. i loved Cô and Chù — they were such lovable book parents. Dani’s father was a great book dad as well. i loved his emotional arc and how that connected to Dani’s and Parker’s story. this book was such a special read and i’m so glad i got to be a part of its journey!
disclaimer: the author reached out to me and asked me for a review in exchange for a free copy. this is my honest, voluntary review.
disclaimer: the author reached out to me and asked me for a review in exchange for a free copy. this is my honest, voluntary review.
July 10, 2026
This was such a fun friends to lovers romance debut novel from Lac. Dani and Parker are childhood best friends until one day when Dani is in college in NYC and Parker fails to show up to visit her. Parker gave her no phone calls or outreach to explain his absence. Years later, they bump into each other and rekindled their friendship.
It was fun to see Dani and Parker somehow go from stranger to friends with benefits to something more. Their banter is great and I adore the closeness that Dani has with Parker's family when they go back to visit small town in Oregon.
The flashbacks to their high school days gave a great backstory of their relationship and the pressure that Parker had growing up.
It was fun seeing their love grow as well as their navigating how to make their relationship work.
Thank you to @thirdstatebooks @vivanjialac for the book.
It was fun to see Dani and Parker somehow go from stranger to friends with benefits to something more. Their banter is great and I adore the closeness that Dani has with Parker's family when they go back to visit small town in Oregon.
The flashbacks to their high school days gave a great backstory of their relationship and the pressure that Parker had growing up.
It was fun seeing their love grow as well as their navigating how to make their relationship work.
Thank you to @thirdstatebooks @vivanjialac for the book.
March 23, 2026
My first read of the year. 💖
I think this might be my first book that had Asian MC’s, which off the bat, made it more relatable because I’m Asian. I love that the book didn’t have too much spice, since I’m not a huge spice reader. The banter between the characters was my fave. It was just so natural with the perfect amount of humor. Being able to experience Parker's loving family vs. Dani’s imperfect relationship with her own family, made you really feel for Dani. At times, I could feel myself going through all these emotions with her. 🥹
This book found me when I was in a reading slump. I also haven’t had much time to read, but here I was staying up trying to finish it.
Perfect debut romance novel. 👏🏻
I think this might be my first book that had Asian MC’s, which off the bat, made it more relatable because I’m Asian. I love that the book didn’t have too much spice, since I’m not a huge spice reader. The banter between the characters was my fave. It was just so natural with the perfect amount of humor. Being able to experience Parker's loving family vs. Dani’s imperfect relationship with her own family, made you really feel for Dani. At times, I could feel myself going through all these emotions with her. 🥹
This book found me when I was in a reading slump. I also haven’t had much time to read, but here I was staying up trying to finish it.
Perfect debut romance novel. 👏🏻
March 30, 2026
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
We love a good second chance romance and nothing beats former childhood crushes. I love years of pining, glances, and "it's always been you" moments. This has one of my favorite tropes so you know I had to read Casually Yours. I also love when it's one character who is committed to keeping something casual, even though they know they're not the casual type. Am I just exposing myself at this point? What I love about second chance romances is how the characters have to reconcile with the distance between who they are now and who they used to be. Their dreams dashed and reality sets in.
We love a good second chance romance and nothing beats former childhood crushes. I love years of pining, glances, and "it's always been you" moments. This has one of my favorite tropes so you know I had to read Casually Yours. I also love when it's one character who is committed to keeping something casual, even though they know they're not the casual type. Am I just exposing myself at this point? What I love about second chance romances is how the characters have to reconcile with the distance between who they are now and who they used to be. Their dreams dashed and reality sets in.
May 18, 2026
A cute, fun friends-to-lovers read! I couldn't get enough of Dani and Parker's relationship (both as childhood friends and as something more), and I really enjoyed how author Vivian Jia Lac balanced writing out said aspects. The banter was funny, and I loved all of the ways Dani's real life (her job, her dad, etc.) overlapped with the romance - it made the story feel more "real" and anchored. I also don't always love books with flashbacks or a back-and-forth timeline, but CASUALLY YOURS pulls it off in a way that's enjoyable and really feels like it's pushing the story along. If you're looking for a new romance book to read, I'd highly recommend picking this one up!
**Thanks to Books Forwards PR for sending me an early copy to read and review.
**Thanks to Books Forwards PR for sending me an early copy to read and review.
June 9, 2026
I loved this book and didn’t expect to zoom through it like I did! The female lead was so funny with her spiralling imagination, which felt super relatable. The banter with the male lead was so charming it had me blushing and kicking my feet with glee. I love seeing the growth between the characters.
To me, the conflict between them didn’t feel super manufactured and actually felt believable. The flashbacks of their friendship really nailed down the feeling of longing and heartache when you learn what was lost over the years.
Bonus was seeing the interaction with their families. As someone who’s Viet-Chinese, it made me laugh at how common the Hennessy and Paris By Night experience was. Like, this was made for me!!!
Can’t wait to read more books from Vivian Jia Lac!
To me, the conflict between them didn’t feel super manufactured and actually felt believable. The flashbacks of their friendship really nailed down the feeling of longing and heartache when you learn what was lost over the years.
Bonus was seeing the interaction with their families. As someone who’s Viet-Chinese, it made me laugh at how common the Hennessy and Paris By Night experience was. Like, this was made for me!!!
Can’t wait to read more books from Vivian Jia Lac!
June 10, 2026
My thoughts… this book was just…. wow. Its been a long time since a book held my heart in its hand the whole time. The pure nostalgia this book gives you for a childhood romance… The whole book gives effortless and seamless, she incorporates humour and romance with a natural flare. I don’t understand how this book is not absolutely viral. I was worried the mixing of the friends w/ benefits and second chance would be too chaotic but she captured the messiness of a relationship perfectly.
I will be recommending this book to anyone who listens. It was amazing, I don’t think I can say anything further. If this is her debut book, world watch out… Vivian Jia Lac is coming for you and I cannot wait to watch what she does next.
I will be recommending this book to anyone who listens. It was amazing, I don’t think I can say anything further. If this is her debut book, world watch out… Vivian Jia Lac is coming for you and I cannot wait to watch what she does next.
July 6, 2026
Casually Yours by Vivian Jia Lac is a modern romance and a very enjoyable read. Dani and Parker are well written characters and very likable, flaws and all! This was a new and fresh boy next door to best friends to estranged to enemies to casual fling to lovers and it all works. The story felt real as if I was reading about friends. Friends you impatiently wait and likely prod a little to find their happy ever after.
The secondary characters were supportive and also so much fun! I loved Parker's mom, Cô, and how she was there for Parker AND Dani. Parker's dad, Chù, also brought some humor to the story.
If you are looking for a fun, somewhat steamy romance that will also make you laugh, I recommend Casually Yours. It's fun, refreshing and a great way to escape for a while!
The secondary characters were supportive and also so much fun! I loved Parker's mom, Cô, and how she was there for Parker AND Dani. Parker's dad, Chù, also brought some humor to the story.
If you are looking for a fun, somewhat steamy romance that will also make you laugh, I recommend Casually Yours. It's fun, refreshing and a great way to escape for a while!
March 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- No strings attached
- Childhood friend to lover
- Nerd x Jock
Huge thank you to Vivian and her team for giving me the chance to read your beautiful book because I genuinely loved it. Opposites attract, childhood past, and my most favourite is the tight knit family. Getting to experience the warmth of Parker’s Vietnamese family, and to truly understand and feel it; made me miss my time in Vietnam with my fiancé’s family.
Grew up closely together and radio silence after, fast forward 7 years later… they find each other and one thing led to another. Ahem. Kiss. And the rest is a beautiful story 😏
Dani and Parker were match made in heaven, you get the slightest bit of banter from the both of them, a *sprinkle* of steam 🤭 there’s just something about friends with benefits make my feet tickle!
If you want a wholesome romance to read this summer this is your book! 🌸
- No strings attached
- Childhood friend to lover
- Nerd x Jock
Huge thank you to Vivian and her team for giving me the chance to read your beautiful book because I genuinely loved it. Opposites attract, childhood past, and my most favourite is the tight knit family. Getting to experience the warmth of Parker’s Vietnamese family, and to truly understand and feel it; made me miss my time in Vietnam with my fiancé’s family.
Grew up closely together and radio silence after, fast forward 7 years later… they find each other and one thing led to another. Ahem. Kiss. And the rest is a beautiful story 😏
Dani and Parker were match made in heaven, you get the slightest bit of banter from the both of them, a *sprinkle* of steam 🤭 there’s just something about friends with benefits make my feet tickle!
If you want a wholesome romance to read this summer this is your book! 🌸
April 1, 2026
Inhaled this book in like a week of getting it! This book has everything you want in a romance novel: comedy, enemies to lovers/boy next door romance, and so many moments of vulnerability. I met the author last week on one of her book tour stops, and she is so sweet and put a lot of hard-work into writing this book! She mentioned that the Jeep in the book was a nod to Peter Kavinski from All the Boys I loved Before. The book is also partly set in Oregon just like Peter and Lara Jean’s love story. I am a huge fan of that movie, so those details just made me love the book even more! Can’t wait to read more of Vivan’s stuff in the future!
April 27, 2026
As an Asian-Canadian male reader, I loved this book. I was very impressed by the author's writing:
- Tension was effectively established from the very beginning
- Every scene was purposeful
- The dialogue was was delightful, compelling, and engaging
This was also an ambitious novel. In addition to being a well-written page-turning romance, Jia Lac tackles the main characters' Asian-American identities with authenticity and nuance. Furthermore, the interplay between FMC's attachment issues and Asian-American conceptions of family was very moving. Wife and I had an amazing time reading and discussing.
- Tension was effectively established from the very beginning
- Every scene was purposeful
- The dialogue was was delightful, compelling, and engaging
This was also an ambitious novel. In addition to being a well-written page-turning romance, Jia Lac tackles the main characters' Asian-American identities with authenticity and nuance. Furthermore, the interplay between FMC's attachment issues and Asian-American conceptions of family was very moving. Wife and I had an amazing time reading and discussing.
March 31, 2026
I have always been a huge fan of best friends to lovers trope! This was a refreshing and light read that made it so easy for me to fall in love with both characters and true to the plot, it was very hard to resist the charm of Parker Tran! Vivian did an amazing job of blending the vietnamese culture in a small town, and finding love again where it has always existed. I've just finished the book and I think I will reread it again this weekend!
June 19, 2026
4.25 stars!
Friends to lovers, childhood friends, girl and boy next door - what's not to love? I adored this story 🥰 All of the flashbacks were so good at fleshing out the history between Dani and Parker. I also appreciated the nostalgia factor and all of the Vietnamese representation. Parker's mom was such a highlight for me because I absolutely know a handful of moms who are exactly like her.
An amazing debut! I can't wait to read more from Vivian Jia Lac ♡
Friends to lovers, childhood friends, girl and boy next door - what's not to love? I adored this story 🥰 All of the flashbacks were so good at fleshing out the history between Dani and Parker. I also appreciated the nostalgia factor and all of the Vietnamese representation. Parker's mom was such a highlight for me because I absolutely know a handful of moms who are exactly like her.
An amazing debut! I can't wait to read more from Vivian Jia Lac ♡
March 21, 2026
An amazing debut romance novel by a witty and gifted writer. I not only fell in love with the characters, I fell in love with her sharp sense of humor and the authenticity of her writing. I can’t wait for the rest of the world to fall in love with this book!
Thank you again to @thirdstatebooks for the ARC!
Thank you again to @thirdstatebooks for the ARC!
May 12, 2026
Love love loved this book! It had me hooked from the start and I read it in 5 days! The banter between Dani and Parker was so fun to read. I especially loved Parker’s family dynamics, so true to a lot of Asian families! If you are a fan of To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, you will be obsessed with this more mature love story!
Hoping for a book #2 by Vivian Jia Lac! I’ll be the first to buy!
Hoping for a book #2 by Vivian Jia Lac! I’ll be the first to buy!
June 11, 2026
This was a really lovely story! The writing was compelling and funny, and the characters had excellent banter. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to the publisher for the copy of this book.
Thank you to the publisher for the copy of this book.
June 23, 2026
Bought this book on a whim to support a local bookstore and I am SO glad I did. The banter had me laughing out loud! I was so sad to see that this is the authors first book. What do you mean I have to wait to read more of her work?!
April 5, 2026
A tale of not only childhood friends to lovers but friends with benefits to lovers. It's a cute and sexy read that'll have you giggling and kicking your feet.
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