What do you think?
Rate this book
Just Kiss Already
Enemies. Coworkers. Accidental Icons.
Dr. Ben Song likes his life orderly, predictable, and blissfully private. By day, he’s a forensic anthropologist running a controversial research project. By night, he’s the anonymous author of a bestselling cozy mystery series. What he absolutely doesn’t need? One viral moment turning him into the internet’s new favorite grumpy heartthrob.
Lauren Wei has built her career in the spotlight—and paid for it. A former teen star turned serious filmmaker, she’s determined to prove she’s more than her past persona. With her first feature film about to premiere and a press tour that could make or break her future, she can’t afford distractions. Especially not the brilliant, infuriating author whose book she adapted…and whose visibly unimpressed reaction to her movie just made him a viral meme.
When the studio forces Ben and Lauren to share the press circuit to capitalize on the moment, sparks fly. But between industry politics, public scrutiny, and a growing sense they might actually be perfectly imperfect for each other after all, their reluctant partnership soon turns into something far more complicated....
Dr. Ben Song likes his life orderly, predictable, and blissfully private. By day, he’s a forensic anthropologist running a controversial research project. By night, he’s the anonymous author of a bestselling cozy mystery series. What he absolutely doesn’t need? One viral moment turning him into the internet’s new favorite grumpy heartthrob.
Lauren Wei has built her career in the spotlight—and paid for it. A former teen star turned serious filmmaker, she’s determined to prove she’s more than her past persona. With her first feature film about to premiere and a press tour that could make or break her future, she can’t afford distractions. Especially not the brilliant, infuriating author whose book she adapted…and whose visibly unimpressed reaction to her movie just made him a viral meme.
When the studio forces Ben and Lauren to share the press circuit to capitalize on the moment, sparks fly. But between industry politics, public scrutiny, and a growing sense they might actually be perfectly imperfect for each other after all, their reluctant partnership soon turns into something far more complicated....
Audible Audio
Published March 12, 2026
About the author
Lily Chu
11 books1,886 followersLily Chu loves ordering the second-cheapest wine, wearing perfume all the time, and staying up far too late with a good book.
The Stand-In, The Comeback, and The Takedown are released in audio as Audible Originals, and are performed by Phillipa Soo. Lily’s critically acclaimed books have spent multiple weeks at number one in Audible Top Plus Listens in the All and the Romance categories, and have been named in Audible’s Best of the year lists.
In print, The Stand-In was named Target’s Book Club Pick for May as well as an Amazon Book of the Month and Apple Best Books of May.
Translation rights have been sold for seven languages.
The Stand-In, The Comeback, and The Takedown are released in audio as Audible Originals, and are performed by Phillipa Soo. Lily’s critically acclaimed books have spent multiple weeks at number one in Audible Top Plus Listens in the All and the Romance categories, and have been named in Audible’s Best of the year lists.
In print, The Stand-In was named Target’s Book Club Pick for May as well as an Amazon Book of the Month and Apple Best Books of May.
Translation rights have been sold for seven languages.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
May 12, 2026
Lily Chu novels are always like a warm hug and Just Kiss Already is no different! I love these characters and the plot is engaging. I think there are some instances where the MCs differences/disagreements are a bit performative in how they play out, but I still loved every minute of this one. I can't wait to have a shelf trophy, but I'll cherish the audiobook in the meantime.
March 12, 2026
It’s a fun read!! I would recommend the audiobook version.
March 14, 2026
It gets harder and harder writing these reviews for Lily chu, because each time I say something along the lines of "This was the best book yet!" and then she releases another that proves to make me take back that statement.
I adored this one - Like yes, of course I want to hear about a nerdy scientific author and a hot powerful female actress. And having this free on audible plus? Only made it better. Dont EVEN get me started on the voice work...argh! Incredibly done.
Im not in the space to write a detailed review today, but to summarise my feelings: Yes. Absolutely. Smash (Both of them). Would devour this book again.
I adored this one - Like yes, of course I want to hear about a nerdy scientific author and a hot powerful female actress. And having this free on audible plus? Only made it better. Dont EVEN get me started on the voice work...argh! Incredibly done.
Im not in the space to write a detailed review today, but to summarise my feelings: Yes. Absolutely. Smash (Both of them). Would devour this book again.
March 14, 2026
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Secret Identity meets Hollywood Crush
Summary
Dr. Ben Song likes his life orderly, predictable, and blissfully private. By day, he’s a forensic anthropologist running a controversial research project. By night, he’s the anonymous author of a bestselling cozy mystery series. What he absolutely doesn’t need? One viral moment turning him into a meme.
Lauren Wei has built her career in the spotlight—and paid for it. A former teen star turned serious filmmaker, she’s determined to prove she’s more than her past persona. With her first feature film about to premiere and a press tour that could make or break her future, she can’t afford distractions. Especially not the brilliant, infuriating author whose book she adapted…and whose visibly unimpressed reaction to her movie just made him a viral meme.
In order to salvage the movie premier and launch, the studio demands Lauren and Ben hit the press circuit to show that he doesn't dislike the changes made in the screenplay. Ben needs coaching, though, and that's a lot easier said than done.
Review
I really enjoy Lily Chu's books. The characters are always Asian and she describes their customs and traditions in a way that makes it feel like home. I appreciate learning about their struggles with poorly-veiled racism, skill and ability recognition, and the challenge of maintaining cultural heritage in a time when that seems so much less important to the greater public. Lauren and Ben both had families with projected expectations, fights with friends and work colleagues, and though their approaches were different, they both handled their situation with poise and maturity. And their blushing around each other for so long was just super cute.
Summary
Dr. Ben Song likes his life orderly, predictable, and blissfully private. By day, he’s a forensic anthropologist running a controversial research project. By night, he’s the anonymous author of a bestselling cozy mystery series. What he absolutely doesn’t need? One viral moment turning him into a meme.
Lauren Wei has built her career in the spotlight—and paid for it. A former teen star turned serious filmmaker, she’s determined to prove she’s more than her past persona. With her first feature film about to premiere and a press tour that could make or break her future, she can’t afford distractions. Especially not the brilliant, infuriating author whose book she adapted…and whose visibly unimpressed reaction to her movie just made him a viral meme.
In order to salvage the movie premier and launch, the studio demands Lauren and Ben hit the press circuit to show that he doesn't dislike the changes made in the screenplay. Ben needs coaching, though, and that's a lot easier said than done.
Review
I really enjoy Lily Chu's books. The characters are always Asian and she describes their customs and traditions in a way that makes it feel like home. I appreciate learning about their struggles with poorly-veiled racism, skill and ability recognition, and the challenge of maintaining cultural heritage in a time when that seems so much less important to the greater public. Lauren and Ben both had families with projected expectations, fights with friends and work colleagues, and though their approaches were different, they both handled their situation with poise and maturity. And their blushing around each other for so long was just super cute.
Did Not Finish
April 26, 2026Wow i got pulled into this becausw of Phillippa Soo and Simu Liu narration. Unfortunately, this book is just SOOOOO boring 😅 they both do a great job of voicing their characters. However, i just cannot figure out where we are going with the story. There were some cute moments between the 2 of them, but overall, it would just constantly be me (as the audience) being dragged around with the characters to go to .... press conferences??? Tech labs????
Unfortunately, after half/not listening to the 60% mark, i've decided to drop this because I literally cannot pay attention 😅
Unfortunately, after half/not listening to the 60% mark, i've decided to drop this because I literally cannot pay attention 😅
March 22, 2026
I love Lily Chu. This one, however, wasn't as great as I found the previous books. (this is Not a series)
I loved the idea of the work Ben did and much like the actual story itself, that aspect didn't find it's home until the last chapter. Then it was a HOME RUN. I really like the idea of championing something off the grid-important like this book does. Very clever, whether it was intentional or not.
I also love that Lily continues to use Phillipa Soo as the narrator. She is so fab. If this ever became a movie, Phillipa Soo and Simu Lui would be the perfect Lauren and Ben.
It's a cute read. If you like this, then definitely read The Comeback and The Takedown.
I loved the idea of the work Ben did and much like the actual story itself, that aspect didn't find it's home until the last chapter. Then it was a HOME RUN. I really like the idea of championing something off the grid-important like this book does. Very clever, whether it was intentional or not.
I also love that Lily continues to use Phillipa Soo as the narrator. She is so fab. If this ever became a movie, Phillipa Soo and Simu Lui would be the perfect Lauren and Ben.
It's a cute read. If you like this, then definitely read The Comeback and The Takedown.
April 14, 2026
Just Kiss Already by Lily Chu was a great listen. Simu Liu and Phillipa Soo brought the story to life. Easy listen and enjoyable story. The small snippets from the cozy mystery series had me wanting to read those stories too. I've listened to other stories by Lily Chu and she did not disappoint. Can't wait for the next one
April 17, 2026
It was more like a character study than a romance. The MMC’s job was interesting and I appreciated they had real life conflicts with their friends and colleagues. I also appreciated the strong FMC - taking charge both in the relationship and with her career (becoming a director). But it felt kind of low key / low stakes, which didn’t make for a big payoff at the end.
April 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐
I quite enjoyed this plot, and the characters were likeable. I love Phillipa Soo's voice! She's narrated another Lily Chu I think, and is part of the reason I listened to this. Very easy listen ☀️
I quite enjoyed this plot, and the characters were likeable. I love Phillipa Soo's voice! She's narrated another Lily Chu I think, and is part of the reason I listened to this. Very easy listen ☀️
April 20, 2026
Of course I knew what this story was about the minute I borrowed the title, but I really enjoyed the POV of each main characters occupations and how they were working through the professional hurdles they had. Not very spicy or cringey.
March 17, 2026
Another solid rom com.
March 23, 2026
This was a fun romance. The characters were unique enough to be a little unpredictable and add to the story. Enjoyable light read.
March 24, 2026
3.5 Stars
Easy & Cute. Not my favorite LC.
Easy & Cute. Not my favorite LC.
April 3, 2026
This wasn’t bad but just wasn’t very exciting.
April 23, 2026
Volvimos a los romances con celebridades y me encanta !!!
April 23, 2026
Honestly this was MEH. Love that it was in Toronto (wooo woop) and then a bit of London in there. But the story itself dragged on and there was nothing exciting
May 11, 2026
I didn't like this at first, but then it grew on me and Ben and Lauren supporting each other was pretty beautiful.
March 20, 2026
Lily Chu is a must-read for me. Her characters have relatable struggles and foibles (even if they're often much more glamorous than I) and I love reading in familiar Toronto. Having been fascinated by Sue Black's writing, this theme was right up my alley!
March 29, 2026
I love how Canadian this was and narrated narrated by Simu Liu even better!
March 21, 2026
this book just wasn’t it. The characters were SO unbelievably childish and just unlikeable. Like cmon, just be an adult and just have a conversation 🤦♀️. ALSO THE CHARACTERS ARE 30 YEARS OLD YOU DO NOT HAVE A CRUSH WAKE UP YOU LOVE THEM!!!!!!!!! It just gives me the ick when fully grown adults say they have a crush. The romance wasn’t written very well either. The female main character was so self absorbed and annoying. I was so looking forward to this book and had high expectations and I feel like I was let down.
April 10, 2026
3rd act break-up I saw coming
May 1, 2026
3.5 Stars
I love Lily Chu. This storyline just wasn’t as amazing as her other books I have read.
I liked the dynamic between Ben and Lauren but at the same time didn’t feel like it was overly believable. I thought it was funny, witty and really liked that it included hard friendship talks.
I was getting really over everything coming back to ‘oh that’s such a Sophie thing’ like she was her own character in this book. It kinda made me feel like Lauren was being a pick me but I know that wasn’t the intent.
I also didn’t enjoy the miscommunication or lack of trust trope when they were so mature the whole book.
I love Lily Chu. This storyline just wasn’t as amazing as her other books I have read.
I liked the dynamic between Ben and Lauren but at the same time didn’t feel like it was overly believable. I thought it was funny, witty and really liked that it included hard friendship talks.
I was getting really over everything coming back to ‘oh that’s such a Sophie thing’ like she was her own character in this book. It kinda made me feel like Lauren was being a pick me but I know that wasn’t the intent.
I also didn’t enjoy the miscommunication or lack of trust trope when they were so mature the whole book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2026
Just Kiss Already is a Toronto-set romcom that follows Dr. Ben Song and Lauren Wei, two people who would very much like to avoid each other…and absolutely cannot. Ben is a forensic anthropologist who secretly writes a bestselling cozy mystery series and prefers his life quiet and anonymous. Lauren is a former teen star turned filmmaker, determined to be taken seriously as her first feature—an adaptation of Ben’s book—is about to premiere. When Ben’s less-than-thrilled reaction to her movie goes viral, the studio decides to cash in on the drama and forces them to do the press tour together. Cue enemies, coworkers, accidental icons, and a whole lot of sparks, all without me spoiling how their relationship unfolds.
I absolutely adore everything Lily Chu writes, and I love that her books come out as audiobooks first—this one was no exception. I had such a good time with it. The chemistry between Lauren and Ben is there from the start, that perfect mix of prickly and magnetic, and I really enjoyed watching them slowly let their guards down. I found it so interesting how they both compartmentalize their lives in different ways, and how being thrown together forces them to confront the parts of themselves they’d rather keep neatly boxed away. The way they bring out the best in each other and gently shift each other’s perspective felt really sweet and satisfying.
Having it set in Toronto was such a delight. I loved all the little references to the city—the neighbourhoods, the vibe, the details that make it feel like a real love letter to Toronto. It always feels special when a romance unfolds in a place that feels like home, and this book really leans into that in a fun, affectionate way.
The audiobook narration is a huge highlight. I was so excited that Simu Liu was one of the narrators, and he was fantastic alongside Lily Chu’s regular narrator, Phillipa Soo. Together they bring so much warmth, humour, and nuance to Ben and Lauren that it honestly felt like hanging out with real people. The performance really amplifies the banter and the emotional beats in a way that made me want to keep listening long past when I should’ve gone to bed.
Overall, Just Kiss Already is sweet, heartwarming, and charming, with great chemistry, a fun premise, and a Toronto backdrop that made me smile. I think everyone should listen to this one if audiobooks are your thing—and if they’re not, the print editions do eventually come out, so there’s really no excuse not to spend some time with Ben and Lauren.
I absolutely adore everything Lily Chu writes, and I love that her books come out as audiobooks first—this one was no exception. I had such a good time with it. The chemistry between Lauren and Ben is there from the start, that perfect mix of prickly and magnetic, and I really enjoyed watching them slowly let their guards down. I found it so interesting how they both compartmentalize their lives in different ways, and how being thrown together forces them to confront the parts of themselves they’d rather keep neatly boxed away. The way they bring out the best in each other and gently shift each other’s perspective felt really sweet and satisfying.
Having it set in Toronto was such a delight. I loved all the little references to the city—the neighbourhoods, the vibe, the details that make it feel like a real love letter to Toronto. It always feels special when a romance unfolds in a place that feels like home, and this book really leans into that in a fun, affectionate way.
The audiobook narration is a huge highlight. I was so excited that Simu Liu was one of the narrators, and he was fantastic alongside Lily Chu’s regular narrator, Phillipa Soo. Together they bring so much warmth, humour, and nuance to Ben and Lauren that it honestly felt like hanging out with real people. The performance really amplifies the banter and the emotional beats in a way that made me want to keep listening long past when I should’ve gone to bed.
Overall, Just Kiss Already is sweet, heartwarming, and charming, with great chemistry, a fun premise, and a Toronto backdrop that made me smile. I think everyone should listen to this one if audiobooks are your thing—and if they’re not, the print editions do eventually come out, so there’s really no excuse not to spend some time with Ben and Lauren.
March 21, 2026
4.5⭐️
The audiobook was amazing! Absolutely recommend if you’re looking for a closed door romance book. We focus on Lauren, an actress known for her rebellious character growing up and up and coming director, and Ben, professor and director of forensic anthropology labs…and just so happens to be the author of the books Lauren is directing a movie based off.
Ben is less than excited about how the film adaptation of his book portrayed the science of his profession and he quickly becomes a viral sensation due to his reaction (dude I get it my face talks before I can too)
In order to clear up the air and promote the movie in a positive light Lauren must convince Ben to join the press and promotional content for the movie. Ben agrees but ONLY if he’s allowed to plug the Taf lab. This proves to be a bit more challenging than either of them thought- Ben is all facts and science lacking the personal connection and Lauren is just trying her best to make sure everyone, including herself, is pleased.
Overall, I have a fun time with this book. I was engaged and was quickly drawn into the world. As someone who works within the field of science and understands the nature of funding off programs and donors- I completely understand the struggle Ben is going through. I also liked that his character was actually realistic to someone who take his work seriously and doesn’t quite understand the social queues he “should” He is a person that dives head first into his work and wants to make sure it’s done correctly and accurately. Alongside keeping up his author persona he was thrusted quickly into.
Lauren is a people pleaser. After endlessly being compared to her rebellious less than ideal character she played when she was younger and constantly reminded of her failures from the past Lauren tries to take her life and confidence back, but that’s hard to do when the author of your favorite books and the movie you just directed and starred in ended up hating your portrayal. As they work to mend the growing issues they learn that maybe past crushes and expectations don’t die easy
I think sometimes Lauren was a little TOO obsessed with being compared to her character Sophie, I mean I understand people see actors as the character sometimes but I don’t think I’d run up to Dylan O’Brien and be like OMG ITS STILES!!!! Like nooo… that’s weird. And sometimes I wish Ben would’ve just taken literally anyone’s advice and this all woulve been so much easier.
The audiobook was amazing! Absolutely recommend if you’re looking for a closed door romance book. We focus on Lauren, an actress known for her rebellious character growing up and up and coming director, and Ben, professor and director of forensic anthropology labs…and just so happens to be the author of the books Lauren is directing a movie based off.
Ben is less than excited about how the film adaptation of his book portrayed the science of his profession and he quickly becomes a viral sensation due to his reaction (dude I get it my face talks before I can too)
In order to clear up the air and promote the movie in a positive light Lauren must convince Ben to join the press and promotional content for the movie. Ben agrees but ONLY if he’s allowed to plug the Taf lab. This proves to be a bit more challenging than either of them thought- Ben is all facts and science lacking the personal connection and Lauren is just trying her best to make sure everyone, including herself, is pleased.
Overall, I have a fun time with this book. I was engaged and was quickly drawn into the world. As someone who works within the field of science and understands the nature of funding off programs and donors- I completely understand the struggle Ben is going through. I also liked that his character was actually realistic to someone who take his work seriously and doesn’t quite understand the social queues he “should” He is a person that dives head first into his work and wants to make sure it’s done correctly and accurately. Alongside keeping up his author persona he was thrusted quickly into.
Lauren is a people pleaser. After endlessly being compared to her rebellious less than ideal character she played when she was younger and constantly reminded of her failures from the past Lauren tries to take her life and confidence back, but that’s hard to do when the author of your favorite books and the movie you just directed and starred in ended up hating your portrayal. As they work to mend the growing issues they learn that maybe past crushes and expectations don’t die easy
I think sometimes Lauren was a little TOO obsessed with being compared to her character Sophie, I mean I understand people see actors as the character sometimes but I don’t think I’d run up to Dylan O’Brien and be like OMG ITS STILES!!!! Like nooo… that’s weird. And sometimes I wish Ben would’ve just taken literally anyone’s advice and this all woulve been so much easier.
April 3, 2026
This book wasn't horrible but it wasn't the best. I unfortunately found it a bit boring. The story was decent but wasn't very gripping or exciting. Lauren is an actress trying to move up in the world by directing one of her favorite books turned movie script. She has been trying to be noticed as more than her long ongoing role in another show that got her fame. Everyone likes to compare her with the character she once played. However, as she has been trying to get away from that character in my eyes she seemed to act more like that character if not worse. Unfortunately, I do think that she took offense to things too easily and she constantly jumped to conclusions and put the blame onto others. Ben is the author of her favorite book that has turned into a movie now. Ben had a hard time getting over the hurdle that they didn't follow his book. He and Lauren talked over the phone for long periods of time about the movie script and when she made changes after talking to her boss, she didn't tell him. I believe Ben had all the right in the world to be upset but Lauren wanted to treat it like it was lowly feelings and that he should know changes would be made and that he was being overdramatic. I REALLY despised Lauren for this because after all that Ben was still the one that apologized for how he reacted. She also had terrible timing about asking about the 2nd book and the rights to that and Ben was STILL AGAIN the one that apologized because he was made out to be the bad guy. I believe his response to her could have been a bit better yes, but all of what he was feeling was reasonable. It's not until after Ben apologizes that Lauren would apologize. We even have the last little nitpick fight, again Lauren starts it by making assumptions, jumping to conclusions and acting like she is in the right and has good reason to act the way she did. I am glad that it was finally her that took the step to want to apologize first, however I hate that it took her until close to the end to get it together and realize that she WILL BE at fault too in certain situations and she needs to take responsibility for it. On a brighter note, we did get some informative stuff with what Ben does for work, other than writing. Again, the storyline was quite well just a bit boring and the multiple things with Lauren were just too irritating and gard to get over.
April 25, 2026
Lily Chu is very much an autobuy author for me, and with Phillipa Soo as one of my favourite narrators, I went into this with high expectations - and it didn’t disappoint.
This story balances humour, tension, and emotional growth in a way that feels really natural. The dynamic between Ben and Lauren is built on that classic opposites energy, but what stood out to me most was how their relationship develops alongside their individual growth. There’s a lot happening beneath the surface, particularly around identity, public perception, and the pressure of being seen in ways that don’t always reflect who you really are.
I really appreciated the character development here, but especially the broader conversations around friendship. The story explores how friendships can evolve and shift over time, and how important it is to advocate for your own needs within them. There’s a thoughtful look at what it means to speak up - even when it’s uncomfortable - and how honesty, when it comes from a place of care, can strengthen relationships rather than break them. I also loved the way the book handles accountability, showing how to acknowledge mistakes and offer genuine, respectful apologies.
The audiobook was a standout for me. Phillipa Soo brings a warmth and emotional clarity to Lauren that makes her easy to connect with, while Simu Liu captures Ben’s more reserved, understated nature in a way that feels very true to his character. Their performances complement each other well, and Nicola Barber’s contributions add another nice layer to the listening experience.
Final Thoughts:
A thoughtful and engaging romance that blends humour with meaningful character growth. With strong narration and a focus on relationships - both romantic and platonic - this is another solid release from Lily Chu.
This story balances humour, tension, and emotional growth in a way that feels really natural. The dynamic between Ben and Lauren is built on that classic opposites energy, but what stood out to me most was how their relationship develops alongside their individual growth. There’s a lot happening beneath the surface, particularly around identity, public perception, and the pressure of being seen in ways that don’t always reflect who you really are.
I really appreciated the character development here, but especially the broader conversations around friendship. The story explores how friendships can evolve and shift over time, and how important it is to advocate for your own needs within them. There’s a thoughtful look at what it means to speak up - even when it’s uncomfortable - and how honesty, when it comes from a place of care, can strengthen relationships rather than break them. I also loved the way the book handles accountability, showing how to acknowledge mistakes and offer genuine, respectful apologies.
The audiobook was a standout for me. Phillipa Soo brings a warmth and emotional clarity to Lauren that makes her easy to connect with, while Simu Liu captures Ben’s more reserved, understated nature in a way that feels very true to his character. Their performances complement each other well, and Nicola Barber’s contributions add another nice layer to the listening experience.
Final Thoughts:
A thoughtful and engaging romance that blends humour with meaningful character growth. With strong narration and a focus on relationships - both romantic and platonic - this is another solid release from Lily Chu.
March 29, 2026
I love Lily Chu’s books and the fact they’re set in Toronto. When this free audiobook narrated by powerhouses Philippa Soo and Simu Liu, I was so excited. The narration was top notch. Soo and Liu killed it. The story, however, was slow and lackluster. The characters were intriguing and there was so much potential but they didn’t have much chemistry and the storyline was repetitive and boring. I kept listening because of the narration but the story never picked up.
There were a few things that I enjoyed and would have loved more of. Highlighting the difficulties women face in show business and how easily they can be labelled “difficult” for simply asserting themselves was a great part of the story, but it was glossed over and not fully explored. Producers taking an all-Asian cast and recasting it because they have “enough Asian characters” or the male lead not being compelling if he’s Asian were also great, but again, glossed over and under explored. The liberties that are taken when an author sells their manuscript and how different the movie be from their book, with no regard to intention or accuracy, was a bit more in depth but in almost a vanity level.
I just wanted more of Chu’s signature banter, blending of real life challenges with a compelling story, and chemistry. This book didn’t deliver.
There were a few things that I enjoyed and would have loved more of. Highlighting the difficulties women face in show business and how easily they can be labelled “difficult” for simply asserting themselves was a great part of the story, but it was glossed over and not fully explored. Producers taking an all-Asian cast and recasting it because they have “enough Asian characters” or the male lead not being compelling if he’s Asian were also great, but again, glossed over and under explored. The liberties that are taken when an author sells their manuscript and how different the movie be from their book, with no regard to intention or accuracy, was a bit more in depth but in almost a vanity level.
I just wanted more of Chu’s signature banter, blending of real life challenges with a compelling story, and chemistry. This book didn’t deliver.
May 13, 2026
When I was growing up, I wanted to be an anthropologist, and while I wasn’t able to follow through on that dream, I still hold a fondness for anything remotely related. A romance featuring a forensic anthropologist forced into close contact with the stunning leading lady of his teenage dreams was an instant buy. Add in the fact that it’s written by Lily Chu, one of my favorite audiobook authors, and I was sold. Her stories consistently feature strong Asian leads while exploring the expectations and microaggressions people of color endure in traditionally white spaces.
This story leans into the grumpy-sunshine trope, with tension heightened by forced proximity and inevitable miscommunication. But beyond the romance beats are characters who feel fully realized, shaped equally by insecurity and success. Even when their fears and insecurities become frustratingly rigid, both Ben and Lauren are pushed into moments of self-reflection, forced to confront whether doing things the “right way” is actually the same as doing them authentically. That emotional honesty elevates them beyond the cookie-cutter archetypes often found in romance and into reflections of our own contradictions.
Fans of Lily Chu will enjoy this book; I know I did. It delivered exactly what I expected: chemistry, an easy plot, and a satisfying happy ending.
This story leans into the grumpy-sunshine trope, with tension heightened by forced proximity and inevitable miscommunication. But beyond the romance beats are characters who feel fully realized, shaped equally by insecurity and success. Even when their fears and insecurities become frustratingly rigid, both Ben and Lauren are pushed into moments of self-reflection, forced to confront whether doing things the “right way” is actually the same as doing them authentically. That emotional honesty elevates them beyond the cookie-cutter archetypes often found in romance and into reflections of our own contradictions.
Fans of Lily Chu will enjoy this book; I know I did. It delivered exactly what I expected: chemistry, an easy plot, and a satisfying happy ending.
March 15, 2026
So many of her books have already become Iconic. I spent the weekend listening to this newest book. I am sure I will go back again and listen all over again (as I have done with the others).
A great story with a new twist. A scientist and an actress/director initially at odd of course fall in love. (not a spoiler alert I hope it is obvious byt the title/ the cover & the genre)
She builds great characters. They wrestle with real wold issues, struggles and place gender, social issues and ethnicity at the fore.
I love the Dot Voleen reference. Long live Dot.
Thanks again Lucy for another joyous romp. Now I have to get back to it and listen again.
PS. Phillipa Soo, I have listened to your voice now so much in all these books I feel like we must be friends by now. (great work as always).
A great story with a new twist. A scientist and an actress/director initially at odd of course fall in love. (not a spoiler alert I hope it is obvious byt the title/ the cover & the genre)
She builds great characters. They wrestle with real wold issues, struggles and place gender, social issues and ethnicity at the fore.
I love the Dot Voleen reference. Long live Dot.
Thanks again Lucy for another joyous romp. Now I have to get back to it and listen again.
PS. Phillipa Soo, I have listened to your voice now so much in all these books I feel like we must be friends by now. (great work as always).
April 9, 2026
This book kept me captivated! I was happy to see the character development for both Ben and Lauren.
It was enjoyable to see both of them bring out the best in each other and really help the other become a better person by the end.
Lily has a way of making characters that are of higher status than your everyday joe feel very relatable. Showing that they face the same issues everyone does like feeling like you’re a failure, feeling like you have to make yourself smaller for others to have space, and feeling like you can’t escape your past.
Though they had a rocky start their chemistry was instant and I never felt like they didn’t make sense/ mesh. Both were passionate about their careers in a way that made it easier to support one another.
I haven’t listened to a Lily Chu book that I haven’t loved yet!
It was enjoyable to see both of them bring out the best in each other and really help the other become a better person by the end.
Lily has a way of making characters that are of higher status than your everyday joe feel very relatable. Showing that they face the same issues everyone does like feeling like you’re a failure, feeling like you have to make yourself smaller for others to have space, and feeling like you can’t escape your past.
Though they had a rocky start their chemistry was instant and I never felt like they didn’t make sense/ mesh. Both were passionate about their careers in a way that made it easier to support one another.
I haven’t listened to a Lily Chu book that I haven’t loved yet!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews