What do you think?
Rate this book
Flair #1
You Out of Nowhere
At 31, Kris’s dating life is starting to resemble a reality show. So when she strikes up a conversation with a nerdy but gorgeous stranger on the train, getting serious is the last thing on her mind. Been there, done that, and she has the emotional baggage to prove it.
At 24, Ringo knows what he wants—and when a train flirtation turns into a night he can’t forget, he knows he wants Kris. But it’s clear she has other plans, and they don’t include him. So when they find themselves on the same flight to Seoul, it’s Ringo’s chance to turn up the heat, and convince Kris to take a risk.
In a new city, with someone new—the right someone—what could change? Maybe nothing. But also, maybe everything.
At 24, Ringo knows what he wants—and when a train flirtation turns into a night he can’t forget, he knows he wants Kris. But it’s clear she has other plans, and they don’t include him. So when they find themselves on the same flight to Seoul, it’s Ringo’s chance to turn up the heat, and convince Kris to take a risk.
In a new city, with someone new—the right someone—what could change? Maybe nothing. But also, maybe everything.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2017
6 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Jay E. Tria
17 books99 followersJay E. Tria is inspired by daydreams, celebrity crushes, live music, K-dramas and J-doramas, and an incessant itch to go places. She writes contemporary romance and young adult, sometimes paranormal fantasy too. When not writing, she wishes she were, but sometimes it's hard.
LATEST RELEASE:
Love To Meet You
Also by Jay:
You Out of Nowhere (Flair #1)
Playlist #1: Songs of Our Breakup
Playlist #2: Songs to Get Over You
Playlist #3: Songs to Make You Stay
Playlist #4: Songs You Come Back To
Playlist #5: Songs To Your Beat
That Thing Called Closure (A Playlist Short Track on buqo.ph) #WriteBreakupSongsAbout
Blossom Among Flowers
Majesty
Make My Wish Come True (a #romanceclass Christmas anthology)
Promdi Heart: Hometown Love Stories
Summer Crush (Beach. Love. Rock and Roll)
Second Wave Summer (Summer Crush 2)
Website: www.jayetria.com
Email: jayetria@gmail.com
Socials: jayetria
LATEST RELEASE:
Love To Meet You
Also by Jay:
You Out of Nowhere (Flair #1)
Playlist #1: Songs of Our Breakup
Playlist #2: Songs to Get Over You
Playlist #3: Songs to Make You Stay
Playlist #4: Songs You Come Back To
Playlist #5: Songs To Your Beat
That Thing Called Closure (A Playlist Short Track on buqo.ph) #WriteBreakupSongsAbout
Blossom Among Flowers
Majesty
Make My Wish Come True (a #romanceclass Christmas anthology)
Promdi Heart: Hometown Love Stories
Summer Crush (Beach. Love. Rock and Roll)
Second Wave Summer (Summer Crush 2)
Website: www.jayetria.com
Email: jayetria@gmail.com
Socials: jayetria
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Read
April 2, 2018A delightful and very well written Filipinx romance with a younger man (24, serious, bad breakup behind him) and an older woman (31, rock chick, abandoned the rat race to do boozy baking, can I say how much I want her shop to exist, fairly resigned to other people not sticking around bc family issues). Lovely meet cute on a crowded train, much attraction, and a light, sexy romance develops across a notable trip to Seoul with just enough backstory and angst to give it heft without weighing it down.
Highly enjoyable, I want more. An author to watch.
Highly enjoyable, I want more. An author to watch.
November 6, 2017
That's going to leave a mark. Harder.
Flair is truly living up to its expectation. Hands down, You Out of Nowhere is the sexiest and raunchiest #romanceclass book. I finished it in one sitting.
There's just something that really hit me with this story. It's fast paced, cute and hot at the same time. Jay really nailed the chemistry down. I love the contrasting personalities of the characters. I MEAN THERE'S AGE GAP AND THE HEROINE IS OLDER. SHE'S NOT SCORPIO, BUT SHE ACTS LIKE SHE IS. A true woman who couldn't be put down. I'm also happy to see how much Jay's writing has improved.
Plot: a meet cute in the train + vacation in Seoul.
I can't write reviews these days, my mind is too much of a clusterfuck BUT Y'ALL SHOULD READ THIS.
Flair is truly living up to its expectation. Hands down, You Out of Nowhere is the sexiest and raunchiest #romanceclass book. I finished it in one sitting.
There's just something that really hit me with this story. It's fast paced, cute and hot at the same time. Jay really nailed the chemistry down. I love the contrasting personalities of the characters. I MEAN THERE'S AGE GAP AND THE HEROINE IS OLDER. SHE'S NOT SCORPIO, BUT SHE ACTS LIKE SHE IS. A true woman who couldn't be put down. I'm also happy to see how much Jay's writing has improved.
Plot: a meet cute in the train + vacation in Seoul.
I can't write reviews these days, my mind is too much of a clusterfuck BUT Y'ALL SHOULD READ THIS.
November 16, 2017
Full review to come. For now, I'll leave my short blurb:
“You Out of Nowhere is the #romanceclass book that I never knew I needed. With a writing style that was quirky and entertaining, a trope that’s well-loved by most romance genre lovers, a setting that is 100% favorable to most, if not all kinds of readers, and a story line that might seem common to others but in reality is estimable, Jay E. Tria’s latest book will surely be a fan favorite, especially if you’re already accustomed to the way she writes her stories.”
Huge thanks to the #romanceclassFLAIR team for letting me in on the blog tour that they will be hosting for this title, and for sending a review copy my way. This did not, in any way, affect my overall opinion of the book and/or the story.
Edit (November 16, 2017) - Full Review:
Word vomit review / Points that I loved:
- Older MC, Younger LI trope
- Music loving girl, Book loving boy
- Manila, PH / Seoul, KR Setting
- MRT / Train Meet Cute (!!!)
- COOKIES
- Steam, steam, steam…
If I’m going to be completely honest, the reason why I mainly signed up for the blog tour and read You Out of Nowhere by Jay E. Tria was because of the hype. At the time, lots of people, specifically those who are part of the #romanceclass community, we’re promoting the first ever #romanceclassFLAIR title so highly and so in efforts to support both the community and the author (who I came to love), I dove right in without knowing anything other than the title, and the trope with which the story was written. Little did I know that it will end up becoming one of my favorite #romanceclass reads of all-time.
Jay’s characters in You Out of Nowhere were irresistible and I love how both Kris and Ringo always shared these sweet yet snarky banters that made me so utterly invested with their romance story. Kris Jimenez, our 31 year old MC is the true embodiment of independence and the term lady boss. She knows what she wants and she goes after the things that will help realize her plans and dreams, all while trying to keep her cookie shop business afloat. Ringo de Dios, our 24 year old LI, on the other hand is known for being an organized corporate boy and is never one to take uncalculated risks. To me, they felt like two different colors in the spectrum and so to find them in a budding romance definitely sparked up my interest. I love the undeniable chemistry that they shared since the first page, and their meet cute moment (which happened in a train!!!) will forever be one of my favorites.
The writing style is another aspect that I really enjoyed. All throughout the story, there were these side comments that came from both characters (as a result of Jay being the one to write this story) which I found to be so entertaining, I couldn’t help but laugh at some, especially those that were involved in very mature scenes. (I’m immature like that, don’t judge. *laughs*) This made the story all the more interesting and it allowed for me to become extra invested with the overall feel of Kris and Ringo’s romance story.
“You Out of Nowhere is the #romanceclass book that I never knew I needed. With a writing style that was quirky and entertaining, a trope that’s well-loved by most romance genre lovers, a setting that is 100% favorable to most, if not all kinds of readers, and a story line that might seem common to others but in reality is quite estimable, Jay E. Tria’s latest novella will surely be a fan favorite, especially if you’re already accustomed to the way she writes her stories.”
“You Out of Nowhere is the #romanceclass book that I never knew I needed. With a writing style that was quirky and entertaining, a trope that’s well-loved by most romance genre lovers, a setting that is 100% favorable to most, if not all kinds of readers, and a story line that might seem common to others but in reality is estimable, Jay E. Tria’s latest book will surely be a fan favorite, especially if you’re already accustomed to the way she writes her stories.”
Huge thanks to the #romanceclassFLAIR team for letting me in on the blog tour that they will be hosting for this title, and for sending a review copy my way. This did not, in any way, affect my overall opinion of the book and/or the story.
Edit (November 16, 2017) - Full Review:
Word vomit review / Points that I loved:
- Older MC, Younger LI trope
- Music loving girl, Book loving boy
- Manila, PH / Seoul, KR Setting
- MRT / Train Meet Cute (!!!)
- COOKIES
- Steam, steam, steam…
If I’m going to be completely honest, the reason why I mainly signed up for the blog tour and read You Out of Nowhere by Jay E. Tria was because of the hype. At the time, lots of people, specifically those who are part of the #romanceclass community, we’re promoting the first ever #romanceclassFLAIR title so highly and so in efforts to support both the community and the author (who I came to love), I dove right in without knowing anything other than the title, and the trope with which the story was written. Little did I know that it will end up becoming one of my favorite #romanceclass reads of all-time.
Jay’s characters in You Out of Nowhere were irresistible and I love how both Kris and Ringo always shared these sweet yet snarky banters that made me so utterly invested with their romance story. Kris Jimenez, our 31 year old MC is the true embodiment of independence and the term lady boss. She knows what she wants and she goes after the things that will help realize her plans and dreams, all while trying to keep her cookie shop business afloat. Ringo de Dios, our 24 year old LI, on the other hand is known for being an organized corporate boy and is never one to take uncalculated risks. To me, they felt like two different colors in the spectrum and so to find them in a budding romance definitely sparked up my interest. I love the undeniable chemistry that they shared since the first page, and their meet cute moment (which happened in a train!!!) will forever be one of my favorites.
The writing style is another aspect that I really enjoyed. All throughout the story, there were these side comments that came from both characters (as a result of Jay being the one to write this story) which I found to be so entertaining, I couldn’t help but laugh at some, especially those that were involved in very mature scenes. (I’m immature like that, don’t judge. *laughs*) This made the story all the more interesting and it allowed for me to become extra invested with the overall feel of Kris and Ringo’s romance story.
“You Out of Nowhere is the #romanceclass book that I never knew I needed. With a writing style that was quirky and entertaining, a trope that’s well-loved by most romance genre lovers, a setting that is 100% favorable to most, if not all kinds of readers, and a story line that might seem common to others but in reality is quite estimable, Jay E. Tria’s latest novella will surely be a fan favorite, especially if you’re already accustomed to the way she writes her stories.”
November 16, 2017
When I first saw the synopsis for You Out of Nowhere, I knew I had to read it! I mean, the synopsis features characters who seem like they have very different personalities, older woman and younger man romance, and a train meet cute! What's not to love, right? And I must say, I was completely correct because I really enjoyed reading this book! Despite being new to the romance class community, and having just read 4 books, I couldn't wait to read more because every book I've read so far is nothing short of fantastic.
You Out of Nowhere was so good that right after reading it, I just wanted to spend the whole day devouring books, despite the slump that I just recently got out of. From the very beginning of the book during the train meet-cute, and then them going on a date, I was already invested in their story. I mean, they were just so cute with all the banter going back and forth between them, along with all the harsh truths and realities mentioned during the train ride - I just knew that they would be perfect for each other, and they indeed were!
Kris and Ringo may seem like two very different characters at first glance, but as we learn their stories, they don't seem that much different at all. They both go after what they want, and they both have been hurt in the past. However, they also know how to endure, and how to get past their struggles and face things head on.
Set in both the Philippines and Seoul, this book is filled with vivid imagery of both places, taking me right to where the characters are. I loved how Jay E. Tria wrote about the places here in Metro Manila, and how accurate they were - from faulty trains, to extreme traffic especially during Fridays. I also loved how it took me right to Seoul, as though I have been there before when I really haven't yet.
With vivid sceneries, amazing characters, and very supportive families and friends, You Out of Nowhere is a book that is so easy to devour. Well, not really. To put it more accurately, it was kind of addicting, and even though I wanted to stop, I just couldn't. To hell with school and other responsibilities, this book demanded my attention, and I gave it freely! Overall, I just loved this book and can't wait to read more from the author!
You Out of Nowhere was so good that right after reading it, I just wanted to spend the whole day devouring books, despite the slump that I just recently got out of. From the very beginning of the book during the train meet-cute, and then them going on a date, I was already invested in their story. I mean, they were just so cute with all the banter going back and forth between them, along with all the harsh truths and realities mentioned during the train ride - I just knew that they would be perfect for each other, and they indeed were!
Kris and Ringo may seem like two very different characters at first glance, but as we learn their stories, they don't seem that much different at all. They both go after what they want, and they both have been hurt in the past. However, they also know how to endure, and how to get past their struggles and face things head on.
Set in both the Philippines and Seoul, this book is filled with vivid imagery of both places, taking me right to where the characters are. I loved how Jay E. Tria wrote about the places here in Metro Manila, and how accurate they were - from faulty trains, to extreme traffic especially during Fridays. I also loved how it took me right to Seoul, as though I have been there before when I really haven't yet.
With vivid sceneries, amazing characters, and very supportive families and friends, You Out of Nowhere is a book that is so easy to devour. Well, not really. To put it more accurately, it was kind of addicting, and even though I wanted to stop, I just couldn't. To hell with school and other responsibilities, this book demanded my attention, and I gave it freely! Overall, I just loved this book and can't wait to read more from the author!
July 23, 2018
Uhhh... so, confession time? I tried this author's Playlist series back when I first discovered #romanceclass and it was a big nope for me. But I'm so glad I gave her another try because I LOVED this book.
You know when a book is just so... perfect for a period of your life? That was this book for me. Kris is 31 and burned out on the blind dating scene that everyone in her life keeps pushing her into. She's got a lot of emotional baggage from her previous relationship even though it's been a few years. She is definitely not looking for The One when she meets Ringo on a train; in fact, she's on her way to what she intends to be her last blind date for a while.
Ringo is younger(!) at 24 and sexy as heck. But he's just getting over a really nasty breakup that left him in the bottom of a bottle for 5 months before he sobered up and decided to jump into the dating pool again... 9 months after his breakup.
They have THE BEST meet cute on a train. He's reading Pride and Prejudice. Their chemistry was so good from the very start. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just go along with what the blurb already reveals, and say that they somehow end up on the same flight to Seoul. Ringo wants her but it takes some convincing for Kris to let go and decide she wants to make it a go with him as well. Most of the book is about their vacation in Seoul. So things seem to happen in a short timespan, but that's the magic of a good romance novel... I was totally sold on what some people might call insta-love, but it just felt so natural to me. They complemented each other so well and they just got each other.
This book is pretty sexy for #romanceclass standards--which I believe is the intention with the new(?) FLAIR line, so that was a success. Maybe it's because Kris is my age... maybe it's because I've been in such a reading slump and this made me so happy reading it... but there were so many lovely moments between them, so many perfect phrases capturing the rollercoaster of getting over someone and falling in love. I just... loved this!
You know when a book is just so... perfect for a period of your life? That was this book for me. Kris is 31 and burned out on the blind dating scene that everyone in her life keeps pushing her into. She's got a lot of emotional baggage from her previous relationship even though it's been a few years. She is definitely not looking for The One when she meets Ringo on a train; in fact, she's on her way to what she intends to be her last blind date for a while.
Ringo is younger(!) at 24 and sexy as heck. But he's just getting over a really nasty breakup that left him in the bottom of a bottle for 5 months before he sobered up and decided to jump into the dating pool again... 9 months after his breakup.
They have THE BEST meet cute on a train. He's reading Pride and Prejudice. Their chemistry was so good from the very start. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just go along with what the blurb already reveals, and say that they somehow end up on the same flight to Seoul. Ringo wants her but it takes some convincing for Kris to let go and decide she wants to make it a go with him as well. Most of the book is about their vacation in Seoul. So things seem to happen in a short timespan, but that's the magic of a good romance novel... I was totally sold on what some people might call insta-love, but it just felt so natural to me. They complemented each other so well and they just got each other.
This book is pretty sexy for #romanceclass standards--which I believe is the intention with the new(?) FLAIR line, so that was a success. Maybe it's because Kris is my age... maybe it's because I've been in such a reading slump and this made me so happy reading it... but there were so many lovely moments between them, so many perfect phrases capturing the rollercoaster of getting over someone and falling in love. I just... loved this!
October 1, 2020
My favorite thing about Kris and Ringo? Their banter, which was nothing short of memorable, witty, and highly entertaining. However, as much as I loved Kris and Ringo together, I adored them just as much individually! Both characters had distinct voices, strong (yet oddly complementary) personalities, and mature mindsets. I can’t help myself from admiring Kris’ headstrong defiance and tough cookie persona. Similarly, I really enjoyed how Ringo approached everything methodologically in an adorably nerdy way.
As endearing as the romance was, what really stood out the most to me was the impeccable use of imagery and local color, which allowed Jay’s writing to capture both the Filipino and Korean cultures wonderfully and realistically.
From the gripes over the problematic public transportation system (I’m looking at you, MRT) to the exploration of “tita” culture (it’s so much more than just being an aunt – wink, wink), You Out of Nowhere embodies the epitome of Filipino contemporary romance at its most current.
Unfortunately, unlike most of the people who’ve read this book, I was not a fan of Ringo’s constant use of the title “tita” to refer to Kris. I found it really strange and not sweet at all. I guess that’s because I really can’t imagine myself feeling kilig (read: giddy) over someone calling me “tita”, no matter what the inside joke or context is. It sort of got in the way of my reading enjoyment, but hey, to each their own.
Note: I received a digital review copy of You Out of Nowhere as part of my participation in a blog tour. This neither affects my opinion nor the content of my review. Many thanks to the #romanceclass authors for this fantastic opportunity!
🌻🍃 More bookish content on Shut up, Shealea 🍃🌻
instagram • pinterest • twitter
As endearing as the romance was, what really stood out the most to me was the impeccable use of imagery and local color, which allowed Jay’s writing to capture both the Filipino and Korean cultures wonderfully and realistically.
From the gripes over the problematic public transportation system (I’m looking at you, MRT) to the exploration of “tita” culture (it’s so much more than just being an aunt – wink, wink), You Out of Nowhere embodies the epitome of Filipino contemporary romance at its most current.
Unfortunately, unlike most of the people who’ve read this book, I was not a fan of Ringo’s constant use of the title “tita” to refer to Kris. I found it really strange and not sweet at all. I guess that’s because I really can’t imagine myself feeling kilig (read: giddy) over someone calling me “tita”, no matter what the inside joke or context is. It sort of got in the way of my reading enjoyment, but hey, to each their own.
Note: I received a digital review copy of You Out of Nowhere as part of my participation in a blog tour. This neither affects my opinion nor the content of my review. Many thanks to the #romanceclass authors for this fantastic opportunity!
🌻🍃 More bookish content on Shut up, Shealea 🍃🌻
instagram • pinterest • twitter
November 13, 2017
This was SEOULIT! My face while reading this for about 80% of the time:
^ the most and only appropriate GIF
The remaining 20%?
What to expect:
✔ tough-cookie noona
✔ #hotguyreading-worthy and younger guy (his name, Ringo de Dios, sends shivers to my spine—but maybe also because I'm reminded of someone else haha)
✔ imagery that can transport you to Seoul (*bawls* mishu seoul)
✔ moments of vulnerability and—ooompghdsdamfk—tenderness that hit straight into the heart
✔ 🔥! (I love when #romanceclass books take this steamy route, dreamy sigh)
Also: the title fitting the story perfectly!
Here are my favorite parts:
Had an awesome time reading this, and I look forward to the next Flair release!
I signed up for an ARC in exchange for honest thoughts. Congrats to the author!
^ the most and only appropriate GIFThe remaining 20%?
What to expect:
✔ tough-cookie noona
✔ #hotguyreading-worthy and younger guy (his name, Ringo de Dios, sends shivers to my spine—but maybe also because I'm reminded of someone else haha)
✔ imagery that can transport you to Seoul (*bawls* mishu seoul)
✔ moments of vulnerability and—ooompghdsdamfk—tenderness that hit straight into the heart
✔ 🔥! (I love when #romanceclass books take this steamy route, dreamy sigh)
Also: the title fitting the story perfectly!
Here are my favorite parts:
Had an awesome time reading this, and I look forward to the next Flair release!
I signed up for an ARC in exchange for honest thoughts. Congrats to the author!
November 17, 2017
You Out of Nowhere is the first book for #romanceclassFLAIR and boy did it deliver! I was smiling, swooning, and fanning myself - which is everything I could have hoped for honestly.
“No more good nights that sounded like goodbyes, not when we hadn’t even started.”
It’s no secret that I read A LOT of romance novels because I love to feel all the feels.. And reading Jay E. Tria’s stories are always such a treat because despite all the romance I read, the way she writes her stories is so fun to read. There’s just a certain charm she brings to her characters that make the swoony moments that much sweeter. So yes, of course I adored Kris and Ringo!
“Happy twenty-fifth birthday, kid,” Kris said, leading the toast. “Enjoy your quarter life crisis. This is the time when you ask yourself if you are living it right.”
Reading from an older heroine’s POV was THE BEST! I’m drawing near my 30’s * sighs * and I related to Kris on so many levels. She’s reached the point of her life where she’s done dealing with life’s bullshit, that’s just the way that it is.. Until she sees a cute boy reading Pride & Prejudice on the train.
Enter Ringo, our youthful soft soul. SERIOUSLY, he helps his sister with her book reports and if that doesn’t tell you how amazing he is alone then what is wrong with you!? Kidding (kind of). . .
I’ve never been a huge fan of the ‘age-gap trope’ but after reading this book I have to say that I didn’t hate it. Kris and Ringo are different but they compliment each other so well, and I think that’s what made me love them together so much. Where Kris was all snark, Ringo brought her back to see things in a different light, and I loved that. They were seriously just the best together, guys. I need you to understand that.
“All I want is for you to see me here, now, as someone you’ve come to know. Someone you can expect things from.”
Readers are sure to love the beautiful setting in You Out of Nowhere and many other aspects! There’s great friendships, family drama, and it’s a story that will bring a lot of hope to your own life. We love YA stories because of the self-discovery in them, but we never stop learning about life or ourselves as we grow older.. And this book is the perfect example of that. When you think you have life all figured out (the majority of it at least), a curve ball will get thrown at you, and it’s up to you on how you react to it.
I really loved Kris’s journey and what her and Ringo both brought to my life. So, please pick this one up and feel all the feelings!! And make sure to have a fan for those steamy parts! ;)
“No more good nights that sounded like goodbyes, not when we hadn’t even started.”
It’s no secret that I read A LOT of romance novels because I love to feel all the feels.. And reading Jay E. Tria’s stories are always such a treat because despite all the romance I read, the way she writes her stories is so fun to read. There’s just a certain charm she brings to her characters that make the swoony moments that much sweeter. So yes, of course I adored Kris and Ringo!
“Happy twenty-fifth birthday, kid,” Kris said, leading the toast. “Enjoy your quarter life crisis. This is the time when you ask yourself if you are living it right.”
Reading from an older heroine’s POV was THE BEST! I’m drawing near my 30’s * sighs * and I related to Kris on so many levels. She’s reached the point of her life where she’s done dealing with life’s bullshit, that’s just the way that it is.. Until she sees a cute boy reading Pride & Prejudice on the train.
Enter Ringo, our youthful soft soul. SERIOUSLY, he helps his sister with her book reports and if that doesn’t tell you how amazing he is alone then what is wrong with you!? Kidding (kind of). . .
I’ve never been a huge fan of the ‘age-gap trope’ but after reading this book I have to say that I didn’t hate it. Kris and Ringo are different but they compliment each other so well, and I think that’s what made me love them together so much. Where Kris was all snark, Ringo brought her back to see things in a different light, and I loved that. They were seriously just the best together, guys. I need you to understand that.
“All I want is for you to see me here, now, as someone you’ve come to know. Someone you can expect things from.”
Readers are sure to love the beautiful setting in You Out of Nowhere and many other aspects! There’s great friendships, family drama, and it’s a story that will bring a lot of hope to your own life. We love YA stories because of the self-discovery in them, but we never stop learning about life or ourselves as we grow older.. And this book is the perfect example of that. When you think you have life all figured out (the majority of it at least), a curve ball will get thrown at you, and it’s up to you on how you react to it.
I really loved Kris’s journey and what her and Ringo both brought to my life. So, please pick this one up and feel all the feelings!! And make sure to have a fan for those steamy parts! ;)
November 17, 2017
It's quite hard to milk my brain out of words to say about this book. I'm still in awe with the execution and writing of the book. This is only my first time to read a full novel by Jay E. Tria, since the first one was a short story from the Promdi Heart anthology, but I got what I expected from her. A story with emotions so raw, they translate quickly from the pages.
I wasn't a big fan of age gap romances before, but by watching a bunch of Korean dramas, it grew on me. "Noona romance" as we k-drama fans call it, most of them has a working formula: adorable boy has a crush on a girl older than him, does everything to get her attention away from another guy. Fitting, since a part of the book was set in Seoul, but for this one, the only thing Ringo was trying to get Kris's attention away from was her hesitation for him. And it was a delight watching the whole thing unfold.
Kris and Ringo have complementing personalities that makes their chemistry work so well. Did I mention that Kris loves bands and Ringo is a bookworm? Those are plus points for me. They're both adorable in their own ways, they banter and kiss and banter some more. And the way Ringo calls Kris "Tita" and Kris refers to Ringo as "kid", makes my insides melt, surprisingly hahaha! Speaking of my insides melting, the steam factor of the book is on point, but at the same time there's something that makes the book wholesome, I just couldn't put my finger on it.
Another thing I enjoyed about the book was the whole Seoul adventure, from Korean pop culture references to skin care (read: Collagen!!!!!!!!!), it was fun to see Kris sort of schooling Ringo about it.
Overall, it was a short and fast read but it's packed with substance. There's a perfect balance of everything that makes reading the book so worthwhile and enjoyable. Lastly, train meet cute! I've read enough train meet cutes, and as someone who rides the train everyday to work, it makes me wonder when I'll get my own train meet cute.
I wasn't a big fan of age gap romances before, but by watching a bunch of Korean dramas, it grew on me. "Noona romance" as we k-drama fans call it, most of them has a working formula: adorable boy has a crush on a girl older than him, does everything to get her attention away from another guy. Fitting, since a part of the book was set in Seoul, but for this one, the only thing Ringo was trying to get Kris's attention away from was her hesitation for him. And it was a delight watching the whole thing unfold.
Kris and Ringo have complementing personalities that makes their chemistry work so well. Did I mention that Kris loves bands and Ringo is a bookworm? Those are plus points for me. They're both adorable in their own ways, they banter and kiss and banter some more. And the way Ringo calls Kris "Tita" and Kris refers to Ringo as "kid", makes my insides melt, surprisingly hahaha! Speaking of my insides melting, the steam factor of the book is on point, but at the same time there's something that makes the book wholesome, I just couldn't put my finger on it.
Another thing I enjoyed about the book was the whole Seoul adventure, from Korean pop culture references to skin care (read: Collagen!!!!!!!!!), it was fun to see Kris sort of schooling Ringo about it.
Overall, it was a short and fast read but it's packed with substance. There's a perfect balance of everything that makes reading the book so worthwhile and enjoyable. Lastly, train meet cute! I've read enough train meet cutes, and as someone who rides the train everyday to work, it makes me wonder when I'll get my own train meet cute.
Read
October 31, 2017Older heroine, younger hero type of romance. Manila setting. Train meet cute. Hot guy who reads. Girl who's into music. Unexpected travel buddies to Seoul.❤🙌
February 22, 2018
HELLO THIS BOOK WAS PERFECTION AND I NEED EVERYONE TO READ IT PLZ AND THANKS!
ok now i got that out of my system wow wow i adored this. the first book in the romance class Flair line was amaziiiing. i already love romance class books and Flair brought the steamy contemp romance as promised!!! Whoo this was steamy. and funny and sweet and damn...
Jay's writing is so engaging I was never bored not for a minute. I wanted to devour every word, so vivid, could easily picture everything even though i've never been to these locations.
And talk about voicey as hell. Kris and Ringo had such distinct voices and i feel for both MCs. Older heroine and younger hero yes please and thanks this was just great.
Ringo, this boy i swear. such a fave of mine now. So insolent. so cute.
What a way to begin this new line of romance class books. definitely got me hyped for what's to come next!! highly rec this
ok now i got that out of my system wow wow i adored this. the first book in the romance class Flair line was amaziiiing. i already love romance class books and Flair brought the steamy contemp romance as promised!!! Whoo this was steamy. and funny and sweet and damn...
Jay's writing is so engaging I was never bored not for a minute. I wanted to devour every word, so vivid, could easily picture everything even though i've never been to these locations.
And talk about voicey as hell. Kris and Ringo had such distinct voices and i feel for both MCs. Older heroine and younger hero yes please and thanks this was just great.
Ringo, this boy i swear. such a fave of mine now. So insolent. so cute.
What a way to begin this new line of romance class books. definitely got me hyped for what's to come next!! highly rec this
November 13, 2017
ARC was provided for an honest review
You Out of Nowhere tells the story of two people where one started to give up on love while the other started to have the hope for a new love. The story revolves around 31 year-old Kris and 24 year-old Ringo (Yes, Starr.) in a society where May-December relationships are kinda taboo to discuss. I'm gonna start the review by saying I really love how the author wrote this. The plot was a common one but with distinct details, it became something that you usually don't see in romance novels. The characters are realistic which made the story relatable to the readers. Kris and Ringo's chemistry is no joke and their conversations are really fun to read. Kris' POVs bore me sometime at the start, maybe because I didn't understand her at first, but as the story progresses, I found her thoughts similar to me sometimes and that's when it made sense. No kidding, Ringo's POVs were my favorite. The characters' realizations, conclusions and simple thoughts made this story stand out. I'm a sucker for things about Seoul so the details regarding their South Korea trip were a plus for me. Lastly, I love how this story shows how family oriented Filipinos are.
Overall, this novel have the ff:
1. unique and well-written storyline;
2. glimpse of commuting in the Philippines;
3. a tour to Seoul;
4. and a love story that started where you didn't think it possibly would.
You Out of Nowhere tells the story of two people where one started to give up on love while the other started to have the hope for a new love. The story revolves around 31 year-old Kris and 24 year-old Ringo (Yes, Starr.) in a society where May-December relationships are kinda taboo to discuss. I'm gonna start the review by saying I really love how the author wrote this. The plot was a common one but with distinct details, it became something that you usually don't see in romance novels. The characters are realistic which made the story relatable to the readers. Kris and Ringo's chemistry is no joke and their conversations are really fun to read. Kris' POVs bore me sometime at the start, maybe because I didn't understand her at first, but as the story progresses, I found her thoughts similar to me sometimes and that's when it made sense. No kidding, Ringo's POVs were my favorite. The characters' realizations, conclusions and simple thoughts made this story stand out. I'm a sucker for things about Seoul so the details regarding their South Korea trip were a plus for me. Lastly, I love how this story shows how family oriented Filipinos are.
Overall, this novel have the ff:
1. unique and well-written storyline;
2. glimpse of commuting in the Philippines;
3. a tour to Seoul;
4. and a love story that started where you didn't think it possibly would.
November 15, 2017
You Out of Nowhere was a five-star read right from the start.
I love it. I love it so much. It has one of the best meet-cutes and one of the best book boyfriends ever. It's the first Jay E. Tria book I've read, and it won't be the last.
Kris and Ringo made me believe in life's surprises. Their smart banter and romantic moments made me smile and laugh and smile some more. Their Seoulventure made me want to try solo traveling. Their story taught me not to give up on love just yet - the moment you've been waiting for might just come at the last minute.
Who knows, maybe everyday hassles like malfunctioning trains might just be the universe's way to let the meet-cute of the year happen.
This book is destiny at its sexiest. Take it from the Child Tita of #romanceclass.
Full review on my book blog: https://wp.me/p4gfJt-MV (Will be up on November 17!)
I love it. I love it so much. It has one of the best meet-cutes and one of the best book boyfriends ever. It's the first Jay E. Tria book I've read, and it won't be the last.
Kris and Ringo made me believe in life's surprises. Their smart banter and romantic moments made me smile and laugh and smile some more. Their Seoulventure made me want to try solo traveling. Their story taught me not to give up on love just yet - the moment you've been waiting for might just come at the last minute.
Who knows, maybe everyday hassles like malfunctioning trains might just be the universe's way to let the meet-cute of the year happen.
This book is destiny at its sexiest. Take it from the Child Tita of #romanceclass.
Full review on my book blog: https://wp.me/p4gfJt-MV (Will be up on November 17!)
December 6, 2017
Ringo, I'm not a tita but I love you!
June 30, 2018
Cuteee
Good job Jay! Love the story, both characters so adorable and sweet. The chance encounters, the charm and right ways they gel with each other. No heavy drama...👍
Good job Jay! Love the story, both characters so adorable and sweet. The chance encounters, the charm and right ways they gel with each other. No heavy drama...👍
September 26, 2024
You Out of Nowhere by Jay E. Tria — ★ ★ ★ ★.5
“When people leave you they lose the right to be someone who mattered.” — Kris
The kilig I felt while reading this book was off the charts. The meet-cute and the reverse age-gap trope? Chef’s kiss! It totally reminded me of “Part of Your World” by Abby Jimenez, which is one of my fave romance books ever!! 💞
That said, if reverse age-gap and instant attraction aren't your thing, you might wanna skip this one. And yeah, the way they call each other might throw you off, but honestly, it’s totally worth giving it a shot. It’s short, sweet, and has an HEA!
It also nails what it’s like for women in their 30s—how their dating mindset shifts from their 20s. Plus, I loved how it talks about being alone without being lonely, along with family dynamics and relationships.
Totally recommend! I just wish it was longer, but the ending still hit all the right notes for me! 🫶🏻
“When people leave you they lose the right to be someone who mattered.” — Kris
The kilig I felt while reading this book was off the charts. The meet-cute and the reverse age-gap trope? Chef’s kiss! It totally reminded me of “Part of Your World” by Abby Jimenez, which is one of my fave romance books ever!! 💞
That said, if reverse age-gap and instant attraction aren't your thing, you might wanna skip this one. And yeah, the way they call each other might throw you off, but honestly, it’s totally worth giving it a shot. It’s short, sweet, and has an HEA!
It also nails what it’s like for women in their 30s—how their dating mindset shifts from their 20s. Plus, I loved how it talks about being alone without being lonely, along with family dynamics and relationships.
Totally recommend! I just wish it was longer, but the ending still hit all the right notes for me! 🫶🏻
November 16, 2017
Jay knows how to vomit words to perfection. I love her playlist series but so far this is my newest favorite story of hers.
I love reading romance in all forms historical, steamy , sci-fi, contemporary, paranormal and fantasy. Finally a steamy romance that could provide you a lot of feels , hot, and keeps you wanting more. It was refreshing to read romance without the usual tropes we've seen before.
Kilig with the right amount of dosage to keep your heart flutters and butterflies on your stomach.
Therefore, I conclude that this story will definitely keep our lovely titas swoon and swept off their feet.
I love reading romance in all forms historical, steamy , sci-fi, contemporary, paranormal and fantasy. Finally a steamy romance that could provide you a lot of feels , hot, and keeps you wanting more. It was refreshing to read romance without the usual tropes we've seen before.
Kilig with the right amount of dosage to keep your heart flutters and butterflies on your stomach.
Therefore, I conclude that this story will definitely keep our lovely titas swoon and swept off their feet.
April 1, 2018
Embracing the Tita in me :)
Congratulations Jay! You did an awesome job of putting Kris and Ringo to life. I've always been skeptical of the 'older female- younger male' trope maybe because I'm clouded by my own views, I've never been too fond of the idea of dating a younger guy and being labeled as craddle-snatcher haha, but as you write this story, it opened my eyes to possibilities. The serendipitous way you wrote the story fascinates me and the back and forth quips never failed to make me laugh. The steamy scenes are so damn good too!
Congratulations Jay! You did an awesome job of putting Kris and Ringo to life. I've always been skeptical of the 'older female- younger male' trope maybe because I'm clouded by my own views, I've never been too fond of the idea of dating a younger guy and being labeled as craddle-snatcher haha, but as you write this story, it opened my eyes to possibilities. The serendipitous way you wrote the story fascinates me and the back and forth quips never failed to make me laugh. The steamy scenes are so damn good too!
November 16, 2017
Yes, among all the Jay E. Tria books, this one is now my favorite. Each of her #PlaylistSeries had been my favorite when I first read them, hahaha. And that’s one thing I love about this author. She always steps up her game with every new book she releases. Not just with her writing style that easily draws readers in, before they knew it, they’ve finished the book (it was a mistake to read this in the evening because Tita genes took over, huhu. But yes, Jay has a lovely, lovely writing style I wish I could write that way too), but also with her characters.
June 20, 2020
"In summation," I began as we crossed the ticket stiles, "I should lower tonight's expectations to second base max, and you, Tita, are not getting married. At least not today."
Her eyebrows crossed, lifting to the high heaves, as I had expected.
"Tita?" she repeated, voice dead as a flat line.
Ringo called Kris "Tita".
Tita means “aunt,” but it doesn’t apply to just your aunt. It can be used to address an older woman who is no longer young enough to be called “miss” or old enough to be considered a grandma.
I don't know about you but this particular scene made me laugh out loud and shake my head at Ringo. For I know he did it, not to insult Kris, but to flirt in his on weird way and most likely to leave a mark. And oh boy, he did.
You Out of Nowhere is part of #romanceclassFLAIR, an age-gap romance between Kris, 31 (overall amazing human being, fight me) and Ringo, 24 (classic romance reading, one intense boy).
Their story started with a meet-cute in a very crowded train during rush hour Friday. So, if you're from the Philippines particularly from the Metro, you most likely know the general mood of it. But if not, it's hellish. Sometimes, pure chaos.
Being inside Kris thoughts helped me navigate my life too. That's how important and influential this book to me. I may not have reached Kris' 31 years of age yet, I admit share some of her sentiments special in the way she lives her life and her love life or lack thereof prior Ringo.
I may or may not also planned a trip to South Korea because of this book. But that plan fell apart because of circumstances I don't want to discuss. I ended up traveling to Vietnam though, first time without a family member to accompany me. So, there's that. Thank you, Kris!
Overall, You Out of Nowhere is an eye and heart opening kind of a read with just enough cuteness (mostly care of Ringo) and scorching romance to spice the story up!
September 4, 2018
I want to start by saying I enjoyed the long-drawn first night when Kris and Ringo first met. There is MAGIC in simple moments and Jay’s writing perfectly captures the tiny details that make a love story phenomenal on my insides! I also love that the conflict doesn’t seem that high-stake to me, but it was consistent with the well-rounded characters, and I couldn’t stop myself from reading to get to that HEA.⠀
⠀
The age gap is delicious, especially since Ringo’s personality matched and complemented Kris’; the settings (PH and KR) are also brilliantly put as background to these lovers AND as means to drive the plot; and lastly, the kilig is so well executed, I felt it in my bones!⠀
It’s so good you guys!⠀
⠀
The age gap is delicious, especially since Ringo’s personality matched and complemented Kris’; the settings (PH and KR) are also brilliantly put as background to these lovers AND as means to drive the plot; and lastly, the kilig is so well executed, I felt it in my bones!⠀
It’s so good you guys!⠀
February 15, 2018
Fabulous start to Flair!
Loved, loved, LOVED this! Steamy and sweet, hot and heartfelt. A very satisfting read! Highly recommended. As expected from the #romanceclass community, this one does not dissappoint. More please!
Loved, loved, LOVED this! Steamy and sweet, hot and heartfelt. A very satisfting read! Highly recommended. As expected from the #romanceclass community, this one does not dissappoint. More please!
January 22, 2021
“I found promises to be double-edged blades. You left your mark with them, branding dates, time, and space. Branding people. Breaking them meant someone got hurt, sometimes bad enough to leave scars.”⠀
I’m years behind but finally picked up my first #romanceclassFlair title and I can say I’m off to a good start! Huhu I love the dynamic between Kris and Ringo 💕⠀
⠀
Been a while since I last read romance but ugh, You Out of Nowhere kinda makes me want a HEA for myself again :( I mean, train meet-cute? A dorky career-boi who reads romance classics and luvs his younger sisters? Witty banter? Reenactment of kilig asianovela gestures? Sign me up!⠀
⠀
YOON (aka "Tita romance" in #romanceclass) is an age-gap romance with an older Female-MC and a side trip to Seoul, Korea. Books, christmas sweaters, collagen, and the value of promises included inside ✨⠀
⠀
My live tweets here for a full thread of emotions (and some personal anecdotes in between) 👉 bit.ly/30GsntD⠀
I’m years behind but finally picked up my first #romanceclassFlair title and I can say I’m off to a good start! Huhu I love the dynamic between Kris and Ringo 💕⠀
⠀
Been a while since I last read romance but ugh, You Out of Nowhere kinda makes me want a HEA for myself again :( I mean, train meet-cute? A dorky career-boi who reads romance classics and luvs his younger sisters? Witty banter? Reenactment of kilig asianovela gestures? Sign me up!⠀
⠀
YOON (aka "Tita romance" in #romanceclass) is an age-gap romance with an older Female-MC and a side trip to Seoul, Korea. Books, christmas sweaters, collagen, and the value of promises included inside ✨⠀
⠀
My live tweets here for a full thread of emotions (and some personal anecdotes in between) 👉 bit.ly/30GsntD⠀
February 16, 2021
I practically adore this book! So many things to rave about and relate to- from Pride & Prejudice/Mr. Darcy, to that trip to Seoul, to love for Trainman (!!!), and even being competitive on trivia games! The steamy scenes are love too. ❤️
Ringo sounds perfect! That sensible mix of brains, body, heart and gift of gab~ ah, swoon!
Kris, I can relate to very much age-wise and how she thinks/speaks and deals with things.
Nothing but praises for another of Jay’s brainchild. Is this a spin off of the SOOB series? Are Ringo, Kris, Jill and Shinta going to meet at some point? *curious*
Ringo sounds perfect! That sensible mix of brains, body, heart and gift of gab~ ah, swoon!
Kris, I can relate to very much age-wise and how she thinks/speaks and deals with things.
Nothing but praises for another of Jay’s brainchild. Is this a spin off of the SOOB series? Are Ringo, Kris, Jill and Shinta going to meet at some point? *curious*
August 8, 2021
Musicophile Kris, in her early 30s, meets a cute man reading Austen on the train, Ringo, a corporate worker in his mid-20s. Chance throws them together again in Seoul where they rekindle their romance. “You Out of Nowhere” was a quick steamy read and I’m looking forward to read more from this author.
March 3, 2019
Super cute
I loved these two. Kris and Ringo were so awkward and hilarious. Easy characters to adore. Such a great love story.
I loved these two. Kris and Ringo were so awkward and hilarious. Easy characters to adore. Such a great love story.
Read
April 11, 2025I bought this at Fully Booked and read this on the plane back from the Philippines mostly to get a taste of the present state of romance novels coming out of the Philippines. I did enjoy it!
This is a Filipino contemporary romance. Some of the tropes are age gap (she’s older, he’s younger), travel romance, she is his boss’s best friend.
I think the beginning is very engaging. But overall I’d consider this book to be quite fluffy, especially for a contemporary romance.
The third act breakup was pretty cliche, something easily spotted from a mile away. I think when I take a step back to critically look at this piece, I think towards the end of the book we lose some tension and it’s only the internal issues of our FMC that really propel us to the end.
It would have been interesting to see something more external from the FMC’s side cause tension — like the best friend/boss taking issue with something for example (I’m thinking a la Deep End by Ali Hazelwood.)
Otherwise I think the FMC being a terrible singer even though she loves music and the MMC loving romance novels because of his little sisters is super cute.
I also think that there was a little too much “what are the chances of seeing you here” happening in this novel. Like I’ll take the meet cute on the train. But then *randomly* meeting at the airport and *randomly* staying at the same guesthouse became a little repetitive for me. Overall, it’s a quick and easy read with relatable main characters. Loved it!
This is a Filipino contemporary romance. Some of the tropes are age gap (she’s older, he’s younger), travel romance, she is his boss’s best friend.
I think the beginning is very engaging. But overall I’d consider this book to be quite fluffy, especially for a contemporary romance.
The third act breakup was pretty cliche, something easily spotted from a mile away. I think when I take a step back to critically look at this piece, I think towards the end of the book we lose some tension and it’s only the internal issues of our FMC that really propel us to the end.
It would have been interesting to see something more external from the FMC’s side cause tension — like the best friend/boss taking issue with something for example (I’m thinking a la Deep End by Ali Hazelwood.)
Otherwise I think the FMC being a terrible singer even though she loves music and the MMC loving romance novels because of his little sisters is super cute.
I also think that there was a little too much “what are the chances of seeing you here” happening in this novel. Like I’ll take the meet cute on the train. But then *randomly* meeting at the airport and *randomly* staying at the same guesthouse became a little repetitive for me. Overall, it’s a quick and easy read with relatable main characters. Loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2020
this is a story of meet cutes, and the biggest of all takes them by plane from Manila to Seoul. as always, I am a huge fan of books where the setting feels like a character. But Seoul in this book did not feel like an intrusive matchmaker. Instead, there is a deft aesthetic/ascetic balance - the portrayal feels practical, whilst also romantic enough to nudge the two characters together.
Other favourite parts:
- the writing! The book is marketed as part of the Flair series, signalling a shift towards more adult content, and I feel this is delivered with class. probably one of the most exquisite treatments of intimacy I've read.
- the soundtrack. you just have to thank books that reach out to you via multiple sensory planes (thinking also to another book in the romanceclass corpus: Boyfriend Backtrack by Dawn Lanuza). also the LI's name is Ringo, and he lives without music in his life. love it.
my only gripe is that the seven-year age gap didn't really become an issue. I can see that this is the whole point of it - age not being a deal-breaker, only a relative thing that carries no weight. but I would have liked it to become more central? maybe I just live for drama lol
four stars for Ringo and Kris's growth. for the boozy bakery, stars repeatedly aligning, and for capturing Seoul.
Other favourite parts:
- the writing! The book is marketed as part of the Flair series, signalling a shift towards more adult content, and I feel this is delivered with class. probably one of the most exquisite treatments of intimacy I've read.
- the soundtrack. you just have to thank books that reach out to you via multiple sensory planes (thinking also to another book in the romanceclass corpus: Boyfriend Backtrack by Dawn Lanuza). also the LI's name is Ringo, and he lives without music in his life. love it.
my only gripe is that the seven-year age gap didn't really become an issue. I can see that this is the whole point of it - age not being a deal-breaker, only a relative thing that carries no weight. but I would have liked it to become more central? maybe I just live for drama lol
four stars for Ringo and Kris's growth. for the boozy bakery, stars repeatedly aligning, and for capturing Seoul.
August 16, 2018
Fun
Enjoyable #romanceclass novel. I liked the mature heroine and younger man dynamic. I also liked that he knew what he wanted while she was a bit reserved. Loved the meet cute on the train, etc. Fun to have a bit of heat in a #romanceclass and it was pretty well done in a quiet sort of way. Seoul made a fun place for them to visit and fall for each other. Why they were there made sense. My only criticism is that the story didn't have much depth and the secondary characters didn't have much to contribute, even the best friend, Daisy was more of a caricature than a character. Nevertheless, it is a fun read.
Enjoyable #romanceclass novel. I liked the mature heroine and younger man dynamic. I also liked that he knew what he wanted while she was a bit reserved. Loved the meet cute on the train, etc. Fun to have a bit of heat in a #romanceclass and it was pretty well done in a quiet sort of way. Seoul made a fun place for them to visit and fall for each other. Why they were there made sense. My only criticism is that the story didn't have much depth and the secondary characters didn't have much to contribute, even the best friend, Daisy was more of a caricature than a character. Nevertheless, it is a fun read.
September 28, 2022
4⭐️. Quick and fun read. Age gap (fmc is 7-year older) but it’s super sweet. Guy is a total cinnamon roll I might’ve fall from someone like him too, like someone you want to keep in your pockets. Girl has her own mind and speaks for herself. Love the Seoul setting too. And of course, proud that this is a work of a Filipina author.
Oh and there’s spice too🌶
Oh and there’s spice too🌶
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews