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Delight
You think you know someone…
Serena and Eli have known each other for as long as they can remember. Their parents are good friends and all but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have to get along as well. Serena always thought that being a basketball prodigy destined for the pros has made Eli obnoxious and she finds his inflated ego out of this world.
However, with failing grades hindering Eli’s road into the pros, Serena helps him out of kindness and goodwill. Just kidding! Truth be told, she prefers to use her free time baking rather than endure Eli’s unpleasant company. Until her parents “ask” her nicely to tutor Eli, the ever-obedient Serena, afraid of being a disappointment, reluctantly agrees.
As the two of them spend more and more time together, they learn that even if they’ve known each other their whole lives there are some things about the other that is just a delightful surprise.
Serena and Eli have known each other for as long as they can remember. Their parents are good friends and all but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have to get along as well. Serena always thought that being a basketball prodigy destined for the pros has made Eli obnoxious and she finds his inflated ego out of this world.
However, with failing grades hindering Eli’s road into the pros, Serena helps him out of kindness and goodwill. Just kidding! Truth be told, she prefers to use her free time baking rather than endure Eli’s unpleasant company. Until her parents “ask” her nicely to tutor Eli, the ever-obedient Serena, afraid of being a disappointment, reluctantly agrees.
As the two of them spend more and more time together, they learn that even if they’ve known each other their whole lives there are some things about the other that is just a delightful surprise.
ebook
First published April 16, 2018
About the author
Moras Dela Paz
1 book55 followersMoras Dela Paz is a graphic designer who loves to read anything romance. For fun, she tried to create book covers to add to her portfolio. When she finished her designs, she knew there was something lacking but she couldn’t pinpoint what it was. She then figured her book covers needed stories behind them and that was how her first book baby was born.
When she’s not writing or reading romance, she’s backpacking in remote parts of the Philippines.
Show support by buying her book available in different online retailers, click this link http://books2read.com/morasdelapaz
Don’t be a stranger, say hi! You can find her in the following
http://www.fb.com/authormorasdelapaz
http://www.twitter.com/morasdelapaz
http://www.instagram.com/morasdelapaz
https://www.wattpad.com/morasdelapaz
http://www.goodreads.com/morasdelapaz
When she’s not writing or reading romance, she’s backpacking in remote parts of the Philippines.
Show support by buying her book available in different online retailers, click this link http://books2read.com/morasdelapaz
Don’t be a stranger, say hi! You can find her in the following
http://www.fb.com/authormorasdelapaz
http://www.twitter.com/morasdelapaz
http://www.instagram.com/morasdelapaz
https://www.wattpad.com/morasdelapaz
http://www.goodreads.com/morasdelapaz
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 8, 2018
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
- Serena and Eli's story was fun, lighthearted and cute. Started off as childhood enemies then turned into lovers when they grew up. These two characters didn't rush when it comes to relationship. It's obvious they were in MU (Mutual Understanding). Eli developed feelings towards Serena and he cares a lot about her but Serena was so naive to see past that. I like they chose not to label their relationship immediately until the time is right.
- I appreciate them for prioritizing their studies first before their love life. Serena was an aspiring baker while Eli seeks to become a professional basketball player. Both were passionate and focused in what they do despite of the pressure. Especially on Eli since his father was a popular basketball player.
- Both characters' parents were supportive. Serena thought at first her parents might disagree and get mad for going to a culinary school. After a slight rift with her mother, they make amends with Eli's help. Whatever career path Serena takes they assured her they will always be supportive and proud of all her achievements even if she didn't inherit her father's athleticism or love for basketball.
- Serena have insecurities with her body weight. She was inspired to lose weight because of her new friend Kyle. It also became her outlet when she's frustrated. However, Eli was concerned of her losing too much. He noticed she pushed herself too hard and felt like she wasn't herself. He addressed and regardless of her body weight, he loves her for who she is. There's nothing wrong in losing weight as long as it's for a healthy reason but losing weight to live up to other's standards? It's unhealthy.
- I want Nat, Joy and Kyle have their own books. I want to know what happened in their lives. It was unfortunate Joy, Nat and Serena's friendship drifted apart. I am hoping these three girls will reunite and make up for the lost time. As for Kyle, so much potential on this boy. I couldn't blame Eli for being jealous. haha!
- Overall, the story was enjoyable and it successfully gave me the kilig vibes. It was a lovely start for the series. I just wish there's more angst to it because when it comes to enemies to lovers stories, I expected more angst.
- Serena and Eli's story was fun, lighthearted and cute. Started off as childhood enemies then turned into lovers when they grew up. These two characters didn't rush when it comes to relationship. It's obvious they were in MU (Mutual Understanding). Eli developed feelings towards Serena and he cares a lot about her but Serena was so naive to see past that. I like they chose not to label their relationship immediately until the time is right.
- I appreciate them for prioritizing their studies first before their love life. Serena was an aspiring baker while Eli seeks to become a professional basketball player. Both were passionate and focused in what they do despite of the pressure. Especially on Eli since his father was a popular basketball player.
- Both characters' parents were supportive. Serena thought at first her parents might disagree and get mad for going to a culinary school. After a slight rift with her mother, they make amends with Eli's help. Whatever career path Serena takes they assured her they will always be supportive and proud of all her achievements even if she didn't inherit her father's athleticism or love for basketball.
- Serena have insecurities with her body weight. She was inspired to lose weight because of her new friend Kyle. It also became her outlet when she's frustrated. However, Eli was concerned of her losing too much. He noticed she pushed herself too hard and felt like she wasn't herself. He addressed and regardless of her body weight, he loves her for who she is. There's nothing wrong in losing weight as long as it's for a healthy reason but losing weight to live up to other's standards? It's unhealthy.
- I want Nat, Joy and Kyle have their own books. I want to know what happened in their lives. It was unfortunate Joy, Nat and Serena's friendship drifted apart. I am hoping these three girls will reunite and make up for the lost time. As for Kyle, so much potential on this boy. I couldn't blame Eli for being jealous. haha!
- Overall, the story was enjoyable and it successfully gave me the kilig vibes. It was a lovely start for the series. I just wish there's more angst to it because when it comes to enemies to lovers stories, I expected more angst.
August 27, 2023
What I expected from Moras Dela Paz's Delight was a lighthearted romance, but I got SO much more than that. In its core, this book is about losing everything you thought you knew about yourself in order to find who you were always meant to be. It's about growing up and all of the ups and downs that come along with doing so. I flew through the pages in one sitting because I wanted to either keep a silly smile on my face or have my heartbreak hopefully cured.. I loved it all!
"I know you're hurting. You do your part, make an effort to keep in touch with people you want in your life, and hope they do the same. But then they disappoint you when they don't. You're going to have to learn to accept that it's the choice they made."
Serena and Eli were perfectly human and I instantly fell head over heels for them.
The story begins with them as childhood enemies and quickly fast forwards to their teenage years when Serena is enlisted as Eli's tutor. For an enemies-to-lovers story I did wish there was more angst + banter between them, but I quickly got over it because I just loved them too much to care.. Like seriously the romance was everything I wanted it to be and MORE. I'm a S U C K E R for slow burn romances and theirs killed me. It was the sweetest and honestly fit who they were as characters (which made it that much sweeter).
"Over chocolate chip cookies and ice cream, Eli looked at her and made a promise to himself: He would spend the rest of his life making her happy just so he could always hear her laugh like that."
Delight isn't all sunshine and rainbows, though. There was a lot of heartbreak in this story when it came to everything we all deal with as we grow older. . . Struggling with wanting to be your own person but not wanting to disappoint your family, losing people you thought would always be by your side, and fighting every insecurity that comes your way. I felt the pain of both Serena and Eli's struggles as the years passed. It's tough to grow up, but it's also such an important part of our lives. I truly enjoyed the way it was written in this book. *claps hands*
"He couldn't help that he had a thing for everything that she was and everything that she will be."
Overall, I absolutely adored this book! It had every ingredient I need in a good story: family, friends, and romance. Serena and Eli's passion for everything (and everyone) in their lives will feel relatable and I believe readers will be able to find a bit of themselves in Delight. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great coming-of-age story! :)
* Quotes listed above are subject to change.
"I know you're hurting. You do your part, make an effort to keep in touch with people you want in your life, and hope they do the same. But then they disappoint you when they don't. You're going to have to learn to accept that it's the choice they made."
Serena and Eli were perfectly human and I instantly fell head over heels for them.
The story begins with them as childhood enemies and quickly fast forwards to their teenage years when Serena is enlisted as Eli's tutor. For an enemies-to-lovers story I did wish there was more angst + banter between them, but I quickly got over it because I just loved them too much to care.. Like seriously the romance was everything I wanted it to be and MORE. I'm a S U C K E R for slow burn romances and theirs killed me. It was the sweetest and honestly fit who they were as characters (which made it that much sweeter).
"Over chocolate chip cookies and ice cream, Eli looked at her and made a promise to himself: He would spend the rest of his life making her happy just so he could always hear her laugh like that."
Delight isn't all sunshine and rainbows, though. There was a lot of heartbreak in this story when it came to everything we all deal with as we grow older. . . Struggling with wanting to be your own person but not wanting to disappoint your family, losing people you thought would always be by your side, and fighting every insecurity that comes your way. I felt the pain of both Serena and Eli's struggles as the years passed. It's tough to grow up, but it's also such an important part of our lives. I truly enjoyed the way it was written in this book. *claps hands*
"He couldn't help that he had a thing for everything that she was and everything that she will be."
Overall, I absolutely adored this book! It had every ingredient I need in a good story: family, friends, and romance. Serena and Eli's passion for everything (and everyone) in their lives will feel relatable and I believe readers will be able to find a bit of themselves in Delight. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great coming-of-age story! :)
* Quotes listed above are subject to change.
April 13, 2018
It indeed was a Delight!
Serena and Eli had known each other since forever… It’s a childhood nemesis turned couple. A fun and enjoyable read. They both were so oblivious to their feelings. Which makes me kilig. Such cuties. I was expecting a light romance it was more. It was the right ingredients (pun intended) of family, pursuing dreams, friendship, acceptance, and love.
Full Review here.
Serena and Eli had known each other since forever… It’s a childhood nemesis turned couple. A fun and enjoyable read. They both were so oblivious to their feelings. Which makes me kilig. Such cuties. I was expecting a light romance it was more. It was the right ingredients (pun intended) of family, pursuing dreams, friendship, acceptance, and love.
Full Review here.
January 6, 2019
Originally posted at The Nerdy side of a Queen
I can’t believe that this book was such a cute read.
Delight by Moras Dela Paz was all about childhood enemies turn into lovers, losing the friendship but at the same time knowing more friends as you grow, and sometimes about family relationship. The story combines all the cuteness and moral lessons into one.
Elie and Serena are the best of enemies since they were a child, Elie always mocks Serena that he even called her a puffer fish because Serena was a chubby girl back then. Serena, at that time, hated Ellie so much, but as they turn into a teenager, Serena distance herself with Elie, but one-time Elie failed on his studies because of some situation, and his parents decided if Serena was willing to teach Elie, and from that the rest is history.
The story of these two people grows, and as they reach for their dreams, there were times that they lose friends as they grow, which as per Elie it was inevitable.
The things I liked about this book is aside from its cuteness, the story emphasizes how the characters value friendship and their family, which are the most common traits of a Filipino. I am so glad to read a book made by an amazing Filipino author, and how she emphasizes the importance of Filipino culture in so many ways.
I can’t believe that this book was such a cute read.
Delight by Moras Dela Paz was all about childhood enemies turn into lovers, losing the friendship but at the same time knowing more friends as you grow, and sometimes about family relationship. The story combines all the cuteness and moral lessons into one.
Elie and Serena are the best of enemies since they were a child, Elie always mocks Serena that he even called her a puffer fish because Serena was a chubby girl back then. Serena, at that time, hated Ellie so much, but as they turn into a teenager, Serena distance herself with Elie, but one-time Elie failed on his studies because of some situation, and his parents decided if Serena was willing to teach Elie, and from that the rest is history.
The story of these two people grows, and as they reach for their dreams, there were times that they lose friends as they grow, which as per Elie it was inevitable.
The things I liked about this book is aside from its cuteness, the story emphasizes how the characters value friendship and their family, which are the most common traits of a Filipino. I am so glad to read a book made by an amazing Filipino author, and how she emphasizes the importance of Filipino culture in so many ways.
May 10, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an HONEST review.
Upon receiving a copy, I flew threw the pages really quickly because the story just captured my attention. The author used the enemies to lovers trope in a fun and light-hearted way. I like her way of writing relationships in this book. The relationship between Eli and Serena is adorable and cute not only that but their relationship is written in a very realistic way. It was not rushed. It was developed in a slow manner and I like how there was courting involve. The author really imbibed some Philippine culture in this book, which is not present in a lot of romance novels by Filipinos.
Furthermore, the relationship between Kyle and Serena is also great because it is so relatable for me because I do have a lot of guy friends and their friendship means a lot for me. I like how the author wrote their relationship in a purely platonic way. It shows that a boy and a girl can be friends without any romantic feelings involve. Also Serena's relationship with her friends is also very realistically written. Not all friendship are all rainbows and butterflies, there will be some falling out in some point but it is your decision if you are going to fight for your friendship or end it. Another important value featured in this book is family. This story presented strong family value with Serena, Eli, and Kyle's family. While reading I really saw how close they are with one another and despite the trials that comes in their way, in the case of Eli's family it was a health scare, they remain strong together.
Finally, I want to discuss Serena's development in this book. Serena grew a lot in this story from a timid and shy girl who was afraid to speak to her parents about her dreams to a strong and outspoken one. She is not afraid to chase her dreams and she works hard for it to become into a reality. Overall, Serena is a relatable character because like her I like to bake and cook. I also suffer from body image issue, which led me to start going to gym. I started doing various exercise like Yoga and Muay Thai. To assert, this book is more than a romance novel. It is a story about friends, family, and growing up. This book tackles real life situations that one might encounter such as teen or unexpected pregnancy, falling out with friends, college choices, body image issues, and speaking up. I really recommend this to book especially to high school students because they will really learn a lot from this book.
Upon receiving a copy, I flew threw the pages really quickly because the story just captured my attention. The author used the enemies to lovers trope in a fun and light-hearted way. I like her way of writing relationships in this book. The relationship between Eli and Serena is adorable and cute not only that but their relationship is written in a very realistic way. It was not rushed. It was developed in a slow manner and I like how there was courting involve. The author really imbibed some Philippine culture in this book, which is not present in a lot of romance novels by Filipinos.
Furthermore, the relationship between Kyle and Serena is also great because it is so relatable for me because I do have a lot of guy friends and their friendship means a lot for me. I like how the author wrote their relationship in a purely platonic way. It shows that a boy and a girl can be friends without any romantic feelings involve. Also Serena's relationship with her friends is also very realistically written. Not all friendship are all rainbows and butterflies, there will be some falling out in some point but it is your decision if you are going to fight for your friendship or end it. Another important value featured in this book is family. This story presented strong family value with Serena, Eli, and Kyle's family. While reading I really saw how close they are with one another and despite the trials that comes in their way, in the case of Eli's family it was a health scare, they remain strong together.
Finally, I want to discuss Serena's development in this book. Serena grew a lot in this story from a timid and shy girl who was afraid to speak to her parents about her dreams to a strong and outspoken one. She is not afraid to chase her dreams and she works hard for it to become into a reality. Overall, Serena is a relatable character because like her I like to bake and cook. I also suffer from body image issue, which led me to start going to gym. I started doing various exercise like Yoga and Muay Thai. To assert, this book is more than a romance novel. It is a story about friends, family, and growing up. This book tackles real life situations that one might encounter such as teen or unexpected pregnancy, falling out with friends, college choices, body image issues, and speaking up. I really recommend this to book especially to high school students because they will really learn a lot from this book.
April 16, 2018
3.5 stars
Moras Dela Paz brought to life the characters in a honest representation of a young woman's journey. Serena is trying to find her voice within her family, body image all while being truthful to herself.
The first few chapters are easily relateable. Her childhood friend teases her but after as the two grow up so do their feelings towards each other. Both Serena and Eli are growing into adulthood with similar but different issues.
While friends come and go over the years these two learned that their childhood connection strengthened their relationship. They grew to appreciate and trust each other. They supported each other through tough times and helped the other succeed when the were struggling emotionally.
They also had a strong support system with their family. They were close knit and were supportive of their career and life choices.
I know it was a young adult novel but I was hoping for a little more romance between Eli and Serena. There was a spark in the beginning but they seemed they were staying in the friend zone a little longer than I hoped.
October 7, 2020
3.5
i, too, am delighted.
this was a really cute read! i enjoyed reading serena and eli's relationship developments from childhood enemies to friends to lovers. another thing that i liked reading about is serena's relationship with her friends and how they all differ from each other.
i hope we can read joy's, nat's and kyle's story too.
i, too, am delighted.
this was a really cute read! i enjoyed reading serena and eli's relationship developments from childhood enemies to friends to lovers. another thing that i liked reading about is serena's relationship with her friends and how they all differ from each other.
i hope we can read joy's, nat's and kyle's story too.
February 27, 2022
The absolute definition of "cute" I read this within few days and all throughout I was just smiling and giggling. Don't be fooled though, this short and cute romance definitely has substance and deeper topics that was dealt in a simple and yet impactful way. Which was very impressive and made me want to look out for more of Dela Paz's future stories.
Longer review to be followed.
Longer review to be followed.
September 3, 2018
Saying this book DELIGHTED me is an understatement. I love how much of a well-rounded character Serena is, and the fact the we actually get to see Eli's slow progress of falling in love with her makes me believe even more just how much of an awesome girl Serena is. I know nothing about baking and sports and boxing and basketball, but the author painted such a rich imagery for all these things that I found myself getting totally engrossed in those foreign (to me) concepts even as a newbie! I just wish the years didn't fast-forward to the future every few chapters, if only because I want to read Serena's story with every single detail. This book is definitely a feel-good must-read. :)
August 9, 2020
tw | there's a lot of talk about serena's weight
this was adorable. short and adorable. serena and eli are the actual cutest and i'm happy with eli's character development. it was low drama and a quick read.
this was adorable. short and adorable. serena and eli are the actual cutest and i'm happy with eli's character development. it was low drama and a quick read.
April 24, 2018
review to come!
July 27, 2025
I read this back in November of 2020 and I still love it. More people need to read this book. The romance is sooooo cute.
October 4, 2021
Delight is an adorable and lighthearted childhood frenemies to lovers romance, and it's also a coming-of-age journey for the main character, Serena. Moras Dela Paz does a great job in giving us all the fluff and also, by giving us the not-so-bright side of girls growing up, especially around body image. I also enjoyed reading about the other characters; Serena's family and friends, and of course, Eli. They're all very likeable and easy to connect with.
I also enjoyed the romance between Serena and Eli — the pacing was just right, and also a perfect reflection of dating among Filipino young adults.
This book was truly a delight to read. It's a good pick-me-up if you want something really light and easy. It's not my favourite, but it's a really good start to a very promising series.
I also enjoyed the romance between Serena and Eli — the pacing was just right, and also a perfect reflection of dating among Filipino young adults.
This book was truly a delight to read. It's a good pick-me-up if you want something really light and easy. It's not my favourite, but it's a really good start to a very promising series.
December 8, 2020
📚 BOOK REVIEW: DELIGHT 📚
I received a free copy from the author @morasdelapaz in exchange for an honest review. Madakal a salamat king binye mung opportunity! (so proud here, she's based in Pampanga! 🇵🇭)
Delight is a romance novel written by Moras Dela Paz. It is a light-read, fun, and a very cute story! ✨
My teacher in creative writing shared a piece of advice, a good novel must contain more than one theme or plot. And I can totally say this book exceeded my expectations! It is very rich and has a lot of taste in it.
First, I love the romantic relationship of Serena and Eli, from being enemies during their childhood and being a perfect match as they grew up. I love how they show care towards each other even how many times they fight. As I flipped through the pages of the book, I'm very much happy to see their transformation and character development.
Second, food! I hate the author for bringing up many delicious desserts in her book. She made me hungry!
Third, friendship. I enjoyed the bond of Serena, Nat, and Joy. Kyle is appreciated too. Reading this book made me missed my friends! Since online class, we haven't got an opportunity to hang-out again. 😭
Above all, Serena, the main character is very relatable. The author made me lived in her story, made me acquired Serena's body, skull, and feelings.
• Serena suffered from weight issues just like me. I was body-shamed in high school for being slim and now in college for being voluptuous.
• Her friend called her, "Puffy." My friends created a nickname for me, "Pluffy."
• Serena engaged in culinary, I am a self-proclaimed chef because I won a cooking competition before.
• Serena felt like her efforts aren't enough, and she's not a favorite child. I'd experienced the same family issue too.
One great lesson I received while reading this book. Transform for the better, not for other people. Amanda Lovelace quoted, "Food isn't the problem, society is."
INTL: eBook is available on Amazon, Apple, B&N, Scribd, Overdrive, and Ko-Fi. (Print available on AMZ) PHIL: DM the author if interested to buy a copy.
Don't waste your chances in reading a such magnificent story plus the beautiful cover of the book.
I received a free copy from the author @morasdelapaz in exchange for an honest review. Madakal a salamat king binye mung opportunity! (so proud here, she's based in Pampanga! 🇵🇭)
Delight is a romance novel written by Moras Dela Paz. It is a light-read, fun, and a very cute story! ✨
My teacher in creative writing shared a piece of advice, a good novel must contain more than one theme or plot. And I can totally say this book exceeded my expectations! It is very rich and has a lot of taste in it.
First, I love the romantic relationship of Serena and Eli, from being enemies during their childhood and being a perfect match as they grew up. I love how they show care towards each other even how many times they fight. As I flipped through the pages of the book, I'm very much happy to see their transformation and character development.
Second, food! I hate the author for bringing up many delicious desserts in her book. She made me hungry!
Third, friendship. I enjoyed the bond of Serena, Nat, and Joy. Kyle is appreciated too. Reading this book made me missed my friends! Since online class, we haven't got an opportunity to hang-out again. 😭
Above all, Serena, the main character is very relatable. The author made me lived in her story, made me acquired Serena's body, skull, and feelings.
• Serena suffered from weight issues just like me. I was body-shamed in high school for being slim and now in college for being voluptuous.
• Her friend called her, "Puffy." My friends created a nickname for me, "Pluffy."
• Serena engaged in culinary, I am a self-proclaimed chef because I won a cooking competition before.
• Serena felt like her efforts aren't enough, and she's not a favorite child. I'd experienced the same family issue too.
One great lesson I received while reading this book. Transform for the better, not for other people. Amanda Lovelace quoted, "Food isn't the problem, society is."
INTL: eBook is available on Amazon, Apple, B&N, Scribd, Overdrive, and Ko-Fi. (Print available on AMZ) PHIL: DM the author if interested to buy a copy.
Don't waste your chances in reading a such magnificent story plus the beautiful cover of the book.
February 3, 2021
I'm so glad I got this cute book! I'm also glad to root and support a new Filipino author! Delight is a Young Adult Romance that centers around the relationship between Serena and Eli, childhood enemies-turned friends-turned lovers in the Philippines. The way the author wrote the story and the characters were light-hearted and simple that made me go aww. Of course even though it was a fun and enjoyable read, the book also tackled serious issues about body image, priorities, and speaking up about reaching your dreams. In the beginning of the story, you get glimpses of Serena and Eli's childhood as they grow up over the years. Although there were time skips and a bit of fast pacing, the plot focused on their growing relationship so it wasn't difficult for me to follow along. It was sad that as Serena and Eli grew closer, Serena and her friends slowly drifted apart at the beginning of their college years. Their relationships, the people around them, the problems they were facing were very relatable and some real-life issues we, the readers, faced as well in our own lives. No one is perfect. Not even fictional, dreamy characters are perfect. So after reading this book, I felt more assuring and confident with myself like how Serena's character developed from being a polite-timid girl to someone who knows her worth. Through all her challenges to get to culinary school, to telling her parents her dream, to love, to loss, and accepting herself, Eli was her backbone plus her family and friends. And she to Eli giving him emotional wellness. Even though their romance was so slooow (omygosh whyyy haha, especially you Serena) and a bit frustrating (like it made my emotions all over the place haha), they communicated so well together and came to understand their wants/needs and weaknesses/strengths. My favorite scene of the book was when Serena and Eli were at the gym and Eli made Serena really look at herself. It made me teary-eyed that Serena listed every mistake about her body. Her failures. That she was a failure and even though she's been working hard physically and mentally, she thinks she's still a failure. We've all experienced this and it sucks. But I'm oh so glad Eli changed the way she thought. We all need an Eli in our lives. Other than Serena and Eli, the side characters also stood out with their own problems as well like unexpected pregnancy and more relationship problems, but the story only teases us (as well as egg tarts and cookies) that there are other things occurring around Serena and Eli, which I'm hoping will reveal in the next book! Clapping excitingly. So even if you think this is just another love story, the characters and their challenges is what made this book more than a romance story. This isn't just a rom-com story about two people, it's about family, friends, and cherishing yourself.
February 7, 2021
If I had to describe Delight by Moras Dela Paz in one word it would be: wholesome. I had always been a sucker for fluffy romance and this book definitely delivers the "kilig" (a thrill felt when something romantic occurs) in a natural manner. And the fact that it's a slow burn romance makes my heart swell with happiness because it definitely showed that great things happen when you wait. Romance though was just part of the bigger picture. The core of the story lies on the journey of growing up and the changes it entails.
The story is told in the third person interchanging sometimes between Serena's and Eli's point of view. It mainly showed Serena's journey from childhood to her early 20s overlapping with Eli's own experiences. It included friendship, romance, family, insecurities and experiences in school. The themes on self, family, friends, love and career that Delight had captured delightfully surprised me. (See what I did there?). I also love that the setting is in the Philippines so the book was full of Filipino traditions and themes.
Although, I have noticed that at times the story felt reliant on the narration of what happened rather than showing it. In my opinion, this takes the reader away in the present moment of the scene and can unfortunately lessen its impact.
Another delightful surprise in the book is the talks on loving one's own body. I believe many of us can relate to weight and/or body issues. So it felt empowering to read how Serena embraced her insecurities regarding her body and to love herself a little bit more. It was definitely a powerful message that the author was able to show through this book especially this scene with Serena and Eli:
"You think you can look a certain type but I bet those girls who you compare yourself to have loads of things that they don't like about themselves too. You look at yourself and you see a mountain of flaws." Eli looked at her in the eyes. "You know what I see when I look at you?"
"What?" She said in a small voice, almost like a whisper. If he wasn't standing close by,
he probably wouldn't hear it.
"I see someone I really like," Eli admitted.
Absolutely swoon worthy if you ask me! Anyways, I really enjoyed reading this and I will definitely look forward to the 2nd book of the series.
The story is told in the third person interchanging sometimes between Serena's and Eli's point of view. It mainly showed Serena's journey from childhood to her early 20s overlapping with Eli's own experiences. It included friendship, romance, family, insecurities and experiences in school. The themes on self, family, friends, love and career that Delight had captured delightfully surprised me. (See what I did there?). I also love that the setting is in the Philippines so the book was full of Filipino traditions and themes.
Although, I have noticed that at times the story felt reliant on the narration of what happened rather than showing it. In my opinion, this takes the reader away in the present moment of the scene and can unfortunately lessen its impact.
Another delightful surprise in the book is the talks on loving one's own body. I believe many of us can relate to weight and/or body issues. So it felt empowering to read how Serena embraced her insecurities regarding her body and to love herself a little bit more. It was definitely a powerful message that the author was able to show through this book especially this scene with Serena and Eli:
"You think you can look a certain type but I bet those girls who you compare yourself to have loads of things that they don't like about themselves too. You look at yourself and you see a mountain of flaws." Eli looked at her in the eyes. "You know what I see when I look at you?"
"What?" She said in a small voice, almost like a whisper. If he wasn't standing close by,
he probably wouldn't hear it.
"I see someone I really like," Eli admitted.
Absolutely swoon worthy if you ask me! Anyways, I really enjoyed reading this and I will definitely look forward to the 2nd book of the series.
February 22, 2021
I super love the story. Sobrang feel good. You'll definitely enjoy the interactions between the characters. Especially, Joy, Nat and Serena. Gusto ko rin iyong relationship ni Serena and Eli sa mga parents nila. Sobrang supportive and all.
Siguro iyong hindi ko lang nagustuhan dito sa book na 'to iyong pagiging predictable ng ibang parts.
Feeling ko may sequel 'to based na rin sa nangyari sa epilogue. 😅
Siguro iyong hindi ko lang nagustuhan dito sa book na 'to iyong pagiging predictable ng ibang parts.
Feeling ko may sequel 'to based na rin sa nangyari sa epilogue. 😅
February 26, 2021
3,5 stars
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