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Burlfriends #1
Crushing on You
Finalist for Best First Book and Best Mid-length Contemporary Romance in the NJRW 2020 Golden Leaf Awards.
Anna Tang doesn’t date Asian guys. Her own Chinese family is bad enough, and she's not looking to double the trouble. Besides, she's busy chasing her dream of becoming a music journalist, and she's going to march towards it single-mindedly—and single , if need be. But when she meets a handsome stranger on a flight to a wedding, she's charmed. Intrigued. Seduced . Too bad he’s Asian, and not her type. Ian Gao has a great tech job and rock-hard abs from years of climbing. His parents hope he’ll settle down soon, but he’s drawn to the fierce and lovely Anna, who doesn’t plan on getting married. Ever. But the more time they spend together, the more it feels like coming home. Does Ian have what it takes to make her to stay? Or are the walls around her heart too hard to climb? Praise from
"Jen's debut novel is witty, fast-paced, and a joy to read. A book I didn't want to put down, and made me laugh out loud multiple times. Think Meg Cabot-style fun meets millennials, with the associated techies, foodies, and climbers we all know and love. Can't wait to see what happens on the rest of the series!" - Romance reader and expert at V0s and the occasional V1
"Surprises and chemistry abound! I will also never think of bathrooms in quite the same way." -Jaiden Mercury, author of Resonance in San Francisco
“This book really improved my grip strength, I couldn’t put it down!” - Yosemite Climber & New Romance Reader
"I found it extremely hard to put the book down once I started. I was so enthralled in this smoldering romance between Anna and Ian with a twist of climbing. It's a must-read!" - Artist, V3 / 5.11a climber
"I really enjoyed this book! I love both a good romance and climbing, so this was a welcome melding of the two! - Voracious reader / 5.11 climber
Anna Tang doesn’t date Asian guys. Her own Chinese family is bad enough, and she's not looking to double the trouble. Besides, she's busy chasing her dream of becoming a music journalist, and she's going to march towards it single-mindedly—and single , if need be. But when she meets a handsome stranger on a flight to a wedding, she's charmed. Intrigued. Seduced . Too bad he’s Asian, and not her type. Ian Gao has a great tech job and rock-hard abs from years of climbing. His parents hope he’ll settle down soon, but he’s drawn to the fierce and lovely Anna, who doesn’t plan on getting married. Ever. But the more time they spend together, the more it feels like coming home. Does Ian have what it takes to make her to stay? Or are the walls around her heart too hard to climb? Praise from
"Jen's debut novel is witty, fast-paced, and a joy to read. A book I didn't want to put down, and made me laugh out loud multiple times. Think Meg Cabot-style fun meets millennials, with the associated techies, foodies, and climbers we all know and love. Can't wait to see what happens on the rest of the series!" - Romance reader and expert at V0s and the occasional V1
"Surprises and chemistry abound! I will also never think of bathrooms in quite the same way." -Jaiden Mercury, author of Resonance in San Francisco
“This book really improved my grip strength, I couldn’t put it down!” - Yosemite Climber & New Romance Reader
"I found it extremely hard to put the book down once I started. I was so enthralled in this smoldering romance between Anna and Ian with a twist of climbing. It's a must-read!" - Artist, V3 / 5.11a climber
"I really enjoyed this book! I love both a good romance and climbing, so this was a welcome melding of the two! - Voracious reader / 5.11 climber
324 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2019
70 people are currently reading
658 people want to read
About the author
Jen Trinh
7 books81 followersJen is an award-winning romance novelist who writes books for nerds and weirdos. She lives in a pile of blankets near a pretty nice Wawa, along with her husband, a milk goblin, and multiple tropical plants.
Follow me on Instagram: jentrinhwrites
Follow me on Instagram: jentrinhwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
August 5, 2020
3-3.5 stars! This was a good debut romance and I'm already looking forward to more from Jen Trinh. I enjoyed Anna and Ian's characters, though I was pretty conflicted in the beginning with Anna's whole 'not into Asian guys' thing. Both made decisions I wasn't always happy with, but I really appreciated their character growth and development, not just romantically, but also professionally and personally. I just wish their growth could've started a little earlier on in the book. The romance is sweet, fun, charming, and I even loved that they bonded over rock climbing. But my favorite part about this book? The Chinese American rep. Ian is your traditional Chinese American whereas Anna is a bit of a rebel, but I was so happy to see both perspectives portrayed in a romance.
If you're looking for an Asian American romance written by an Asian American author, have Jen Trinh on your radar! I'm looking forward to book 2 of the Burlfriends series and whatever else she has in store for us.
If you're looking for an Asian American romance written by an Asian American author, have Jen Trinh on your radar! I'm looking forward to book 2 of the Burlfriends series and whatever else she has in store for us.
July 1, 2020
Pick up this book!
Fantastic Asian American read that I adored. I'm so glad I stumbled upon Jen's Instagram page and found this book. It spoke about things I never thought would be ever discussed in romance book I read because there's just no diversity. So if you're looking for own voices book then pick this one up!!!
Fantastic Asian American read that I adored. I'm so glad I stumbled upon Jen's Instagram page and found this book. It spoke about things I never thought would be ever discussed in romance book I read because there's just no diversity. So if you're looking for own voices book then pick this one up!!!
April 25, 2022
2.5-2.75 stars.
There’s a lot that I have to say about this story. First off, I’ll start with the positive. I loved the Chinese American rep so much. Like so so much! That honestly had me hooked on from the get go, but as I kept reading my balloon started to become deflated. I absolutely loved the hero, Ian. He was perfection and wayyy to good for the heroine, Anna. Let’s talk about Anna shall we. She honestly made me want to throat punch her, especially during a certain scene. **spoilers here:
The first sex scene between the main characters was going good until the heroine lied about being current on her std check up. Like seriously wtf!!!? I almost stopped reading after that part. I do not for the life of me understand the authors thinking process in adding this in the story if she wasn’t going to come back to it later in the story. It’s like she just threw it in there to make me mad and then that was it. That was enough for me to absolutely not like the heroine. Then she went on to tell Ian to pull out because of no birth control only to have a pity party about the stupidity of that later and the pregnancy risk that could happen. Umm, hello. You should be crying and feeling horrible over lying to Ian about your STD check. Girl, you need to take several seats.
I just felt the heroine mistreated both Ian and her ex. She wanted Ian to “choose” her wishes during a certain holiday scene concerning his family at a time where she wasn’t even “all in” in their relationship. Bish, please. The only redeeming thing in this story was the hero. I did like the ending and the growth in both characters, but the damage was already done for there to be any redemption for the heroine.
There’s a lot that I have to say about this story. First off, I’ll start with the positive. I loved the Chinese American rep so much. Like so so much! That honestly had me hooked on from the get go, but as I kept reading my balloon started to become deflated. I absolutely loved the hero, Ian. He was perfection and wayyy to good for the heroine, Anna. Let’s talk about Anna shall we. She honestly made me want to throat punch her, especially during a certain scene. **spoilers here:
The first sex scene between the main characters was going good until the heroine lied about being current on her std check up. Like seriously wtf!!!? I almost stopped reading after that part. I do not for the life of me understand the authors thinking process in adding this in the story if she wasn’t going to come back to it later in the story. It’s like she just threw it in there to make me mad and then that was it. That was enough for me to absolutely not like the heroine. Then she went on to tell Ian to pull out because of no birth control only to have a pity party about the stupidity of that later and the pregnancy risk that could happen. Umm, hello. You should be crying and feeling horrible over lying to Ian about your STD check. Girl, you need to take several seats.
I just felt the heroine mistreated both Ian and her ex. She wanted Ian to “choose” her wishes during a certain holiday scene concerning his family at a time where she wasn’t even “all in” in their relationship. Bish, please. The only redeeming thing in this story was the hero. I did like the ending and the growth in both characters, but the damage was already done for there to be any redemption for the heroine.
February 18, 2021
Contemporary Romance : ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
CW : History of emotional and physical abuse
A really wonderful debut book that has me looking forward to many more reads from Jen Trinh! Now I'm not saying this book didn't have it's problems; I did not like that she was "not into Asian guys" and that was brought up several times over in the beginning that I'm not sure was necessary to be mentioned so many times or that she continuously had a lot of feelings and thoughts that were voiced that were absolutely negative to traditional Chinese ideals. Seemed to be nearing overkill.
Generally this book was lovely. Both our H and h had negatives and positives that they worked through with humor and love. Overall the character development was a shining light and I'm very happy with this reading experience.
#LNYREADATON2021
CW : History of emotional and physical abuse
A really wonderful debut book that has me looking forward to many more reads from Jen Trinh! Now I'm not saying this book didn't have it's problems; I did not like that she was "not into Asian guys" and that was brought up several times over in the beginning that I'm not sure was necessary to be mentioned so many times or that she continuously had a lot of feelings and thoughts that were voiced that were absolutely negative to traditional Chinese ideals. Seemed to be nearing overkill.
Generally this book was lovely. Both our H and h had negatives and positives that they worked through with humor and love. Overall the character development was a shining light and I'm very happy with this reading experience.
#LNYREADATON2021
April 23, 2022
I can’t quite decide what star rating to give this so I’m going with 2-2.5 ⭐️
On one hand I think the author is a great writer, the plot flowed well and the steamy scenes were excellent, and I absolutely loved the cultural elements of the story and learning more about Chinese Americans, there were so many aspects I had never read about and I loved that aspect so much. All that being said, the heroine completely ruined the book for me, she was by far the worst I’ve ever read. Don’t get me wrong I love a rebellions feisty heroine, but she just went a little past feisty territory and into awful person territory. From her nonchalant attitude towards safe sex, even to going as far as lying to the hero about being tested recently. To her selfishness and horrendous treatment of both the hero and her ex boyfriend. I could go on, but I don’t want to get even more spoilery. That being said I feel like I do understand what the author was trying to do in showing that people can change and grow and deserve second chances, but I disliked her so much that I did not care whether she got an HEA or not.
I do think I will be giving the next book in the series a try though, I enjoyed the authors writing, and I’m hoping I’ll like a different couple better.
On one hand I think the author is a great writer, the plot flowed well and the steamy scenes were excellent, and I absolutely loved the cultural elements of the story and learning more about Chinese Americans, there were so many aspects I had never read about and I loved that aspect so much. All that being said, the heroine completely ruined the book for me, she was by far the worst I’ve ever read. Don’t get me wrong I love a rebellions feisty heroine, but she just went a little past feisty territory and into awful person territory. From her nonchalant attitude towards safe sex, even to going as far as lying to the hero about being tested recently. To her selfishness and horrendous treatment of both the hero and her ex boyfriend. I could go on, but I don’t want to get even more spoilery. That being said I feel like I do understand what the author was trying to do in showing that people can change and grow and deserve second chances, but I disliked her so much that I did not care whether she got an HEA or not.
I do think I will be giving the next book in the series a try though, I enjoyed the authors writing, and I’m hoping I’ll like a different couple better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2022
Initial Thoughts:
I just finished reading this book and my heart is so confused. There are many parts of this book that shined, but a number of things that I felt were unnecessary. So, for now, I'm settling at a solid 3 but that might change once I do my particulars.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌼 Intrigue:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Main Character:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Significant Other:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Writing Quality:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Character Development: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Plot: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Unputdownability: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Enjoyment: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Audiobook Production:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
☁FINAL VERDICT: 3.21 (rounded down to 3)/5 ☁
📚 Blog ♡ Booktube ♡ Bookstagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Twitter 📚
I just finished reading this book and my heart is so confused. There are many parts of this book that shined, but a number of things that I felt were unnecessary. So, for now, I'm settling at a solid 3 but that might change once I do my particulars.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌼 Intrigue:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Main Character:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Significant Other:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Writing Quality:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Character Development: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Plot: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Unputdownability: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Enjoyment: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Audiobook Production:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
☁FINAL VERDICT: 3.21 (rounded down to 3)/5 ☁
📚 Blog ♡ Booktube ♡ Bookstagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Twitter 📚
April 25, 2022
First things first, the Asian rep in this book is so amazing. I do really understand and appreciate we have two views of the characters connecting with their heritage. One lives and breathes his culture, the other has life long trauma that has ventured her away from it. Her self actualization is truly appreciated.
There is scene in here that I do not feel the most comfortable with, even days after. I don't see it discussed much either. When the duo finally gets to the intimate scene, the discussion of protection comes up. (Which I love when the topic is brought up, more and more in books. It gives readers a chance to see how that topic can be brought up in real life.) BUT this particular scene left me uncomfortable. The female lead first of all lies that she was recently tested, and then has an internal dialogue that proves so. The male lead is hesitant at first but she persists. There are other intimate scenes that proceed, in that same night/following morning. Then as she is alone thinking, she has a lot of self deprecating thoughts on her choices of no protection the following day. It made me feel icky reading and I don't feel like there is any healthy and open discussion follow up afterwards.
I had a complex experience with this book, there were many good elements as well. The comedy aspect is done very well. The steamy scenes that follow that initial one are good too!
I need to note that I read steamy scenes of all sorts. I love breeding kink books, even books when it doesn't come up at all. This one truly made me uncomfortable. I don't like that she lied, then the following day she had this huge guilt as well. I think that it might have been plotted that way to showcase that the female main character is not in her best place, mentally, career wise, etc. It's just me and my experience though.
There is scene in here that I do not feel the most comfortable with, even days after. I don't see it discussed much either. When the duo finally gets to the intimate scene, the discussion of protection comes up. (Which I love when the topic is brought up, more and more in books. It gives readers a chance to see how that topic can be brought up in real life.) BUT this particular scene left me uncomfortable. The female lead first of all lies that she was recently tested, and then has an internal dialogue that proves so. The male lead is hesitant at first but she persists. There are other intimate scenes that proceed, in that same night/following morning. Then as she is alone thinking, she has a lot of self deprecating thoughts on her choices of no protection the following day. It made me feel icky reading and I don't feel like there is any healthy and open discussion follow up afterwards.
I had a complex experience with this book, there were many good elements as well. The comedy aspect is done very well. The steamy scenes that follow that initial one are good too!
I need to note that I read steamy scenes of all sorts. I love breeding kink books, even books when it doesn't come up at all. This one truly made me uncomfortable. I don't like that she lied, then the following day she had this huge guilt as well. I think that it might have been plotted that way to showcase that the female main character is not in her best place, mentally, career wise, etc. It's just me and my experience though.
April 27, 2022
2 1/2 Stars
I didn't like Anna and I never warmed to her. I think Ian deserves better. Plus there were some awkward sex scens. Not sexy at all. Sad to say, this one didn't work for me.
Happy reading.
I didn't like Anna and I never warmed to her. I think Ian deserves better. Plus there were some awkward sex scens. Not sexy at all. Sad to say, this one didn't work for me.
Happy reading.
July 28, 2020
Romance is such a divisive genre. I have bookish friends I’ve known for years who ~always~ remind me they don’t like romance when I mention that I’m reading one. (I’m always like, “chill, I’m not foisting this book on you” 🙄)
Anyway, yesterday I was in a funk. In true mood reader fashion, I ended up picking something from my TBR saves. There’s something about escaping to a love story when my edges are frayed. Thanks @remarkablylisa on Instagram for recommending this!
CRUSHING ON YOU was exactly what I was looking for. Anna is a go-against-the-grain Chinese American protagonist and Ian is exactly not her type - because he’s also Chinese American. But as it might happen, a mutual friend’s wedding brings them together, and from there we get Anna and Ian’s alternative POVs.
Things you can look forward to in this book:
✨ Amazing meals. Make sure you have some snacks before reading this.
✨ Career growth. I love a book that also tackles other shit we have to deal with in life, like who do we want to be and what do we want our careers to look like. Nothing is linear.
✨ Steaaaamy open-door scenes 🥵🤭
✨ Rock climbing! Trinh incorporates plot element in a way that made me want to try it out. It doesn’t feel forced. You can hear her (and Ian’s) love for rock climbing, and even its perils.
✨ Slow burn romance. Wait, didn’t I just say something about steamy open-door scenes? Yes, but the romance itself takes its time!
Content warnings: prior domestic abuse (family)
Anyway, yesterday I was in a funk. In true mood reader fashion, I ended up picking something from my TBR saves. There’s something about escaping to a love story when my edges are frayed. Thanks @remarkablylisa on Instagram for recommending this!
CRUSHING ON YOU was exactly what I was looking for. Anna is a go-against-the-grain Chinese American protagonist and Ian is exactly not her type - because he’s also Chinese American. But as it might happen, a mutual friend’s wedding brings them together, and from there we get Anna and Ian’s alternative POVs.
Things you can look forward to in this book:
✨ Amazing meals. Make sure you have some snacks before reading this.
✨ Career growth. I love a book that also tackles other shit we have to deal with in life, like who do we want to be and what do we want our careers to look like. Nothing is linear.
✨ Steaaaamy open-door scenes 🥵🤭
✨ Rock climbing! Trinh incorporates plot element in a way that made me want to try it out. It doesn’t feel forced. You can hear her (and Ian’s) love for rock climbing, and even its perils.
✨ Slow burn romance. Wait, didn’t I just say something about steamy open-door scenes? Yes, but the romance itself takes its time!
Content warnings: prior domestic abuse (family)
April 27, 2022
Spoiler ***
Bookclub Pick 🖤
CRUSHING ON YOU -Jen Trinh
Ian and Anna couldn’t be more opposite. This book’s representation of Asian culture was cool to see and beautiful. I’m glad I was introduced to this writing and book because it opened my eyes to different narrative perspectives. Complexity in relationships are always interesting to read about from different authors.
What I thought was going to be a romantic comedy meet cute turned out to be the opposite. Indecisive characters irritate me….. Anna was in my opinion unnecessarily Rude and didn’t give Ian a fair chance at making their relationship work.The main character having issues is not the issue, it was the attitude and poor choices Anna made throughout the book.
Everyone is entitled to have their own opinions on how they choose to live life. What and who is included in that plan, however when two lives are fused together compromises have to take place. I don’t feel like Anna was willing to compromise with Ian the way he deserved or was willing to.
🌟🌟🌟
Bookclub Pick 🖤
CRUSHING ON YOU -Jen Trinh
Ian and Anna couldn’t be more opposite. This book’s representation of Asian culture was cool to see and beautiful. I’m glad I was introduced to this writing and book because it opened my eyes to different narrative perspectives. Complexity in relationships are always interesting to read about from different authors.
What I thought was going to be a romantic comedy meet cute turned out to be the opposite. Indecisive characters irritate me….. Anna was in my opinion unnecessarily Rude and didn’t give Ian a fair chance at making their relationship work.The main character having issues is not the issue, it was the attitude and poor choices Anna made throughout the book.
Everyone is entitled to have their own opinions on how they choose to live life. What and who is included in that plan, however when two lives are fused together compromises have to take place. I don’t feel like Anna was willing to compromise with Ian the way he deserved or was willing to.
🌟🌟🌟
January 27, 2024
This main character is the reddest red flag to have ever red flag. A prime example of 'delulu is not the solulu'. Review to follow.
January 26, 2020
This is a really funny, charming novel that starts with our heroine meeting a hot guy on the plane, and what luck - they're going to the same wedding! Anna and Ian are unique characters who feel like friends you might know, and they explore both San Francisco and New York with a lot of heart. If you enjoy rom-coms, sexy-time romances, or just really funny narration, this is the book for you.
November 16, 2020
i didn't like anna's "i'm not like other girls" attitude at the beginning but the last half was chefs kiss
Read
May 29, 2020Thank you for taking the time to read my first book! Woo! 🥳
In this book, you will find:
-Asian drama 🤦🏻
-Asian dramas 🍿
-hot hot sex 💋
-llama puns 🦙
-climbing euphemisms 🧗🏻♀️
If you don't already climb, you'll want to after reading this book 😁
Enjoy!
-Jen
In this book, you will find:
-Asian drama 🤦🏻
-Asian dramas 🍿
-hot hot sex 💋
-llama puns 🦙
-climbing euphemisms 🧗🏻♀️
If you don't already climb, you'll want to after reading this book 😁
Enjoy!
-Jen
April 29, 2023
2.5 ⭐️ s. The main character ruins the book🫣
May 29, 2020
I'm a little unsure of how to rate this book! There were parts I really enjoyed and others not so much. Overall, I felt like it was well written, and flowed nicely. The overall storyline was interesting and I liked the plot. I found the climbing stuff pretty interesting, even though I know nothing about it. I loved Ian for the most part, but had a very hard time connecting with/wanting to root for Anna. Besides her physical beauty, I didn't really understand Ian's desire for her. Their connection seemed superficial to me. I know she had a very tough childhood/upbringing, but she was flat out rude and inconsiderate to him often. Maybe if I felt like their initial meeting and connection was deeper it could have helped me get past some of the issues I had with her? Maybe? Something I really disliked was how she doesn't want to get married or have a family and isn't on birth control, but yet she tells him the first time they have sex to not pull out. She said she'd just take Plan B. Maybe my 35 year old self is just old fashioned, but that felt wildly irresponsible to me. I also didn't love that Ian randomly does shrooms once and it basically solves all of his problems. Maybe in addition to being old fashioned I'm also a square?? lol Regardless, I wasn't a fan of that part.
If Goodreads did ratings on half star increments I would likely go with 3.5, I'll bump it up to 4 stars though since I obviously enjoyed it enough to read in one night, basically one sitting.
If Goodreads did ratings on half star increments I would likely go with 3.5, I'll bump it up to 4 stars though since I obviously enjoyed it enough to read in one night, basically one sitting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
Steamy, sweet and so good
I found out about Jen Trinh and Crushing on You from my bookstagram friend, Jess because I want to explore more Romance writers who are AOCs and I am soo glad I picked up Crushing On You. Jen Trinh is such a fun writer, I loved her writing style, its fun, its easy to follow and even if I didnt know a thing about climbing, she managed to make it easy to understand. Her characters are also well developed and I really love both Ian and Anna and see myself in both of them. I also love how Jen Trinh concluded the book. Overall, highly recommend Crushing on You!
I found out about Jen Trinh and Crushing on You from my bookstagram friend, Jess because I want to explore more Romance writers who are AOCs and I am soo glad I picked up Crushing On You. Jen Trinh is such a fun writer, I loved her writing style, its fun, its easy to follow and even if I didnt know a thing about climbing, she managed to make it easy to understand. Her characters are also well developed and I really love both Ian and Anna and see myself in both of them. I also love how Jen Trinh concluded the book. Overall, highly recommend Crushing on You!
August 16, 2020
This book came onto my radar as an instagram ad, proof that the algorithm is too strong but this time it worked its magic for non-nefarious motives. The cover instantly grabbed me. Not only is it that wonderfully whimsical illustrated style but the girl on the cover is asian and has green hair. I'm asian and have green hair!
Then, I read the blurb: Everyone's got a type. Anna has a non-type: Asian guys. (LOL) On a plane ride to her friend's wedding, she meets Ian who is handsome and charming... and not her type. Shenanigans ensue!
First off, I adore the Asian American representation. I like that Anna isn't timid. She knows she's hot shit. She's headstrong and independent, a little stubborn and narrow minded at times but all the more realistic for it. Ian is quieter, kind. He was so sweet to his family. And he made some corny ass jokes, same.
This tackled complicated relationships with immigrant parents and the prospect of aging parents which really hit me in the gut. Without giving away too much, I can appreciate their individual growth. But absolute heart eyes when they were together
The first time they hook up, he explicity asks for her consent and its not awkward. love that for them *insert garlic and ginger emojis if those exist*
The other major theme in this book is rock climbing. It sounded quite exhilarating and fulfilling. Ya girl is afraid of heights and has 0% athletic ability but... maybe one day...
I should note this was independently published and there are a handful of typos but the fact that it's the author's first foray into novel writing after quitting her career in tech, it's a delightful debut! I'd like to read more from the author (who I knew would be an awesome human with a great sense of humor right from the preface).The next book is about two side characters Lina and Asher and I'm curious how she'll make it work!
Then, I read the blurb: Everyone's got a type. Anna has a non-type: Asian guys. (LOL) On a plane ride to her friend's wedding, she meets Ian who is handsome and charming... and not her type. Shenanigans ensue!
First off, I adore the Asian American representation. I like that Anna isn't timid. She knows she's hot shit. She's headstrong and independent, a little stubborn and narrow minded at times but all the more realistic for it. Ian is quieter, kind. He was so sweet to his family. And he made some corny ass jokes, same.
This tackled complicated relationships with immigrant parents and the prospect of aging parents which really hit me in the gut. Without giving away too much, I can appreciate their individual growth. But absolute heart eyes when they were together
The first time they hook up, he explicity asks for her consent and its not awkward. love that for them *insert garlic and ginger emojis if those exist*
The other major theme in this book is rock climbing. It sounded quite exhilarating and fulfilling. Ya girl is afraid of heights and has 0% athletic ability but... maybe one day...
I should note this was independently published and there are a handful of typos but the fact that it's the author's first foray into novel writing after quitting her career in tech, it's a delightful debut! I'd like to read more from the author (who I knew would be an awesome human with a great sense of humor right from the preface).The next book is about two side characters Lina and Asher and I'm curious how she'll make it work!
March 24, 2021
Title: Crushing On You (Burlfriends Book 1)
Author: Jen Trinh
Hero/Heroine: Ian and Anna
Trope: Opposites Attract
THE GOOD 😁
Pretty much all of it. The friendships, the sizzling chemistry and beautiful yet flawed characters made this book hard to put down.
Meeting on a flight to San Francisco where they’re both attending a mutual friends wedding, Ian and Anna, our gorgeous hero and heroine, spend the flight bantering back and forth. From this point onward their chemistry literally sizzled, and at times it felt like my kindle was going to start firing off sparks. That bathroom scene at the wedding? Woah momma (if you know you know 😜).
You may be thinking that this is just your standard steamy rom com, but it definitely isn’t. Tackling subjects such as death, grief and physical abuse at the hands of a parent, this was one of those stories that packed a hell of a punch. I loved the fact that both Ian and Anna go through so much, both separately and together, in which you get to witness them both grow as characters.
I also adored the friendship that developed between Anna and Ian’s climbing partner Lina, I’m all for strong female friendships in books, I find it just as important, if not more, as the romantic relationship.
Steamy, funny and heartfelt, it’s safe to say I’m definitely crushing on this book. That ending *sighs dreamily*.
THE BAD ☹️
The only thing that bothered me slightly was how selfish Anna seemed at times. However, when the reason for her behaviour is explained later throughout the book, my opinion of her changed dramatically.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Heartfelt and steamy story with some gorgeous characters (Hi Ian)
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Jen Trinh
Hero/Heroine: Ian and Anna
Trope: Opposites Attract
THE GOOD 😁
Pretty much all of it. The friendships, the sizzling chemistry and beautiful yet flawed characters made this book hard to put down.
Meeting on a flight to San Francisco where they’re both attending a mutual friends wedding, Ian and Anna, our gorgeous hero and heroine, spend the flight bantering back and forth. From this point onward their chemistry literally sizzled, and at times it felt like my kindle was going to start firing off sparks. That bathroom scene at the wedding? Woah momma (if you know you know 😜).
You may be thinking that this is just your standard steamy rom com, but it definitely isn’t. Tackling subjects such as death, grief and physical abuse at the hands of a parent, this was one of those stories that packed a hell of a punch. I loved the fact that both Ian and Anna go through so much, both separately and together, in which you get to witness them both grow as characters.
I also adored the friendship that developed between Anna and Ian’s climbing partner Lina, I’m all for strong female friendships in books, I find it just as important, if not more, as the romantic relationship.
Steamy, funny and heartfelt, it’s safe to say I’m definitely crushing on this book. That ending *sighs dreamily*.
THE BAD ☹️
The only thing that bothered me slightly was how selfish Anna seemed at times. However, when the reason for her behaviour is explained later throughout the book, my opinion of her changed dramatically.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Heartfelt and steamy story with some gorgeous characters (Hi Ian)
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 28, 2022
So much potential
2.5-3⭐
Let me start off by saying there were so many things to like about this book. The Asian American representation was done so well. I learned things about the culture that I'd didn't know before. With the main characters having different perspectives, it was really interesting to see how they felt in regards to the others choices.
Ian was literal perfection. He was so sweet and grounded. Due to this it made me dislike Anna even more. It started with her decision to lie about something that is so dangerous if it happens in real life. My dislike continued to grow with her poor attitude towards Ian regarding his family when they'd only been together for a few weeks.
I loved the side characters Cassie and Lina. They both brought great advice to the mcs about life and relationships. The climbing parts were really cool too. I've never been climbing, but I'm now interested in checking it out.
I think that Jen Trinh has a great writing style and the story flowed well, but she added shock factors just to add them. They made it harder to be invested in the characters getting a HEA. She did a wonderful job in the end with their character growth, but it was a little too much too late. I'd decided I didn't care to see Anna's growth. To me she didn't deserve to get Ian.
I'm on the fence if I will read the next story in this series. Again I really liked the representation and the writing style, but some big issues with problematic behavior.
2.5-3⭐
Let me start off by saying there were so many things to like about this book. The Asian American representation was done so well. I learned things about the culture that I'd didn't know before. With the main characters having different perspectives, it was really interesting to see how they felt in regards to the others choices.
Ian was literal perfection. He was so sweet and grounded. Due to this it made me dislike Anna even more. It started with her decision to lie about something that is so dangerous if it happens in real life. My dislike continued to grow with her poor attitude towards Ian regarding his family when they'd only been together for a few weeks.
I loved the side characters Cassie and Lina. They both brought great advice to the mcs about life and relationships. The climbing parts were really cool too. I've never been climbing, but I'm now interested in checking it out.
I think that Jen Trinh has a great writing style and the story flowed well, but she added shock factors just to add them. They made it harder to be invested in the characters getting a HEA. She did a wonderful job in the end with their character growth, but it was a little too much too late. I'd decided I didn't care to see Anna's growth. To me she didn't deserve to get Ian.
I'm on the fence if I will read the next story in this series. Again I really liked the representation and the writing style, but some big issues with problematic behavior.
May 17, 2023
So Relatable
Growing up as a Mexican American, I've lived through plenty of the stereotypes you hear about ...having the entire family under one roof. Fighting with your siblings over the most silliest things. Having cousins over every weekend. A cookout (carne asada) almost every weekend. ... because I was Surrounded by so much of my family, I was fortunate enough to have been surrounded by so much love, and support. But I also grew up with people who weren't as supportive, and grew to watch failed relationships...marriages. I've seen different forms of abuse. When I reached the early stage of my teenage years , up until my early 20's I've always said I'm never EVER getting married! I'll NEEEVVVEERRRR have children's. I'm NOT going to date ANY Mexican or Latino ever....
All because of what I saw...just like Anna , I had to grow up. Live my own life for me. Break out of my comfort zones. I had to learn to have an open mind when it came to making new friends or starting a new relationship....
Now at the age of 35 I'm married to my best friend, my wonderful MEXICAN husband lol and I have a son. I still have a lot of growing to do, plenty more to learn.
I love Anna(I felt like I had a friend in her)
Wonderful job in writing this book! I cannot wait to read more of your work
Growing up as a Mexican American, I've lived through plenty of the stereotypes you hear about ...having the entire family under one roof. Fighting with your siblings over the most silliest things. Having cousins over every weekend. A cookout (carne asada) almost every weekend. ... because I was Surrounded by so much of my family, I was fortunate enough to have been surrounded by so much love, and support. But I also grew up with people who weren't as supportive, and grew to watch failed relationships...marriages. I've seen different forms of abuse. When I reached the early stage of my teenage years , up until my early 20's I've always said I'm never EVER getting married! I'll NEEEVVVEERRRR have children's. I'm NOT going to date ANY Mexican or Latino ever....
All because of what I saw...just like Anna , I had to grow up. Live my own life for me. Break out of my comfort zones. I had to learn to have an open mind when it came to making new friends or starting a new relationship....
Now at the age of 35 I'm married to my best friend, my wonderful MEXICAN husband lol and I have a son. I still have a lot of growing to do, plenty more to learn.
I love Anna(I felt like I had a friend in her)
Wonderful job in writing this book! I cannot wait to read more of your work
November 7, 2020
I received Crushing on You from Jen Trinh as a donation for our community little free library. As soon as I had this book in my hands – saw the beautiful artwork on the cover, felt the texture of the book cover and read the preface - I was hooked and I knew I was reading this novel before I placed it into the hands of others in our neighborhood. I am so glad I did. Jen Trinh has a great story telling voice and this romance book is just what I’m looking for this year – diversity, adventure, self-exploration and a little steam and excitement.
What I liked most about this romance is Anna’s exploration into what it means to be independent and also be in a committed, healthy relationship. I also really enjoyed reading about rock climbing (something I’ve never really thought much about aside from seeing people climb in state parks or my kids climb walls at local gyms), but after reading this book I’m nearly convinced that I’m ready to take on the challenge. I can’t wait to read what Jen Trinh writes next.
What I liked most about this romance is Anna’s exploration into what it means to be independent and also be in a committed, healthy relationship. I also really enjoyed reading about rock climbing (something I’ve never really thought much about aside from seeing people climb in state parks or my kids climb walls at local gyms), but after reading this book I’m nearly convinced that I’m ready to take on the challenge. I can’t wait to read what Jen Trinh writes next.
August 30, 2020
Let me just say i absolutely ADORE asian representation in media, so reading about cute asian love stories always makes me happy :-) this was adorable!!
Also, im a climber SO THIS WAS AWESOME! Very inspiring and just... everything this author wrote about the experience was true ahaha. Wanting to get super strong for the sole purpose of becoming cool climber chick? Going from being TERRIFIED of the wall to slowly getting over your own mental barriers stopping you from trying that dino??? The amazing and welcoming community? UGH I LOVE IT ALL and im glad that the author was able to put her passions for that in this book :-)
Also! Speaking about passions! Watching the two main characters chase theirs was absolutely lovely🥺there really is so much more to life for each individual person. I loved watching them strive for their own personal goals!
ALSO jen trinh seems like the COOLEST person ever and i now have a person crush on her.
Also, im a climber SO THIS WAS AWESOME! Very inspiring and just... everything this author wrote about the experience was true ahaha. Wanting to get super strong for the sole purpose of becoming cool climber chick? Going from being TERRIFIED of the wall to slowly getting over your own mental barriers stopping you from trying that dino??? The amazing and welcoming community? UGH I LOVE IT ALL and im glad that the author was able to put her passions for that in this book :-)
Also! Speaking about passions! Watching the two main characters chase theirs was absolutely lovely🥺there really is so much more to life for each individual person. I loved watching them strive for their own personal goals!
ALSO jen trinh seems like the COOLEST person ever and i now have a person crush on her.
January 8, 2020
I'm not normally a romance novel reader, but this book is a delight. The Ian and Anna, are realistic and relatable (especially for millenials). The protagonists are both Chinese-American, which is an important part, but not a singular part of their identities and experiences. The author alternates between first person accounts from each of their perspectives provides an opportunity to explain their motivations and feelings in a natural way. Best of all, it avoids all the worst romance tropes. There's no "guy keeps asking out a girl/pursuing her because he's the right one for her and he just has to convince her of it" or as it's known in real life: stalking. Ian and Anna's love really seems mutual and a product of agency on both their parts. Although this is mostly a romance, not erotica, there are rather explicit steamy parts which are definitely NSFW.
March 25, 2021
This book has been on my TBR list for a while and I’m so glad I picked it up! I really enjoyed it and I’ve already started the second book in the series.
I’ll be honest, right out of the gate I wasn’t sure I’d like it. I judged the book by the cover, and I don’t generally read romances with pastel covers. I like my romance full steam ahead, and those books don’t generally have pastel covers.
Let me tell you, this book has tons o' steam! It’s also a charming romance and a great story about two people growing up and finding themselves.
I love Jen’s writing style. She breathes life into her characters so they practically climb off the page. Heh! See what I did there? There are definitely times when the Anna character drove me crazy with her selfishness, but she matures a lot and by the end I was happy for her HEA.
Long story short, I highly recommend.
I’ll be honest, right out of the gate I wasn’t sure I’d like it. I judged the book by the cover, and I don’t generally read romances with pastel covers. I like my romance full steam ahead, and those books don’t generally have pastel covers.
Let me tell you, this book has tons o' steam! It’s also a charming romance and a great story about two people growing up and finding themselves.
I love Jen’s writing style. She breathes life into her characters so they practically climb off the page. Heh! See what I did there? There are definitely times when the Anna character drove me crazy with her selfishness, but she matures a lot and by the end I was happy for her HEA.
Long story short, I highly recommend.
June 29, 2020
I really liked this book. I’m a sucker for romance novels generally, but often struggle with super toxic themes/tropes that are frequently central to the plots. I didn’t have those issues with this book. It was refreshing to have two Asian American leads, sex scenes that were steamy and 100% consensual, and cool tidbits about climbing. I really liked the narrative voice a lot; it was fun and felt like a friend telling a story. Super relatable. While a romance novel, it felt like the sole purpose of the characters wasn’t to get married. I liked seeing the characters evolve and grow. It felt hopeful. Change is hard and scary, but ultimately worth it. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Read
July 23, 2020Up to about 80%, I disliked this book. The heroine was a judgmental mess who took advantage of other people and the hero had next to no personality. The heroine's ex was admittedly an ass but the way she treated him was not commendable.
However, it was nice to see the characters grow and become better. I feel like this would have been a stronger book if we had seen the characters grow throughout the book, as opposed to packing all the character development in the last 20% of the book. By then, I had spent most of the book disliking the characters and being disinterested in their romance.
Since this is a debut book, I hope that Trinh manages to iron out these issues in her later books.
However, it was nice to see the characters grow and become better. I feel like this would have been a stronger book if we had seen the characters grow throughout the book, as opposed to packing all the character development in the last 20% of the book. By then, I had spent most of the book disliking the characters and being disinterested in their romance.
Since this is a debut book, I hope that Trinh manages to iron out these issues in her later books.
January 28, 2021
I started this book last night and couldn’t put it down! I picked it up since I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Jen's newest book and I wanted to read her earlier books first but happily got very into it very quickly.
I really appreciated the personal growth that both the main characters go through in this book, as well as the ownership they both take for their mistakes. Even though I am not a climber or Asian American, Jen paints such a clear, detailed picture of everything she writes, so I felt like I really knew what was going on and could identify with the characters even though they are so different from me.
Crushing on You was an amazingly enjoyable read.
Bonus points that it is a seriously steamy read!!
I really appreciated the personal growth that both the main characters go through in this book, as well as the ownership they both take for their mistakes. Even though I am not a climber or Asian American, Jen paints such a clear, detailed picture of everything she writes, so I felt like I really knew what was going on and could identify with the characters even though they are so different from me.
Crushing on You was an amazingly enjoyable read.
Bonus points that it is a seriously steamy read!!
March 8, 2022
Anna and Ian were such wonderfully complex characters. Each had their own issues and hang ups. Anna had so much that she had gone through and in her mind not dating an Asian guy was at the top of her dating no-no list. When she meets Ian on a flight to their mutual friends wedding, both of them unknowingly have their worlds turned upside down. They become reckless and in a situation that could only end badly, and it does. They both had to go through some serious introspection and learning about what they really want. It takes some tough situations for them to realize any other this. I could not stop listening to this book once I started. Both Emily Woo Zeller and James Chen did an amazing job with every character in this story and I enjoyed their performances so much!
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