Review of Never Thought I’d End Up Here by Ann Liang
There are books that simply sweep you off your feet, and then there’s Never Thought I’d End Up Here—a delightful romcom that introduces you to a whirlwind of emotions, childhood memories, and unexpected love. I’ve always appreciated Ann Liang’s unique storytelling, but this latest novel left me absolutely enchanted. From the second I turned the first page, I was hooked. Thank you, Scholastic Canada, for sending me an ARC—I’m forever grateful!
At its heart, this story is a joyous exploration of youthful angst and self-discovery, perfectly wrapped in a childhood enemies-to-lovers romance set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai. Leah Zhang—a character who feels achingly real—grapples with insecurities and the complexities of navigating her culture, not to mention the chaos of teenage emotions. As Leah balances her flaws with humor and warmth, we witness her journey of self-acceptance, igniting a nostalgia that many of us can relate to. With lines like “when joy arrives, it catches me off guard,” the author articulates feelings that resonate deeply.
The dynamic between Leah and Cyrus Sui is electric and filled with ‘pinch-me-I’m-dreaming’ moments. I found myself cheerily screaming into my pillow as they danced around their feelings—those tiny, stolen glances and the undeniable tension that builds between them are undeniably electric. Cyrus, with his swoon-worthy gestures and unexpected sweetness, has officially made my book boyfriend list! Seriously, who wouldn’t want a guy who remembers every childhood detail and goes above and beyond to make you feel special?
Liang’s writing is humorously engaging, filled with witty repartees and relatable situations, making it perfect for summer reading. It’s refreshing and light-hearted compared to her previous work, I Am Not Jessica Chen, yet still delves into important themes like self-doubt and the search for identity. The pacing flows seamlessly, allowing each moment between Leah and Cyrus to breathe, which amplifies the story’s emotional stakes. Frankly, I devoured this book in two days, filled with giggles, and heartfelt sighs of joy.
And can we talk about the setting? Shanghai bursts to life in Liang’s prose, enveloping you in its rich culture and beauty. Each scene, whether it was a flight back to childhood memories or the quirky hotel room antics, felt vividly real.
Ultimately, Never Thought I’d End Up Here isn’t just a romance; it’s a delightful reminder that love can sneak up on you in the most unexpected ways, just when you think you’ve thrown in the towel. If you’re a fan of heartwarming romcoms, childhood crushes, or stories that resonate with cultural identity, this book is a must-read. You’ll laugh, cry, and reminisce about your own experiences of love and friendship.
In a world where we often struggle with our identities, Leah’s journey felt both personal and universal. It reminded me that joy comes from embracing who you are, flaws and all. So, go ahead, grab yourself a copy when it releases on June 3rd. Trust me, you won’t regret it! 💖
— Joni xx
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