The Romance Rivalry

In this unapologetic ode to love and books by Lee (The Name Drop), rival book influencers live out the romantic tropes they read about in a competition to see who can find love first. Irene Park’s passion for romance novels extends to her online presence as a book reviewer with a million followers, but her IRL love life is different. Sandwiched between her beautiful older sister and prodigal younger brother, Irene feels like a mediocre middle child in her Korean American family. And, having never been in a relationship before, she begins questioning her credibility as a romance reviewer. During her freshman year at Brighton College, Irene—determined to find true love—utilizies her extensive rom-com knowledge and enters her dating era. But she encounters a plot twist: rival influencer and personal nemesis Aiden Jeon—also Korean American and a Brighton student—catches on to her plan and claims he can beat Irene at her own game. They soon find themselves fake-dating, and Irene must reckon with the fear and anxiety that romance—even a pretend attachment—entails. Each chapter title pays homage to a familiar romance trope, while the characters’ witty banter ensures that there’s something for everyone in this original K-drama-style romp. Ages 13–up. (May)