Review of I Hope This Finds You by Ann Liang
When I first stumbled upon Ann Liang’s I Hope This Finds You, I was drawn in by more than just the striking cover; it felt like a beacon for my heart, promising a blend of romance and rivalry that I simply couldn’t resist. The way Liang weaves heartfelt narratives is akin to a warm hug on a chilly day, making you feel seen and understood. So, of course, I dove in, perhaps with the fervor of a binging caffeine addict eager for that next hit—and let me tell you, I was not disappointed!
At the core of this novella, we follow Sadie Wen and Julius Gong, two academic rivals whose dynamic simmers with both tension and undeniable affection. They come alive on the page, their journey filled with authentic moments that made my heart skip. One moment, they’re battling it out in an academic setting, and the next, they’re entangled in a dance of jealousy and sweet acts of service. Liang has expertly crafted them as characters that are as flawed as they are lovable, making their interactions resonate deeply.
One of the highlights for me was the relatable humor and clever banter that punctuated the narrative. I found myself smiling at Sadie’s internal monologue, especially when she quips, “Listen well, Ann Liang… my therapist will hear about this.” There’s a playful tone that suggests Liang is as aware of her audience as she is of her characters, allowing readers to connect with both on a personal level.
The pacing of the novella is spot-on. Though it’s only 73 pages, Liang fills every word with purpose, capturing the essence of first loves, misunderstandings, and the joy of finding someone who truly "has your back." There’s a palpable chemistry between Sadie and Julius that can only be described as electric—like when Sadie playfully teases, “If you’re going to kiss me like that whenever you’re jealous, I’ll have to make you jealous more often.” It’s moments like these that make you ache for more, leaving me eagerly turning pages, wishing it never had to end.
Let’s talk about the deeper themes that linger long after closing the book. I Hope This Finds You doesn’t shy away from addressing personal growth, the intricacies of relationships, and the kind of love that’s built on understanding and shared experiences. The bond between Sadie and Julius is a testament to teamwork, not just in their rivalry but in their willingness to navigate their flaws and insecurities together.
For anyone who revels in academic rivals turning lovers or enjoys a dash of domestic fluff in their romance, this novella is a treasure. If you’ve ever found yourself dissecting a relationship over a favorite snack or wished for a partner who remembers even the tiniest details about you—like Julius remembering the color of Sadie’s first-date skirt—you’ll want to read this book immediately.
In conclusion, I Hope This Finds You left me breathless and yearning for more of Sadie and Julius’s charming escapades. Whether you’re a fan of lighthearted romances or simply looking for a quick read that delivers on emotional depth, I can’t recommend this enough. Once you turn the final page, you might just find yourself, like me, wishing for a full-length novel starring these beloved characters. Trust me—your heart will thank you for it!