Book Review: Never Thought I’d End Up Here by Ann Liang
Ever stumble upon a book that instantly feels like a warm hug? For me, that was Never Thought I’d End Up Here by Ann Liang. As someone who thrives on witty banter and heartfelt connections in contemporary YA, this novel has become a cherished gem in my collection. With its June 3 release just around the corner, I couldn’t help but dive into the pages, and oh boy, am I glad I did!
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai, this story expertly navigates the treacherous waters of childhood enemies to lovers, sprinkled with forced proximity and a hefty dose of humor. Leah Zhang, our flawed yet relatable protagonist, grapples with insecurities and self-discovery, all while dealing with the complexities of love and friendship. CyruS Sui—his name alone makes me swoon—is not just your typical love interest; he’s the embodiment of yearning and youthful romance, breathing life into the pages with his delightful quirks and emotional depth.
Liang’s writing sparkles with authenticity. The way she captures Leah’s internal struggles and her journey of self-acceptance resonated deeply with me. One quote particularly struck a chord: “When joy arrives, it catches me off guard.” This sentiment mirrors my own experiences, reminding me how elusive true happiness can feel at times. It’s moments like this that illustrate why I adore Liang’s work. She has an uncanny ability to weave relatable emotional truths into her narratives, leaving readers feeling seen and understood.
The pacing of the story is wonderfully vibrant, filled with moments that had me cackling and sighing in equal measure. As the plot unfolds, Leah’s vendetta against Cyrus quickly shifts from petty revenge to unexpected affection—a slow burn that kept me on the edge of my seat. Their playful exchanges felt so genuine, and the yearning was palpable, especially in lines like, “I forget to hate you a lot of the time.”
Moreover, the lightheartedness of this romcom is refreshing, especially compared to Liang’s previous works. While there are touches of romance and subtle innuendo, it perfectly balances humor with meaningful motifs around mental health and identity. I mean, who doesn’t love a good revenge arc mixed with a dash of childhood nostalgia, right?
I can’t help but gush over the captivating dynamic between Leah and Cyrus. Their chemistry is electric—the kind that had me wishing for more swoony moments. And let’s not even get started on the way Cyrus remembers the tiniest details of their childhood adventures. It’s sweet and utterly swoon-worthy, raising the bar for what romance should look like—even in fiction!
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful summer read, Never Thought I’d End Up Here deserves a spot on your TBR. Elena will surely resonate with readers seeking stories of self-discovery wrapped in laughter, love, and a sprinkle of that childhood magic we all crave. I finished this book feeling buoyed by its joy, and I can’t wait to see how it resonates with others.
In closing, Ann Liang has once again proven her brilliance. This enchanting story captivated my heart and carved its place in my soul, and I can’t wait to hear how it touches yours. Happy reading, everyone! 💖
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