Book Review: Never Thought I’d End Up Here by Ann Liang
Sometimes, a book comes along and captures your heart in unexpected ways, and Never Thought I’d End Up Here is precisely that for me. As soon as I saw the cover and read the premise, I knew Ann Liang—who has a knack for penning relatable characters and heartwarming stories—would deliver something special. With its joyful childhood enemies-to-lovers trope set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai, I couldn’t resist diving in.
At its core, Never Thought I’d End Up Here is a delightful exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery. The story follows Leah Zhang, a flawed but relatable protagonist grappling with insecurities and self-loathing. Through her eyes, we witness a journey of rediscovering her roots and embracing her culture, navigating her complex feelings towards Cyrus Sui—her childhood nemesis who unexpectedly finds his way back into her life. The dynamic between Leah and Cyrus feels real; their playful pettiness and the underlying tension create a captivating push-and-pull that kept me thoroughly engaged.
What struck me most about Liang’s writing style is her ability to balance humor with earnest emotion. The pacing flows effortlessly, making it easy to lose track of time as you get wrapped up in Leah’s world. The book offers moments that make you laugh out loud—like the hilarity of a childhood revenge plot—and others that hit deep, such as Leah’s reflections on joy and self-worth. One particular quote resonated with me: “When joy arrives, it catches me off guard.” It beautifully encapsulates Leah’s struggle, and truthfully, many of us feel that way at times.
Now, let’s talk about Cyrus. Can I just say: swoon? He might just be my new favorite book boyfriend. His complexity—portrayed with a mix of façade and vulnerability—adds depth to the story. From his adorable gestures to his memorable lines like, “I never wanted you to hate me, I never wanted you to leave,” I found myself rooting for them to admit their feelings at every turn. This kind of character development, where both Leah and Cyrus have their flaws and growth arcs, is what makes readers invest emotionally in their journey.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted but meaningful romance, especially perfect for those silly summer vibes, then Never Thought I’d End Up Here should be on your radar. It’s a beautifully crafted book that weaves humor with thoughtful insights on mental health, identity, and the struggles of teenage life. Liang seamlessly creates a narrative that feels authentic, making it relatable to teens and adults alike. Plus, it has enough playful moments to keep you giggling throughout.
I wholeheartedly recommend this charming read to anyone searching for a story that celebrates love, growth, and the complexity of relationships. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page, leaving you with a smile and a yearning for your own Cyrus Sui (and maybe a trip to Shanghai!).
So, mark your calendars for June 3rd—Never Thought I’d End Up Here is a book you’ll want to get your hands on! Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Happy reading! 💗
— Joni
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