Light, fun, well written. ( )

So I know this isn't this author's debut novel, but Susan Lee is new to me. I was really in the mood for a contemporary YA romance while visiting my childhood hometown recently, and the premise and cover drew me in.

It is a quick read, less than 300 pages. The POV alternates between Elijah and Jessica's. And feels like your typical mistaken identity, office romance. It was a cute story and I could relate to both Jessica and Elijah's family drama, and both characters were very voicey so it was fun to read about them.

One star less because I couldn't feel the chemistry between our two leads, and that they got together because they were supposed to. The 'drama' felt like it was there for the sake of drama and I couldn't understand the reason why they supposedly couldn't be together.

Still, this was a fun vacation read and it had a very cute, HEA :) ( )

*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*

Hello Fellow Readers,

This was such a fun and drama-filled romance. Typically when romances are full of drama I tend to turn my nose up at them but in "The Name Drop' it made sense. First of all, the premise is right up my alley a case of mistaken identity causes two teens from opposite sides of the financial spectrum to meet and ultimately, fall in love. Jessica and Elijah were so cute and I loved how throughout the book you can see their characters grow into young adults.

Of course, considering the plot you know eventually the poo is going to strike the blades of a fan so there is an underlying tension of waiting for when they get caught and the fallout. This is where the meat of the drama is, and some drama it is, It only takes a couple of chapters there is a lot that happens. Despite being a romance, there are some serious topics that Lee handles like misogyny and classism. I do appreciate the epilogue as I always wonder how things go after the ending, and it went exactly as I hope.

Overall, a great romance. ( )

I loved this book so much! Jessica and Elijah were so cute together, and I really liked how they gradually learned to trust and rely on each other. I also liked how they were not afraid to put themselves out there and try to figure out who they are apart from their parents’ expectations. The story is told in dual POVs, which worked well for this story, as it was necessary to truly understand and connect with both of the characters.

Jessica’s inner monologues made me giggle to myself so much! I literally covered my face with the book when Elijah said “I’m sorry I loved missing you.” Oh, Elijah. It brought back memories of my best friend's amusing attempt at flirting with a cute waiter she used to have a crush on. I remember her asking him if she could have “glass water ice” to which he just smiled and said, “Do you want that together?” Just in case you think these things only happen in romance books. This book made me laugh out loud so many times!

There was great character development throughout the book, and Jessica and Elijah both grew as people by the end of the story. It was a well-balanced book, blending romance and humor while also addressing real-life issues like classism and misogyny. It's the perfect book for getting you out of a reading slump! Also, when are we getting the movie adaptation?

The story was a bit predictable at times, but it was still such a fun read! I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you’re looking for a cute, lighthearted, slow-burn ya romance, with kdrama vibes and just the right amount of angst!

Thank you, BookishFirst, the publisher Inkyard Press, and author Susan Lee for the gifted copy! I received a copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ( )

I enjoyed pretty much everything about "The Name Drop". The premise is that two young people, the wealthy male heir-apparent and a smart but less affluent female both have summer internships at the same company. The fun starts when, due to the two having the same Korean name, Jessica is given the corporate royal treatment while Elijah is treated like a "regular person". As both are eager to experience everything their new roles have to offer, they decide not to reveal the mistake. Chaos and romance ensue!

I liked that the book is written in alternating chapters from the perspectives of the two main characters. It was nice to see events through both their eyes, and watch as each experiences a new world. I also enjoyed the romance between the two. I found it very realistic as it gradually unfolded, and found myself invested in how things worked out for them as a couple.

The corporate aspect was interesting as well. In fact, I wouldn't have minded a bit more about the work Jessica and Elijah actually did as part of their internships. A big corporate event near the end was the perfect finishing touch. The New York setting added a lot to the story, as did the Korean cultural elements that were included.

All in all, a highly enjoyable romance! ( )