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Review | XOXO

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Summary: XOXO

XOXO is about a Korean-American teen and cello prodigy, Jenny. One night she meets and likes a stranger, Jaewoo. They basically go on a date, take photos in a photo booth and exchange numbers, only for Jaewoo to stop responding to her texts. When her grandmother becomes sick, Jenny’s mother decides to travel to South Korea to look after her. She eventually agrees that Jenny can transfer schools and move with her. But soon after they arrive, Jenny realizes that Jaewoo is 1/4th of the popular new K-Pop boy band, XOXO — and is forbidden from dating.

This was a swoon-worthy love story! I loved hearing about Jenny’s Seoul experience and seeing her bond with her grandmother. Jenny attends an elite arts high school with many of the kids with K-Pop ambitions, including some who are already stars. She quickly learns about the K-Pop scenes and the fact that K-Pop idols are forbidden from dating and answer to their fans to a large extent.

Besides the culture shock, the book also explores Jenny’s relationship with her mother who has super high expectations and expects her to focus on her music career. Something I really liked about this book is Jenny sounds like a real teen and so do her friends. I loved the realistic dynamics between her, Sori, Nathanael, Angela, and the other kids in the program.

Finally, the high point of this story for me was the SWEET relationship between Jaewoo and Jenny. Jaewoo is such a responsible teen and it’s obvious how much he cares for his teammates and for Jenny. Their scenes together had me grinning big!

Overall: XOXO

XOXO is a swoon-worthy, adorable YA romance set in South Korea. Following two musicians — one a cellist and the other the lead singer of a K-Pop band — this book will appeal to lovers of YA books about music , Asian YA novels , and stories about teens and their grandparents. If you love to travel on the page, don’t miss this YA novel set in Seoul.

Buy This Book

XOXO

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by Axie Oh ‧ RELEASE DATE: July 13, 2021

K-pop helps a cellist develop musically and emotionally in this novel filled with humor and theatrics.

A driven young woman learns to balance expectations and priorities with heart and passion.

A vivid, comical scene of everyday life in Koreatown introduces narrator Jenny Jooyoung Go, a high school junior and classical cellist aiming for a top conservatory. While her single-minded focus yields technical perfection, competition judges deem Jenny lacking in soulful spark. Her Uncle Jay advises her to experience more of life and broaden her horizons. An opportunity soon beckons, and the plot unfolds like a minidrama amid the Los Angeles Korean Festival, launching Jenny and her new acquaintance, Jaewoo, on an accidental adventure that foreshadows romance. When her mom, a widowed immigration lawyer, needs to return to Seoul to care for her dying mother, Jenny negotiates to go along for her first visit to Korea. Attending Seoul Arts Academy, Jenny witnesses the institutional grooming of K-pop idols—including (surprise!) classmate Jaewoo, who, as it turns out, is popular band XOXO’s lead singer. She also shares in the student performers’ duty-bound lives: Behind the glamour, they are burdened with obligations to their communities that can require sacrifice of their personal happiness. Themes of responsibility, regret, and reconciliation weave through the intergenerational dynamics in Jenny’s family, adding dimension and depth. The author incorporates Korean honorifics to convey a conversational tone and signal dialogue occurring in both languages.

Pub Date: July 13, 2021

ISBN: 978-0-06-302499-1

Page Count: 352

Publisher: HarperTeen

Review Posted Online: May 16, 2021

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2021

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION

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THE FIELD GUIDE TO THE NORTH AMERICAN TEENAGER

THE FIELD GUIDE TO THE NORTH AMERICAN TEENAGER

by Ben Philippe ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 8, 2019

Despite some missteps, this will appeal to readers who enjoy a fresh and realistic teen voice.

A teenage, not-so-lonely loner endures the wilds of high school in Austin, Texas.

Norris Kaplan, the protagonist of Philippe’s debut novel, is a hypersweaty, uber-snarky black, Haitian, French-Canadian pushing to survive life in his new school. His professor mom’s new tenure-track job transplants Norris mid–school year, and his biting wit and sarcasm are exposed through his cataloging of his new world in a field guide–style burn book. He’s greeted in his new life by an assortment of acquaintances, Liam, who is white and struggling with depression; Maddie, a self-sacrificing white cheerleader with a heart of gold; and Aarti, his Indian-American love interest who offers connection. Norris’ ego, fueled by his insecurities, often gets in the way of meaningful character development. The scenes showcasing his emotional growth are too brief and, despite foreshadowing, the climax falls flat because he still gets incredible personal access to people he’s hurt. A scene where Norris is confronted by his mother for getting drunk and belligerent with a white cop is diluted by his refusal or inability to grasp the severity of the situation and the resultant minor consequences. The humor is spot-on, as is the representation of the black diaspora; the opportunity for broader conversations about other topics is there, however, the uneven buildup of detailed, meaningful exchanges and the glibness of Norris’ voice detract.

Pub Date: Jan. 8, 2019

ISBN: 978-0-06-282411-0

Page Count: 384

Publisher: Balzer + Bray/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: Oct. 14, 2018

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2018

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL THEMES

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OUT OF CHARACTER

OUT OF CHARACTER

by Jenna Miller ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 7, 2023

Despite the well-meaning warmth, a wearying plod.

Can a 17-year-old with her first girlfriend prevent real-life folks from discovering her online fandoms?

Cass is proudly queer, happily fat, and extremely secretive about being a fan who role-plays on Discord. Back in middle school, she had what she calls a gaming addiction, playing “The Sims” so much her parents had to take the game away. Now, turning to her role-play friends to cope with her fighting parents, she worries that people will judge her for her fannishness and online life. To be fair, her grades are suffering. And sure, maybe she’s missed a college application deadline. Also, her mom has suddenly left Minneapolis and moved to Maine to be with a man she met online. But on the other hand, Cass is finally dating her amazingly cute longtime crush, Taylor. Pansexual Taylor is a gamer, a little bit punk, White like Cass, and so, so great—but she still can’t help comparing her to Rowan, Cass’ online best friend and role-playing ship partner. But Rowan doesn’t want to be a dirty little secret and doesn’t see why Cass can’t be honest about this part of her life. The inevitable train wreck of her lies looms on the horizon for months in an overlong morality play building to the climax that includes tidy resolutions to all the character arcs that are quite heartwarming but, in the case of Cass’ estranged mother, narratively unearned.

Pub Date: Feb. 7, 2023

ISBN: 978-0-06-324332-3

Publisher: Quill Tree Books/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: Nov. 15, 2022

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2022

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL THEMES | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION

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XOXO Review: A Fluffy Romance for K-Pop Fans

August 5, 2021 by Jenna | 3 stars , Books , Reviews

XOXO Review: A Fluffy Romance for K-Pop Fans

Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar, it’s clear he’s the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans. But in a moment of spontaneity, she allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone for one unforgettable night of adventure…before he disappears without a word. Three months later, when Jenny and her mother arrive in South Korea to take care of her ailing grandmother, she’s shocked to discover that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she’s enrolled for the semester. And he’s not just any student. He’s a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world—and he’s strictly forbidden from dating. When a relationship means throwing Jenny’s life off the path she’s spent years mapping out, she’ll have to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.

If you love contemporary romances and K-pop, you will  love  XOXO! I’m not really a K-Pop person, but I am a J-Pop and idol kind of girl so this book was still the perfect light and fluffy romance read for me. I mean, anyone who’s into idol culture has fantasised about dating an idol right? 😀

XOXO follows Jenny Go, a Korean-American high school student and talented cellist who is aiming to attend a top music school after she graduates. However, after being told that she lacks spark by a cello competition panel, she decides to let loose a little. She meets a mysterious boy at her uncles karaoke bar and they end up on a wild one-night adventure, before he mysteriously disappears. Soon after, Jenny and her mother decide to move temporarily to Seoul, Korea to convince Jenny’s sick grandmother to receive treatment, and Jenny has the shock of her life when she realises her mystery boy is none other than K-pop idol, Jaewoo, who also attends her performing arts school in Seoul. Except when they meet again, he acts as if he doesn’t know her.

There was so much to love about this book. It was an easy read with a relatable main character (besides the whole dating a K-pop idol thing) and a romance you could get behind. I loved all of the side characters and enjoyed reading about Jenny’s newfound friends – I’m really hoping that Axie Oh is planning to come out with companion novels based on some of these friends! And I really enjoyed being able to read more about Korean culture and hearing about all of the delicious foods.

What I did struggle with a little bit were all of the plot points that were a bit unresolved. Everything just seemed to work out in the end and the things that hadn’t 100% worked out were glossed over and forgotten. One of the more interesting elements of the book was the underlying theme of family, especially since Jenny and her mother have a bit of a strained relationship due to her mother being a bit absent. The novel started to explore this a bit but it was never really resolved in the end, and there weren’t any meaningful conversations between mother and daughter that made the story feel complete. The secrecy around Jenny and Jaewoo’s relationship also wasn’t really resolved – despite getting a really nice ending, it wasn’t really clear how their relationship would progress, with idols being forbidden to date.

Despite this, I still had a lot of fun reading XOXO and was able to overlook most of these things.

book review xoxo

For anyone looking for a light and easy read, I’d highly recommend XOXO. It involves a fluffy and feel-good story and some really great characters who you’ll want to read more about. Despite having a few issues with some unresolved plotlines, I still really enjoyed the reading experience.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

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Thank you to Harper Collins for the review copy.

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2 responses to “ XOXO Review: A Fluffy Romance for K-Pop Fans ”

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Great review, Jenna! I also really enjoyed this one, especially with how cute Jenny and Jaewoo are and I love their friend group! I do wish things were resolved more clearly, especially about Jenny’s relationship with her mom and her mom with her grandma. The ending was quite open with a lot of subplot. I’m hoping a second chance romance for a certain character…

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Axie Oh’s ‘XOXO’ Perfectly Pairs Romance And K-pop – Book Review

Jenny is a cello prodigy and she will do everything in her power to be a success and attend a prestigious music school. Entrenched in her musical studies, Jenny is surprised by a chance encounter with a boy around her age at her uncle’s karaoke joint. This chance meeting ends up being one of the most exciting in Jenny’s young life, but Jaewoo quickly disappears from her life as swiftly as he became part of it. Not thinking she would ever see Jaewoo again, Jenny is shocked to find him enrolled in the same school as her when she and her mother move to Korea in order to take care of her ailing grandmother. Not only is Jaewoo back from oblivion, but Jenny also learns that he is not just any student, he’s also a member of one of the biggest K-pop groups in existence. And while he’s strictly forbidden from dating, Jaewoo and Jenny might just have to ignore all of the obstacles in their respective ways and take a chance on each other.

Axie Oh’s XOXO is most certainly a breath of fresh air. It is rich in story-telling and is reminiscent of watching a K-Drama (those who have watched, will definitely know what I am talking about), and on top of this, it was so hard to put down. Oh’s writing is pitch-perfect throughout the novel and she does so much to reel the reader in. No amount of detail goes unnoticed and it adds another element to make this book great. In addition to lush storytelling, Oh created a group of characters that are hard not to love and are utterly relatable.

Book Cover - XOXO by Axie Oh

XOXO ‘s protagonist, Jenny is full of dreams and determination. She wants to do all she can to make her family happy and oftentimes finds herself wondering if what she’s doing is enough. She is hard on herself and although she has a gift, she doubts herself and her drive. Many of us have (or will) experience all of these feelings at some point in our lifetime and have to find a way to navigate it all through whatever we are going through. This is the same for Jenny and part of what makes her such a great character. It’s clear that Oh created Jenny with an earnestness and honesty that transcends the pages.

Alongside Jenny on this journey is Jaewoo, the handsome K-pop idol who is quickly coming for Jenny’s heart (and who can blame her, especially with that sleeve of tattoos). A little broody, humourous and raw, Jaewoo’s the kind of character that will have many referring to him as their “book boyfriend”. Coupled with Jenny, the two bring out the best in one another and push each other outside of their comfort zones in some of the best ways. It was truly a treat reading the pair interact with one another with all the ups and downs their respective lives threw at them.

While the secret romance between the pair is a main theme of the novel, that isn’t all it has to offer readers. Oh does a compelling job at showing just more than a fantastical romance. XOXO is also a book about family, fulfilling dreams or figuring them out, and doing one’s best to overcome self-doubt and whatever fans its flame within us. Whether you’re a seemingly regular girl or a K-pop idol, there will always be times that self-doubt gets the better of us and we need a little pick-me-up. XOXO certainly serves to be one of these pick-me-ups and I am so grateful to have had the chance to read it!

If you’re looking for a fun romance that combines wonderful writing, charismatic characters and K-pop, then XOXO needs to be added to your to-be-read list as quickly as possible.

XOXO is now available for purchase from your local book store and also available as an e-book!

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XOXO by Axie Oh | Book Review

xoxo by axie oh book cover

XOXO by Axie Oh

Pub Date: July 13, 2021 by HarperTeen

[ Amazon | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Bookshop ]

Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar, it’s clear he’s the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans. But in a moment of spontaneity, she allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone for one unforgettable night of adventure…before he disappears without a word.

Three months later, when Jenny and her mother arrive in South Korea to take care of her ailing grandmother, she’s shocked to discover that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she’s enrolled for the semester. And he’s not just any student. He’s a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world—and he’s strictly forbidden from dating.

When a relationship means throwing Jenny’s life off the path she’s spent years mapping out, she’ll have to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.

This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission through qualifying purchases.

 I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book from the Publisher. All opinions are my own.

Initial Thoughts 🧠

This book was an absolute delight! I’m so in love with the cover, I mean look at the colors and the illustrations! They’re so pleasing to the eyes! 😍

XOXO also took me down a nostalgic road of watching K-dramas I loved . I don’t usually watch K-dramas in a high school setting nowadays but this book made me reminisce the ones I enjoyed since I was a teenager.

Innocent (Secret) Romance

Reading XOXO felt like I was watching a K-drama , and it helps that it ticks a lot of boxes in a K-drama trope list. But it’s the innocent (and secret) romance between Jenny and Jaewoo that made my heart sing . They were super cute and I love that they’re open to each other as well. I was excited but a little wary of how the relationship between Jenny and Jaewoo would play out since Jaewoo is an idol. I’ve watched a lot of K-dramas that feature a relationship where one is a popular figure and it gets ugly a lot , especially in a sageuk (historical drama)! But I think XOXO handled it pretty well.

I also love the side characters! Nathaniel and Youngmin were both charming in their own ways. I love Sori and how she softens up and becomes a friend to Jenny. Angela and Gi Taek reminded me of a lot of K-drama second couples! The same goes for Nathaniel and Sori! I wish there’s a sequel or companion book that focuses on their relationship!

The last thing about the romance that I love was that there’s no love triangle!!!!!! K-drama love triangles tire me so much 🤣. I’m marked safe from second lead syndromes!

People who live for tomorrow should fear the people who live for today. xOXO by Axie oh

Shining a light to the K-Pop Industry

I’m not a big K-pop fan, but I know how ugly the South Korean Entertainment Industry can also get, especially for idols who started their training at an early age. I like how the author included those topics in the book because it’s important to highlight them. I really like that the author made a conscious choice of having Jaewoo see a therapist in the story. I’m aware of the mental health stigma and am reminded of popular names whose lives were taken away as a result.

The book also reflects the good, the bad, and the ugly in fan interactions, paparazzi and tabloids *coughs* Dispatch!! !, and how it affects the lives of actual people.

Overall Thoughts 💡

I haven’t binged a K-drama for a long time (I’m only watching Hospital Playlist S2 right now!) and XOXO really pushed me to go back and watch some!

I really had a great time reading this book and it made me feel all the warm, fuzzy feelings! I was smiling all throughout the book because the characters were all a joy to read. The book also imparts the message of pursuing your passion, and I like how it sort of ties up to filial piety too , a common virtue in Asian families.

I just wished I’d seen more of Jenny with her cello. Though I guess it was also the point of the book, where she gets distracted from her plans. Some parts of the story also felt rushed but overall, I had a great reading experience.

Do I recommend this? YES! Especially if you love K-dramas like True Beauty, School series, or Dream High

If this becomes a K-drama, I’ll surely eat this up!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

axie oh

Axie Oh is a first-generation Korean American, born in NYC and raised in New Jersey. She studied Korean history and creative writing as an undergrad at the University of California – San Diego and holds an MFA from Lesley University in Writing for Young People. Her passions include K-pop, anime, stationery supplies, and milk tea. She currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada with her puppy, Toro.

Author Links: Website | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram

Let’s Chat! 💬

Tell me about your favorite K-drama! Drop your recs below!

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OMG! This sounds so cute! I’ve been hearing lots of great praise for this book. I like that it shines light on the K-Pop industry too. I will check it out at the library!

Ahhh I hope you enjoy this one once you read it!

I just finished reading XOXO and I had such a fun time with it! It was so cute and left me feeling all bubbly inside! Just like you said, it made me feel all the warm, fuzzy feelings!

Yay! I’m glad you enjoyed it, Kat! Also, congrats on the new site! Looks amazing!

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Review: XOXO, Axie Oh

July 9, 2021

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XOXO was on my most anticipated reads list for 2021 and I’m thrilled to say: it didn’t disappoint. Read my full review below to find out why!

Review: XOXO, Axie Oh

Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar, it’s clear he’s the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans. But in a moment of spontaneity, she allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone for one unforgettable night of adventure…before he disappears without a word. Three months later, when Jenny and her mother arrive in South Korea to take care of her ailing grandmother, she’s shocked to discover that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she’s enrolled for the semester. And he’s not just any student. He’s a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world—and he’s strictly forbidden from dating. When a relationship means throwing Jenny’s life off the path she’s spent years mapping out, she’ll have to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.

I received this book for free from Harper Collins INTL in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

There are no spoilers in this review.

This blog post contains affiliate links. If you buy something on my recommendation, I will receive a small commission. Purchasing via these links will not cost you any extra and will help me cover the costs of book blogging. You will find more info on my  privacy policy  and  disclaimer  pages. Thank you!

I ENJOYED…

  • XOXO is about Jenny, cello prodigy , dreaming of going to the Manhattan School of Music. When she meets Jaewoo in her uncle’s karaoke bar, they have one unforgettable night together before he disappears… Until, months later, she finds him in South Korea, at her new school… AND it turns out that he’s a huge K-pop star .
  • The story is carried by Jenny, our main character. I immediately grew fond of her. She’s passionate about her cello, she wants to get into the music school of her dreams, she’s wonderful and caring and a little bit stressed out and a little bit uncertain about life and everything, too. She was such a relatable, kind character and I loved seeing her experience new things and get out of her comfort zone, little by little, in this new life, too.
  • I’m a fan of celebrity kind of romances and here, well, I was served. I loved the relationship’s progress , from meeting each other to losing each other, to meeting again. If the attraction is there from the start, stronger feelings grew little by little and I loved that, too. Jaewoo is so caring and a little overprotective , at times, but it was so easy to fall for him, too!
  • The friendships were really great in this story, too and I loved their interactions so much. I had a soft spot for Sori and Jenny’s relationship . It had a bit of a rocky start, but I loved how Sori slowly warmed up to Jenny and in the end, their friendship was my favorite for sure.

book review xoxo

  • I also liked that family had an important place in the story! I loved seeing Jenny getting to know her grandmother and seeing her relationship with her mother, too.

I HAD A HARD TIME WITH…

  • There are two little things I ended up being a little bit disappointed about, in this book. They’re minor little peeves of mine, but I thought they deserved a little mention.
  • First, I wanted a little more from the family relationships . I feel like there was so much potential to have stronger family relationships and, most of it all, for them to have a bigger place within the story, too. That would have been amazing!
  • Second, I wished for more resolution for, no spoilers, something happening with Sori.

XOXO was a heartwarming, wonderful young adult contemporary romance . I loved the characters, the setting and the celebrity romance made me so happy. Definitely recommending this to any contemporary fan!

FINAL RATING : 4 stars!

book review xoxo

📌 Pin the book review of XOXO, by Axie Oh on Pinterest!

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📚 Books similar to XOXO that I’d recommend:

  • For another great romance, in the bodyguard/princess kind, try reading Tokyo Ever After .
  • To get away, this time to Taiwan for some adventures, try reading Loveboat, Taipei .

let's chat

Did you read XOXO or do you want to? Do you have any recommendations of great contemporary romances? Let me know in comments!

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July 9, 2021 at 6:48 pm

Great review, Marie! I totally agree with everything you said here: the celebrity romance was done so well and I love the romance! I also want more resolution with Jenny’s family and Sori’s storyline… a second chance romance sometime in the future, perhaps? 🥺

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July 14, 2021 at 7:14 pm

Oh thank you so much! <3 AH that would be a fantastic idea, let's hope the author hears you 🥺

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July 12, 2021 at 12:58 pm

Awww this sounds so sweet! I do love a good normie/famous romance, so this sounds right up my alley.

July 14, 2021 at 7:15 pm

Ahh I hope you’ll enjoy it!

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July 17, 2021 at 9:11 pm

so happy to hear that the romance satisfied you!! i’m super excited for it now haha, celebrity romances are just so much fun. and i’m glad that friendship and family also had a part in this story! truly both of our favorite things in contemporary lmao <3 great review!

July 20, 2021 at 8:18 pm

YES these kind of stories are always so much fun to read! I hope you’ll love this one <3

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July 18, 2021 at 3:16 pm

I loved reading your review, Marie, and you’ve just made me add XOXO to my to-read list. It sounds like such a good contemporary novel. 🙂

July 20, 2021 at 8:15 pm

Ahh thank you so much Veronika, this makes me so happy! I hope you will love it <3

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Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

Axie Oh is an auto-buy author for me. And after XOXO that place in my heart is only further cemented. I’m used to SF rebels and robots, but XOXO is precious beyond words! It is one of my most anticipated reads this year so keep reading this book review to see what I thought!

Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar, it’s clear he’s the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans. But in a moment of spontaneity, she allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone for one unforgettable night of adventure…before he disappears without a word. Three months later, when Jenny and her mother arrive in South Korea to take care of her ailing grandmother, she’s shocked to discover that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she’s enrolled for the semester. And he’s not just any student. He’s a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world—and he’s strictly forbidden from dating. When a relationship means throwing Jenny’s life off the path she’s spent years mapping out, she’ll have to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.

book review xoxo

(Disclaimer: I received this book from Edelweiss. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)

XOXO is a book that made me smile and laugh. Sometimes you just need a book that sweeps you away with cheerful banter, heartwarming twists, and secrecy. XOXO feels like something I could have watched as a K-Drama! So right away, if that is something you enjoy, you’ll have to pick up XOXO . I barely have that many notes because I was just so thoroughly enjoying myself in the story and all the developments. Jenny was a character I could deeply identify with in her striving for the future, without living life for today.

The ways we can get so wrapped up in the precision, that we forget the heart and the soul. XOXO is full of action, but it also touches upon wondering if love is worth our future. Whether they have to be mutually exclusive. Can attraction and love beat the subterfuge and secrecy? How much of our lives do we put on hold, or change, for others? Even the ones we love. While I truly adored the side characters, I just wish we had gotten a little bit more resolution on their stories at the end.

Ultimately, XOXO came for me at the perfect moment. It felt like a warm hug and a TV show I blew through in an evening. There are great themes of friendship, family, and love all wrapped up in one. And can I also say that I would read so many stories about the side characters?? I would love that so much – AXIE PLEASE!

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Find XOXO on Goodreads , Amazon , Indiebound , Bookshop.org & The Book Depository .

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Spellbound Reads

🌸 book review: xoxo by axie oh, small review for axie oh's xoxo, a ya contemporary romance.

book review xoxo

XOXO by Axie Oh is a young-adult romantic comedy and I never expected to enjoy it as much as I did. My friend Nashaly and I decided to buddy read this book at the beginning of the year and I think it’s safe to say that we were both pleasantly surprised by it. It was fast-paced, fun, and the main character was hilarious. It obviously had its level of cringe but thankfully, it wasn’t as bad as I’d feared it would be. I still feel like there was something missing in this story to make it a five-star-read for me, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless. Maybe it was that the stakes were too low for my taste, the fact that I didn’t really enjoy the romance (not as much as I wanted to anyways), or how some characters were a little too perfect yet this book ended up being a nice little read nonetheless.

Talking about the characters, let me just say that I loved having Jenny as our main character. She was quick-witted and hilarious as a narrator, and I completely loved how natural her reactions to the world around her were. My only problem with her was the fact that she seemed a little too perfect and that people always gave her “yes” for an answer. Literally the only person that said “no” to her or treated her differently was her roommate Sori, but that doesn’t last long since they end up becoming best friends. Now, don’t get me wrong, I didn’t hate their friendship or anything, I just found it weird that everyone enjoyed being close with the main character (except the obvious group of bullies that never did anything serious). Other characters I really enjoyed were Jaewoo, Nathaniel, Angela, and Gi-Taek. I really enjoyed how they interacted with each other and stuck together no matter how different they were from each other, nor how famous they were in or out of school.

In the end, XOXO by Axie Oh is a quick and fun story full of forbidden romances, kpop idols, and musical dreams. I really enjoyed how light this story was compared to what I usually read, and I just loved the way it made me feel excited every morning. After all, it’s not every day that I wake up looking forward to continue reading a book!

XOXO is not a perfect book though. It obviously has some lose plot points and some superficial characters, but it’s still an enjoyable read. I definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a fast and fun read, if you’re a fan of KPOP or if you like light YA romances.

See you on the next one! x

Thanks for reading Spellbound Reads! Please consider subscribing if you’d like to receive more book reviews like this one!

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XOXO Book by Axie Oh: An Unforgettable Tale of Love and Music

book review xoxo

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Embracing Love and Adventure in “XOXO Book by Axie Oh”

If you’ve ever daydreamed about a chance encounter with a member of a boyband during your teenage years, then “XOXO Book” by Axie Oh is the perfect read for you. This delightful novel takes readers on a journey filled with cuteness, fun, and personal growth. In this article, we will delve into the world of “XOXO Book” by Axie Oh, exploring its captivating plot, vibrant characters, and the enchanting backdrop of Seoul’s music scene.

Already read it? Check out 10 books like XOXO by Axie Oh here!

A Brief Overview of “XOXO Book by Axie Oh”

xoxo book by axie oh (book cover)

“XOXO Book” introduces us to Jenny, a talented cello prodigy with aspirations of attending a prestigious music conservatory. Her carefully laid plans take an unexpected turn when she meets Jaewoo, a mysterious and handsome young man, in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar. Drawn to Jaewoo’s spontaneous nature, Jenny embarks on a night of unforgettable adventure before he vanishes without a trace.

( Love Korean Books? Check out Eugenia Kim’s The Kinship of Secrets here )

Three months later, Jenny and her mother find themselves in Seoul to care for her ailing grandmother. To her astonishment, Jenny discovers that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she is enrolled for the semester. However, there’s a catch—Jaewoo is a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world and is forbidden from dating.

As their paths continue to intertwine, Jenny must confront the choices she faces—whether to follow her meticulously planned life path or risk it all for the chance at love.

The Enchanting Themes Explored in “XOXO Book by Axie Oh”

1. love across boundaries in “xoxo” by axie oh.

One of the central themes in “XOXO Book” is the exploration of love that transcends boundaries. Jenny and Jaewoo’s budding relationship defies the odds as they navigate the challenges of their contrasting worlds. The novel beautifully depicts the complexities of two individuals from different backgrounds finding solace and connection in their shared passion for music.

2. Pursuit of Dreams and Priorities

Through the characters of Jenny and Jaewoo, “XOXO Book” delves into the themes of pursuing dreams and balancing priorities. Jenny’s dedication to classical music and Jaewoo’s ambitions as a K-pop star highlight the choices they must make between their passion for music and personal relationships. This exploration prompts readers to reflect on their own aspirations and the sacrifices they may need to make along the way.

( Check out another cute Korean Romance Book by R.O . Kwon here! )

3. Embracing Identity

The novel also delves into the exploration of identity and self-discovery. As Jenny and Jaewoo navigate their respective worlds, they grapple with societal expectations and the pressure to conform. Their journey encourages readers to embrace their authentic selves, regardless of societal norms or expectations.

The Magic of “XOXO Book by Axie Oh”

“XOXO” captures the essence of teenage dreams and the magic of unexpected connections. Axie Oh’s storytelling is enchanting, painting vivid scenes of Seoul’s bustling music scene and the thrilling world of K-pop. The contrast between classical music and K-pop adds depth to the narrative, challenging the notion of musical hierarchies and celebrating the power of diverse musical expressions.

( Find more “Unputdownable” Romance Books here in our Ultimate List of 78+ Best Romance Novels!)

The characters in “XOXO” are beautifully crafted, with Jenny and Jaewoo’s chemistry radiating off the pages. The relatable dialogue and the “I didn’t know you’re famous” trope add a delightful touch, showcasing the growth and understanding that unfolds between an average girl and a boy longing for normalcy. Furthermore, the novel boasts a rich cast of side characters who are equally captivating and add depth to the story.

Checkout the XOXO Book review by Korean Booktuber “Call Me Dabz “:

My Thoughts on “XOXO” by Axie Oh: A Heartwarming Journey into Korean Pop Culture

A captivating forbidden love story.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the forbidden love trope. Ahhhh, I forgot how much I adore this trope, and “XOXO” delivered it in the best way possible. The romance between Jenny and Jaewoo had me swooning and longing for a love story just like theirs. It was sweet, heartwarming, and filled with the kind of tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Immersive Exploration of Korean Customs and Culture

One of the things that captivated me about this book was its exploration of South Korean customs, cultures, and ideals. Axie Oh beautifully infused these elements into the story, making it a delightful and immersive experience. I felt like I was right there with Jenny, experiencing the rich traditions and vibrant atmosphere of Seoul.

( Don’t know where to start with Korean literature? Check out our comprehensive list of Korean literature for beginners here! )

A Relatable and Inspiring Protagonist

Jenny, the main character, quickly became someone I admired and rooted for. She had the opportunity to explore South Korea and connect with her family, which is pretty much every K-culture enthusiast’s dream. Her journey of self-discovery and personal growth resonated with me, and I found myself cheering her on every step of the way.

The Excitement of a Forbidden Relationship

The forbidden nature of Jenny and Jaewoo’s relationship gave it an extra level of excitement and intensity. I loved how they had to keep their love hidden due to Jaewoo’s public image and the expectations placed upon him. It added a layer of complexity and made their stolen moments together all the more precious.

( Want more book blogs to read? Check out our comprehensive best book blog list here! )

A Memorable Meet-Cute and Engaging Opening

The book started off with a karaoke scene in Jenny’s uncle’s bar, and let me tell you, it was the perfect meet-cute for our main characters. Their initial interactions were absolutely adorable, and I couldn’t help but root for them from the start. It was one of those moments that made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

A Beautifully Designed Cover

Can we take a moment to appreciate the sheer beauty of XOXO’s cover? I was instantly drawn to it, and it perfectly captures the essence of the story. Kudos to the artist who designed it!

Shining a Light on the Complexities of the K-pop Industry

Throughout the XOXO book, Axie Oh expertly tackled the darker side of fandoms, highlighting the complexities and pressures faced by K-pop idols. She portrayed the ups and downs of being an idol with authenticity, shedding light on the stalker fans, the unrealistic expectations, and the constant scrutiny. It was a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour, there are real people navigating an incredibly demanding industry.

( Love romance books? Then you’d love these 20 irresistible romance novels from around the world! )

The Authenticity of the K-pop Group Dynamic

Axie Oh’s portrayal of the K-pop group was spot-on in the XOXO book. The dynamics between the band members felt genuine, and I loved how they supported and cared for each other. It showcased the beautiful bond that forms within a K-pop group, where members become like family to one another.

Craving for More Intimate Moments

While I adored the relationship between Jenny and Jaewoo, I must admit that the fast pace of their love story left me wanting more. Their stolen moments were few and far between, and I found myself yearning for deeper exploration of their relationship. It was a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by idol couples, but it left me craving more gushy, romantic moments that would make my heart skip a beat.

Checkout This Author Interview With XOXO Author Axie Oh:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: what is “xoxo” by axie oh about.

“XOXO” by Axie Oh is a heartwarming young adult novel that takes readers on a journey into Korean pop culture. It follows the story of Jenny, a K-pop fan who wins a scholarship to visit her family in Seoul. There, she meets and falls in love with Jaewoo, a K-pop star. Their relationship faces obstacles due to the demands of the K-pop industry and the expectations placed upon Jaewoo. The book explores themes of forbidden love, self-discovery, and the complexities of fame.

Q: Is it worth it to read “XOXO”?

Absolutely! “XOXO” is highly recommended for readers who enjoy young adult romance, K-pop, and exploring different cultures. Axie Oh skillfully weaves together a captivating story filled with relatable characters, an immersive setting, and an exploration of the K-pop industry. Whether you’re a fan of K-pop or simply love a heartwarming love story, “XOXO” is definitely worth reading.

Q: How many pages is “XOXO” by Axie Oh?

“XOXO” by Axie Oh has approximately 352 pages. The exact page count may vary depending on the edition and formatting of the book. However, it is worth noting that the story’s engaging plot and well-developed characters make the pages fly by, keeping readers thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end.

Q: Is “XOXO” suitable for both young adult and music enthusiasts?

Absolutely! “XOXO” by Axie Oh caters to both young adult readers and music enthusiasts alike. Its engaging storyline, relatable characters, and exploration of the music industry make it a compelling read for individuals with a passion for music, whether they are teenagers or music lovers of any age.

Q: Does “XOXO” accurately depict the K-pop industry?

While “XOXO” provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of K-pop, it’s important to note that the novel primarily focuses on the romantic storyline between Jenny and Jaewoo. The portrayal of the K-pop industry serves as a backdrop to their relationship, offering readers a taste of the music scene in Seoul.

Q: Can you share more about the setting of “XOXO”?

Certainly! “XOXO” is primarily set in Seoul, South Korea. The vibrant cityscape, along with its bustling music scene, provides an immersive backdrop for the story. Axie Oh’s vivid descriptions bring Seoul to life, offering readers a glimpse into the city’s culture, music academies, and the enchanting world of K-pop.

Q: Is there a sequel planned for “XOXO”?

As of now, “XOXO” by Axie Oh is a standalone novel, and there is no official announcement of a sequel. However, fans of the book can always stay tuned for updates from the author for any future projects or new releases.

Q: What makes “XOXO” a standout in the young adult genre?

“XOXO” stands out in the young adult genre due to its unique blend of romance, music, and personal growth. Axie Oh’s writing style is captivating, evoking a range of emotions and creating a memorable reading experience. The book’s exploration of themes such as love, dreams, and self-discovery resonates with readers, making it a standout choice in the genre.

Conclusion: A Melodic Tale of Love and Self-Discovery in “XOXO” By Axie Oh

In conclusion, “XOXO Book” by Axie Oh is a heartwarming tale that weaves together the magic of love and the power of music. Through its vibrant characters, enchanting setting, and exploration of universal themes, the novel captures the essence of teenage dreams and the transformative nature of unexpected connections. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a young adult seeking a captivating read, “XOXO Book” promises an unforgettable journey of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams.

So, grab a copy of “XOXO Book” by Axie Oh, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Seoul’s music scene, and let the melodies of Jenny and Jaewoo’s story resonate in your heart.

Happy reading! A.J. McMahon . . . (P.S. Got any other books you want me to review? Then…)

Let’s Connect! –  GoodReads: A.J. McMahon –  Instagram: FlyIntoBooks –  Pinterest: FlyIntoBooks –  Facebook: FlyIntoBooks –  Twitter: @FlyIntoBooks

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XOXO by Axie Oh – Book Review

The book cover of XOXO by Axie Oh

Warning – possible spoilers! (Tiny ones, though, and I’ll try to avoid even those; I swear I’ll give my best not to ruin it for you… :-))

XOXO by Axie Oh – Book Details

TITLE  – XOXO

AUTHOR – Axie Oh

CATEGORY/GENRE – young adult , romance , contemporary

YEAR PUBLISHED – 2021

PAGE COUNT – 352

MY RATING – 3.5 of 5

RATED ON GOODREADS – 3.92 of 5

What It Is About

“[…] when you’re afraid, your heart is closed, and it’s never the right time, but when your heart is open, and you’re willing to be brave enough to take a chance, the time is always right.”

Jenny is a cello prodigy who has only one dream in life – to get into one of the most prestigious music schools in New York. But after being told she misses a spark, she is determined to start taking bigger risks in life, hoping that will reflect on her performance as well.

Then she meets Jaewoo, a handsome, mysterious Korean boy who’s obviously hiding something. Determined to prove she can be spontaneous, Jenny allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone at least for one adventurous evening.

But even though she soon realizes she might be falling for him, the very next day Jaewoo stops texting her and disappears without a trace.

A few months later, Jenny arrives in South Korea to be closer to her sick grandmother and to start her semester at an elite arts academy. But – surprise, surprise – not only does she reencounter Jaewoo there; she also finds out he is actually a member of one of the most popular K-pop bands in the world.

XOXO by Axie Oh – My Review

I toss and turn until finally succumbing to a sleep full of fitful dreams of the boys of XOXO as they were in the music video, except the girl walking away is me.

Anyone who knows me at all knows I love YAs. Romance, mystery, literary fiction… Just give me a school setting, a bunch of teenagers still trying to figure out themselves, and I’m good.

So that was my main reason I was looking forward to XOXO by Axie Oh. And the second one was that, even though I am not into K-pop or dramas (not yet anyway 😉), more and more people I know are. And I guess I wanted to dip my toes using my favorite media and see where I stand with it.

This book was really cute. In many ways, I got exactly what I hoped for. The writing was nice and easy to sink into. The plot – a daydream fantasy about having a meet-cute with a boyband singer.

This is why I don’t like read receipts. It’s like psychological warfare. He knows I know that he read my message and chose not to respond.

All in all, XOXO had a lightheartedness to it which created a fun, easy atmosphere and made for an enjoyable read. Tropy and trashy, but not necessarily in a bad way. And in the center of it – a love story.

The romance between Jenny and Jaewoo was the classic tale of a girl who had no idea who she fell for and a boy who doesn’t get a lot of normality in his life.

Their love is also forbidden because K-pop stars are not allowed to date. And several scenes left me with a serious heartache for these guys.

“When you add another person into the mix, some people think it takes away from all of that. Like you have a person who is more important than all those other things, a part of your life you’re not sharing, when, as an idol, you agreed to share your whole life with your fans, so that they can love you without fear that you’ll disappoint or hurt them.”

I just wanted them to be together, damn it. Especially since the few scenes we got where Jenny and Jaewoo were on a date or just together alone – those scenes were adorable! I wanted more.

Also, the music school setting made for a really nice backdrop for their romance. And just all the talking about music and seeing how much it meant to them… It added a special flare to the whole thing.

One other thing I loved about this book were the side characters. There were lots of them that were done well, and a few of them you just have to love as much as the protagonists. Some great friendships were made.

(Plus, I’m sensing maybe a companion novel coming, featuring Sori and Nathaniel? I mean, I’d read it.)

“The people who live for tomorrow don’t take risks. They’re afraid of the consequences. While the people who live for today have nothing to lose, so they fight tooth and nail. I promise you can get the life you want now, if you just live in it.”

Ok, so what I didn’t like about this book?

Well, it pains me to say. But as much as I loved the romantic scenes in XOXO (and just to be clear – I did love them very much), I actually couldn’t quite feel the chemistry between Jaewoo and Jenny.

Their first encounter was a bit insta-crushy. The main bonding points between the two were more told than shown. And everything that happened later was built on that shaky foundation.

Also, though I liked the lightness of this book, I wish we actually got some problem solving going on. Every problem they encountered (forbidden love, sick family members, enemies-to-friends)… It was all either quickly resolved too easily to be believable, or blown out of proportions only to be resolved too easily to be believable later on in the story. It made the book sillier that it needed to be.

And one last thing – the pacing was a bit off at times. Especially when it comes to big, important events. The author just glossed over those parts, leaving me asking – wait, are we already done with it? But it barely just started.

A true musician doesn’t just perform a song but makes you feel something. And it’s clear with how my heart aches from the memory and the music, he has the spark. I want to ask him where it comes from, and how can I find it for myself.

All in all, whether you are going to enjoy this book or not depends on what you expect to get out of it. I would recommend it to people who enjoy YA romances, want a lighthearted pick-me-up read to pass time and are ok with overlooking small inconsistencies every once in a while.

Oh, and definitely if you need some K-pop reads in your life. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone turned Axie Oh’s XOXO into a K-drama soon. And I’d totally watch it.

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Writing The Universe

My fingers are moving, but it appears as though my characters are writing themselves, book review: xoxo.

book review xoxo

Title: XOXO

Author: Axie Oh

Pub. Date: July 13, 2021

Pub: HarperTeen

Genre: YA Contemporary Romance

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle’s Los Angeles karaoke bar, it’s clear he’s the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans. But in a moment of spontaneity, she allows him to pull her out of her comfort zone for one unforgettable night of adventure…before he disappears without a word. Three months later, when Jenny and her mother arrive in South Korea to take care of her ailing grandmother, she’s shocked to discover that Jaewoo is a student at the same elite arts academy where she’s enrolled for the semester. And he’s not just any student. He’s a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world—and he’s strictly forbidden from dating. When a relationship means throwing Jenny’s life off the path she’s spent years mapping out, she’ll have to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.

This will be a spoiler free review. I listened to the audiobook via Audible. While I didn’t 100% love the narrator for this book, I still thoroughly enjoyed it!

I’ve been anxiously anticipating this book for months . I don’t remember when it first crossed my radar, but it’s been at least 6 months and I’m thrilled that I finally got to read it.

I lived this book.

I mean, it truly came to life in my mind. I’ve never been to Seoul, yet I felt like I was right there. Also, this book may or may not have pushed me to buy BTS’s “Butter” because that song is so damn catchy. I don’t think I’ll fall into the rabbit hole of K-Pop, but I for sure have a mild fascination with it now.

I don’t think I would have caved and bought the song, if I hadn’t been reading this book right now.

But like, can we talk about how vivid this book is? It legit just comes to life right off the page. I had zero issues picturing anything, and I have a very limited understanding/knowledge of what anything looks like. But I felt like I was right there. I’m actually kind of blown away over just how alive it felt. Like, I knew going in that people were praising Axie’s writing ability, and damn, they weren’t kidding.

If you go into this book for anything – go in for the writing. It’s great.

Though, I will say, I found the story a little stiff – BUT I think (for me) it was more about the narrator than the writing. I thought the narrator did a good job, but she just didn’t do much for me. I wasn’t that big of a fan and I do think it slightly negatively impacted my enjoyment of the book.

As for the characters, I liked Jenny – she surprised me. I thought she was going to be more on the shy/reserved side, but she’s bright, vibrant and thriving. For the majority of the book, she’s pretty sure of herself, her wants, her needs. But like any lovestruck teen, things get muddied, she stumbles a bit, but still handles herself rather well. She goes on a journey of self-discovery and it’s wonderful. I think if she’d had stayed in LA, Jenny would have sacrificed parts of herself to appease others. Her going to Seoul gave her a chance to figure out who she is, what she wants and how she wants to achieve those things.

As for Jaewoo – I was actually kind of iffy, believe it or not.

Now, I’m a sucker for plot lines that are like this – though typically the one’s I read are Prince & Commoner, or vice versa or some kind of dynamic imbalance. And XOXO is no exception.

The whole concept of Idols and the sheer planning and work that goes into creating these K-Pop groups is incredible. Jaewoo is basically a cinnamon roll and incredibly endearing. When we meet him, he’s basically a lost puppy in need of rescuing. So, yeah, I was hooked from the first glance. But also, I get stressed when there’s that kind of imbalance between love interests because you know it’s going to end badly, or shit is going to hit the fan and you never truly know if the feelings are real, or fake. I think my iffy-ness stemmed from wanting him so badly to remain the cinnamon roll he is, and for nothing bad to happen.

I also loved Jenny’s friends and her grandmother – who totally gave me Mulan Grandmother vibes – I loved it.

Overall, I 100% recommend this book. The audio isn’t terrible, but I do wish I’d read a physical copy instead. But y’all, read this book. It’s definitely worth the hype and worth the wait. It was fun, endearing, and just good as hell. I can’t say I had a desire to go to Seoul prior to reading this book, but now – bring on the travel. For the food mentioned alone, I’d go. Also, wtf, I just caught myself thinking about K-Pop boy bands and how if I ever did fall down that hole, I’d be SOL. I now kind of get why people loose their damn minds. This book has really piqued my curiosity about the whole business. This book also has me sitting here going like, where tf is my hot, cinnamon roll singer who happens to be a K-Pop superstar idol .

Y’all, we might be in trouble LOL

But seriously, check this book out, add it to your tbr, request it at your libraries – just get your hands on this book and read it.

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2 thoughts on “ Book Review: XOXO ”

Love your review! I’m sorry the narrator took away from the story, but it sounds like such a good book. I’m gonna have to pick up a copy for myself!

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XOXO – Book Review

Jillian DeMaio , Staff Editor | May 31, 2023

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XOXO by Axie Oh is perfect for anyone looking for a heartwarming read. The novel follows Jenny, a teenager from LA, after she meets Jaewoo in her uncle’s karaoke business. After learning that Jaewoo lives in Seoul, Korea and is to return there soon, Jenny accepts that their paths will never cross again. However, when she returns home her mother reveals that the two of them are moving to Korea in order to take care of a sick relative. When she arrives in Seoul, a trip on the subway reveals a startling revelation: Jaewoo is a member of the biggest K-pop group in the world. Jenny has to come to terms with living in a new country, expanding her skills as a cellist, and navigating her relationship with Jaewoo. 

XOXO explores themes such as toxic fan culture, celebrity privacy, differences in culture, and sacrifice. On the other hand, it also has strong themes of family, friendship, and love. There are many relationships that are explored throughout the novel: family relationships, friendships, and romantic relationships all develop before the final page. The characters are addicting and each have their own distinct characteristics which make for an even more interesting read. 

In short, Oh uses XOXO to comment on the entertainment industry but also to develop a cast of lovable characters and fast-paced events which result in a novel that a reader can finish in a few hours. It’s not going to go down in history as a life-changing book but it is a fun read for anyone looking for romance.

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In Axie Oh’s XOXO , Jenny has spent the majority of her life with no time for anything other than her cello. However, her life as she knows it drastically changes when she meets K-pop idol Jaewoo. Despite their immediate connection, they are forbidden to date each other and must navigate their new realities.

I absolutely loved the chemistry between Jenny and Jaewoo. The novel begins in a very realistic fashion yet true to the YA genre, with both denying their brewing feelings for each other. Not only does Jenny and Jewoo’s relationship develop throughout the novel, the relationships between Jenny and her friends and Jaewoo’s friends also develop slowly and carefully. Some of the friendships are unexpected it helps maintain the book’s pace. Axie Oh spent a long time thickening the book’s plot to make the characters more relatable and exciting. The k-pop backstory integrated makes the novel more culturally detailed and gripping as well, similar to a Kdrama TV show. Overall, XOXO is a fun, cute novel that will transport you to the world of K-pop and a forbidden love as the novel runs its course.

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XOXO – Book Review

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Title:- XOXO

Author:- Axie Oh

Date published:- July 13th 2021

Publisher:- Harper Collins

No. of pages:- 352 pages

Genre:- YA/ Romance

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Jenny’s never had much time for boys, K-pop, or really anything besides her dream of being a professional cellist. But when she finds herself falling for a K-pop idol ,  she has to decide whether their love is worth the risk. A modern forbidden romance wrapped in the glamorous and exclusive world of K-pop,  XOXO  is perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Maurene Goo.

Jenny didn’t get to be an award-winning, classically trained cellist without  choosing  practice over fun. That is, until the night she meets Jaewoo. Mysterious, handsome, and just a little bit tormented, Jaewoo is exactly the kind of distraction Jenny would normally avoid. And yet, she finds herself pulled into spending an unforgettable evening wandering Los Angeles with him on the night before his flight home to South Korea.

With Jaewoo an ocean away, there’s no use in dreaming of what could have been. But when Jenny and her mother move to Seoul to take care of her ailing grandmother, who does she meet at the elite arts academy she’s just been accepted to? Jaewoo.

Finding the dreamy stranger who swept you off your feet in your homeroom is one thing, but Jaewoo isn’t just any student. Turns out, Jaewoo is a member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world. And like most K-pop idols, Jaewoo is strictly forbidden from dating  anyone .

When a relationship means not only jeopardizing her place at her dream music school but also endangering everything Jaewoo’s worked for, Jenny has to decide once and for all just how much she’s willing to risk for love.  XOXO  is a new romance that proves chasing your dreams doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your heart, from acclaimed author Axie Oh. 

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OK if you love a story of a normal ordinary girl falling in love with one of the popular K pop band members then this book is definitely one for you! Oh, and if you love watching K dramas (which I do) with sugar coated love stories, then this book will be perfect one for you.

Jenny is a cellist and her only ambition is to enter into one of the elite music schools in the country, the Manhattan Music School. She works part time at her uncle’s karaoke bar and meets a boy name Jaewoo. That night she and Jaewoo hang out and become friends and exchange numbers. Jenny tries contacting Jaewoo but he never replied to any of her messages.

Then Jenny’s grandmother who lives in South Korea becomes sick and she and her mother move to South Korea temporarily. She enrolls into an art academy in Seoul and then meets…Jaewoo. But she soon realizes that Jaewoo is a popula K pop idol and belongs to a popular band called XOXO. Then begins the love story of a forbidden relationship.

OK, as a fan of Korean dramas, this actually did remind me of Boys Over Flowers a little bit and You’re Beautiful, if you have watched those two Korean dramas. I was listening to the audio book so the narrator did a great job with the book. Nearly all the characters in the story are likable–I do like how Jenny made friends at the academy and even became best friends with her roommate Sol Hee who also had a romantic relationship with one of the members of the band Nathaniel. The story itself is engaging and I found the love story between Jenny and Jaewoo really cute and adorable! Though I felt like I was watching a cheesy romantic Korean drama, I actually enjoyed reading this book. The author did a good job of drawing the reader into the story and getting to experience what the life of a student is really like in Korea.

For ones who love a good YA romance with a Korean drama setting, then this book is one for you–worth five stars!

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Axie Oh is a first-generation Korean American, born in New York City and raised in New Jersey. She studied Korean history and creative writing as an undergrad at the University of California San Diego and holds an MFA in Writing for Young People from Lesley University. Her passions include K-pop, anime, stationery supplies, and milk tea, and she currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, with her dog, Toro (named after Totoro). Axie is the New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, XOXO, and the Rebel Seoul series.

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XOXO Cody: Book Review of Peloton Instructor Rigsby’s Memoir

By: Author Michelle Platt, CPT

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2024

type written font xoxo cody peloton instructor book review red background and rigsby book cover

Peloton instructor Cody Rigsby has made a name for himself in the Peloton community and beyond. He’s always refreshingly honest in his classes but in his debut memoir, XOXO, Cody: An Opinionated Homosexual’s Guide to Self-Love, Relationships, and Tactful Pettiness , he reveals an intimate and raw look into his personal life.

In XOXO, Cody , Rigsby shares his raw and inspiring stories about learning how to handle the scary stuff in life while not taking yourself or life too seriously. The book is a bold and heartfelt reminder that sometimes laughing at yourself is the best medicine.

This was one book I knew I needed to listen to in his distinctive voice. I recommend reading it that way. What can a mid-30s Peloton instructor teach this straight middle-aged mom about life? I’ll share with you my insights on his personal story, the flow of the book itself, and whether this book is worth reading.

Who Should Read This Book

  • Is This Like Cody's XOXO Peloton Series? 

Book Overview

Cody, the instructor.

  • Cody Rigsby's Career Before Peloton 
  • Cody's Work Ethic
  • Cody's Relationships
  • Cody's View on Money

Frequently Asked Questions

This post contains affiliate links. See my  disclosure policy for more information.

What I liked: 

  • Cody’s message of self-love and acceptance.
  • Learning more about his rough childhood and his journey to financial stability.
  • His love for his mom, Cindy, his friends, and the life Peloton has given him.

Obviously, fans of Cody as a Peloton instructor will like this book most, but you should also have a working knowledge of pop culture to fully appreciate this book.

This book goes into detail about sex, hooking up, drugs and alcohol, among other things, so if you’re giving this to a teen to read just know that beforehand. Personally, I want to expose my kids to as much as I can to use as teaching and discussion points rather than hiding information from them. But I know not everyone is on the same page as me (pun intended). And ironically, my kids don’t read anyway. 

Is This Like Cody’s XOXO Peloton Series? 

Yes and no. Cody’s book is unabashedly Cody. He has a lot of opinions on everything from friendships and relationships to junk food and career advice. If you’re familiar with the XOXO Peloton cycling series , he reads a bunch of letters from riders and tries to answer them as best as possible. Many seek love advice.

Cody tells us there’s a reason why every middle-aged woman wants a gay best friend. They’re fun and honest. Cody is both.

However, in the book, the XOXO chapters are sprinkled amongst personal stories from Cody Rigsby’s life, most of it spent in small-town North Carolina, some of them dark and others funny, filled with his witty humor. 

XOXO, Cody: An Opinionated Homosexual's Guide to Self-Love, Relationships, and Tactful Pettiness

XOXO, Cody is a memoir published in September of 2023 that quickly became a New York Times bestseller. In the book, Rigsby shares his journey from growing up in a small town in North Carolina to becoming a Peloton superstar in New York City. 

It is not a fitness or healthy-living book. Instead, it is a look into a beloved Peloton instructor that we think we know so well. The book is a mix of humor, inspiration, and vulnerability.

The main theme of this book is self-love and acceptance, and he encourages readers to love themselves for who they are before anyone else can love them.

Another theme is perseverance. Things did not always come easily to Cody. He worked for it. He’s also the first to admit he happened to be in the right place at the right time. ‘ also happened to be in the right place at the right time. 

Writing Style

Whether he hired a ghostwriter or not (I always assume celebrities do), the book feels very much like Cody. It’s sprinkled with motivating quotes you’ve heard in class before like references to Britney Spears, thoughts on food choices, and clothing . 

He reminds you that he works out a lot to have his body and that he eats a boring but disciplined diet, starting each morning drinking liquid egg whites, but he spends a significant amount of time in the book talking about junk food. For example, his hatred of black licorice, Hot Pockets, and grape jelly, and why people should not drink Diet Coke. 

The book does not follow a chronological order, which sometimes confused me. In one chapter, he’s talking about winning best dressed in high school and in the next, he’s talking about moving into a hotel when he’s 12. That’s probably my biggest criticism of the book. However, in the end, it got itself back on track to tell his story to the current day.

His candid storytelling and the ability to switch topics so freely are intentional and make you feel like you are sitting down over a cup of coffee and catching up with a friend. He gives you real actionable advice whether you’re seeking it or not. 

I’ve been taking Peloton classes for a long time , taking my first class at my brother’s house before I knew anything about the company back in 2015. And since the beginning of my fitness journey , Cody has been there. 

Cody joined Peloton as an instructor in April 2014, way before the fancy studio of today, and before the 23rd Street studio. At the time, there was a black curtain, an instructor bike , and four Peloton riders, one of whom was usually Jill Foley, John Foley’s wife.

Peloton hired him immediately as he could perform on camera, oozed charisma, worked out daily, and had rhythm due to his years as a professional dancer . But he had never taught a fitness class before and lacked any certification. 

If you’re interested in becoming a certified personal trainer, follow my journey, and sign up for ISSA here .

He worked alongside Jenn Sherman, Jess King, Robin Arzon, and Hannah Corbin. He was the only male instructor. 

It took him years to find his secret sauce, only to realize it was him the whole time. It was his brashness, his sense of joy, and his humor that he brought to every fitness class.

At the time, Peloton instructors were paid per class and he taught 12 classes per week, subbing whenever he could, not just for the love of Peloton but for the paycheck. The Pandemic brought in a record number of Peloton users and soon, he became its most popular instructor.

Today, Cody teaches cycling , bike bootcamp , meditation , and cardio dance classes.

Cody Rigsby’s Career Before Peloton 

Cody didn’t take his first dance class until after high school. He attended the University of North Carolina, pursuing a degree in musical theater, although he couldn’t sing. He had spent his early childhood in Burbank, California, and determined back then that he would be a star.

Life as a dancer is hard, always trying to find your next gig and pay the rent, so it wasn’t unusual for Cody to work up to three non-dance jobs at a time. 

Cody’s Work Ethic

Cody mentions his mom, Cindy, often during his rides. What he doesn’t share with us are her mental health issues, physical health struggles , and earlier addiction problems. This addiction caused a lot of emotional and financial instability in his life. When he was 12 years-old, he, his mom, and her then-boyfriend lived in a hotel for a year after eviction. 

It’s no surprise that Cody talks about money a lot in his book. 

Cody’s Relationships

With his friends .

More than relationship advice, Cody offers friendship advice throughout the book. And he wants you to know that friendships do not have to last forever. Sometimes they run their course but like any relationship, sometimes you have to put the work in to make them last. 

Cody’s friendships are important to him, especially since he never had a traditional upbringing. He celebrates his friends and wants you to do that too.

As for Peloton friendships, he knew many of the instructors, especially former dancers like Emma Lovewell and Ally Love before Peloton through the dance world. He calls Jenn Sherman his cool mom, Alex Toussaint his brother, and Robin a mentor.

But his truest friendships are with those who knew him when he was a “broke-ass dancer.” He talks about the loss of his best friend Oscar to addiction, the same thing that his own father died from when Cody was just 4 months old. 

With His Mom

Cody’s had a complicated relationship with his mom. He lived in a one-bedroom apartment with her for a long time. That’s a lot of togetherness. He addresses her demons with raw honesty but also celebrates her gossipy and fun side. One thing is clear, he’s a good son. And she’s his boo .

With His Partners

Cody came out to his mom at the age of 19. Moving to New York as a proud gay man gave him the ability to live his best life. While he likely has had more hook-ups than many of us, he’s had 5 serious relationships, one that he’s still in with his boyfriend, Andres. His message continues to be clear: love yourself first and be the best version of you. He asks if you won’t eat dinner at a restaurant alone, why would anyone else want to? 

With Peloton Members

Cody acknowledges that for some members, this is the first time they have “met” someone who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community. And through his platform, he has reached parents and closeted kids. To me, this is the best thing about Peloton, the diversity of the instructors.

iphone showing red cover of cody rigsby''s audiobook with headphones

Cody’s View on Money

Cody ends the book talking about his ventures outside of Peloton. With a huge social media following and over 1 million followers on Instagram alone, it’s natural that he is the face of numerous brands , everything from Therabody and Adidas to McDonald’s . Yes, McDonald’s. He started working at McDonald’s at 16, giving him his first sense of financial freedom and enough to buy a car (which he later had to lend to his mom so she could get to work).

He also talks a lot (maybe too much for me) about being a thirtieth Season of Dancing With the Stars finalist and his time on the show.

Some readers interpret his openness about money as bragging. I don’t agree. Instead, I understand him as a person who grew up in poverty with a mother who could not manage the money she had, and he sees money as something you can lose. He understands that one day, he could get injured, or Peloton could go away, and seeks to make as much money as he can right now. He wants to ride the wave. 

Also, he’s generous with his money , moving his mom blocks away and paying for her to live there, and taking his friends on elaborate trips because he can! 

I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars. Is it a masterpiece? No. Is it enjoyable? Yes. Parts were hard to hear, especially about his younger days in California with an addicted mother. I should mention it doesn’t appear that she ever showed anything but love towards her son. 

This was a quick read. I listened to it over two days, mainly while doing housework. If you’re a fan of Peloton, and Cody Rigsby, you should read this book. It had a lot less fluff than the title implies. To be honest, I could have done without some of the traditional XOXO banter. It got repetitive. For example, more than once, he talks about not loving yourself if you wear flip-flops walking around a city. Cody, we get it. You’ve said that in several rides, and at least two times in this book. It made me wonder why an editor didn’t go through his quips more thoroughly to at least check for redundancy. 

However, overall I liked this book. Cody does have an empowering story and his message is clear. He wants us to love ourselves and live our best lives. 

I actually played the introduction of the book for my almost 13-year old daughter. I wanted her to hear that it’s OK to laugh at yourself, that you shouldn’t live your life for fear of judgment, and it’s important to go outside of your comfort zone. Cody’s done all these things and I commend him for sharing bits of his life story with us in this candid book. Is Cody for everyone? No. Absolutely, not. But isn’t that the whole point? 

Where can I find a schedule for Cody Rigsby’s book tour?

Cody Rigsby’s book tour schedule can be found on his official website . Fans can also follow Cody on his social media accounts for updates on his book tour. Just note these are not public speaking events. Instead, it’s a quick signing of his book. 

Next up, my review of Tunde’s book, Speak .

Michelle Platt

Michelle Platt is a content creator and certified personal trainer. Proving it’s never to late to reinvent yourself, she’s a former attorney and teacher who loves to do the research so you don’t have to. She takes a deep dive into each topic and writes about her wellness journey here. She loves trying out new workouts, fitness tips, healthy foods, and products to share with you. This native New Yorker recently made the move to the suburbs of Minneapolis, where she lives with her husband, two kids, and two dogs.

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Rachel Cockerell’s grandmother Fanny, centre, with husband Hugh, and children Lolly, Victor and Michael.

Melting Point by Rachel Cockerell review – witnesses to history

An ingenious and idiosyncratic book about the search for a Jewish homeland that blends high politics and family memoir

T heodor Herzl, an editor and journalist from Vienna, was beautiful, with the handsome beard and majestic bearing of “one of the ancient Assyrian kings”. Israel Zangwill, from Kilburn, was variously described by contemporaries as “the homeliest man I ever saw” and “one of the worst-dressed men in London”. His novels were bestsellers, but he was so clumsy that when his arrival at a meeting was heralded by a clatter out in the hallway, one of those waiting for him exclaimed: “Israel must be coming. Something’s falling downstairs.”

When Herzl first presented himself at Zangwill’s home in 1895, saying: “Help me to rebuild the Jewish state,” the two of them had no fluent language in common. “I don’t even know whether he understands me,” wrote Herzl. No matter. Their rapport was immediate and lasting, and together they established the Zionist movement. Later, after Herzl died in 1904, Zangwill became leader of ITO – the “territorial” branch of the movement that sought to find an interim Jewish homeland while Palestine remained unattainable.

In this formally ingenious book, Rachel Cockerell has chosen to tell their story, not from an Olympian viewpoint but by making a patchwork of up-close and personal observations. She explains that at an early stage of the writing, when she was doing the conventional nonfiction author’s thing of offering a synthesis of the available sources, she grew impatient with her own words: “All of them felt useless.” She boldly cut them out. Her finished narrative is entirely made up of quotations – some pages-long, some only a line or two – from diaries, speeches, letters, newspaper reports, the reminiscences of participants and the testimony of eyewitnesses. World leaders – Weizmann, Roosevelt, Churchill – are among the speakers, so are numerous hacks and ordinary bystanders. Multi-voiced, and with a legion of different perspectives, the resulting book is wonderfully vital and idiosyncratic, a model of how history writing can be made fresh.

Its first, longest and most compelling part covers the first Zionist congresses and early attempts to find a Jewish homeland. Joseph Chamberlain, reports Herzl, offered Uganda, rather as the manager of a junk shop might fish something out of an ill-organised stockroom. “I thought to myself: that would be just the country for Dr Herzl.”

It wouldn’t do (insufficient infrastructure and too many people already in residence), and nor would Cyrenaica in Libya or Western Australia or Mexico or Mesopotamia. As Zangwill explores all these failed options, Cockerell’s great-grandfather, David Jochelmann, makes his first appearance: this book is, among other things, a family memoir. Still living in Russia up to 1914, Jochelmann travelled from shtetl to shtetl on behalf of ITO, offering Jewish people the chance to travel out to Texas, Zangwill having established a short‑lived concession from the US allowing them to enter the country through the port of Galveston and then disperse and settle inland.

Jochelmann and his second wife moved to England. Of their two daughters, Fanny (the author’s grandmother) married an English gentile and set her offspring on the path to assimilation, while Sonia married a Russian Zionist. They and their children all lived in harum–scarum fashion (neither Fanny nor Sonia was interested in housekeeping) in north London, just a few streets away from where Herzl met Zangwill a century or so before Rachel Cockerell was born. In 1948, Sonia and her family moved to Israel, and the story comes full circle.

Cockerell relies on Jochelmann to hold her book together, which doesn’t quite work. An ITO colleague called him “a mysterious and (deliberately) unpublicised personage”. To his great-granddaughter he remains just a dark face looking out of a sombre portrait. Had his words been preserved and his career documented, her narrative might have felt more shapely. But if this book is not a perfectly structured whole, the sum of its parts adds up to an innovative and immediate account of a story that has world-historical significance.

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Book Review: Melissa Albert’s ‘The Bad Ones’ is a gripping story of friendship and the supernatural

This cover image released by Flatiron shows "The Bad Ones" by Melissa Albert. (Flatiron via AP)

This cover image released by Flatiron shows “The Bad Ones” by Melissa Albert. (Flatiron via AP)

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book review xoxo

Four people have disappeared in a single night, and Nora’s best friend, Becca, is one of them. If they weren’t three months into a huge fight, maybe Nora would be able to parse out the clues Becca left for her.

Melissa Albert’s fifth young adult novel, “The Bad Ones,” is both chilling and heart-warming — a story of limitless friendship clashing with fantastical supernatural power in the cold winter of a little Illinois town.

On the surface, Palmetto is the kind of unremarkable place that 17-year-olds Becca and Nora dream of leaving. But if you dig a little deeper, you find a recurring pattern of strange disappearances, seemingly centered around the high school and dating back to the 1960s. The locals all know some version of the story, and that it birthed the “goddess game” that has been passed down through generations since.

There are two iterations of this game, both Palmetto exclusives: a schoolyard jump-rope rhyme, and a trust-fall-style game of teenage daredevilry.

This cover image released by Putnam shows "This Disaster Loves You" by Richard Roper. (Putnam via AP)

But Nora and Becca have their own connection with this supernatural side of Midwestern suburbia: a secret art series in which they’ve crafted dozens of goddesses. Nora, lifelong storyteller and the main narrator of the novel, researches mythos to create their lore. Becca fluently wields her camera to illustrate each goddess’ beauty and power.

The project started as a more grown-up way to carry on their childhood make-believe, but perhaps the Goddess Series holds as much power as Becca hoped and Nora feared.

Nora follows Becca’s clues like breadcrumbs around Palmetto, gathering stories shared by a population so realistically rendered that it’s sometimes tough to remember it’s fiction. Strange things are happening to Nora, including hyper-realistic dreams and an insatiable sweet tooth, ramping up the urgency until we finally learn the truth behind the town lore — and what really happened to the four who went missing without a trace — in a satisfying, epic whirlwind of an ending.

The novel is freckled with alluring metaphors and the kind of grand revelations that flow through a perceptive, open mind. Albert’s ethereal descriptions capture specific vibes as well as big-picture issues; the thickness of the air or the haunted way everything in the art wing of the old school seems slightly askew.

Albert’s talent for YA fiction is magical and undeniable. I was sucked right into “The Bad Ones” from the start, and on the edge of my seat until the end.

AP book reviews: https://apnews.com/hub/book-reviews

DONNA EDWARDS

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In This Road-Trip Thriller, Twin Sisters Hunt for Their Missing Mom

“Hard Girls,” by J. Robert Lennon, delves into family lives built on deception and abandonment.

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The book cover of “Hard Girls,” by J. Robert Lennon, shows an illustration of a woman wearing sunglasses, which reflect the silhouette of a female figure.

By Dwyer Murphy

Dwyer Murphy’s latest novel is “The Stolen Coast.”

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HARD GIRLS , by J. Robert Lennon

The twins Jane and Lila Pool are the “hard girls” at the center of J. Robert Lennon’s new thriller. They’ve earned the title. When we meet Jane, it’s “19 years after she ran away from home, 13 years after she married a stonemason, 12 years after her daughter was born and 11 years after she got out of prison and pretended to put the past behind her.” Now, she’s working at a university in upstate New York, where her father, Harry, is a professor.

When an encrypted email arrives in Jane’s inbox, it throws her carefully balanced life off kilter. That’s because it comes from her sister, Lila. The twins haven’t seen each other in over a decade. They haven’t seen their mother, Anabel, for even longer, and Lila, it turns out, has a lead on Anabel’s whereabouts.

Lila’s proposition — the novel’s organizing conceit — is that the two sisters, long ago forged in the same crucible, by the same terrible circumstances, should put their lives on hold, drop off the grid, meet in Missouri and go on a cross-country road trip in search of their mother. It’s an enticing proposition, one that Jane, whatever her misgivings, can’t quite resist.

Their mother’s identity is the novel’s big mystery, and Lennon pads it appropriately. Jane and Lila were, in their youth, avid readers of adventure literature, stories like “The Railway Children” and “Harriet the Spy.” The habit evolved into something like a language between them, while also fueling a belief that their mother, who was “often away and never truly present,” was in fact leading a life as a spy or a serial adulterer, or perhaps adopting one of those lives in service of the other.

Their suspicions were well founded, if not exactly accurate. The tip Lila has received suggests a connection between their mother and a master criminal nicknamed the Holy Ghost, who has a web of international connections à la Carmen Sandiego and a home base in Panama’s mountainous region. If it all sounds slightly fanciful, that may well be the idea: Lennon seems to be enjoying himself, particularly as Jane and Lila hit the road, moving from one indiscreet fount of information to another.

The best of those sources is a man named Gramps, an auto parts restorer and dealer who has a hand in several criminal pies and supplies the Pool sisters with details on their (possible) mother’s (possible) whereabouts. It all comes pouring out in a lengthy exchange connecting U.F.O. watchers to the C.I.A.

For all its movement between locations and time periods, “Hard Girls” never quite gains momentum. Lennon’s understated prose sometimes reads like the absence of style, suppressing the high notes the story would seem to promise: the thrill of a good con, the freedom of the highway and anonymous stop-offs, the tingle of recognition as a conspiracy’s shape is discerned.

Lennon is at his best exploring the nuances of family lives built on deception and abandonment. In the midst of pursuing the Holy Ghost, Jane begins to question her own marriage, which is coming apart, and her ability to connect with her daughter, Chloe, who can’t understand Jane’s past or her drive to confront it alongside her sister.

These dilemmas are gripping and subtly rendered, but we’re never allowed much time to spend with them, since we need to get to the next point in the journey, where a new source will be waiting with another piece of the puzzle. The build toward the climax is twisty, but in the end, we’re left more with an appreciation for the story’s construction than with a feeling we’ve traveled anywhere worth going.

HARD GIRLS | By J. Robert Lennon | Mulholland | 307 pp. | $27.99

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IMAGES

  1. Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

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  2. Book Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

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  4. Book Review: XOXO by Deborah Bladon

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  6. Book Review: XOXO (I know, a romance novel!!)

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COMMENTS

  1. XOXO by Axie Oh

    XOXO Axie Oh 3.84 30,137 ratings6,519 reviews Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle's Los Angeles karaoke bar, it's clear he's the kind of boy who would uproot her careful plans.

  2. XOXO, Axie Oh

    Home > Blog > Book Reviews > Review | XOXO Review | XOXO Afoma Umesi · September 15, 2021 This post may contain affiliate links. Summary: XOXO XOXO is about a Korean-American teen and cello prodigy, Jenny. One night she meets and likes a stranger, Jaewoo.

  3. XOXO

    11 Pub Date: July 13, 2021 ISBN: 978--06-302499-1 Page Count: 352 Publisher: HarperTeen Review Posted Online: May 16, 2021 Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2021 Categories: TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION Share your opinion of this book More by Axie Oh BOOK REVIEW ASAP by Axie Oh

  4. Amazon.com: XOXO (An XOXO Novel): 9780063024991: Oh, Axie: Books

    XOXO (An XOXO Novel) Hardcover - July 13, 2021. by Axie Oh (Author) 4.4 1,731 ratings. See all formats and editions. Book Description. Jenny's never had much time for boys, K-pop, or really anything besides her dream of being a professional cellist. But when she finds herself falling for a K-pop idol, she has to decide whether their love is ...

  5. XOXO Review: A Fluffy Romance for K-Pop Fans

    XOXO Review: A Fluffy Romance for K-Pop Fans August 5, 2021 by Jenna | 3 stars, Books, Reviews XOXO by Axie Oh Published by HarperTeen on July 13, 2021 Source: Publisher, Edelweiss Genres: Contemporary, Diversity, Romance, Young Adult Amazon | Book Depository | Publisher | Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | Barnes & Noble Add to Goodreads

  6. Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

    Review: XOXO by Axie Oh Mimi Koehler · Books · June 1, 2021 · 4 min read Share Release Date July 13, 2021 Rating 8 / 10 Buy From Amazon Book Depository For someone who's never actively listened to K-Pop in her life I sure devour stories about K-Pop idols on the regular, but I'm getting ahead of myself.

  7. Axie Oh's 'XOXO' Perfectly Pairs Romance And K-pop

    Reviews Interviews Book Reviews, Books Axie Oh's 'XOXO' Perfectly Pairs Romance And K-pop - Book Review Britany Murphy July 13, 2021 3 minutes Jenny is a cello prodigy and she will do everything in her power to be a success and attend a prestigious music school.

  8. XOXO by Axie Oh

    Innocent (Secret) Romance Reading XOXO felt like I was watching a K-drama, and it helps that it ticks a lot of boxes in a K-drama trope list. But it's the innocent (and secret) romance between Jenny and Jaewoo that made my heart sing. They were super cute and I love that they're open to each other as well.

  9. Review: XOXO, Axie Oh

    XOXO was on my most anticipated reads list for 2021 and I'm thrilled to say: it didn't disappoint. Read my full review below to find out why!. XOXO by Axie Oh Published by HarperTeen on July 13, 2021 Genres: contemporary, romance, young adult Format: ARC Source: Harper Collins INTL Buy on Book Depository, Bookshop, Blackwell's Goodreads. Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a ...

  10. XOXO

    XOXO. Axie Oh. HarperCollins, Jul 13, 2021 - Young Adult Fiction - 352 pages. Jenny's never had much time for boys, K-pop, or really anything besides her dream of being a professional cellist. But when she finds herself falling for a K-pop idol, she has to decide whether their love is worth the risk. A modern forbidden romance wrapped in the ...

  11. Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

    Review. (Disclaimer: I received this book from Edelweiss. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.) XOXO is a book that made me smile and laugh. Sometimes you just need a book that sweeps you away with cheerful banter, heartwarming twists, and secrecy. XOXO feels like something I could have watched as a K-Drama!

  12. Review and Summary: XOXO by Axie Oh

    Published by HarperTeen. I will admit, a book like XOXO is something I would not typically read. I ended up picking this book up because I was obsessed with The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, which I reread twice over the course of a week because I just loved the plot.

  13. Book Review: XOXO by Axie Oh!

    🌸 Book Review: XOXO by Axie Oh! Small review for Axie Oh's XOXO, a YA contemporary romance!

  14. YA Book Review: XOXO by Axie Oh

    The Bottom Line: 4.5/5 Brookie Stars XOXO is swoony and real. Jenny and Jaewoo are instantly attracted to one another, but it wasn't insta-love, just an instant spark. If you love K-pop and Korea, forbidden romances, and wouldn't mind being enrolled in a high school performing arts school, this one's for you.

  15. Amazon.com: XOXO (An XOXO Novel) eBook : Oh, Axie: Kindle Store

    $11.19 Other Used and New from $3.79 Unlimited reading. Over 4 million titles. Learn more Read for Free OR Buy now with 1-Click Add an audiobook with Audible narration for $12.99 Read with our free app Deliver to your Kindle Library Buy for others Give as a gift or purchase for a team or group. Learn more Buy for others Send a free sample

  16. XOXO

    XOXO is a new romance that proves chasing your dreams doesn't have to mean sacrificing your heart, from acclaimed author Axie Oh. Indigo Best Teen Books of 2021. Critical Praise "A dreamy dose of K-pop idols and secret romances." — Maurene Goo, author of Somewhere Only We Know

  17. XOXO Book by Axie Oh: An Unforgettable Tale of Love and Music

    Checkout the XOXO Book review by Korean Booktuber "Call Me Dabz": My Thoughts on "XOXO" by Axie Oh: A Heartwarming Journey into Korean Pop Culture A Captivating Forbidden Love Story. First and foremost, let's talk about the forbidden love trope. Ahhhh, I forgot how much I adore this trope, and "XOXO" delivered it in the best way ...

  18. XOXO by Axie Oh

    Book Reviews XOXO by Axie Oh - Book Review by Jovana R. on March 3, 2022 2 Comments Warning - possible spoilers! (Tiny ones, though, and I'll try to avoid even those; I swear I'll give my best not to ruin it for you… :-)) XOXO by Axie Oh - Book Details TITLE - XOXO AUTHOR - Axie Oh CATEGORY/GENRE - young adult, romance, contemporary

  19. Book Review: XOXO

    Title: XOXO Author: Axie Oh Pub. Date: July 13, 2021 Pages: 352 Pub: HarperTeen Genre: YA Contemporary Romance Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 Goodreads Cello prodigy Jenny has one goal: to get into a prestigious music conservatory. When she meets mysterious, handsome Jaewoo in her uncle's Los Angeles karaoke bar, it's clear he's the kind of boy who…

  20. XOXO

    XOXO - Book Review Jillian DeMaio, Staff Editor |May 31, 2023 Image Credit: Target.com XOXO by Axie Oh is perfect for anyone looking for a heartwarming read. The novel follows Jenny, a teenager from LA, after she meets Jaewoo in her uncle's karaoke business.

  21. XOXO

    The k-pop backstory integrated makes the novel more culturally detailed and gripping as well, similar to a Kdrama TV show. Overall, XOXO is a fun, cute novel that will transport you to the world of K-pop and a forbidden love as the novel runs its course.

  22. XOXO

    XOXO - Book Review 0 March 20, 2022 Written by tropicalgirlreads1988 Title:- XOXO Author:- Axie Oh Date published:- July 13th 2021 Publisher:- Harper Collins No. of pages:- 352 pages Genre:- YA/ Romance Rating:- Jenny's never had much time for boys, K-pop, or really anything besides her dream of being a professional cellist.

  23. XOXO Cody: Book Review of Peloton Instructor Rigsby's Memoir

    Cody is both. However, in the book, the XOXO chapters are sprinkled amongst personal stories from Cody Rigsby's life, most of it spent in small-town North Carolina, some of them dark and others funny, filled with his witty humor. Book Overview XOXO, Cody: An Opinionated Homosexual's Guide to Self-Love, Relationships, and Tactful Pettiness $21.42

  24. Book Club: Let's Talk About Barbara Kingsolver's 'Demon Copperhead'

    Send your feedback about this episode, and about the Book Review's podcast in general, to [email protected]. 156. Share full article. 156. Explore More in Books

  25. New Horror Books With Demons, Haunted Forests and Arctic Nightmares

    C.J. Cooke's new book, A HAUNTING IN THE ARCTIC (Berkley, 340 pp., paperback, $18), weaves together two narratives.In 1901, Nicky Duthie wakes up aboard the Ormen, a whaling ship owned by her ...

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  29. Book Review: Melissa Albert's 'The Bad Ones' is a gripping story of

    Book Review: New collaborative novel 'Fourteen Days' proves the pandemic couldn't curb creativity Book Review: George Pelecanos' 'Owning Up' has elegant prose and well-drawn characters But Nora and Becca have their own connection with this supernatural side of Midwestern suburbia: a secret art series in which they've crafted ...

  30. Book Review: 'Hard Girls,' by J. Robert Lennon

    HARD GIRLS, by J. Robert Lennon. The twins Jane and Lila Pool are the "hard girls" at the center of J. Robert Lennon's new thriller. They've earned the title. When we meet Jane, it's ...