Scan barcode
anxiousandreading's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.75
The characters are young and dumb in the best (and messiest) of ways. Some parts were repetitive (tell me she’s 19 one more time, and I’m gonna scream), but this group of college kids had me hooked with all their study abroad adventures and friendship dynamics. Already can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
shaysshelf's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75
If We Ever Meet Again took me by surprise. I dove into it completely blind, knowing only that I had enjoyed Ana Huang's Twisted and Kings of Sin series. While I was led to believe this series leaned more towards YA, I would argue it falls in the NA category. The characters are in college, and there's definitely some spice to the story.
One of the most surprising aspects was discovering that this is not a standalone novel. Although I knew it was the first book in a series, I assumed each book would feature different characters. However, this continuity has made me even more eager to dive into book two.
The story has a reminiscent quality of Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren, and I anticipate this parallel will become even more pronounced in the sequel based on certain plot developments.
Farrah and Blake's relationship is beautifully developed. Their transition from friends to lovers is smooth, comfortable, and entirely believable. Blake, in particular, stood out to me. His journey of self-discovery and creating a new path for himself was exactly what I hoped for, right up until the plot twist. While I wished for more growth from Farrah in this installment, I suspect her character arc will expand further in the next book.
A special thanks to NetGalley and Bloom Books for the ARC of this re-release. I can't wait to see where Farrah and Blake's story goes next!
One of the most surprising aspects was discovering that this is not a standalone novel. Although I knew it was the first book in a series, I assumed each book would feature different characters. However, this continuity has made me even more eager to dive into book two.
The story has a reminiscent quality of Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren, and I anticipate this parallel will become even more pronounced in the sequel based on certain plot developments.
Farrah and Blake's relationship is beautifully developed. Their transition from friends to lovers is smooth, comfortable, and entirely believable. Blake, in particular, stood out to me. His journey of self-discovery and creating a new path for himself was exactly what I hoped for, right up until the plot twist. While I wished for more growth from Farrah in this installment, I suspect her character arc will expand further in the next book.
A special thanks to NetGalley and Bloom Books for the ARC of this re-release. I can't wait to see where Farrah and Blake's story goes next!
_koreen_'s review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was book was very cute. I love a good banter between love interests lol. However I do feel like some parts of the book were lacking . I still think it’s a good book and I mean Ana Huang knows how to write a book boyfriend lol I just wish it had a little more idk umph?
This is just my opinion and I still recommend you give this book a try❤️
Thank you NetGalley and Ana , for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ❤️
This is just my opinion and I still recommend you give this book a try❤️
Thank you NetGalley and Ana , for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ❤️
lololovesthings's review against another edition
emotional
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
3.5 stars.
Ana Huang's "If We Ever Meet Again" is a predictable dual POV, dual timeline romance with a lot of drama and some steam, but it still kept me entertained the entire time I read it. Farrah and Blake begin their year abroad in Shanghai in a contestable acquaintanceship that eventually becomes more as they develop feelings for each other. Them not liking each other at first leads to some very witty banter and funny moments, but also so miscommunication. Blake was a football star who has since quit, much to his father's dismay. He now dreams of opening a sports bar but is unsure how to do so since his future seems a little aimless. Farrah is a design student with a big heart and even bigger dreams. They seem like polar opposites, but the more they are thrust together with their adjoining friend groups, the more they find they belong with one another. This book is cute at times and heartbreaking at others. A little spice is thrown in for good measure, which I found to be well-written and s3xy! Huang allows her audience to get to know Farrah and Blake as individuals before they come together in a romantic sense (which is all the more reason why you'll hate Blake at the end of this book!). I like that Huang doesn't shy away from using Shanghai as a character in its own right. She fills her pages with vivid descriptions of Chinese culture, landmarks, food, and customs, so much so that I felt immersed in the city itself. I also like how Farrah and Blake's friends feel like real people and not just characters thrown on the page to find scenarios for the protagonists to get together, and they are never heard from again. Despite being a rather short book page-wise, it still feels like it could have been shorter as it can get repetitive here and there. As I mentioned, I haaaaaated Blake by the end of the book, but just know going into it it ends on a cliffhanger, so I have a feeling I know where it's all going (like I said, it's predictable)! I will definitely be reading the rest of this series. TW: cheating.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ana Huang, and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Ana Huang's "If We Ever Meet Again" is a predictable dual POV, dual timeline romance with a lot of drama and some steam, but it still kept me entertained the entire time I read it. Farrah and Blake begin their year abroad in Shanghai in a contestable acquaintanceship that eventually becomes more as they develop feelings for each other. Them not liking each other at first leads to some very witty banter and funny moments, but also so miscommunication. Blake was a football star who has since quit, much to his father's dismay. He now dreams of opening a sports bar but is unsure how to do so since his future seems a little aimless. Farrah is a design student with a big heart and even bigger dreams. They seem like polar opposites, but the more they are thrust together with their adjoining friend groups, the more they find they belong with one another. This book is cute at times and heartbreaking at others. A little spice is thrown in for good measure, which I found to be well-written and s3xy! Huang allows her audience to get to know Farrah and Blake as individuals before they come together in a romantic sense (which is all the more reason why you'll hate Blake at the end of this book!). I like that Huang doesn't shy away from using Shanghai as a character in its own right. She fills her pages with vivid descriptions of Chinese culture, landmarks, food, and customs, so much so that I felt immersed in the city itself. I also like how Farrah and Blake's friends feel like real people and not just characters thrown on the page to find scenarios for the protagonists to get together, and they are never heard from again. Despite being a rather short book page-wise, it still feels like it could have been shorter as it can get repetitive here and there. As I mentioned, I haaaaaated Blake by the end of the book, but just know going into it it ends on a cliffhanger, so I have a feeling I know where it's all going (like I said, it's predictable)! I will definitely be reading the rest of this series. TW: cheating.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ana Huang, and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
sikensmanicpixiegf's review against another edition
3.0
Ana Huang's If We Ever Meet Again is a heartfelt tale of first love unfolding in the bustling city of Shanghai.
The story follows Farrah and Blake, two endearing characters whose romance blossoms slowly yet passionately. Set against the backdrop of Shanghai, their journey is filled with moments of joy, discovery, confusion, and a touch of sadness.
Farrah, a diligent design student, and Blake, a former college football star navigating his future, are portrayed as unique individuals who find common ground in their shared values, humor, and aspirations. Their mutual support and encouragement create a touching dynamic that resonates throughout the narrative, showcasing their growth and bond as a couple.
Huang's vivid descriptions of Shanghai and other Chinese locales enhance the story's ambiance, immersing the reader in a world of romance and adventure. The supporting cast of characters, particularly their group of friends, adds layers of humor and camaraderie, enriching the overall narrative.
Although quite an interesting read, this book did feel flat for me in some ways. especially the third act break up that really exasperated me. But other than that, an okay read overall!
Thanks to Netgalley ane the publisher for the arc!
The story follows Farrah and Blake, two endearing characters whose romance blossoms slowly yet passionately. Set against the backdrop of Shanghai, their journey is filled with moments of joy, discovery, confusion, and a touch of sadness.
Farrah, a diligent design student, and Blake, a former college football star navigating his future, are portrayed as unique individuals who find common ground in their shared values, humor, and aspirations. Their mutual support and encouragement create a touching dynamic that resonates throughout the narrative, showcasing their growth and bond as a couple.
Huang's vivid descriptions of Shanghai and other Chinese locales enhance the story's ambiance, immersing the reader in a world of romance and adventure. The supporting cast of characters, particularly their group of friends, adds layers of humor and camaraderie, enriching the overall narrative.
Although quite an interesting read, this book did feel flat for me in some ways. especially the third act break up that really exasperated me. But other than that, an okay read overall!
Thanks to Netgalley ane the publisher for the arc!
beththrolson's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
While I usually like Ana Huang books this one fell a little short for me. I enjoyed all the characters, location, and happenings in this book. However, it seemed like a very long read for a book that is under 300 pages. In terms of slow burn I thoroughly enjoyed Blake and Farrah’s story. To mention topes would be spoiling the story but there were some tropes that are not my favorite and that took something away from the story for me.
Thank you to Netgally for providing this ARC.
thosebookbesties_la's review against another edition
4.5
Thank you so much to Bloom Books and Ana Huang for an advanced copy of If We Ever Meet Again. My thoughts are my own.
Ana Huang’s If We Ever Meet Again is a delightful and heartfelt story of first love set during a year abroad in the vibrant city of Shanghai. It follows Farrah and Blake, two charming and relatable characters whose slow-building romance is both deep and steamy. The beautifully described Shanghai setting perfectly complements their journey filled with joy, exploration, confusion, and a few tears.
Farrah, a sweet and hardworking design student, and Blake, a popular ex-college football star figuring out his next steps, are wonderfully different yet so similar. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, they share intelligence, humor, strength, and common struggles, creating a swoon-worthy emotional connection. Their unwavering support for each other’s dreams is simply beautiful, as they inspire each other to reach new heights without the pressures from back home.
Their passionate love affair, sparked by a fateful meeting, faces various challenges that had me laughing, crying, and cheering for them all the way. Huang’s vivid descriptions of Shanghai and other Chinese locations make the setting come alive, adding extra sparkle to the romantic atmosphere. The secondary characters, including a lively group of friends, bring even more fun and warmth to the story with their witty banter and strong bonds.
If We Ever Meet Again is a wonderfully developed, character-driven tale that captures the magic of falling in love in a foreign land and the bittersweet reality of life’s ups and downs. The rich setting, fantastic characters, and heartfelt messages about friendship, family, loss, and self-discovery make it an enchanting read. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and see what exciting adventures await Farrah and Blake!
bethanylou's review against another edition
2.0
It really pains me to give Ana a two star, but these tropes just aren't what I like and I didn't enjoy it much. Felt very ugh. I'll keep reading the series though to see how it plays out.
jessread_s's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Review: I DEVOURED this opposites attract, study abroad romance!
“If We Ever Meet Again” follows 19-year-old Farrah Lin as she falls a cocky blond athlete with the world’s biggest ego during her time abroad in Shanghai, all while knowing she's leaving in less than a year.
This duet is tonally different from her “Twisted” and “Kings of Sin” series and I loved it all the more for that!
Huang masterfully develops Farrah and Blake’s relationship from strangers-to-friends-to lovers across the span of seven months. The pacing was so natural with Huang skipping overly mundane moments in favor of focusing on the most integral parts of their relationship as it formed—like their first kiss, their first moment of physical intimacy, and the first time they said “I love you.” In doing so, Huang kept me engaged and further invested me in Blake and Farrah’s sweeping romance. Huang also perfectly balances steamier scenes with more wholesome ones, which I really appreciated.
Just as I entered a stated of bliss, everything crumbled right before my very eyes. I knew it was coming (as made clear by the prologue), yet it still snuck up on me and left me feeling heartbroken. So much of the book is dedicated to their friendship and romantic chemistry that it just felt so wrong for everything to come undone as quickly as it did. The brief chapter written from Sammy’s point-of-view is what really wrecked me. Now I have no choice but to cling to Huang’s promise that there will be a happily ever after for Blake and Farrah when they meet again in “If the Sun Never Sets” because I’m convinced they are soulmates!
flying_lotus's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5