Set on You

February 21, 2022
Lea debuts with a heartwarming rom-com centered on body positivity. Crystal Chen, a plus-size fitness influencer and personal trainer, has built her online brand on self-love, emphasizing that the gym is for everyone, regardless of shape or size. One day, she’s having a good workout until an attractive “gym bro” blatantly ignores her clear dibs on the squat rack. Scott Ritchie, aka “Squat Rack Thief,” is a firefighter, a devoted dog dad, and, despite first impressions, a good guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. Both tension and lust rise between him and Crystal during repeated run-ins at the gym—making it a shock when they’re reintroduced at their respective grandparent’s engagement party. With the nuptials fast approaching, Crystal and Scott get to know one another on a deeper level and passion ignites. But when Crystal introduces her new boyfriend to her followers, internet trolls test their budding romance. Lea’s prose is clear, witty, and powerful, delivering an ode to all those who struggle with self-acceptance. While the pacing lags a bit in the second half, the cute pop culture references, hilarious supporting characters, and sensual love scenes make up for it. Lea is a writer to watch. Agent: Kim Lionetti, Bookends Literary.

November 1, 2022

One of curvy Chinese American fitness influencer and personal trainer Crystal Chen's favorite activities is hitting the gym in Boston. That is, until smug-faced hottie firefighter Scott Ritchie steals her favorite squat machine. Debut author Lea's plot is unique and a nice deviation from the norm, as Crystal and Scott transition from gym nemeses to swole mates while their grandparents are engaged--to each other. Despite the intriguing plot, the chemistry between Scott and Crystal is on again, off again. At times, the sweetness and anguish are palpable and wrought with sexual tension. But once the two switch from enemies to friends and then more, their romance seems disconnected. Narrator Carolyn Kang's youthful voice captures Crystal's upbeat personality, making her amusing and relatable. But her performance falls short as Scott, and listeners may find his voice isn't as Hemsworth-y as author Lea makes him out to be. Digital content, like Instagram posts and texts, usually does not play out well in audio, but Kang makes it work. Plus-size visibility throughout the book adds additional interest. VERDICT Light on plot and chemistry, this optional purchase offers a nice change of scenery for a rom-com.--Emily Pykare

Copyright 2022 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.