The Stand-In
The Stand-In by Lily Chu was a witty and charming romcom with wonderfully hilarious moments.
Synopsis: Gracie Reed is doing just fine. Sure, she was fired by her overly "friendly" boss, and yes she still hasn't gotten her mother into the nursing home of their dreams, but she's healthy, she's (somewhat) happy, and she's (mostly) holding it all together.
But when a mysterious SUV pulls up beside her, revealing Chinese cinema's golden couple Wei Fangli and Sam Yao, Gracie's world is turned on its head. The famous actress has a proposition: due to their uncanny resemblance, Fangli wants Gracie to be her stand-in. The catch? Gracie will have to be escorted by Sam, the most attractive—and infuriating—man Gracie's ever met.
If it means getting the money she needs for her mother, Gracie's in. Soon Gracie moves into a world of luxury she never knew existed. But resisting Sam, and playing the role of an elegant movie star, proves more difficult than she ever imagined—especially when she learns the real reason Fangli so desperately needs her help. In the end all the lists in the world won't be able to help Gracie keep up this elaborate ruse without losing herself...and her heart.
What appealed to you the most in this story?
I really loved the bonds formed between the characters in this story. I was rooting for Gracie all the way, and I loved her growing friendship with Fangli SO much. And Sam was just a delight. The book perfectly judged the pacing and emotions of unraveling him from a seemingly-uptight-and-snobby-jerk, to a kinda still-uptight-but-only-because-he's-caring-and-protective friend to Fangli and love interest to Gracie.
I also loved how Chu took on weightier topics of Altheimer’s, mental health, and sexual harassment, as well as the racism in a realistic way. She kept a light touch and a sensitivity to all of these issues that, I felt, allowed them to become a logical part of the story.
How was the romance?
The delicious romance in this enemies to lovers/fake-dating/miscommunication story was full of heart and the pacing and buildup of the romance was perfect.
Steam Level: PG (kissing)/Closed Door
How was the pace?
Fast paced and steady. This fun and quirky story had me from the very beginning and I read it in a day!
Do you recommend this book?
If you are looking for a fun book to kick off summer with, look no further!
Thank you, Sourcebooks Casablanca, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
