Something Cheeky: A Celebration of Passion, Representation, and Love
When I first laid eyes on the cover of Something Cheeky by Ms. Lam, I felt an instant spark of excitement. A badass plus-size lingerie designer navigating her dreams of clothing design alongside a theater director harboring a long-held crush? Count me in! I am thrilled to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review, which has allowed me to dive into this vibrant tale.
At its core, Something Cheeky unravels the heartwarming yet complicated relationship between Zoe Tran and Derek Bui. Zoe, a talented lingerie designer, is given the chance to work on a Vietnamese production of a rock musical adaptation of Cinderella, rekindling not just her artistic ambitions but also her connection with Derek, her college best friend. This backdrop of theater—a world I’ve long admired—sets the stage for a multifaceted exploration of dreams, identity, and love.
What resonated deeply with me was how Ms. Lam layered societal issues with both sensitivity and urgency. Zoe and Derek’s struggles against the often insensitive demands of the theater industry—encounters that echo the painful reality of being underrepresented—felt particularly poignant. It’s no secret that diversity is still lacking in theater; this book shines a light on that truth, making representation not just a backdrop, but the heart of the story. As someone who is both an actor and a WOC, I appreciated the honest depiction of microaggressions, particularly the pressure to make something "less ethnic." It painted a realistic picture of the challenges faced, something that often gets glossed over in mainstream narratives.
The dynamic between Zoe and Derek was beautifully crafted, especially as they navigated the delicate territory of their past feelings. Typically, I’m not a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope—it can get frustrating with characters who create unnecessary barriers between them. However, Ms. Lam flips this trope on its head in a refreshing way. The timeliness of their reconnection and Zoe’s understandable reluctance to rekindle their friendship lent depth and realism to their relationship. I particularly loved the moment when Derek declares, “Z, I’ll trust you until you can trust in yourself.” This display of unwavering support not only deepens their bond but also illustrates the healthy foundation of their partnership, which was incredibly uplifting to see.
The writing style itself is a delightful mix of humor and heartfelt emotion, and the pacing kept me eagerly flipping pages. I found myself laughing at their witty banter one moment and deeply reflecting on the social issues they faced the next. It’s a delicate balance that Ms. Lam handles beautifully, making the serious content digestible and engaging.
As the story unfurls through the lens of ambition, identity, and love, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to all the characters and their journeys. This is a book that speaks not just to fans of rom-coms, but to anyone who has ever faced the challenge of carving out their place in the world while navigating personal relationships.
In conclusion, Something Cheeky is a radiant exploration of dreams, representation, and self-acceptance that I wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a fan of romance, or simply looking for a story that resonates on many levels, this book offers a delightful and thought-provoking reading experience. Ms. Lam has crafted a narrative that’s not just enjoyable, but one that stays with you long after the last page is turned, inviting reflection on both love and representation in our society. Don’t miss out on this gem!