Never Thought I’d End Up Here by Ann Liang Book Review: A Rom-Com Road Trip to Redemption and Romance
- Joao Nsita
- Jun 10
- 10 min read
Introduction
What if a single, ill-timed wish at a wedding sent you on a journey to rediscover who you are? In Never Thought I’d End Up Here, Ann Liang crafts a vibrant young adult rom-com that whisks readers across China’s breathtaking cities, blending enemies-to-lovers sparks with a heartfelt quest for identity. Leah Zhang, a former model adrift in LA, finds herself on a two-week cultural immersion trip after a family intervention—only to clash with Cyrus Sui, the infuriatingly handsome ex-classmate who once upended her life. Liang’s signature wit and emotional depth make this June 2025 release a must-read for fans of slow-burn romance and personal transformation. From laugh-out-loud banter to soul-stirring revelations, this book is a sunbeam of joy in a chaotic world. Ready to fall in love with Leah’s story? Dive into more romance gems at That Love Podcast’s Romance Book Recommendations.
Book Summary
Leah Zhang’s life in Los Angeles is unraveling. After blurting out an awkward wedding toast—wishing her cousin a grim marriage—she’s branded a cultural disgrace by her family. Her Mandarin is rusty, her etiquette nonexistent, and her connection to her Chinese roots feels like a distant memory. Her parents’ solution? A two-week intensive travel program across China’s stunning cities to reconnect with her heritage. Leah sees it as a getaway from her aimless post-modeling life, but her plans derail when she spots Cyrus Sui, her cynical high school nemesis, on the same trip. His lie years ago cost her dearly, and now he’s even more infuriatingly charming.
As they navigate luxurious hotels, ancient temples, and bustling markets, Leah’s quest for revenge clashes with unexpected camaraderie. Liang weaves a tale of cultural rediscovery, sizzling chemistry, and the messy beauty of finding yourself. The vibrant Chinese settings and Leah’s sharp voice make this rom-com a standout, balancing humor with heart in a journey that’s as much about love as it is about legacy.
Author’s Style and Craft
Ann Liang’s writing is a masterclass in rom-com finesse, blending snappy dialogue with lyrical descriptions that paint China’s landscapes like a watercolor canvas. Her pacing is brisk yet deliberate, mirroring the whirlwind of a travel itinerary while allowing quiet moments for Leah’s introspection. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic crackles with tension, as in this gem: “It’s very easy to fall in love with you, Leah. The easiest thing in the world.” Liang’s banter is razor-sharp, but her strength lies in crafting characters who feel achingly real—Leah’s insecurities and Cyrus’s guarded charm leap off the page.
The narrative structure, told through Leah’s first-person perspective, immerses readers in her chaotic headspace, while flashbacks add depth to her rivalry with Cyrus. Liang’s dialogue shines, capturing the awkwardness of youth and the thrill of flirtation. Though some transitions feel rushed, her ability to weave cultural nuances—like Leah’s struggle with Mandarin—grounds the story in authenticity, making it a love letter to diaspora experiences.
Themes and Deeper Meaning
At its core, Never Thought I’d End Up Here explores identity, self-worth, and the weight of beauty standards. Leah’s past as a model, driven by a need to impress, mirrors universal struggles to define oneself beyond external validation. Her journey through China becomes a metaphor for reclaiming her roots, as temples and street markets stir memories she’d buried. Liang tackles insecurity with nuance, showing how societal pressures—like “unrealistic expectations about looking a certain way”—linger into adulthood.
The enemies-to-lovers trope underscores themes of forgiveness and empathy, as Leah and Cyrus unravel each other’s flaws and fears. Their romance reflects broader questions: How do we heal from mistakes? Can love bloom from misunderstanding? These resonate with young adults navigating identity in a globalized world, making the novel a poignant mirror for readers seeking personal transformation.
Strengths
Liang’s novel dazzles with its vibrant setting, transforming China’s cities into a character as dynamic as Leah. From Shanghai’s neon glow to Xi’an’s ancient walls, each stop feels immersive, inviting readers to taste street dumplings and hear temple bells. The romance is a slow-burn triumph—Leah and Cyrus’s chemistry builds through witty sparring and tender glances, earning their heart-melting moments. Supporting characters, like Leah’s quirky travel mates and her aunt’s subtle wisdom, add warmth and humor.
The book’s emotional depth is its crown jewel. Leah’s insecurities about her appearance and worth are raw and relatable, offering catharsis for readers who’ve felt “mediocre.” Liang’s humor, from wedding gaffes to Cyrus’s sarcastic jabs, keeps the tone buoyant, ensuring every page is a delight. This blend of giggles, swoons, and sincerity makes Never Thought I’d End Up Here a rom-com that sings.
Areas for Improvement
While Liang’s storytelling shines, the novel isn’t without stumbles. Some readers note a “slightly rushed” feel, with certain plot points—like Leah’s shift from revenge to romance—feeling abrupt. The travel program’s breakneck pace mirrors this, occasionally sacrificing deeper character moments for scenic detours. Cyrus’s redemption arc, though compelling, could use more backstory to fully justify his past actions, as his motivations remain slightly vague.
These flaws may not detract for rom-com fans who love fast-paced fun, but readers craving intricate plotting might wish for tighter pacing. A few extra scenes exploring Leah’s modeling past or Cyrus’s vulnerabilities could elevate the emotional stakes, grounding their transformation. Still, these are minor hiccups in a wildly entertaining ride.
Comparative Analysis
Never Thought I’d End Up Here slots neatly into the YA rom-com genre, echoing the cultural depth of Jenny Han’s Beach Read . Like Han, Liang excels at weaving heritage into romance, but her travelogue setting adds a fresh twist. Compared to Solomon’s academic rivalries, Liang’s story leans more playful, with a broader canvas of Chinese culture.
Against Liang’s own I Hope This Doesn’t Find You , this novel feels lighter, trading intensity for cozy charm. Its focus on personal reinvention sets it apart in 2025’s romance landscape, offering a diaspora narrative that’s both universal and specific, a vibrant addition to the genre.
Target Audience
This book is a dream read for teens and young adults (16–25) who love YA romance, rom-coms, and stories of self-discovery. Fans of enemies-to-lovers tropes, like those in The Hating Game, will swoon over Leah and Cyrus’s banter. Readers of Asian descent or those exploring cultural identity will find Leah’s journey deeply resonant. Its clean romance and light humor make it accessible to younger readers, though mild language warrants a note for sensitive audiences. If you crave travel, romance, and transformation, this book’s for you.
Personal Impact
Never Thought I’d End Up Here left me grinning like a fool, my heart warmed by Leah’s courage and Cyrus’s quiet devotion. As someone who’s wrestled with feeling “enough,” Leah’s insecurities hit home, her growth a reminder that self-love is a journey, not a destination. The vivid Chinese settings sparked wanderlust, and the romance rekindled my faith in second chances. This book is a hug in novel form—readers deserve its joy.
Conclusion
Ann Liang’s Never Thought I’d End Up Here is a sparkling rom-com that blends travel, revenge, and redemption into a heart-melting tale of love and identity. Leah and Cyrus’s journey through China is a rollercoaster of laughs, swoons, and soul-searching, cementing Liang as a YA romance queen. Dive into this sunlit escape and let it remind you: sometimes, the road to yourself is paved with unexpected love. Grab your copy and start swooning!
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About the Author
Ann Liang, a Chinese-Australian New York Times bestselling author, was born in Beijing and raised between China and Australia, infusing her work with rich cultural nuance. A University of Melbourne graduate, she’s penned acclaimed YA novels like If You Could See the Sun and I Hope This Doesn’t Find You, translated into over 20 languages. Liang’s witty, heartfelt rom-coms explore identity and love, earning praise from Meg Cabot and Rachel Lynn Solomon. When not writing, she’s crafting to-do lists or chatting with her labradoodle in Melbourne. Learn more at annliang.com, Goodreads, or Penguin Australia.
FAQ Section
What is Never Thought I’d End Up Here about?
It’s a YA rom-com following Leah Zhang’s journey across China to reconnect with her roots, clashing with nemesis Cyrus Sui in a revenge-to-romance tale.
Who is Ann Liang?
A Chinese-Australian bestselling author of YA rom-coms like I Hope This Doesn’t Find You, known for witty dialogue and cultural depth.
Is this book part of a series?
No, it’s a standalone novel, perfect for diving into Liang’s world without prior reading.
What themes does the book explore?
Identity, self-worth, beauty standards, forgiveness, and cultural reconnection, woven into a romantic travelogue.
Is it suitable for teens?
Yes, ideal for 16+ with clean romance, though mild language may be noted for younger readers.
How does it compare to Liang’s other books?
Lighter than I Hope This Doesn’t Find You, it’s a cozier rom-com with a travel twist.
What’s the setting like?
Vibrant Chinese cities—Shanghai, Xi’an, Beijing—burst with temples, markets, and culinary delights.
Is there an enemies-to-lovers trope?
Absolutely! Leah and Cyrus’s banter fuels a slow-burn romance that’s swoon-worthy.
Where can I buy it?
Preorder on Amazon or check local bookstores like Books of Wonder.
Why read this book?
It’s a hilarious, heartfelt escape celebrating love, culture, and personal growth—perfect for rom-com fans.
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