How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

If you had told me one of my favorite books this year would be a love story between a woman and the man who accidentally killed her sister, I would have been pretty skeptical. But then, I didn't account for Yulin Kuang. This may be her debut novel, but Yulin Kuang has worked as a screenwriter and director, just not for Hallmark. She was fired for being "too hip for Hallmark" which may be just the right amount of hip for me!. This book was chosen as Reese's Book Club's pick for May 2024 and it starts out pretty heavy, it deals with the death of a teenager, car accidents, grief, mental illness, references to drug use and addiction, and suicide.

Helen just moved to California, her best-selling young adult book is being turned into a television series and part of the deal is that Helen gets to be part of the writing team. She's happy to be away from the East Coast, away from her parents in New Jersey who she can never really be honest with, especially not since her younger sister Michelle died and left her an only child. Helen plans for everything: her life, her career, even how to break bad news to her parents (right at the last minute when she has no other choice). What Helen did not plan for is Grant. Grant, who is second in charge in the writer's room for Helen's television series. Grant, who also came from New Jersey before moving to California for college. Grant, who was Homecoming King and Class President of Helen's High School graduating class. Grant, who Michelle walked in front of while he was driving. Grant, who killed Helen's sister. Now they have to find a way to work together, at least until the show is done. But how will Helen ever explain this to her parents?

I'm not a huge romance reader. Not because the spice bothers me, but because I generally find them to be light on plot. Not this one. Yulin Kuang really delivered. This book was incredibly charming. I found myself several times smiling as Helen and Grant interacted with one another. I laughed out loud a lot. Both of the main characters are funny, and self-deprecating, and smart, and loveable. I was really rooting for them at the end, desperately wanting them to find a way past their struggles to end up together. This book does not end with everyone being happy, a beautiful little present all dressed up with ribbons. The ending is realistic, and wonderful. I hope Yulin Kuang has something else she's working on, because I can't wait to read more.

I'm giving How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang 4.5 stars out of 5. Spice level is 3 out of 5 and I've already put Yulin Kuang on my follow list so I don't miss anything else by her.

For all things Yulin Kuang, visit https://www.yulinkuang.com/

Pairs well with a slice of Irish apple cake while wearing the hoodie you stole from your ex.