The sequel to XOXO! Could ASAP charm me just as much?
Title: ASAP
Author: Axie Oh
Published: February 2024
Pages: 325
Publisher: HarperTeen
Rating: 9/10
Sori has worked her whole life to become a K-pop idol, until she realizes she doesn’t want a life forever in the spotlight. But that’s not actually up to Sori—she’s caught between her exacting mother’s entertainment company and her father’s presidential aspirations. And as the pressure to keep her flawless public image grows, the last person she should be thinking about is her ex-boyfriend.
Nathaniel is off limits—she knows this. A member of one of the biggest K-pop bands in the world and forbidden from dating, he isn’t any more of an option now than he was two years ago. Still, she can’t forget that their whirlwind romance was the last time she remembers being really happy. Or that his family welcomed her into their home when she needed it most. . .
So when Nathaniel finds himself rocked by scandal, Sori offers him a hideaway with her. And back in close quarters, it’s hard to deny their old feelings. But when Sori gets an opportunity to break free from her parent’s expectations, she will have to decide: Is her future worth sacrificing for a second chance at love?
Aaaah, a sequel that came as a surprise to the fans! I was already a fan of XOXO, but ASAP has so much depth that I couldn’t help but embrace this book by Axie Oh.
Because the book came as a surprise, and there was also a bit more time between the two books, I was immediately very curious about the writing style. But that was perfect a la K-drama. I did have the feeling that the pace was higher. Which is not surprising, because ASAP mainly takes place in the same places. Very different from XOXO in which the main character was constantly on the move. Both books certainly have their own charm. If I had to use an example: XOXO is the book you read in spring and summer, and ASAP is the book you read in autumn and winter.
The writing style may not be different, but the author has certainly grown as a writer. The focus in ASAP was much more on character development. XOXO chooses a familiar path: a child who wants to break away from family. ASAP, on the other hand, teaches us that it’s okay to change your dream. I found it really refreshing how mature Sori is in terms of her career, and then she also grows socially and emotionally.
Sori has her reasons for doing the things she does. So as a reader, definitely stay focused, because even though it can be a bit annoying at first, Sori does it because she loves the people around her so much. Her intentions are so pure despite the harsh environment, she still finds her own way. This makes her an incredibly layered character and also someone you would love to have as a friend.
The character development of all the (main)characters is quite detailed, especially when you compare it to XOXO.
The setting was wonderfully rich in detail with a look behind the scenes of what life in the spotlight can entail (rehearsals, daily schedules, loss of privacy and intense public scrutiny). But there is also plenty of glamorous stuff, such as radio interviews, TV cameos and flashy appearances at award shows.
Of course, we can’t miss the sizzling chemistry between Sori and Nathaniel. It was so cool to finally understand their relationship better and the impact they have on each other’s lives and their families. We learned about their history in a fun and unique way, and their history is the key to their future. It’s a real rollercoaster of emotions that will keep you reading.
Overall, this was a smooth second chance (forbidden) romance that will definitely appeal to fans of K-drama, YA romance and cute leads!
Love,
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