Amy Lea’s debut novel, Set on You, is a delightful romantic comedy that explores themes of self-acceptance, body positivity, and the unexpected ways love can enter our lives. The book centers around Crystal Chen, a curvy fitness influencer who has made a name for herself by challenging gym stereotypes and promoting a message of empowerment and self-love. Her journey is both relatable and inspiring, particularly for readers who have ever felt marginalized or underestimated.

Crystal is a well-crafted protagonist whose strength lies not just in her physical prowess but in her resilience and determination to live life on her own terms. After a recent breakup, she finds solace in the gym, a place where she feels most at home. However, her sanctuary is disrupted by the arrival of Scott Ritchie, a firefighter who becomes her gym nemesis. Their initial interactions are marked by competitive banter and a battle for dominance over the squat rack, setting the stage for a classic enemies-to-lovers trope.

Lea does an excellent job of developing the chemistry between Crystal and Scott. Their relationship evolves from antagonistic encounters to a deeper connection, revealing layers of vulnerability and understanding. Scott, beneath his confident exterior, is portrayed as a character with depth and a genuine heart. His interactions with Crystal are filled with humor and warmth, making their budding romance both believable and engaging.

The turning point in their relationship comes when they discover a surprising family connection at their grandparents’ engagement party. This twist adds an interesting dynamic to the story, as they are forced to navigate their feelings amidst family expectations and social media scrutiny. The inclusion of their grandparents’ love story serves as a charming subplot that reinforces the novel’s themes of love and family.

One of the standout aspects of Set on You is its exploration of the impact of social media on personal relationships. As a fitness influencer, Crystal is no stranger to online trolls and the pressure to maintain a certain image. When a photo of her and Scott goes viral, they face a barrage of negative comments that test their relationship. Lea handles this aspect of the story with sensitivity, highlighting the challenges of living in the public eye and the importance of staying true to oneself.

The novel’s humor is another highlight, with witty dialogue and playful exchanges that keep the tone light and entertaining. Lea’s writing is sharp and engaging, capturing the nuances of modern romance with authenticity and flair. The use of cheesy pick-up lines and gym-related humor adds a unique touch that will resonate with readers who appreciate a good laugh.

In terms of character development, Crystal’s journey is particularly compelling. Her growth from a woman who is wary of love to someone who embraces vulnerability is portrayed with nuance and depth. Scott’s character also undergoes significant development, as he learns to let go of his preconceived notions and open his heart to the possibility of love.

Comparatively, Set on You shares similarities with other contemporary romances that feature strong, independent heroines and themes of self-discovery. Fans of authors like Helen Hoang and Jasmine Guillory will likely find Amy Lea’s debut to be a refreshing addition to the genre. Like Hoang’s The Kiss Quotient or Guillory’s The Wedding Date, Lea’s novel combines romance with meaningful commentary on societal expectations and personal growth.

Overall, Set on You is a heartwarming and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and stories that celebrate body positivity and self-love. Amy Lea’s debut is a testament to the power of love to transform and uplift, even in the face of adversity. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and timely themes, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

For those interested in exploring this delightful romantic comedy, you can find Set on You on major book retail platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads.