Susan Lee’s The Romance Rivalry is a delightful exploration of love, rivalry, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of college life. The novel cleverly intertwines the world of romance novels with real-life experiences, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. At its core, the book is a testament to the complexities of love and the journey of finding oneself amidst the chaos of expectations and reality.

The protagonist, Irene Park, is a character many readers will find relatable. Her passion for romance novels is not just a hobby but a career, as she has carved out a niche for herself as an online book reviewer with a significant following. This aspect of her character is particularly well-developed, showcasing her deep understanding of romance tropes and her desire to experience the kind of love she reads about. However, her real-life dating experience is starkly different from the fictional worlds she immerses herself in, setting the stage for her quest to find true love using the very tropes she critiques.

Lee does an excellent job of portraying Irene’s internal conflict. On one hand, she is a romantic at heart, yearning for her own happily ever after. On the other, she is a realist, aware of the challenges that come with translating fiction into reality. This duality is a central theme of the novel, as Irene navigates the complexities of college life, friendships, and her burgeoning career. Her journey is not just about finding love but also about understanding what she truly wants for herself, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever felt torn between dreams and reality.

The introduction of Aiden Jeon, Irene’s online book review rival, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Aiden is not just a competitor but a catalyst for Irene’s growth. Their rivalry is both professional and personal, as they challenge each other to find love using romance tropes. This competition is a clever plot device, allowing Lee to explore various romance tropes in a fresh and entertaining way. The dynamic between Irene and Aiden is electric, filled with witty banter and palpable tension that keeps readers invested in their story.

One of the standout elements of The Romance Rivalry is the unexpected turn of events that forces Irene and Aiden to partner in the ultimate romance trope: fake dating. This development is not only entertaining but also serves as a turning point for both characters. Through their fake relationship, Irene and Aiden are forced to confront their preconceived notions about love and each other. Lee skillfully uses this trope to subvert expectations, challenging both the characters and readers to reconsider what they believe about romance.

Character development is a strong suit of Lee’s writing. Irene’s growth throughout the novel is both realistic and satisfying. She begins as a character who is somewhat naive and idealistic, but through her experiences, she becomes more self-aware and confident. Aiden, too, is more than just a rival; he is a fully fleshed-out character with his own struggles and aspirations. Their relationship evolves naturally, with each interaction revealing more about their personalities and desires.

In terms of themes, The Romance Rivalry delves into the idea of self-discovery and the importance of being the main character in one’s own story. Irene’s journey is a reminder that while romance novels offer escapism and inspiration, real life requires active participation and courage. The novel also touches on the pressures of social media and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a world that often values appearances over substance.

Comparatively, The Romance Rivalry shares similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the intersection of fiction and reality, such as Emily Henry’s Beach Read and Christina Lauren’s The Unhoneymooners. However, Lee’s novel stands out for its unique premise and the depth of its character development. The focus on romance tropes as a framework for the plot is both innovative and entertaining, offering readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Susan Lee’s The Romance Rivalry is a charming and insightful read that will appeal to fans of romance and coming-of-age stories alike. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thoughtful exploration of love and self-discovery, the novel is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of finding one’s own path to happiness. Whether you’re a seasoned romance reader or new to the genre, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.