October 12, 2020
Family loyalty is tested in the cute but formulaic finale to Lee’s Heirs of Hansol series (after Secret Crush Seduction). Jihae Park’s princess persona was “meticulously created by the Park family’s PR specialist.” Her polished image as the v-p of Rotelle Entertainment and heiress to the Rotelle Corporation is all the world knows of her. L.A. music producer Colin Song keeps his relation to the powerful Hansol family hidden, wishing to be judged on his character rather than his family connections. When Colin gets the opportunity to partner with Rotelle Entertainment, which he believes was behind a corporate espionage attempt against his cousin, the CEO of Hansol Corporation, he sees a chance to do some sleuthing. He takes the job, hoping to find evidence of the scheme against his family by getting close to Jihae—but he’s surprised to find she’s not at all the spoiled princess she appears to be. And though being with Colin could threaten Jihae’s carefully crafted image, she’s drawn to his adventurous spirit. Lee creates some truly sweet moments as the pair fall in love against their better judgments, but the moments of charm founder amid a cookie-cutter plot and thinly drawn characters. There’s some fun to be had here, but readers will hope Lee returns to form in her next project. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary.
November 1, 2020
Producing a movie brings Colin Song and Jihae Park together in the final installment in Lee's Heirs of Hansol series, following Secret Crush Seduction (2020). Called Princess Jihae by the Korean media, the heiress is known for being elegant and cold. This persona isn't really her, and she is excited to get some distance from her controlling father when she goes to Hollywood. Colin knows partnering with Jihae is a smart move for his new production company, but it's also a risk. She doesn't know who he truly is or about the sordid connection between their families. When they meet, he's surprised. She is not at all what he expected. Attraction is instantaneous, but no good can come of mixing business and pleasure, or can it? This soapy, trope-tastic story is pure fun. It's easy to become completely immersed in the scorching romance, despite some jarring time jumps. The rich lifestyles, family secrets, and exciting Los Angeles setting are all enchanting, but depth and heart are found in how these two endearing characters become better versions of themselves through their love.
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