It was an okay read.

- The whole catfishing thingy was a bit draggy, imo
- I wish there were more interactions between Kim and Ruby (not just showing around heritage foods in NY)
- Sometimes these characters doesn't talk like their age. It's the CEO Father especially.
- Pacing was a bit off
- Some unnecessary twist plot (especially towards the ending)
- The fact that they did not confront Violet?

Overall, it lacks emotional depth but yeah, it is recommended to anyone who is looking for quirky, easy read.

Thank you NetGalley & publisher for this eARC.

What a fun read! I loved all the different dimensions of the main character, you really felt for her in so many ways but it also gave her some great character development. There was also such a great supporting cast of characters, it was such a joy to read this book.

For me this book is that one that you read in 1 afternoon before days of literary hangover . Is a little shallow but in the right amond.

As witty as the title suggests, it features great female relationships which pass the bechdel test, has a very cute romantic storyline, with well specified characters who shine. The plot did get a little less tight towards the end, but overall this is a great time,

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!! This was super cute!

Be daring. Be bold. Be you. Crazy Bao You is a delight. I loved the sweet backstory about Kimmie’s shop inspiration and the hilarious ridiculousness of her twerking stardom. It’s both fun and tender. And who doesn’t love a rich boy who’d rather spend time with his grandmother and be an everyday hero than a corporate drone?

This heartwarming love story takes you on an enchanting journey of self-discovery and unexpected connections. I instantly fell in love with Kimmie and Matt, two characters from different parts of the country whose bond transcends distance and time. The book beautifully explores themes of love, self-acceptance, and the challenges of navigating the digital age. Liao's writing style is charming and the characters are relatable, making this a truly enjoyable read.

This book was so sweet. The chemistry between Kimmie and Matt made me melt! Also, this is one of my favourite romance covers ever.

Sadly I read a few chapters and this book just didn’t grip me. I will not be finishing.

Maybe it’s just not for me at this time but I read a lot of contemporary romcoms and this just wasn’t hitting the mark.

Super cute lighthearted romance. Definitely a nice palate cleanser in between some heavier books. Loved the whole firefighter aspect, it was done perfectly. Overall super cute and heartwarming. Would definitely recommend for those looking for a lighter fun read.

A super cute romance that I wish I'd had the chance to read sooner! This was my second read by Lyn Liao even though it was very different genre.

Thank you very much for the opportunity to read this book early! I really enjoyed it. I thought the writing was very well done, and the story kept me interested. I believe my students/patrons would also love this book and will be acquiring it for the library!

The book's title immediately caught my attention, and it lived up to its charming name. This book is an absolute delight of a romcom. It's filled with positivity and joy, yet I thoroughly enjoyed this easygoing read that revolves around the theme of long-distance love. Plus, who can resist the charming touch of baos at the beginning of each chapter?

The story beautifully portrays a sweet romance between a reserved, creative woman and a handsome firefighter

Thank you for the chance to read and review but after further consideration, I don’t think this is the right book for me.

This was a lovely read! I loved the romcom between strangers to lovers! I cannot wait to see if she does a follow up book! I want to see what happens next in their NYC love story!

DNF at 18%
Based on the synopsis, I thought I was going to love this book. Unfortunately the summary doesn't mention that it's based around a catfishing plot-I wrongfully assumed that Matt not knowing what Kimmie looked like was simply because she never sent a picture at all. Had the friendship been better established quite a bit before she chose not to correct him I might have been able to begrudgingly continue on, but it's very early on and I just can't keep going.

There are people who enjoy this type of theme and will likely enjoy the book, but I definitely think the synopsis should more clearly point it out.

This was an easy, quick read that I found entertaining. There was a lot going on and I felt like no ideas were completely developed, but I enjoyed the read.

DNF at 15%.

Now for the percentage of the book I did read, I was having a lovely time! I didn't know that the majority of the plot revolves around a catfishing of sorts and I had to DNF.

It's my least favorite trope and I didn't want to negatively impact and review a book that I wasn't enjoying. I think that this had so much potential to be great; however, the catfishing truly ruined it for me.

I also felt like the FMC was a bit immature with her dialogue.

Other than that I did enjoy the book and if people like that trope they should definitely give a chance on this one.

It's truly a sweet and funny book that's filled with lots of friends, innocent misunderstandings, and finding yourself.

I finished it all in one sitting and I loved it so much!! All characters are written so that you will love them all, even Frank.

Also, the whole firefighter x Etsy owner trope was so refreshing to me, and in a way, it felt like a fanfiction so I ate it up like a teenage girl reading a Wattpad story. It has its cringe moments but overall it's just sweet and heartwarming.

Kimmie is a quiet woman living in Oklahoma and runs an Etsy story My Crafty Bao but when her boss takes things too far Kimmie quits on the spot and twerks her way out the door and ends up in a viral video. FDNY fire fighter Matt ends up in her DM’s not knowing she’s the infamous woman miscommunication takes over there’s possible drama afoot for this insta love story.

This book is very sweet, full of easy fixes and major Insta love. All things that just did not work for me. Super sugary sweet, no bite and too much easy perfection for my taste this time around. But if you’re seeking a sweet and easy read - this is perfect for you!

2.5 stars