Something Cheeky: A Delectable Blend of Love, Dreams, and Representation
As someone who adores both fashion and theater, I was immediately drawn to Something Cheeky by L. L. Lam, not only for its vivacious premise but also for the rich cultural representation it promises. With a storyline centering around Zoe Tran, a badass, plus-sized lingerie designer stepping into the world of theater costume design, I couldn’t resist diving into this delightful read. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
At its heart, Something Cheeky is a beautifully crafted narrative about dreams, ambition, and love. Zoe finds herself at a pivotal crossroads in her career, with an opportunity to collaborate with her college best friend, Derek Bui, on a culturally significant production of Cinderella. What makes this story resonant is how it elegantly weaves the challenges of underrepresentation in theater into a narrative about personal growth and love. As a woman of color myself, I felt deeply connected to the struggles Derek and Zoe faced, particularly against the backdrop of the industry’s reluctance to embrace genuine diversity.
Ms. Lam does a remarkable job of bringing to light the pressing issues of racial microaggressions and the pressures to conform artistically. Derek’s pursuit of a vision true to his and Zoe’s roots is heartwarming, yet heart-wrenching when faced with external pressures to dilute their identity. It’s a poignant reminder that representation in entertainment is not just a box to check; it’s fundamental to storytelling. A notable moment encapsulates this struggle when Derek, fighting for their artistic vision, declares, “Z, I’ll trust you until you can trust in yourself.” This sentiment beautifully embodies the mutual support that defines their relationship.
In terms of writing style, Ms. Lam strikes an impressive balance between humor, seriousness, and romantic tension. I found the pacing to be spot on, with a mix of playful, witty banter and deeper, thought-provoking discussions. The chapters fly by, filled with moments that made me root for both characters while also reflecting on wider societal issues.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the refreshing take on the “friends to lovers” trope. Instead of adhering to the often frustrating misunderstandings that plague this genre, Zoe and Derek’s connection felt genuine. Their history was explored thoughtfully, breaking down the barriers of time and misunderstanding. Zoe’s initial hesitation to reach out to Derek after years apart felt authentic, making their eventual reconnection all the more satisfying.
The conversations surrounding body image and the microaggressions faced by people of color are seamlessly integrated into the storyline without feeling heavy-handed. The depiction of Zoe as a fiercely confident designer defying societal standards is empowering. It’s a narrative that champions authenticity and urges readers to reflect on societal expectations.
In conclusion, Something Cheeky is a tapestry of dreams, romance, and cultural representation that will resonate with anyone passionate about theater, fashion, or the broader narratives of love and acceptance. Readers searching for a relatable story that touches on real social issues while showcasing a compelling romance will find a delightful escape within these pages. Personally, it reminded me of the importance of pursuing one’s dreams unapologetically and the vibrant power of storytelling to bridge gaps between cultures.
If you’re looking for a delightful mix of heart, humor, and cultural commentary wrapped in a charming love story, then Something Cheeky deserves a spot on your bookshelf!