The Bride Test

4.5 stars I absolutely loved The Kiss Quotient and couldn't wait to get my hands on The Bride Test. Helen Hoang did not disappoint and I continue to be impressed by her incredible writing! Khai and My/Esme have a very unconventional meet cute and situation. Their motivations for agreeing to participate are vastly different, but what they find along the way is so uniquely beautiful. Often when a forced proximity trope is used, things come together really quickly and ignite right away. I loved that Hoang let Khai and Esme's relationship build very organically for their personalities. Both are adjusting and learning and it was hilarious (and heartbreaking) to watch them struggle and tackle new experiences. The slow burn build up was very gradual and Hoang kept things perfectly simmering before letting things boil over. There was so much sweetness in the inexperience and wonder that these two discovered. Tears were definitely shed as they confronted their feelings (or lack of) and I felt like the epilogue suited them perfectly. I truly loved Khai and Esme together, but the real star of the book for me was Esme. Esme grew so much throughout the book and I appreciated reading about such a strong and driven heroine. She is clawing at the ground trying to rise above her lot in life and I respected her so much. Reading the author's note at the end brought tears to my eyes because it was not only refreshing, but it also rang so true to my own family's experiences. I'm sure my own cultural background influenced the impact this book had on me, but I think the theme of being truly accepted and loved for who you are and the hope of the American dream will ring true for many. All I can say is thank you Helen Hoang for staying true to the story that you wanted to write and I can't wait for more! *I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*

I was able to appreciate this book the second time I read this. I admired My/Esme for her determination in everything she did - life, studies, and love. I also appreciated Khai's internal conflict on his feelings and awareness as part of his Asperger's Syndrome. Totally recommend this book. Also, reading about Stella and Michael in this book was a bonus. I look forward to reading Quan's book.

This is another Helen Hoang book that I couldn't put down. Esme is such a strong, inspiring woman while Khai is kind and loving. It's a very heartwarming journey to read about how they fell in love.