Something Cheeky: A Delightful Dance of Dreams and Love
Is there anything more captivating than a story that intertwines passion, representation, and the shimmering world of theater? When I came across Something Cheeky by the talented Melissa Lam, I knew I was in for a treat. As a book blogger, I often find gems that resonate deeply, but this one tugged at my heartstrings, combining themes that are both relatable and essential in today’s literary landscape.
At the center of Something Cheeky are Zoe Tran and Derek Bui, college friends with unexpressed feelings and big dreams. Zoe, a fierce plus-size lingerie designer, is eager to branch out into clothing design. Derek, a theater director who’s harbored feelings for her since their freshman year, presents her with the perfect opportunity: designing costumes for their collaborative Vietnamese interpretation of a rock musical version of Cinderella. The groundwork for their creative reunion is rich and fertile, echoing both their unresolved past and the pressures of the present.
What struck me most while reading was Lam’s ability to elevate the narrative beyond a typical friends-to-lovers trope. Often, this kind of relationship feels frustratingly stagnant, but Zoe and Derek’s journey is refreshingly more nuanced. After a betrayal that forced Zoe to distance herself from her dreams and friends, their communication quickly becomes one of understanding and vulnerability. Their history of friendship gives weight to their rekindling relationship, and it’s a joy to experience their playful banter as they navigate their creative responsibilities.
The story also sheds light on the challenges that underrepresented communities face in the arts—a poignant and necessary focus. Zoe and Derek aren’t just battling personal demons; they’re confronting the expectations imposed upon them, such as the unfortunate directive to make their musical “less Asian.” This struggle is a reality for many people of color in the theater world, and Lam handles it with grace and insight. As someone who has grappled with similar issues in my artistic endeavors, I appreciated Lam’s dedication to portraying these experiences authentically.
And then there’s the romance. I found myself highlighting passages that captured the essence of Derek’s unwavering support for Zoe, especially when he reassures her with, “Z, I’ll trust you until you can trust in yourself.” These words resonated with me, encapsulating the essence of true partnership where love blooms as an avenue for personal growth.
Lam combines serious themes with lighter moments, striking a balance that keeps the reader invested. The pacing of the narrative flows smoothly, blending their artistic collaboration with the emotional arcs of their relationship, making it hard to put down.
Something Cheeky is a powerful read for anyone who cherishes stories that champion representation, resilience, and redemption in love. Whether you’re an ardent fan of romance or a lover of theater, this book offers a heartwarming and eye-opening experience. I finished it feeling inspired, a little lighter, and a lot more hopeful about the ways in which our dreams—when shared—can blossom into something truly beautiful. If you’re searching for a love story that navigates the complexities of identity, creativity, and the power of representation, look no further than this delightful novel.