A review by vividaway
Flip the Script by Lyla Lee

adventurous challenging emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 I like the concept that Brian has an American name compared to Hana who has a more Korean name. The idea that Brian is an Idol and has been groomed for the industry is cool (and daunting when you think about the real world implications) and I like how many different paths this could go. Hana being new to the set is interesting because Brian has a dedicated fanbase, meanwhile, Hana doesn’t. Hana’s parents sacrificing everything to move back to Korean for her was a good plot point to include because it talks about the difficulties of a culture changing when you’re not there to see it happening. I really like the theme park scenes, and the way Brian and Hana interact with each other in a platonic sense. They’re genuinely so cute, and I can see how their relationship grew from where they started. The social media aspect of this book is the most interesting part to me, because writing an accurate portrayal of the way fans act will forever be changing, and it depends on what era it’s taking place in. Modern day social media is CRAZY AGGRESSIVE and this books captures that PERFECTLY. The mentions of sexism and misogyny is perfect and I’m so glad that it was talked about. The reveal that Minjee auditioned for the show around the same time that the fake dating plot plays out (And she gets the role) is a shock i wasn’t expecting. The rivalry that forms between them is interesting, and i love the drama of it all. The talk about paparazzi chasing Hana is really cool and i like the ways that the media is used in this book. The foreshadowing of Hana falling in love with Minjee is kind of obvious but only if you’re aware of what happens before you read. The talks of the homophobes in Korea was a well needed topic, and i love how they reveal Brian’s sexuality. It was smooth and done in a way to protect both of them, and i find it very sweet. Minjee dropping Hana is confusing because it’s not smoothed out that well (she just randomly drops her and stops being friends, though i can see how this is realistic for certain people. just not me!) and it’s revealed that she does this because she has feelings for her. The connection between the two is so cute, and their kissing scenes are amazing. I love the direction this book is going, and how dangerous it is for then to be together, professionally. I love the fake break up and i think the way Brian looks out for Hana is so adorable. They’re such good friends and i’m glad nobody was upset in the end. The reveal that both the girls were killed off in the show was a twist that got me because why would you write an ending THAT bad... one girl? sure. but both options? wild! they said no girlfriends for you, sir! The executives deciding to cancel the show because of Hana and Minjee’s relationship is so insane, and i can’t believe that things like this happen everyday in other countries, and even worse. The coming out scene was heartwarming and i loved Hana’s parents reactions. They expected it, but didn’t want to push her out of her boundary zone. Minjee’s parents not taking the news well is sad, and its also sad that she has to compartmentalize that, “at least she wasn’t kicked out” is just tragic. I wish it wasn’t like this for her. I love that the director gets fired, and Mr. Choy and Director Cha change the ending of the show. Brian taking the lead and using his privilege to his advantage to help the girls was honestly VERY sweet, and the way it played out in general was just really good. Everyone getting together to watch the end of the show was a nice way to recap everything that we missed in the last episode, while also drawing to close the story. Brian bringing his (future) boyfriend who is french was such a nice twist because he always goes after the non-koreans!! not that Hana is not korean, instead my point is that she doesnt FEEL korean. Such a silly boy.The ending reveal that queer fans are using the beach as a queer location is so fucking cute and i just ADORE THIS BOOK!!! its 100% in my top 10 list and i can’t get enough of it. It’s such a deliciously good book with great representation.