This was a sweet and thoughtful book. I'm a huge fan of Lauren Kung Jessen and this one did not disappoint! I loved Rooney and Jack's characters. It was nice to see Rooney bring out Jack's personality and be more bold and brave. I think my favorite character was Rooney's mom Wren. She was funny, wise, and full of life!
I think my only complaints were the pacing was slow in the middle. I wanted a little more spark and romance. I also didn't fully understand how Rooney wanted to buy back the video of her birth. I understand the want but not enough to pay tens of thousands. I felt like maybe there needed to be more in it, including more about her father. My other issue was I wish Jack had more on the line. It was really nice to seem him grow as a character but it just didn't feel like there was enough risk with his working and potential relationship with Rooney.
Otherwise the book was very light, inspiring, and warm. I highly recommend it and this author! Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the chance to read it!

Rooney Gao has set up an art installation in Washington Park called Entangled. It has to do with the red string of fate. She happens upon Jack at the print shop and they have a meet cute. Later he happens upon the art installation and writes a note to add to the installation. Then they happen to meet again at a Lantern festival party. It ends up being a fantastic night walking around NYC.

I really enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud and cried. I loved learning more about Chinese traditions. I loved Rooney her way about art and life. She brought such joy to the page. A wonderful fantastic book.

What a delightful rom-com and follow up to Lunar Love (which I LOVED). Red String Theory explores questions of fate versus choice and the ways that your perspective in life can influence your beliefs on love. Rooney and Jack were a wonderful and endearing pair, with really powerful chemistry and fun dialogue that had me smiling the whole time. This book also had a wonderful cast of secondary characters that really contributed to the story like Talia, the best friend, and Wren, the mom. I would definitely recommend this to anyone!

Read if you like: Serendipity & Before Sunrise - this book is a perfect mixture of those two movies. Rooney aka RSG aka Red String Girl is an artist based in New York who works on creating anonymous live experiences/exhibits in the city. Rooney believes in signs and fate, and one night fate leads her to meeting Jack Liu, a science based engineer who works at NASA and lives in California. On their one night together in NYC they walk around the city, talking about everything (romantic). Jack doesn’t know that Rooney is Red String Girl, the artist who set up the exhibit he visited earlier in the day. As their thread starts to unravel, fate (or if you ask Jack, coincidence) causes them to meet again in LA.

There’s SO much to this story. It’s a bit slow paced, but there are layers to this story that made it so great. I loved all the fate talk, and the balance with science talk. I loved how Rooney and Jack built their relationship, and just how this story unfolded. Lauren must have done SO much research to write this story, and it was such a treat.

Rooney Gao is a (struggling) artist in New York, known anonymously as "Red String Girl" for her guerrilla-like art installations. One Lunar New Year night, she meets Jack (a NASA engineer from California). While initially attracted to each other, both have very different opinions about fate and science and choice. Were they destined to meet that night or did a series of choices lead them there? Rooney, a true romantic believes in soulmates and the red string of fate connecting them, while the more practical Jack believes making his own fate and not leaving things up to chance but choice. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship and Jessen's writing continued to shine.

"Red String Theory" was whimsy and magical- Lauren Kung Jessen's successful attempt to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump (in my humble opinion) and I will find myself reading all of her future novels, like a gravitational pull.

side note: as an Asian-American girlie in California, I love any time she mentions cities like Alhambra, Pasadena, and Glendale or our dreaded freeways and small CA quirks (the 405, iykyk 😂)

I felt like the magic aspect didn't really work in this book and I had a hard time wrapping my head around the red string aspects of the book even though that's what the whole book is about. Overall, I had a very hard time getting through this book and if I wasn't being offered a galley, I don't think I would have finished it.

I am still grateful to netgalley and the publisher for offering me a company in exchange for an honest review on the book.

I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I expected to unfortunately, it took me quite some time to get through it. There’s plenty of debate between fate and choice throughout the book, and I can see why many readers would love it. There’s plenty of cute moments and the characters are endearing, however I just couldn’t feel a strong connection to the story.

When spirited artist Rooney runs into stoic engineer Jack not once but twice in New York they spend an unforgettable evening challenging each other and their life philosophies. After typing his number incorrectly Rooney is afraid she will never see Jack again. But when Jack suggests Red String Girl be NASA’s new artist in residence he has no idea Rooney will come back in his orbit. After the shock of seeing each other again Rooney and Jack decide they should keep things strictly professional. But the more time they spend together the more Jack and Rooney can’t seem to deny their chemistry. As they push each other both professionally and personally they must decide whether to leave their relationship up to fate or to be practical about things.

I adored Lauren Kung Jessen’s debut Lunar Love, but this second story I feel is even more spectacular and shows her growth as a writer. Officially an auto-buy author for me!

I love the premise of a romance between one person who strongly believes in fate and another who is very science oriented (and both make their living in part defending their beliefs). Red String Theory brings these two people together in such a beautiful way over the course of year. Set in both NYC and LA, the book is also a love story to Manhattan which, as a lifelong New Yorker, I thought was so well done. Lauren Kung Jessen keeps getting better and I can't wait to see what she delivers next!

Thank you x 10000000 to Forever Publishing for this ARC for my honest review.

"Red String Theory" by Lauren Kung Jessen is an absolute gem! I can't express how much I adored this book, it's a solid 5-star masterpiece that had me completely enthralled. The crazy adventures that Rooney and the gang embark on while she searches for artistic inspiration are nothing short of exhilarating. And the best part? Watching Jack fall head over heels in love was an absolute joy!

What really struck me was the author's skill in seamlessly weaving Chinese culture into the narrative. It was not only cool but also an incredible opportunity to learn and appreciate something new. The concept of being tethered to our one true love by the red string of fate was not just a plot device, it was a heartwarming and poignant theme that ran through the entire story.

Rooney and Jack's connection, rooted in the belief of the red string, is simply enchanting. Their chemistry leaps off the pages, and I couldn't help but swoon during their romantic escapades, particularly that magical New York night under the icy February skies, fueled by fried dumplings.

The ups and downs of their relationship kept me on the edge of my seat, and I couldn't wait to see how they would overcome their obstacles. The book is a beautiful exploration of love, art, and destiny, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who craves a captivating, heartwarming, and utterly delightful read. "Red String Theory" is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this amazing literary journey!

Tropes:
Workplace Romance (sorta)
Fighting Fate
Grumpy/Reserved x Sunshine/Dreamer
Art x Tech

"Red String Theory," readers are taken on a journey that explores the compelling connection between love, art, and the mysterious red string of fate. Protagonist Rooney Gao firmly believes in the ancient Chinese legend that binds individuals to their one true love through an invisible red string. Inspired by this belief, Rooney, an artist, creates magnificent art installations using the very essence of this legend—red string. However, when a wave of artist's block unexpectedly washes over her, Rooney finds herself questioning the foundation of her artistic and romantic convictions. Enter Jack Liu, a seemingly perfect man who captures Rooney's heart with his intelligence, success, and undeniable charm. Their initial encounter in the enchanting ambiance of New York City, amidst icy February skies and the delightful flavors of fried dumplings, feels like a sign from fate itself. Yet, to Rooney's dismay, Jack remains skeptical about the idea of destiny and the red string that supposedly binds them. With their paths seemingly diverging, it appears as though they may be destined to lose each other forever. However, in a twist of fate, Rooney and Jack are granted another opportunity to reconnect. Determined to bring Jack back into her life, Rooney is faced with the daunting task of convincing a skeptic to take a leap of faith and embrace the belief in their intertwined destinies. Will she succeed in persuading Jack to join her in embracing the red string theory, or will their connection be forever severed? "Red String Theory" delves into the profound exploration of love, artistry, and the enigmatic power of fate. Lauren Kung Jessen masterfully weaves a narrative that not only captivates readers with its tender romance but also prompts introspection about the role of destiny in our lives. Through Rooney's journey of self-discovery and her pursuit of Jack, Jessen raises thought-provoking questions about the influence of belief systems, the nature of signs, and the boundaries of love. Jessen's writing effortlessly conjures vivid imagery, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world she has created. The author's portrayal of Rooney's creative process and her art installations, constructed with meticulously woven red strings, adds an additional layer of depth to the story. The symbolism of the red string serves as a beautiful metaphor for the invisible threads that connect us all, reminding readers of the interwoven tapestry of human relationships. "Red String Theory" is an engrossing tale that will appeal to lovers of romance, art, and the mysteries of fate. Lauren Kung Jessen's skillful storytelling and her ability to interlace profound themes with heartfelt emotions make this novel a compelling read. As readers follow Rooney and Jack's journey, they are reminded of the importance of remaining open to the signs and connections that life presents. By the end, "Red String Theory" leaves us pondering the intricacies of love, art, and the remarkable power of believing in the red string of fate.

"I think he might be my stringmate. After everything, how could he not be?"❤️🏮🥟

Rating:4.5/5 (rounded up)
Format: ARC - ebook

What I loved about Red String Theory:
-Rooney's friendship with Talia (Everyone needs a bestie like Talia.)
-Jack's relationship with his Gong Gong (Gong gong is the sweetest grandpa ever!)
-Rooney and Jack's dynamic (Their differences made them that much more lovable!)
-SO many nods to the Chinese culture (Being able to relate to the characters in a book is one thing but being able to relate to the culture is another. It makes me proud to be a first-generation Chinese/Vietnamese American! This goes from food, folklore, and events like the baby picking up an item on their birthday.)
-I'm the same Chinese zodiac sign as Rooney! (PIG!!)

Some of my favorite quotes from Red String Theory:
-"May our paths cross again"
-"Our lantern will end up where it's supposed to. Don't worry"
-"My mind swirls with colors from moments of our time together."
-"I'm here for Jooney."
-"He's a star that's light-years away, his light now finally reaching me."
-"Little seahorse soulmates. It makes me happy to think about."

I recommend Red String Theory if you like the following:
-artist x scientist
-opposites attract
-multicultural/mixed representation
-Chinese myth
-fate vs. choice
-work romance

Random but totally serious:
-Where can I get a pet string portrait?
-Where can I get freeze-dried ice cream?

Thank you Lauren Kung Jessen, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), Forever, and NetGalley for the ARC of this title.

Rooney, an artist that believes in fate. Jack, a NASA scientist who believes in truth. Opposites attract in this novel about fate, love, and connection.

Rooney’s infectious optimism combined with Jack’s surliness made this book a joy to read. I loved the instant connection Rooney and Jack had and how it stayed with them despite the space their journeys take them.

Thank you NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC.

This was very cute and sweet! I loved the overarching theme of fate and choice and how Rooney and Jack represent both sides of that debate.

Their meet cute and day exploring NYC together was SO CUTE! I was super invested right away and was excited to see how they would find each other again.

Read this for:
- Slow Burn
- Dual POV
- No Door/Closed Door
- Workplace Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Mixed Race MC

This did take me longer to read than I expected - I think the middle got a little slow for me and there was quite a bit "will they, won't they that I don't always have a ton of patience for.

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

i am a huge believer in fate and absolutely believe that the universe throws things at me for a reason. do i ever find out the reason? not always. but do i trust the process anyway? absolutely.

i’ve heard of the red string of fate, but i’ve never dug too deep into it so picking up red string theory felt like a no brainer. jack and rooney are complete opposites. jack believes in science and facts and things he can see with his own eyes, but rooney believes in fate and things that are left to interpretation most of the time. they have this constant battle of beliefs but they eventually settle for something in between.

maybe it’s because i’m going through it in my own life but seeing jack and rooney have this constant pull toward each other had me screaming at jack to give it a chance. it’s not everyday that you see these types of coincidences, and to not act on them when it’s the universe trying to tell you something? come on. you HAVE to. i know i would.

THIS COVER IS SO PRETTY.

Lunar Love was a favorite in January. And I loved the plot of this one so I had to read this one early. I'm a sucker for things about books with fate in it. And this one is dual POV! I love it! I couldn't wait to read Jack's perspective.

Tropes included--
slow burn
opposites attract
instalove(ish)
workplace romance

This slow burn was a little too slow to me. I wanted more to happen. But the end was sweet. And Jack was a cute book boyfriend. And I loved the little cameo from Lunar Love.

3/5

Roo, short for Rooney, is the daughter of Wren who is a famous artist. Wren had her big break when she recorded the birth of Roo as a piece of art. Roo is now older and is an artist herself, but she hasn't made it big like her mom yet. She also goes by the name "Red String Girl," as she doesn't want her artwork to be famous just because she is her mom's daughter. Her goal is to purchase back that video of her birth, but it goes for a lot of money.

In NYC, Roo has a display in Washington Square Park where it is interactive and testing out the Red String Theory. The Red String Theory is proving fate is real.

On the first day of Roo's display, she goes to the local printing shop where she meets Jack. Jack lives in California and is just visiting for a short period of time. They seem to hit it off just chit chatting while waiting for their print-outs. Unfortunately, Roo's display also gets shut down on opening day. Having a bad day, she decides to go to the Lantern Festival in town, where she bumps into Jack!

What will happen between Roo & Jack? Will they ever see each other again when they live on opposite coasts? Will Roo be able to buy back the video of her birth?

I enjoyed this book a lot. The beginning was a bit slow, but it definitely picked up and it was the perfect book to read and relax after a long day. My favorite parts were reading the Chinese words and how certain parts of the Chinese culture were added to this book. I learned a few facts about space as well! I also enjoyed the recipes at the end of the book and I can't wait to make them!

Fate and science collide in Red String theory— a lively romance that centers around Rooney, an NYC based Chinese-American string artist, who believes that one day she’ll meet her string-mate, aka one true love. Cue Jack, NASA engineer who explains everything via scientific experimentation, but has a soft spot for certain experiments it would seem.

These two are adorable, and their night in NYC is swoon-worthy. The NYC to LA scene swap is wonderful, and I love Jessen’s plays on fate vs. scientific explanation. Fantastic surrounding characters too (Sprinkles the cat, Wren, the NASA team, etc.)

(*Steam level: kissing*).

Thank you to the publisher for an arc to review!

The writing is easy to follow and moves along well. I wasn’t feeling personally engaged and stopped after chapter 1 (5%), but I imagine the target audience will enjoy. Solid three stars, four to five for the right readers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC.

Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest opinions.

Publication: January 9, 2024

Rating: 3 stars

I wanted to love this story more than I did. I've always been fascinated in the "fate" aspect of romantic's lives. That is probably the hopeless dreamer in me. So seeing that part of the synopsis, I requested this book. It wasn't a terrible read but wasn't an amazing one either. I found that it dragged and I couldn't get behind Rooney and Jack's relationship. I couldn't see their chemistry.

Perfect for fans:
- Opposites attract
- Strangers to lovers
- Dual POV
- Insta-love/attraction
- Red string theory
- Fate v. Science
- Slow burn
- Light banter