Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

"Red String Theory" by Lauren Kung Jessen is a delightful exploration of love, fate, and the intricate interplay between the two. This book captivates readers from the very first page with a charming blend of Chinese myth, multicultural representation, and the eternal debate of fate versus choice.

Rooney Gao, an artist who fervently believes in the red string of fate, is a relatable protagonist who wears her heart on her sleeve and her beliefs in her art. Her character is endearing, and her journey through artist's block and self-doubt add depth to the story. On the other hand, we have Jack Liu, a scientist at NASA who staunchly believes in choices and rationality, offering a contrasting perspective that sparks engaging debates throughout the narrative.

The chemistry between Rooney and Jack is palpable, and their witty banter and humor create an engaging dynamic. The author excels in building anticipation, making readers root for this unlikely pair as they navigate the mysterious forces that seem to pull them together.

Incorporating the Chinese myth about the red string of fate is a unique and captivating story element. It adds depth to the characters and underscores the central theme of destiny versus free will. The multicultural representation is handled with care and authenticity, making the story feel inclusive and genuine.

While the plot revolves around a missed connection and a seemingly chance encounter, the author skillfully weaves the narrative, keeping readers guessing whether fate or choice truly binds Rooney and Jack. The story unfolds in a way that keeps you invested, making it a compelling and heartwarming read.

"Red String Theory" is a clean romance, focusing on the emotional connection between the characters rather than physical aspects, making it suitable for a wide range of readers. The book also has a playful and whimsical side, with plenty of puns and lighthearted moments that add to its charm.

In conclusion, Lauren Kung Jessen's "Red String Theory" is a sweet and heartwarming romance that explores the age-old question of fate versus choice freshly and engagingly. With well-developed characters, a touch of Chinese mythology, and a healthy dose of humor, this book is a delightful addition to the genre. While I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I rated it four stars because there were moments when I wished for more depth in character development. Nevertheless, it's a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of destiny and the red string that ties us to our true loves.

Guys, gals, & non-binary pals, let me tell you I LOVED this book. We have star-crossed lovers, second chance romance, and main characters grappling with science versus fate, all through the lens of Chinese Americans trying to stay connected to parts of their Chinese culture. This is a wholesome, no smut romance.

Rooney, the FMC, is an artist obsessed with the Red String Theory, a Chinese legend that everyone is tied to their one true love by a red string of fate. Jack, the MMC, is an engineer at NASA and a firm believer in science and free choice. The reason I love this book so much is the author doesn’t pit fate and free choice against each other, but brings it together in a really beautiful way:

“May fate bring us close enough to choose.” ❤️

If you liked Christina Lauren’s Soulmate Equation, you should definitely pick up this book: it’s more interesting, written better, and an easy way to support a female Asian American indie author.

I really don't have any critiques of this book. However, while most aspects of the book were wrapped up nicely, there were some parts I wanted just a bit more from. I wasn't fully satisfied with how things ended with Jack's family; I felt like the way his parents were written foreshadowed some kind of reunion/confrontation and then we didn't get anything. I also felt like the mention of Gong Gong's familiarity with criminal activity was a fun foreshadow that wasn't ever picked back up either. The book goes into great detail about how all of the fate hypothesis tasks are resolved, except for returning the lost object of the ID badge? I know the point was the interaction in the butterfly exhibit, but it felt a little disjointed continuity wise to completely skip over the physical return of the ID badge in comparison with how the other tasks were written about. I love that Jessen writes this book in a way that's clearly interested in identifying privilege (especially contemplated in the context of Rooney's upbringing), and I wanted a little bit more of that recognition when Rooney is talking about engaging in criminal activity with the luxury of not having to worry about police brutality, ending up in jail, etc.

Thank you for NetGalley and Forever for sending this review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! This was a really sweet book! The Rooney and Jack were just delightful. Their time together just felt almost magical, probably because this whole book is beautifully written. I think the dialogue was the best and strongest part of this book. I enjoyed every conversation between our two main characters. The concept of this romance is so interesting. I usually don't go for books about soul mates or fate, but the fate vs. choice woven into the plot of Red String Theory really worked for me. The pacing overall is great and I found myself very engrossed in the plot early on. This is definitely a worthwhile read!

Rooney and Jack have been pulled together, but is it by fate or is it a choice? They certainly seem to be drawn together by the universe and Rooney can see all the signs. She has grown up believing in the red string of fate; a Chinese myth that your soulmate is bound to you by a red thread around your ankle, and no matter what happens in life it will never break. She believes in it so fiercely that she has even intertwined it into her personality as an artist.

Jack is a scientist at NASA and doesn’t believe in fate. He thinks that we choose our own destiny, and he can’t quite know what to believe of Rooney other than he finds himself not wanting to be apart from her.

They meet two times in one night, on the lantern festival, and it seems too odd to be coincidence. They can’t help but spend a magical night roaming NYC together, getting to know each other, knowing that he is leaving back to CA the next day and it can’t be anything more than one night. Will they ever be able to find their way back to each other again? It’s up to fate I suppose…

This was a cute romance that gave a look at what it feels like to find your stringmate! This was a clean romance (just kissing), and it had you rooting for them the whole time. The characters and the plot were so well written, it pulled you right in! I devoured the first half of the book in one sitting (I only stopped because I had to go to bed). The interconnected web of fate through this book was really special in how our two main characters came together. I also loved their playful sense of humor and puns, it had me smiling so much!

Tropes:
- Chinese myth
-multicultural representation
-soulmates
-missed connection
-forbidden office romance