This book was hard for me to get into/enjoy. The writing was kinda choppy and I wasn’t grasped by the pot.

This was a cute story. A writer gets a chance to follow an actor for two months to write a piece on him and things get out of hand quick. There’s love and murder and betrayal and redemption all the greats. I liked the story and it came together well but at some points I was like “that was a little too easy”. The characters were likable but not very deep. The narrator did a great job.

I Did Something Bad is a delightful blend of romance, mystery, and cultural immersion. The novel follows Khin Hlaing, a freelance journalist in Yangon, Myanmar, who gets tangled up in a murder cover-up with Hollywood heartthrob Tyler Tun.

The chemistry between Khin and Tyler is undeniable, and their banter is witty and charming. The author's portrayal of Myanmar's culture and customs adds depth and authenticity to the story.

While the plot may seem a bit far-fetched at times, it's ultimately a fun and enjoyable ride.

Fans of rom-coms with a touch of mystery will appreciate I Did Something Bad. It's a lighthearted and entertaining read that will leave you wanting more.

Thank you so much to the publisher for my ARC!

I thought the story was fantastic. There were hints of romance, drama, mystery, and excitement. The conclusion was satisfying, and the characters were likeable and showed strong chemistry with one another.

3.5
Cute and, I suppose, entertaining enough, but comes with an overwhelming amount of "but why would anyone do that?"

An enthusiastic round of applause for this genre-blending adventure rom-com, offering a delightful yet cheesy cozy mystery with a dash of a slow-burn romance! The combination of humor and romantic suspense created a lighthearted yet exciting read!

I appreciated the cultural elements and the distinctive Myanmar setting! I truly valued the fact that both the plot and characters were uniquely original and equally captivating.

While it occasionally requires a bit of suspended disbelief, it’s still a fun debut!

3.5 stars rounded to 4 for Goodreads

Did I request this book because I can’t stop blowing for Reputation Taylor’s Version? Yes. Did this bring me out of my book slump? Also yes! Such a fun read and the narration made it all the better. I can’t wait for the author’s next novel.

I Did Something Bad is an adventure rom com that is sure to keep you entertained. I was definitely super intrigued and curious about this genre so I decided to give it a shot. For me the two didn't blend as well as i would've liked in this novel. I thought the fact that there's a murder was a jokey/funny matter and for me that threw me off entirely.

The characters' love story felt a little awkward. There was a missing spark, in my eyes it didn't feel believable. The romance just fell flat when it was supposed to be a big part of the book, also way too insta love for me. Both MC for me were not relatable so it was hard for me to root for them or be fully invested.

Although this one didn't work for me as I was expecting something entirely different from the blending of both genres, it might work for you !

✨️Thank you to @netgalley & @macmillanaudio for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review

*I Did Something Bad* by Pyae Moe Thet War is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of morality, guilt, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Myanmar, the story follows a compelling protagonist grappling with the consequences of their actions and the weight of societal expectations.

The author’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the cultural landscape while exploring deep emotional currents. War skillfully weaves together personal and societal narratives, allowing readers to engage with the struggles of the characters on multiple levels. The pacing of the novel is deliberate, providing ample space for introspection and the unfolding of the protagonist's journey.

Central to the narrative is the theme of personal responsibility and the often murky waters of right and wrong. The character's internal conflict is relatable and well-developed, forcing readers to confront their own beliefs about morality and the choices we make. The exploration of guilt and the quest for redemption is particularly powerful, resonating with anyone who has ever faced difficult decisions.

The supporting cast is equally rich, each character adding depth to the narrative and reflecting various facets of Myanmar’s society. Through their interactions, the author examines themes of family, community, and the pressure to conform, all of which enrich the story.

Overall, *I Did Something Bad* is a profound exploration of the human experience, masterfully blending introspection with cultural commentary. Pyae Moe Thet War offers readers a gripping tale that lingers long after the final page is turned, prompting reflection on one's own choices and the complexities of life. This novel is a must-read for those seeking a compelling narrative that combines emotional depth with social insight.

It was funny, sweet, has a celebrity/regular person trope as well as a setting of Myanmar (which I had to look up on a map).

This was entertaining enough for a rom-com. Nothing great, nothing bad, just fun. I enjoyed the character development, and I could definitely see this being made into a movie. I enjoyed this title overall. I read and listened both.

I wasn't sure about this one at first but was quickly won over. Khin is assigned a story and if she gets the scoop she will get her dream job. Her assignment is Tyler Tun who has come home to make a movie and while he is protective of his privacy she gets to see the inside. After a day of filming she takes a walk and is assaulted by a man who shouldn't be on set and when she strikes back Tyler is there to help her and together they survive and the man go over the bridge. They decide to hide what happened and when the police start questioning they back each other. That starts this story that brings these two close while they try to figure out who this man is. At the same time they are developing something special until, of course, a misunderstanding. There are twists and turns and this one kept me listening.

Thanks to Macmillan Audio and St Martin’s Press for advanced listener and reader copies of I Did Something Bad in exchange for my honest opinion. I listened to this while following along in my ebook copy. I’m glad I had both because I appreciated hearing some word pronunciations at the same time as I read them, since I’m not familiar with the language or culture of Myanmar. The book was a terrific introduction for me, and I’m intrigued to learn more.
I liked that this book had a mix of romance, murder, secrets, and celebrities. Because of that mix, I think many people would enjoy this read. It starts off like a cozy mystery, but with more romance and some darker themes. It’s not all light and fluffy as I expected, but I enjoyed the serious and dark parts and thought it was well balanced. I haven’t seen much press about it, so I’m hoping to help others find out about this one!
Sidenote, can you read this title without thinking of TSwift? I’m not much of a Swiftie, but that’s still where my brain goes!

Wow! Just wow! How many different types of laughter are there? Whatever number that is, divide it by two for each main character and you have the number of times author Pyle Moe Thet War and narrator Jacqui Bardelang found or placed the characters in compromising positions. The number is a lot. Now my simple formula seems to be grounded in Nutsville, but the reality is that slapstick comedy ensues in this satisfying but predictable palette cleanser where Bardelang breathes life into I Did Something Bad, This rom com is quite formulaic, but in the middle of the book you’re not thinking about that. You’re wondering if only one survives this grueling experience. But also you are yelling at the book for Khin and Tyler to kiss already. With the bad guys in hot pursuit, Khin and Tyler must work together if they want to get out of the jungle alive.

I received an advanced audiobook from Macmillan Audio, NetGalley in lieu of my honest review.

Thanks, Macmillan Audio, for the ALC.

The very first line of the book blurb for I DID SOMETHING BAD is, “In this smart and swoony adventure rom-com, a journalist and a movie star find themselves teaming up to cover up a murder…” and while it started super cute and fun, by 23%, it became not the book the for me. I think it was because the book went from this playful and rom-com tone to suddenly moody and dark tone. I don’t know if it changed back, but it wasn’t what I hoped for in the book or was looking for. And my tbr is too long for books that bum me out.

Also, I was not a fan of the narrator, Jacqui Bardelang. The voice for the FMC was good, but every other voice lacked spark.

Content Warnings: (from what I read) attempted sexual assault, murder

4.5 ⭐️ Written by Pyae Moe Thet War and narrated by Jacqui Bardelang; I Did Something Bad centers on the story of Khin, a journalist, and her assignment to write an article about Tyler, a famous actor. The two are suddenly involved in a chaotic accidental murder.

This is more of an “Only Murders In The Building” vibe Rom-Com than a traditional Hollywood Rom-Com. The story is witty, smart, incidentally funny, with lots of shared secrets, cover ups, and stolen glances. I’d call it an accomplices to lovers, his family loves her, slow burn (but you feel the tension throughout) romance. What’s not to like about a little light hearted murder 😆

With star struck police and meddling characters throughout, this is a fun one for sure.

I thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Jacqui, she did an amazing job portraying all of the characters on her own. I was never concerned with who was speaking; very smooth and easy to follow. Thank you so much for letting me come along in this journey! I was drawn to this book by the title and the cover art and it did not disappoint. Thank you so much for the Audio ARC on NetGalley from Macmillan Audio.

This book was such a wild ride.

I thought Khin and Tyler had great banter and chemistry but I just cannot get over the main plot point. Like "lol murder"....felt so aloof and strange. The lies and manipulation to cover that up...just set up their entire relationship on such a rocky road. I don't know....I did not vibe with this one as much as I was hoping to...

<b>Read Completed 10/6/24 |</b> 3.5 stars
<I>Thank you to the publisher, Macmillan audio, and Netgalley for access to this audiobook review copy. Receiving this copy did not affect my reading experience or review in any way.</I>

I picked up I DID SOMETHING BAD for its self-proclaimed mix of romance, action, and suspense. It was deemed a rom-com so I imagined it being more funny and silly, but this was actually more of a serious tone and not a laugh-out-loud comedy story. I did enjoy the book, for the most part, but I feel like it set me up for something that it really didn't quite deliver.

I liked the chemistry between Khin and Tyler, but it was overshadowed by them literally committing a murder (which I didn't realize was *quite* happening from the blurb). Without that extra push of funny, the two vibes just didn't really go together. It seemed like the romance was fighting with the concept that these two just murdered a guy... I feel like the author was trying to give the two genres/concepts equal space and they just fought each other.

I really did like the individual leads and the author did a great job with the secondary characters as well. I enjoyed the appearances from Khin's best friends as well as Tyler's best friend, who is an actress and leading with him in their current movie. It also had a How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days feel where there's a lead female journalist who writes important, meaningful pieces who is now trying to get a job at Vogue and then in the end, the article she ends up writing about him is more love letter than objective interview. Which again is all well and fine, but it would have clicked more if it had been more comedic.

The ending kind of broke the book a bit for me, which I was honestly already waffling on. While I was doing well with the read, I did get bored in spots where nothing was really going on. There were some chunks where the romance wasn't progressing nor was anything with the murder investigation. There were some incredibly pushy cops, but nothing was still moving forward. <spoiler>In the end, as much as we want to see our protagonists "get away with it", it really didn't feel right that they "got away with it". It was self defense, and that's what they kept maintaining, but in the end, the coroner actually determined that he died of a heart attack?! Uhh no. Nah. That's just not right.</spoiler>

I did like a lot Pyae Moe Thet War's writing here and I'd try another book from this author! I think this one had a little too much going on and a lot of things suffered. I liked what it was going for but a lot of it just didn't land for me.

Freelance journalist Khin Hlaing’s new assignment for Vogue in Myanmar is to follow heart throb actor, Tyler Tun around and get a scoop on him. Unfortunately, I felt detached from the main character. There was no connection there. Everything about this book felt mediocre. Khin, Tyler, their romance, their friends etc. One-minute Khin was talking to Tyler and trying to understand him as a person and the next they are somewhat together? It was an odd jump. I did like that there was the murder at the beginning and a bit of a mystery of how they work together to hide what really happened. But in reality, did they really have to hide what really happened? I don’t know. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a great job bringing the characters to life.

Khin Hlaing is a freelance journalist having a bad year. Her marriage dissolved within a year, and she’s had to start over and recover from her disappointment quickly. But maybe things are turning around, because an editor at Vogue called her up to offer her the chance of a lifetime. Tyler Tun is an A-list actor, one being considered for the role of James Bond. He’s going to be on an upcoming cover of the magazine, and they need a cover story to go with it. Khin would spend 2 months with Tyler, as he films his latest movie in Myanmar. And if things go well with the cover story, there may be a full-time job with Vogue Singapore in Khin’s future.

As Khin starts to spend time with Tyler, she understands why he is the Hollywood heartthrob. He is smart and confident, good looking, and kind as well. He can tell when those around him notice who he is, but he tries to stay as incognito as he can, especially when he is out with his family. He works hard and reaches out to help others. But he’s also hard to get to know, and Khin needs to get past his armor if she wants to get a story worthy of a Vogue cover.

But when Khin gets to spend the day on set watching Tyler film his latest romantic comedy, she doesn’t know that someone followed her on to the set. It’s a public park, and when Khin wanders off towards a lake, the man who snuck onto the set comes to talk to her. He gets aggressive, and since she thought the park was closed, she didn’t bring her phone. He keeps coming closer to her, and she has nowhere to run. He gets her trapped on the bridge, and the only thing she can think to do is to do is stab him in the ear with her pen. Tyler sees what’s going on and runs over to help her. The man ends up going over the bridge, falling into the lake. And when he doesn’t resurface, Khin panics.

Tyler tries to calm Khin, saying that it had been self-defense. She is torn. Part of her wants to go to the police and tell them what happened, but if she does that, then there is no Vogue cover story or job. And the movie may get shut down, which would be a problem for Tyler’s shooting schedule. But this is a big secret to carry, and just as Tyler and Khin were developing feelings for each other.

As the weeks go by with the filming, the police show up to investigate the death in the park. They focus on Khin in their questioning, but she refuses to say anything incriminating. She decides her best way to try to find answers she can live with is to investigate the man herself. She is a journalist, after all. But that distracts her from her story on Tyler. As Khin tries to balance the life she wants with the decisions she’s been making lately, she finds herself more confused than ever. Will she ever be able to write her story, or maybe find love with Tyler, or will she end up spending the rest of her life in prison?

I Did Something Bad is part rom com, part mystery, and a fun ride for a debut novel. Author Pyae Moe Thet War brings together adventure, romance, and celebrity culture to a story filled with secrets, lies, and big life decisions. I listened to the audio book for this one, and narrator Jacqui Bardelang brought Khin’s voice to life so beautifully. I thought she was an excellent choice for this story, and I truly enjoyed her narration.

I love the cover for I Did Something Bad, and I was looking for a story with a strong hero (or maybe an anti-hero, based on the title). I did think Khin was a strong character, and I loved the setting in Myanmar. But I did find the story got a little muddled between romance and mystery. I enjoyed it, and I think others will as well, but I did think it could be a little stronger if the story was a little more focused. Mostly, I just liked these characters, and I was rooting for them to find the answers they needed to come back together in the end. That was enough for me to keep reading to the end, and I’m really glad I did.

Egalleys for I Did Something Bad were provided by St. Martin’s Griffin and a copy of the audiobook was provided by Macmillan Audio, both through NetGalley, with many thanks.