The characters were my favorite part of this book! I loved to read about almost all of them (not really looked forward to the mean ones tho xD). It made me feel understood, like there was a place in the world where I belonged, where people would see me for me.” I also liked how the author explored the important theme of immigration and identity. However, the whole take on the K-Pop industry was definitely unique, especially when an ex K-pop star is writing about it. The plot, in general, was not something new. And dating a K-Pop superstar should definitely not be on her list! However, becoming an idol is not as simple as it appears as she learns that her talent and dedication alone would not be enough to overcome the obstacles in her way. She left behind her life in New York to pursue her passion at a very young age. As the blurb suggests, the story revolves around Rachel Kim, who is a Korean-American. Hence, as a K-Pop admirer myself, I was eagerly looking forward to reading Jessica Jung’s debut novel, Shine. If you are a K-Pop fan, you might already be aware of this publication since a K-Pop star herself pens it. He’s also the first person who really understands how badly she wants her star to rise. It’s not just that he’s charming, sexy, and ridiculously talented. As the dark scandals of an industry bent on controlling and commodifying beautiful girls begin to bubble up, Rachel wonders if she’s strong enough to be a winner, or if she’ll end up crushed… Especially when she begins to develop feelings for K-pop star and DB golden boy Jason Lee. Six years ago, she was recruited by DB Entertainment-one of Seoul’s largest K-pop labels, known for churning out some of the world’s most popular stars. What would you give for a chance to live your dreams?įor seventeen-year-old Korean American Rachel Kim, the answer is almost everything. It can only feed more fear.”Ī Korean American teen is thrust into the competitive, technicolor world of K-pop, from Jessica Jung, K-pop legend and former lead singer of Girls Generation.

Jessica jung novel