Loveboat, Taipei is a teen romance with an outgoing vibe, a touch of seriousness, and lots of pressure from parents about school and the future.
Eighteen-year-old Ever Wong’s parents ship her off from Ohio to Taiwan for the summer to study Mandarin. They think she’ll be focused on calligraphy and culture—but the program is actually nicknamed Loveboat, a place where strict rules get tossed out the window, and teens spend more time clubbing and drinking snake-blood sake than studying. For the first time, Ever is free to break her parents’ rules and figure out who she really is, all while navigating family expectations, friendships, and maybe even love.
I really enjoyed this book because it shows so much of Taiwan’s culture, language, and places. Honestly, after reading it I kinda want to visit Taipei myself. It felt refreshing compared to so many YA romances that always take place in North America. There was a little “dry spell” toward the middle/end, but overall, it kept me interested. My only wish? That the rest of the trilogy lived up to how good this first book was (reviews on those coming soon 😉).
🔞 Recommended for ages 14+ (or mature 13), since it includes light intimacy, partying, drinking, and mild language.
⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars. Some slower parts, but still such a fun and unique read! Plus—the movie adaptation (Paramount+, maybe Netflix) was sooo good and definitely worth watching.
📚 If you like: strong FMCs figuring out who they are, dreamy MMCs, stories about self-discovery and independence. Similar authors: Lynn Painter (Betting On You) and Gloria Chao (American Panda)
Also by Abigail Hing Wen:
Book 2 of the Loveboat series
Sophie and Xavier
Book 3 of Loveboat series
Pearl Wong (Ever’s younger sister. This book takes place a few years later)
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