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Book details

The Boy You Always Wanted

The Boy You Always Wanted

Published in
2023
3.50
on Goodreads (1,139)

Description

From  Not Here to Be Liked  author Michelle Quach comes a smartly funny, heartfelt story told in dual POV about a young woman roping in her childhood crush to act as an honorary male heir to fulfill her grandfather’s dying wish. A story about first love, familial duties, and finding yourself—perfect for fans of Emiko Jean and Loan Le. Francine loves her grandfather, but their time together is running out. He has one final to see a male heir carry on the family traditions. Francine knows his ideas are outdated, but she would do anything for him. Her solution? Ask Ollie Tran, a family friend (and former crush, not that it matters), to pretend to be ceremonially adopted and act like the grandson her A Gung never had. Ollie has always made a point of avoiding the odd, too blunt (and fine, sort of cute) Francine, whose intensity has always made him uncomfortable. So when she asks him to help deceive her dying A Gung, Ollie’s definitely not down. He doesn’t get why anyone would go to such lengths, even for family. Especially with a backwards ( and sexist , Ollie keeps stressing) scheme like this. Francine, however, is determined to make it work, and soon Ollie finds himself more invested in her plan—and in her—than he ever thought possible. But as the tangled lies and feelings pile up, Francine will have to discover what exactly she needs for herself—and from Ollie. Because sometimes the boy you always wanted isn’t what you expected.
Age
13-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
336 pages

Why to read

  • Engaging and relatable characters
  • Explores important themes such as identity and self-discovery
  • Incorporates humor and wit, making for an enjoyable read
  • Provides insight into the complexities of teenage life and relationships