Some stories, no matter how many times we hear them retold, always make us smile. Understanding this, the entertainment industry continues to churn out familiar tales that have been repackaged with new names, settings, and other cosmetic variations but with the same, well-loved plotlines. For example, one of the most common stories in Asian romantic comedies involves an impoverished but proud girl thrust into the world of wealthy young socialites who somehow manages to capture the heart of the arrogant prince of the group just by being herself. Deftly using this story core in her novel set in an exclusive private school in Northern California, the author spins an entertaining yarn of humor, peril, and love.

Vincent Richardson, with his good looks and cool, aloof mannerisms, is used to having girls tediously fawning over him. He is also used to always being the top student, athlete, and artist. So when the new "ugly" girl not only equals him academically but seems immune to his charms, he is intrigued. Liking her spirit despite her hideous fashion sense, he picks her as his partner in the upcoming festival preparations, an opening move that will cause him over time to discover both her hidden inner and outer beauty and also lead him to fall hopelessly in love with her. For her part, Elizabeth is determined to never succumb to the wiles of such an annoying pretty boy, but true love always wins out in the end. Gand, a 17-year-old, either knowingly or unknowingly has employed many of the standard plot devices from Asian series such as Boys Over Flowers and The Heirs that have made them popular even in America. However, her swift-paced writing and unique voice help make her enjoyable novel stand on its own.

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