Ex Marks the Spot by Gloria Chao Published by Viking Books on December 31, 2024
Genres: Young Adult
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I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A swoony rivals-to-lovers romance . . .
Family secrets that can't stay buried . . .
A globe-spanning treasure hunt with puzzles to solve . . .This latest YA novel by acclaimed writer Gloria Chao takes readers on a soaring adventure through love, loss, and the lively streets of Taiwan.
For Gemma's whole life, it has always been her and her mom against the world. As far as she knew, all her grandparents—and thus her ties to Taiwanese culture—were dead. Until one day when a mysterious man shows up at her door with two shocking the news that her grandfather has just recently passed, and the first clue to a treasure hunt that Gemma hopes will lead to her inheritance.
There's just one major to complete the hunt, she has to go to her grandfather's home in Taiwan. And the only way she can get there is by asking her ex and biggest high-school rival, Xander, for help. But after swallowing her pride, Gemma finds herself halfway across the world, ready to unearth her life-changing prize. Soon Gemma discovers that the treasure hunt is about much more than money—it's about finally learning about her family, her cultural roots, and maybe even finding true love.
Filled with ingenious puzzles, a vibrant Taipei setting, and a delicious romance, Ex Marks the Spot is an exciting adventure by award-winning writer Gloria Chao, perfect for fans of Loveboat Taipei, The Inheritance Games, and Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes.
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Fresh from graduating high school, Gemma has her life turned upside down. She finds out that her grandfather, who she thought had been dead for years, recently passed and left her a clue for a treasure hunt. Reeling from the lies from her mother, Gemma decides to join a group going to Taiwan so she can uncover the truth. This group has her ex-boyfriend/rival, Xander, in it so I knew we were going to get some very entertaining scenes. With each clue she unravels we find out more about the family that Gemma never even knew. And she has to find help from her ex or she will never figure it all out.
I adored this book, anything with puzzles and finding oneself I just love. The romance is not the main focus which I am thankful for, this is all about Gemma’s adventure. Some of these parts to her adventure will lift you up while another might break your heart. I was cheering her along the entire time and devoured the book in less than 24 hours. If you are a fan of young adult books with lots of adventure, you need to pick this one up.
