The Stand-In

The Stand-In is a book I've had on my shelves since I got it signed by the author back in September. RomComs are a bit hit or miss for me, but I absolutely loved this book that features an identity swap and enemies-to-lovers tropes and is set in Toronto and the world of celebrities.

Within this lighter romance (no spice but lots of warm fuzzies), Chu compassionately weaves deeper layers that explore anxiety, Alzheimer's, sexual harassment, and depression. The story centres around Gracie Reed and her connection/issues with actor Sam Yao (aka celebrity hottie) and super famous actress Fangli. The romance was sweet, but it was the growing bond between Gracie and Wei Fangli that stole the show for me. 

Despite having a signed copy, I listened to most of this book (a free Audible Original) and Phillipa Soo did an ahhhmazing job narrating the story. She brings depth and emotions to the story, and I was delightfully surprised to later learn that Soo played Eliza in the Broadway production of Hamilton!! I'll be looking for more eAudiobooks narrated by this talented actress.

The Stand-In's beautiful cover will entice you, but the light, slow-burn romance, the budding relationships, and Gracie's relatability to the reader will keep you reading well past your bedtime.

My Rating: 5 stars

Author: Lily Chu

Genre: Romance, RomCom, Canadian

Type and Source: eAudio from Audible.ca

Run Time: 11 hours

Narrator: Phillipa Soo

Publisher: Audible Originals

First Published: July 2021

Book Description from GoodReads: Gracie Reed is doing just fine. Sure, she was fired by her overly “friendly” boss, and yes she still hasn’t gotten her mother into the nursing home of their dreams, but she’s healthy, she’s (somewhat) happy, and she’s (mostly) holding it all together.

But when a mysterious SUV pulls up beside her, revealing Chinese cinema’s golden couple Wei Fangli and Sam Yao, Gracie’s world is turned on its head. The famous actress has a proposition: due to their uncanny resemblance, Fangli wants Gracie to be her stand-in. The catch? Gracie will have to be escorted by Sam, the most attractive—and infuriating—man Gracie’s ever met.

If it means getting the money she needs for her mother, Gracie’s in. Soon Gracie moves into a world of luxury she never knew existed. But resisting Sam, and playing the role of an elegant movie star, proves more difficult than she ever imagined—especially when she learns the real reason Fangli so desperately needs her help. In the end all the lists in the world won't be able to help Gracie keep up this elaborate ruse without losing herself... and her heart.