Female Fantasy

A devoted romantasy fan embarks on an outrageous quest to find her soulmate in this hilarious and intelligent romp from Hariri-Kia (The Most Famous Girl in the World). A dutiful copywriter by day and beloved fan fiction writer by night, Joonie Saboonchi credits A Tale of Salt Water and Secrets for revitalizing her belief in love, but also for creating what some may deem naive or unreasonable expectations in a partner. After enduring an abusive relationship and far too many unappealing dates in small-town Mystic, Conn., Joonie is elated to learn that the character of Ryke, the charming merman hero of her dreams, was based on an actual friend of the author who is currently living in New York City. Certain that he might be her only chance at true love, Joonie persuades her brother to let her borrow his car. He agrees, but only if she allows his aggravating best friend—and Joonie’s childhood crush—to hitch a ride. As their madcap adventure plays out, alternate chapters present the text of A Tale of Salt Water and Secrets, adding humor, heat, and heart. Hariri-Kia skillfully weaves the two story lines into a celebration of the romance genre and a powerful message of self-acceptance. Riotously entertaining and genuinely moving, this will speak to anyone who’s ever felt shamed for being a hopeless romantic. (Oct.)