All the Right Notes

Lim debuts with a delightful queer second-chance romance between Quito Cruz, the gay Filipino narrator, and Emmett Aoki, biracial heartthrob of Sunvalley High. Alternating “Then” and “Now” chapters tell a sweet if slightly overstuffed tale that touches myriad romance tropes (enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, only one bed, forced proximity) with affection and sincerity. In high school, Quito is an anxious musical prodigy whose dad is choir director; Emmett is a popular jock who joins choir when allergies force him out of shop class. Mr. Cruz, a kindly puppet master, maneuvers the boys into a tutoring relationship, leading to an unlikely friendship and a secret romance. In the present, Quito works at a New York piano bar, and his only contact with Emmett, now an action hero, is what he sees on TV. When Quito’s dad calls to announce his retirement concert, he orders Quito to bring Emmett along to sing. Unwilling to admit he hasn’t spoken to Emmett in 20 years, Quito enlists his drag queen roommate, Ujima, to help orchestrate a reunion. Along the way there’s tempting Filipino cuisine, show tunes, and deus ex machina interventions by a universe determined to bring these guys together. Light and charming, with a hint of snark, this is a promising start for Lim. Agent: Gina Panettieri, Talcott Notch Literary. (June)