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 things: 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 problem: to complete the hunt, she has to go to her grandfather’s home in Taiwan. And the only way Gemma can get there is by asking her ex and biggest high-school rival, Xander, for help. But after swallowing her pride, she 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.
In this enemies-to-lovers treasure hunt adventure across the globe, Gemma learns about the meaning of family and what she is truly capable of.
The relationship between Xander and Gemma was believable, relatable, sweet, iluminating, and the slow burn I needed in my life. I love that the story was not centered around the romantic aspects, but they were like a delicious sidedish.
The settings were vibrant and picturesque, and I loved how much I learned about Taipei! The author put special “easter egg”places and dishes that are special memories with her parents and their home. This fact made me love the story even more than I already did.
The scavenger hunt aspects were fun! The clues and puzzles were clever! Even the title of this book is more clever than you might first think.
And that cover! Those colors are stunning, and the artist captured the essence of Gemma and Xander to a T.
Is this one on your TBR?
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