My Manila Takes Manhattan Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
Manila Takes Manhattan by Carla de Guzman is a spicy, contemporary romance set in New York City and the film industry. Mon Mendoza, a shy but talented Filipino music producer, comes to Manhattan for his shot to write music for a big movie. On his first night in the city, he has a spontaneous, electric hookup with his neighbor, not knowing she’s Olivia Angeles, the lead actress in the very film he’s working on. Their night together turns their month-long job into an emotional, steamy, and often awkward journey as Mon and Olivia try to navigate professional boundaries, public attention, and the collision of two very different lives. Both are drawn together by chemistry and culture, but face real obstacles: Olivia’s career is anchored in Hollywood and Mon is devoted to his home and family back in Manila. Over late-night noodles and intense work sessions, their connection deepens and tough questions emerge—how do you follow your heart when it might mean leaving everything else behind?
Why I Love This Book
I love how Manila Takes Manhattan celebrates culture and real intimacy. The Filipino and Filipino-American representation stands out—Tagalog phrases, family traditions, even late-night pancit canton, all woven naturally into the story. Mon and Olivia don’t feel like romance stock characters; their doubts, ambitions, and insecurities feel honest. I appreciate that their relationship doesn’t just rely on instant attraction; it grows through vulnerable conversations and shared creative work. The book doesn’t run from awkwardness—some early scenes are clumsy, but that makes later intimacy more heartfelt and real. I felt their struggles with identity, distance, and navigating what “home” means. Watching Mon and Olivia support each other through industry challenges, family pressures, and their own internal battles gave the story a lot of heart. The romance is spicy, but the trust and emotional connection mean just as much as the heat. This book isn’t just about two people falling in love—it’s about finding your place in the world, and that feels genuine and refreshing.
Who Will Like This Book
If you love workplace romance, celebrity drama, and contemporary stories with lots of culture and representation, this is a book for you. Fans of Helen Hoang, Jasmine Guillory, or Jackie Lau will enjoy the blend of heart and heat. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to see Filipino life, food, music, and family on the page. The story digs into long-distance relationships, creative ambition, and what it means to bridge different worlds. There’s explicit content throughout, so if you prefer your romance with high spice and real intimacy (awkward moments included!), you’ll find that here.
⚠️ Trigger warning: The book includes explicit sexual content from the very beginning, references to the pandemic, anxiety about cultural identity, and public attention. Emotional themes around family expectations and belonging are also present.
Tagged As
contemporary romance, spicy romance, workplace romance, celebrity romance, Filipino romance, New York City, music industry, movie industry, cultural identity, fish out of water, long distance relationship, family drama, foodie romance, open-door romance, forced proximity, insta-love, found family, mental health, creative jobs, indie romance, kindle unlimited
Steam Level
The book is openly and joyfully steamy from the first chapter. Sex scenes are frequent, detailed, and sometimes delightfully awkward—reflecting real vulnerability. If you want a romance with a lot of heat and heart, this book delivers on both fronts.
