Crazy Rich Asians meets Bend It Like Beckham in this outrageously fun, Filipino-flavored romance.
When Jomar's tennis ambitions crash into Mitchelle's wounded heart during one charmingly disastrous karaoke night, they'll discover that the biggest matches aren't played on courts-but in learning to love despite the ghosts of the past.
Eighteen-year-old Jomar Montalbano thinks he's ready for anything. A rising tennis star from the Philippines, he lands in London with one suitcase, one scholarship, and zero idea how to survive without rice. He's counting on a few wins on the court-but definitely not falling for Mitchelle Tanner.
She's the quiet girl with a vintage camera, a craving for halo-halo, and a smile that hides as much as it shows. Half-American, half-Filipina, and fully impossible to read.
He's used to power and control-but around her, he's completely unstrung.
From vulnerable confessions in a darkroom's glow to rallies that feel like Wimbledon wins, Jomar discovers that love-like tennis-is all about timing, risk, and knowing when to fight for the point.
Set in London's rainy alleys and sunlit parks, woven with island warmth and humor, Gihigugma, Ace of Hearts is an adventure about home, heart, and the courage to choose love against all odds.
Love at 18 isn't always a mistake. Sometimes it's a miracle.
Early Reader Praise:
"Wow, I absolutely loved this book! That's all I did all afternoon! I'm amazed by how perfectly you describe Filipino food (have you tried it all?), how you write tennis like a pro, and how you bring London's sights to life (I know them all!). This will completely click with readers everywhere!"
"A fabulous romance that captures all the delicious tension of young love! From the heart-fluttering uncertainty of first texts to those vulnerable first touches, this story perfectly evokes the magic and mishaps of new relationships. The richly drawn tennis backdrop and mouthwatering Filipino food descriptions add irresistible flavor, while the international setting brings authentic travel challenges to life. With its will-they-won't-they spark and gorgeous prose ('She whispers as if letting a secret slip out in the dark'), this is a love story that will resonate with anyone who remembers-or is experiencing-their first breathtaking romance. Brava!"
Content Note: This story contains: social alcohol use, mild profanity, depictions of past romantic trauma, and competitive sports pressure.
While handled with care, please prioritize your wellbeing. The story ultimately celebrates healing and joyful connection.
