Coming April 29, 2025 from Disney-Hyperion
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Spin-Off of the Instant New York Times Bestseller!
Moon Minseok—or Moonster, as the WDB fans know him—wasn’t born to lead. Even as part of the world’s most popular K-pop group, he found comfort in his role as the jokester, the sidekick, the unserious one (with the cutest smile). But now WDB is drowning in dating scandals, and it’s time for Moonster to take charge of his group's image. Shin Hyeri has been dealing with some scandals of her own. An up-and-coming K-drama actress, she’s been labeled a “nepo baby” (with a famous idol as a big brother) and now a bully (which couldn’t be further from the truth). Desperate to show the world that she’s earned her spot, Hyeri is determined not to let her rising star crash and burn.
When these two childhood enemies get caught up in yet another scandal while cohosting a K-pop festival, there’s only one solution that will save both of their reputations: appear on one of Korea’s most popular variety shows, Our Celebrity Marriage, where celebrities pretend to get married and compete in “newlywed” challenges. The plan is simple—pretend to get along, win back the fans, then go their separate ways. But what happens when a fake marriage leads to real feelings? Will Moonster and Hyeri bow to the pressures of their fame, or will they decide their love is something worth fighting for?
content warnings: bullying/cyberbullying, stalker fans, parental neglect
Praise for Once Upon a K-Prom
“This book is a total win-win! It has two of my all-time favorite things—K-Pop and a prom! What more can you really ask for?! Super fun and totally charming!!”—Jenny Lee, author of Anna K and Anna K Away
“Be still my K-pop loving heart, I haven’t stopped smiling since finishing this book! A love song to first love and second chances, Once Upon a K-Prom is a delightful romcom filled with adorable banter and heart-stopping moments. This book should come with a warning: prepare to swoon!” –Axie Oh, New York Times & Indie Bestselling author of XOXO and The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea
“Whether readers know about K-pop culture or not, they’ll find themselves rooting for Elena and Robbie all the way. VERDICT Rom-com and K-pop fans will enjoy this journey backstage, while those not familiar will enjoy the story and want to seek out more about the music.” — School Library Journal
“A relentlessly charming tale of finding love and finding yourself — this scrumptious blend of sweet romance and tart pop culture commentary is the perfect book-shaped treat!” –Sarah Kuhn, author of From Little Tokyo, With Love
“Once Upon a K-Prom is a fun, swoony, fresh romance. Strong, passionate Elena completely stole my heart from the first page. Readers are sure to fall in love with Elena and Robbie!” —Gloria Chao, author of American Panda and Rent a Boyfriend
“The story unfolds in alternating perspectives with an even mix of flirty and serious tones balancing a frothy premise with sympathetic lead characters who are each struggling in their own ways to define themselves. No prior K-pop knowledge is needed to enjoy the slow-burn, will-they, won’t-they storyline, though fans of the genre will appreciate a few blink-and-you’ll-miss-them allusions to real K-pop idols. Pleasantly indulgent, with a dash of realism.” — Kirkus Review
