Mini review: Masters of Fine Hearts by Krysta Pa'e

Published by Author on 15th August 2025

ARC Read - 15/7/2025 - 1/8/2025

First, I want to express my gratitude to Krysta Pa’e for granting me the opportunity to read the ARC of her book. It’s a beautiful story, so let’s dive in!

Masters of Fine Arts centers around Lily, a graduate student pursuing her master’s in writing. For the first time in her academic journey, she finds herself struggling and is willing to do almost anything to pass her romance writing class, including dating via dating apps. When an opportunity arises involving an old acquaintance from her undergraduate days, she faces a dilemma: will she seize the chance or cling to her lingering resentment towards him?

Grant, her acquaintance, devises a plan to skip a family dinner by faking a group project, but gets unexpectedly caught by his half-brother in his lie. Thinking quickly, he enlists Lily's help, and soon they are both assisting each other with their respective troubles. Amidst the existing tension and past grievances, can they learn to forgive and forget? And who might be developing feelings for whom? This tale is brimming with love, excitement, and all things delightful. It's a lighthearted, feel-good cultural romance that's an enjoyable and easy read. I loved the life lessons throughout the pages, the Hawaiian culture, the family struggles and love, and the way this romance seamlessly blends realism with just the right touch of whimsy.