Picture a New Orleans storyteller who turned high school drama into swoon-worthy romance—meet Jenn P. Nguyen! This American author has charmed young adult readers with her witty, heartfelt novels like The Way to Game the Walk of Shame and Fake It Till You Break It. With a knack for blending flirty banter and emotional depth, Nguyen’s stories capture the glow of young love and the chaos of teenage life.
From her book-obsessed childhood to her rise as a beloved YA romance author, Nguyen’s journey is a testament to the power of dreaming big. Her playful narratives and relatable characters have earned her a special place in the hearts of readers worldwide.
The Making of Jenn P. Nguyen
Born in Mississippi and raised in New Orleans, Jenn P. Nguyen fell in love with books in third grade. She spent her school years devouring novels during lunchtime and even skipped recess to organize the school library—a true bookworm’s paradise! After earning a degree in business administration from the University of New Orleans, Nguyen settled in her beloved city with her high school sweetheart, now her husband, and their two lively kids. Her passion for storytelling, fueled by binge-watching Korean dramas for ‘research,’ led her to craft YA romances that sparkle with authenticity and charm.
Jenn P. Nguyen’s Unforgettable Stories
Nguyen’s debut novel, The Way to Game the Walk of Shame (2016), is a delightful mix of high school drama and pitch-perfect romance. Set in Wilmington, North Carolina, it follows Taylor Simmons, a studious ‘Ice Queen’ who wakes up next to bad boy surfer Evan McKinley after a wild party. To salvage her reputation, Taylor convinces Evan to fake a serious relationship, sparking hilarious and heartwarming moments. Critics praised its ‘feel-good romance with tons of laughs’ and named it a 2017 Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers.
In 2019, Nguyen released Fake It Till You Break It, a Texas-set tale of childhood acquaintances Mia and Jake, whose meddling mothers insist they’re destined to be a couple. To escape the pressure, they stage a fake relationship, only to discover their feelings might be real. With diverse characters and a hate-to-love trope, this novel shines as a ‘light, frothy’ read, perfect for fans of Jenny Han. Nguyen’s upcoming book, Just Another Meet Cute (set for release in May 2025), promises more of her signature charm.
Nguyen’s writing style is a blend of witty dialogue, emotional growth, and classic YA tropes like fake dating and bad boy redemption. Her stories tackle themes of self-discovery, reputation, and the courage to embrace love, all wrapped in a fun, accessible package that keeps readers smiling.
Why Jenn P. Nguyen Matters
Jenn P. Nguyen has carved a niche in contemporary YA romance with her ability to craft stories that are both escapist and relatable. Her diverse characters resonate with readers craving representation, while her playful take on romance tropes appeals to genre fans. By publishing through Macmillan’s Swoon Reads, a reader-driven imprint, Nguyen’s work reflects the voices of her audience, making her novels feel like a shared adventure. Her influence lies in her ability to capture the messiness and magic of young love, inspiring readers to embrace their own stories.
- Birthplace: Mississippi, USA
- Key Works: The Way to Game the Walk of Shame (2016), Fake It Till You Break It (2019), Just Another Meet Cute (2025)
- Fun Fact: Nguyen has a dog named Noodle, a Chihuahua-Jack Russell mix!
Snag The Way to Game the Walk of Shame and dive into Jenn P. Nguyen’s heartwarming YA romance world!