Picture a Korean American storyteller who swapped corporate life for crafting swoon-worthy young adult romances—meet Susan Lee! A bestselling author of quirky, heartfelt novels, Lee brings K-drama vibes and cultural depth to her stories, making her a rising star in YA romance. Her journey from reluctant reader to celebrated novelist is as inspiring as her books.
The Making of Susan Lee
Born and raised in San Diego, Susan Lee’s path to authorship was anything but typical. A UC San Diego graduate, she carved out a successful career as an HR executive at companies like Spotify and Warby Parker. Yet, her heart leaned toward storytelling. Lee’s diverse experiences—from bartender to network engineer—fueled her knack for capturing the hilarious quirks of human connection. Her breakthrough came in 2018 as a PitchWars alum, landing her an agent and igniting her writing career.
Lee’s Korean American heritage deeply shapes her work. Growing up, she grappled with her cultural identity, an experience she channels into her novels. Her love for K-pop and K-dramas, paired with her knack for procrastination (hello, mechanical keyboard obsession!), infuses her stories with authenticity and charm.
Susan Lee’s Unforgettable Stories
Lee’s novels are a delightful blend of romance, humor, and cultural exploration, perfect for fans of friends-to-lovers tropes and K-drama flair. Her debut, Seoulmates (2022), follows Hannah Cho, a Korean American teen navigating love and identity when her childhood friend-turned-K-drama star returns. Critics praise its tender exploration of heritage and summer romance vibes.
In The Name Drop (2023), Lee spins a tale of mistaken identities as two teens—Jessica Lee and Elijah Ri—swap lives during a New York internship. This swoon-worthy rom-com tackles privilege and workplace dynamics with a fresh, relatable voice. Her latest, The Romance Rivalry (2025), dives into college life, pitting rival romance reviewers in a trope-fueled dating contest. Kirkus Reviews calls Lee’s voice “honest, fresh, and thoughtful,” a nod to her ability to weave emotional depth with laugh-out-loud moments.
Lee’s style shines through her dual POV narratives and vibrant settings, from Seoul’s bustling streets to New York’s corporate chaos. Her focus on Korean American leads fills a gap in YA romance, offering representation for historically underrepresented readers. Whether it’s blackmail, bucket lists, or banter, Lee’s stories are accessible yet profound, appealing to reluctant readers and romance buffs alike.
Why Susan Lee Matters
Susan Lee’s impact extends beyond her page-turning plots. By centering Korean American voices, she honors her heritage while inviting readers to embrace their own identities. Her novels resonate with teens and adults, sparking conversations about culture, privilege, and self-discovery. As a 2019 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart winner, Lee’s mentorship in programs like PitchWars nurtures new talent, amplifying diverse voices in publishing.
Her transition from corporate America to authorship inspires aspiring writers, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream. Lee’s stories remind us that love—whether romantic or familial—can bridge divides, making her a vital voice in contemporary YA literature.
- Born: San Diego, California
- Key Works: Seoulmates, The Name Drop, The Romance Rivalry
- Awards: 2019 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart
- Fun Fact: Lee owns three feisty chihuahuas!
Ready to fall in love with Susan Lee’s world? Grab Seoulmates and dive into her heartfelt, K-drama-inspired romances!