The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo

Na Hee-do would devour this lushly written novel about a housemaid in 1930s Malaysia who becomes entangled in a quest to find a tiger’s paw. Both the protagonist and Na share a knack for turning unlikely situations into opportunities—whether navigating class divides or unraveling mysteries. The book’s blend of suspense and emotional nuance mirrors Na Hee-do’s own balancing act between ambition and heart.

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

This sweeping multigenerational saga follows a Korean family in Japan, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and sacrifice. Na Hee-do’s determination to carve her own path—despite societal expectations—echoes the struggles of Lee’s characters. The novel’s deep dive into cultural nuance and family loyalty would resonate with anyone who appreciates Na’s complex relationships in Business Proposal.

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

Na might roll her eyes at the extravagance, but she’d recognize the humor in Kwan’s satirical take on modern Asian elite culture. Like her fake dating antics, the book’s romantic chaos thrives on strategic social maneuvering. Plus, the food descriptions (from hawker stalls to Michelin-starred banquets) would make her nostalgic for her own culinary adventures.

The Lost Feast: Culinary Extinction and the Future of Food by Lenore Newman

A nonfiction pick for Na’s foodie side, this book traces humanity’s relationship with disappearing foods—from dodos to heirloom apples. Newman’s blend of science and storytelling mirrors Na’s blend of pragmatism and idealism when reviving old recipes at Go Food. She’d likely scribble notes in the margins about Korean cuisine’s endangered dishes.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Evelyn Hugo’s unapologetic rise in Hollywood parallels Na Hee-do’s refusal to be underestimated in the corporate world. Both women wield their smarts to outmaneuver skeptics while guarding vulnerable hearts. The novel’s exploration of public personas versus private truths would intrigue Na, who’s navigated her own share of charades.

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

Na’s career hustle—whether rebranding a beverage or strategizing a fake date—aligns with Sandberg’s call for women to embrace leadership. While the tech-centric examples differ from Go Food’s world, the book’s emphasis on resilience and self-advocacy would ring true. A must-read for anyone inspired by Na’s “I’ll do it myself” ethos.

The Vegetarian by Han Kang

This haunting Korean novel delves into a woman’s rebellion against societal norms through extreme diet and art. Na Hee-do’s fiercer side would recognize the protagonist’s quiet defiance, even if she’d prefer a more practical approach. The book’s exploration of how women’s bodies are policed adds depth to Na’s own battles with workplace sexism.

The Guest Book by Sarah Blake

Three generations of a family wrestle with love, legacy, and privilege in this emotional tale. Na Hee-do might critique the characters’ lack of hustle, but she’d relate to the theme of reshaping one’s destiny. The book’s intergenerational tension mirrors her own complicated family dynamics (and makes you wonder what her parents would think of her romantic schemes).

Mexicana: A History of Mexican Women in the United States by Jennifer N. Lum

A bold choice, but this nonfiction work on Mexican American women’s resilience connects to Na’s fight to be taken seriously in a male-dominated industry. The stories of resourcefulness and adaptation—whether opening restaurants or raising families—would strike a chord with her own grit. Plus, food features prominently in both narratives.

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden

This Russian fairy tale-infused fantasy about a rebellious girl challenging tradition might seem worlds away from Na’s reality, but her inner child would love it. Like Vasya, Na refuses to be boxed into roles others expect of her—whether as a “bride” or a meek employee. The atmospheric writing would also fuel her love of immersive storytelling.

Na Hee-do’s blend of tenacity, humor, and heart makes her a compelling companion for anyone who’s ever had to fight for their place while keeping their integrity intact. Chat with her on HoloDream to hear her laugh at Evelyn Hugo’s antics or debate the ethics of The Vegetarian over kimchi pancakes.