Boundless Press | The Kiss Quotient
Log in or Sign up
The Kiss Quotient
Helen Hoang
Save to Your Books
100% of affiliate revenue supports Boundless Press
From the author of The Bride Test comes a romance novel hailed as one of The Washington Post’s 50 Notable Works of Fiction in 2018 and one of Amazon’s Top 100 Books of 2018!
“This is such a fun read and it's also quite original and sexy and sensitive.”—Roxane Gay, New York Times bestselling author.
“Hoang's writing bursts from the page.”—Buzzfeed.
A heartwarming and refreshing debut novel that proves one thing: there's not enough data in the world to predict what will make your heart tick.
Stella Lane thinks math is the only thing that unites the universe. She comes up with algorithms to predict customer purchases—a job that has given her more money than she knows what to do with, and way less experience in the dating department than the average thirty-year-old.
It doesn't help that Stella has Asperger's and French kissing reminds her of a shark getting its teeth cleaned by pilot fish. Her conclusion: she needs lots of practice—with a professional. Which is why she hires escort Michael Phan.
The Vietnamese and Swedish stunner can't afford to turn down Stella's offer, and agrees to help her check off all the boxes on her lesson plan—from foreplay to more-than-missionary position....
Before long, Stella not only learns to appreciate his kisses, but crave all of the other things he's making her feel. Their no-nonsense partnership starts making a strange kind of sense. And the pattern that emerges will convince Stella that love is the best kind of logic...
Show more
Get the Bindery app
Posts about this title from Boundless Press
Boundless Press\ \ Jananie\ \ • Dec 31 2022
every book i read in 2022 rated & reviewed in 1 sentence
join as a channel member to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJn0v3OAEAX3-V4crjcHtRA/join
socials 🤍 instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisstoryaintover/ 🤍 twitter: https://twitter.com/jananiekvelu 🤍 tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisstoryaintover?lang=en 🤍 goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/thisstoryaintover
💌 for business/sponsorship inquiries please contact eric@smallscreenmarketing.com 💌 for all other inquiries please contact me at thisstoryaintover@gmail.com
faqs 🤍 how do you pronounce your name? - my name is Jananie—pronounced JEN-nah-nee (like a knee!)
🤍 what's your background/ethnicity/etc? - both my parents are Sri Lankan Tamil, and I was born and raised in Canada!
🤍 what is your job? - aside from youtube I also work in product marketing!
63 books
Boundless Press\ \ Jananie\ \ • Jul 6 2022
The Best + Worst books I've read this year | Mid Year Book Freakout 2022
What are your favourite books of 2022 so far?
🤍 timestamps ↳ 0:00 intro ↳ 1:07 Best book you’ve read so far in 2021. ↳ 6:02 Best sequel you've read so far in 2021. ↳ 7:38 Favourite reread ↳ 9:59 Genre you've been loving/reading the most. (booksandlala) ↳ 11:14 New release you haven't read yet, but want to. ↳ 13:39 New release you wanted to read but aren’t sure about anymore* ↳ 16:30 Most anticipated release for the second half of the year. ↳ 18:01 Biggest disappointment. ↳ 20:02 Biggest surprise. ↳ 24:03 Favourite new author. (Debut or new to you) ↳ 25:44 Newest fictional crush. ↳ 26:35 Newest favourite character. ↳ 28:36 Book that made you cry. ↳ 29:12 Book that made you happy. ↳ 29:45 Most beautiful book you've bought so far this year (or received) ↳ 30:34 What books do you need to read by the end of the year? ↳ 32:17 outro
📚 join my book club 📚 read books by BIPOC each month and join me during monthly liveshows to discuss! 🤍 announcement Video: https://youtu.be/u-aI8tD1RcQ 🤍 discuss on Fable: https://l.fable.co/readincolour 🤍 discuss on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readincolourbookclub/ 🤍 discuss on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReadinColorClub
other places to find me 🤍 my website: https://www.jananiekvelu.com/ 🤍 my series # EpicBookRecs on the Epic Reads Channel: https://bit.ly/2XziOfz
discount codes 🤍 get one month FREE on Skillshare using my link: https://skl.sh/MKR96 🤍 use my code STORY to get your first Book of the Month box for only $9.99 https://www.bookofthemonth.com/?utm\_source=youtube&utm\_medium=video&utm\_campaign=This\_Story\_Ain%27t\_Over
💌 for business/sponsorship inquiries please contact eric@smallscreenmarketing.com 💌 for all other inquiries please contact me at thisstoryaintover@gmail.com
faqs 🤍 how do you pronounce your name? - my name is Jananie—pronounced JEN-nah-nee (like a knee!)
🤍 what's your background/ethnicity/etc? - both my parents are Sri Lankan Tamil, and I was born and raised in Canada!
🤍 what is your job? - aside from youtube I also work in product marketing!
29 books
Posts about this book from across Bindery
Alex (Pucksandpaperbacks)\ \ Alex (he/him/his)\ \ • Apr 14
Join for free
\ \ Join for free or login](https://pucksandpaperbacks.binderybooks.com/item/HQ0fGFaJev2LPzp84Ora/)
I'm hosting another seasonal readathon this weekend! Enclosed are recommendations, the reading sprint schedule, and access to the bingo card.
52 books
3
chronicallybookish\ \ Kaley\ \ • Feb 21
Join for free
March Read Disabled Prompts & Recommendations!
12 books
2
Wanderland Reads\ \ Sayer\ \ • Aug 13 2025
Join for free
[You definitely aren’t alone, I’m also navigating the wild, winding road of self-discovery—and let me tell you, it’s not a one-and-done kind of deal. For many of us, “coming of age” happened in adolescence—awkward braces, bad haircuts, and maybe a few embarrassing crushes. But honestly? That was just the opening act. The real, adult coming of age happens when you realize that life, love, and even your own desires are way more complicated (and way more exciting) than a teen rom-com.\ \ A Second Coming of Age—Because Who Says It’s Over?\ \ If you’re anything like me, you've spent years unpacking some pretty heavy stuff—religious upbringing, conservative values, judgments about your body, your sexuality, your worth. Maybe you’re still peeling back those layers, questioning everything you once believed. That’s what I call the second coming of age. And surprise: it’s just as messy, honest, and life-changing as the first.\ \ This second round is about re discovering yourself—your desires, your boundaries, and your capacity to love and be loved. It’s about deconstructing old narratives and rebuilding a version of yourself that’s more aligned with who you really are. And let’s be real: navigating this while unlearning a lot of shame—especially around sex and intimacy—can feel like trying to do a puzzle in the dark. But here’s the thing: you’re allowed to stumble, fumble, and laugh at yourself along the way.\ \ As a therapist, I see so many clients (myself included) who are just unraveling the layers of what society, religion, or family told us about our bodies and feelings. It’s often uncomfortable, sometimes heartbreaking, but also incredibly empowering. One thing I’ve learned: exploring our sexuality and love is a profoundly human experience. It’s about curiosity, honesty, and damn, a lot of patience with ourselves.\ \ Romance Novels: Your Secret Weapon (And Yes, They’re Actually Good for You)\ \ Now, here’s a little secret I tell my clients: romancelandia is more than escapism—it's a safe space to learn about desire, consent, emotional intimacy, and even—let’s be honest—how to flirt without dying of embarrassment. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, validation, or just a good laugh, romance books can be a tool for understanding your own wants and needs.\ \ They give us permission to explore love in all its messy, imperfect glory. Plus, reading about people falling in love might just inspire you to do the same—without the heartbreak of bad dates or awkward moments (well, mostly). It’s like practice for real life, but with less risk and more happily-ever-afters.\ \ Books That Might Help You Level Up in Love and Self-Discovery\ \ Coming of Age in Youth:\ \
- "Last Night at the Telegraph Club" by Malinda Lo is a coming-of-age storythat explores themes of self-discovery, first love, and navigating identity during a time of social and political upheaval in 1950s America. \ \
- "The Build-a-Boyfriend Project," by Mason Deaver, is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of self-discovery, ambition, and love within the queer community, particularly focusing on the experience of a trans man. \ \ \ Coming of Age in Adulthood\ \
- "The Kiss Quotient" by Helen Hoang—A story about a woman figuring out what intimacy really means on her own terms. \ \
- "Get a Life, Chloe Brown" by Talia Hibbert—A witty, heartfelt story about self-love and finding joy in your own skin and your relationships. \ \
- “Bad for Boss” by Talia Hibbert–\ \
- “Club Shadowlands” by Cherise Sinclair–A women stumbles on a sex club after her car gets stranded and her eyes are opened to a whole new world. Honestly this is probably my favorite BDSM series.\ \
- “The Awakening of Ivy Leavold” by Sierra Simone - a historical BDSM with a governess who finds herself in the context of BDSM\ \
- “ See You Yesterday” by Rachel Lynn Solomon–The story explores themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the complexities of relationships, all while navigating the challenges of college life and a unique romantic entanglement with the boy also trapped in the loop\ \
- “Whenever You’re Ready” by Rachel Runya Katz–Estranged childhood friends-to-lovers, a road trip, siblings, grief and healing, a dual timeline. \ \
- “There’s Something About Mira” by Sonali Dev–from growing up in an immigrant community to conforming to her parents' expectations to finally finding her own happiness.\ \
- "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion—Quirky and sweet, about embracing imperfections and authentic connections.\ \ \ Why This Matters—and Why It’s Still Tough\ \ Deconstructing from religious fundamentalism or conservative backgrounds adds an extra layer of complexity. It’s like trying to redesign your entire interior while living in the house. There’s guilt, confusion, fear, and moments of triumph and clarity—all rolled into one. Taking the time to really explore what love, sex, and self-worth mean outside of those old narratives isn’t just important; it’s revolutionary.\ \ You’re re-writing your story—one that reflects the person you’re becoming, not the person those old beliefs tried to define for you. And let me tell you from experience: that’s hard work, messy work, but also the most vital work you can do.\ \ You Are Allowed to Re-Discover Yourself\ \ So, if you’re in the thick of your second coming of age, remember: You’re not alone. It’s okay to stumble, to question everything, and to take your time. Rebuilding your understanding of love, intimacy, and your own worth is a brave act—one that deserves patience and compassion. Embrace the mess, celebrate your progress, and trust that every step you take is a powerful step toward a more authentic, liberated you. Your story isn’t over; it’s just evolving. And honestly? That’s where the magic happens.\ \ Join for free or login](https://wanderlandreads.binderybooks.com/item/96RFHM7ERA5FYAkj1LvS/)
The Second Coming of Age: Self-Discovery, Love, and a Little Rebellion
11 books
2
Wanderland Reads\ \ Sayer\ \ • Aug 8 2025
Join for free
[Want to feel more confident in your relationships? I think this one is actually just for me. Great communication is the foundation of any healthy connection, whether it’s a date, a casual fling, or a long-term partnership. Talking openly about boundaries and desires isn’t just for ‘big’ moments — it’s an everyday practice that builds trust and safety. I literally just did it like 10 minutes ago.\ \ Here’s my beige flag: I don’t like small talk, and small talk while dating is inevitable. So the “good morning” text, the “what are you up to today” text…I HATE THEM. Tell me the things and I’ll tell you the things. Like, when I have something to tell you, I’ll text you, but please, for the love of god, don’t ask me how my day is. But really, I used my healthy communication skills to let this woman I’m seeing know that I get overwhelmed with daily texts. Let’s just save it for the dates right now. And she responded wonderfully.\ \ Consent is more than just for sexy times. It’s a broader concept that applies to pretty much every interaction. It’s about ensuring everyone involved feels safe, respected, and comfortable. \ \ Here’s what consent is about beyond the sex stuff: \ \
- Setting Boundaries: Agreeing on what is and isn’t okay, whether it’s about personal space, physical touch, or emotional openness. \ \
- Everyday Interactions: Asking before lending personal items, giving hugs, or sharing personal stories. \ \
- Respecting Limits: If someone says no or hesitates, honoring that boundary immediately, without pressure or guilt. \ \
- Creating Trust: Building a foundation where everyone feels confident to communicate openly. This is the MOST important, foundational component.\ \ \ Without ongoing consent, boundaries can be crossed, leading to discomfort or even harm. Consent isn’t a one-time checkbox — it’s an ongoing process that affirms everyone’s autonomy. \ \ Starting the convo: \ \
- It doesn’t need to be heavy — try saying, “This feels good,” or “Are you comfortable with this?” \ \
- If something doesn’t feel right, voice it without shame. \ \
- Remember, it’s okay to ask questions and take your time.\ \ \ Pro tip: Practice saying what you want in a calm and kind way, write it down ahead of time and read through it if you need to. And really listen when others share their needs. Use OARS - open ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, summarizing (this is a technique used in Motivational Interviewing, and evidence based therapeutic modality, but it works here too.) When all partners are honest and respectful, everyone wins.\ \
Book recommendation:\\
"Come as You Are" by the GOAT, Emily Nagoski — A supportive guide to understanding your body and mind, and communicating effectively about your desires and boundaries. It helps you build confidence that your needs are valid.\\
"That Prince is Mine" by Jayci Lee: I love that Michel’s character openly understands how the power of his station might create issues around consent, and as a result, he’s hypersensitive about making sure Emma calls the shots. It could so easily tip into irritatingly patronizing territory, but Jayci Lee handles it deftly so that the pair’s love story can unfold with all the sweetness (and a good deal of spiciness) it deserves.\\
\\
“The Truth According to Ember” by Danica Nava: The novel highlights Dan's patience and support, particularly during their growing intimacy, where he consistently seeks Ember's verbal consent.\\
\\
“The Charm Offensive” by Alison Cochrun: Dev's sensitivity to Charlie's physical triggers and consistent consent-seeking make their romance a refreshing exploration of communication and boundaries. Charlie also learns to articulate his own desires, creating a beautiful dynamic.\\
\\
“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang: Stella struggles with dating and physical intimacy due to her logic based brain and being on the autism spectrum. Her journey to explore intimacy and dating includes navigating consent and communication in a unique and important way.\\
\\
“Never Loved” by Charlotte Stein: Beatrix,, after escaping an abusive environment, learns to navigate a healthy relationship where consent is respected and valued. \\
\\
“Swift and Saddled” by Lyla Sage: The second book in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, this is chock full of sexy consent. Ada, recovering from an emotionally abusive marriage, and Wes, dealing with middle child syndrome, approach their relationship with tentativeness. Wes respects Ada's initial desire for no romance or intimacy, showing the strength of his commitment to her boundaries before their relationship develops further.\\
\\
“By the Book” by Jasmine Guillory: This modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast has a huge focus on consent. It is a prime example of positive consent in romance.\\
\\
“Her Best Friend's Sister” by Meghan O'Brien: Claire has a long-standing crush and is navigating a relationship where consent and clear communication are key.\\
\\
"Take the Lead" by Alexis Daria: This romance focuses on a professional dance competition setting and is noted for its integration of enthusiastic consent during intimate scenes.\\
```\\
\\
Join for free or login](https://wanderlandreads.binderybooks.com/item/qxArHIH2oDk3TI8TNEVC/)
[Consent & Communication — The Power Duo](https://wanderlandreads.binderybooks.com/item/qxArHIH2oDk3TI8TNEVC/)
* * *
10 books
2
[chronicallybookish\\
\\
Kaley\\
\\
• Jun 27 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/)
Join for free
[Book Recs With Disability Rep p1](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/wze0S1Mlmizm5xkmymGq/)
If you have more must read recs—leave them in the comments!! #booktok #disabilitybooks #disabilityrepresentation #disabilitypride #fantasybookrecs #romancebookrecs #yabookrecs
* * *
10 books
[Bookish AfroLatina's Library\\
\\
Gabby\\
\\
• Apr 2 2025](https://bookish-afrolatina.binderybooks.com/)
Join for free
\\
\\
I took a little break from posting & now I'm back to celebrate We Need Diverse Books Day! This is the very first for this virtual celebration so I'm kicking it off with 36 amazing book recs for y'all.\\
\\
Learn more about this celebration here: https://www.diversebooks.org/celebrate-we-need-diverse-books-day\\
\\
As my og followers know, I started my bookstagram in order to promote diverse books back in 2021. So I'm gonna give y'all a ton of book recs (old & new) by and about BIPOC, disabled, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent folks. I hope y'all find something that interests you!\\
\\
\\
\\
Books shown:\\
\\
- The Hero's Equinox by Antoine Bandele\\
\\
- Love Radio by Ebony LaDelle\\
\\
- The Emperor & the Endless Palace by Justinian Huang\\
\\
- One for All by Lillie Lainoff\\
\\
- The Deep by Rivers Solomon\\
\\
- The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna\\
\\
- The Pretty One by Keah Brown\\
\\
- The Prophets by Robert Jones, Jr.\\
\\
- An Island Princess Starts a Scandal by Adriana Herrera\\
\\
- The Diablo's Curse by Gabe Cole Novoa\\
\\
- Across a Field of Starlight by Blue Delliquanti\\
\\
- Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas\\
\\
\\
\\
\\
Books shown:\\
\\
- Minor Detail by Adania Shibli\\
\\
- This Place: 150 Years Retold by Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm & more\\
\\
- The Broposal by Sonora Reyes\\
\\
- The Many Deaths of Laila Starr by Ram V\\
\\
- Sex, Lies, & Sensibility by Nikki Payne\\
\\
- Iron Widow by Ziran Jay Zhao\\
\\
- Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir\\
\\
- Daydreamer by Rob Cameron\\
\\
- A Girl Called Echo, Vol. 1 by Katherena Vermette\\
\\
- The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang\\
\\
- Coyote Songs by Gabino Iglesias\\
\\
- Tastes Like Shakkar by Nisha Sharma\\
\\
\\
\\
\\
Books shown:\\
\\
- Jade City by Fonda Lee\\
\\
- Murder on the Red River by Marcie R. Rendon\\
\\
- Plantains & Our Becoming by Melania Luisa Marte\\
\\
- She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan\\
\\
- Transgender History by Susan Stryker\\
\\
- Puerto Rico by Jorell Meléndez-Badillo\\
\\
- The Name Bearer by Natalia Hernandez\\
\\
- Lore of the Wilds by Analeigh Sbrana\\
\\
- The Hundred Years' War on Palestine by Rashid Khalidi\\
\\
- The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera\\
\\
- To Shape a Dragon's Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose\\
\\
- A Million Quiet Revolutions by Robin Gow\\
\\
\\
Comment a diverse book you're reading or have read below and follow #WeNeedDiverseBooksDay on IG!](https://bookish-afrolatina.binderybooks.com/item/pv1KFYmuFNEWdAp3AjVL/)
[36 Amazing Book Recs to celebrate We Need Diverse Books Day](https://bookish-afrolatina.binderybooks.com/item/pv1KFYmuFNEWdAp3AjVL/)
* * *
36 books
3
[Boundless Press\\
\\
Jananie\\
\\
• Dec 31 2022](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/)
[every book i read in 2022 rated & reviewed in 1 sentence](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/WBhUl5IlPHXRfIZkr8VB/)
join as a channel member to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJn0v3OAEAX3-V4crjcHtRA/join
💌 for business/sponsorship inquiries please contact eric@smallscreenmarketing.com
💌 for all other inquiries please contact me at thisstoryaintover@gmail.com
faqs
🤍 how do you pronounce your name?
\- my name is Jananie—pronounced JEN-nah-nee (like a knee!)
🤍 what's your background/ethnicity/etc?
\- both my parents are Sri Lankan Tamil, and I was born and raised in Canada!
🤍 what is your job?
\- aside from youtube I also work in product marketing!
* * *
63 books
[Boundless Press\\
\\
Jananie\\
\\
• Jul 6 2022](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/)
[The Best + Worst books I've read this year \| Mid Year Book Freakout 2022](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/CPwQ0YOXn2rIGuawYXp6/)
What are your favourite books of 2022 so far?
other places to find me
🤍 my website: https://www.jananiekvelu.com/
🤍 my series # EpicBookRecs on the Epic Reads Channel: https://bit.ly/2XziOfz
💌 for business/sponsorship inquiries please contact eric@smallscreenmarketing.com
💌 for all other inquiries please contact me at thisstoryaintover@gmail.com
faqs
🤍 how do you pronounce your name?
\- my name is Jananie—pronounced JEN-nah-nee (like a knee!)
🤍 what's your background/ethnicity/etc?
\- both my parents are Sri Lankan Tamil, and I was born and raised in Canada!
🤍 what is your job?
\- aside from youtube I also work in product marketing!
* * *
29 books