Who could have guessed that The Idea of You, both the book and the movie, would spark such a wave of emotion among women? I’m not usually one to join Facebook groups, but the conversation around this story was impossible to ignore. The very idea of an older woman daring to fall in love with a younger man – let alone build a life with him – has long been branded as taboo, a relic of an era when society firmly dictated what was “acceptable” in relationships. And today? Women are pushing back, and rightly so. After all, men have pursued relationships with younger women for generations without raising eyebrows. Why should it be any different for us?
Like so many others, I found myself reading The Idea of You more than once and watching the movie far more times than I typically would. There was something magnetic about Solène, 40, and Hayes, 24—something in their connection that seized our hearts and wouldn’t let go. Their story lingered, resonating in a way that was impossible to shake.
The stigma around relationships between younger men and older women often stems from traditional gender norms and societal expectations. Historically, people have expected men to be older than women in relationships, as this aligns with the assumption that men would be the primary providers, with women seen as caregivers. With these norms ingrained for so long, relationships that flip these dynamics often face judgment.
There’s also the notion that women’s value, especially when it comes to relationships, is tied to youth and beauty. So when an older woman is with a younger man, it challenges those expectations, raising questions about their compatibility, longevity, and motivations. Ageism and sexism intersect here, with stereotypes about men dating “up” in age implying that they’re immature or financially motivated, while older women are often wrongly labeled as desperate or trying to “cling to youth.”
However, perceptions are shifting. Media and pop culture, with notable figures and stories challenging these stereotypes, are helping broaden acceptance. As relationships continue to be redefined on individual compatibility rather than age, society’s views are also gradually evolving.
Mallory Chiang, one of the women from the Facebook groups, took matters into her own hands. She decided to continue The Idea of You herself, crafting a new ending to give fans a fresh take on Solène and Hayes’ story with her story The Reality of You. We loved it! While Hollywood wrapped things up with a bittersweet touch, Robinne Lee’s book ended quite differently, leaving many of us wanting more. Mallory delivered exactly that through her fanfiction, reimagining the story in a way that kept us all hooked.
Mallory has already written eight captivating chapters, and the story just keeps pulling me in deeper. I get the thrill of narrating her work, and it’s a blast! I truly become Solène as I read, slipping into her character fully. I’ve even taken on Hayes’ British accent, pushing myself to new limits with each voice. It’s been such a joy—every moment, every line, and every new chapter we bring to life together.
Last night, I took the leap and launched a YouTube channel to bring Mallory’s story to a wider audience, and I’ve been given the privilege of narrating it. It feels like an exciting opportunity for both of us; with her words and my voice, we’re bringing this fanfiction to life in a whole new way. Honestly, it’s about so much more than just telling a story—it’s about how it’s read and how it resonates with listeners. This collaboration is truly a dream come true for me, combining my love for storytelling with the thrill of creative partnership.
Don’t be afraid to explore a relationship with a younger man if that’s where your heart leads. Age doesn’t define connection, compatibility, or love. Society may have its opinions, but they don’t need to dictate your happiness. Relationships like these can bring a fresh perspective, passion, and growth, so if you feel that spark, trust yourself. Embrace the chance to live fully and authentically. After all, life’s too short not to follow your heart, wherever it may lead.
UPDATE: If yoy would like to listen to the chapters that Mallory Chiang has written. I have put all the narrated chapters on Youtube so you can listen. It truly is an amazing story that the has continued from The Idea of You.
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