While on a family vacation in Japan, seventeen-year-old Maisie Daniels didn't expect to run into a celebrity. Encountering Samantha Park of Star Surge, the largest KPOP group in the world, was undoubtedly an experience. Especially when Samantha stole Maisie's first kiss inside the airport bathroom. Now even if Maisie squeals about her encounter, no one will believe her. Back home in Chicago, Maisie hopes to rid herself of the girl who haunts her every thought. Yet when Maisie discovers her neighbor's daughter is visiting from South Korea, all hope of forgetting Samantha is gone. Friendship never was a consideration. But when Samantha confides with Maisie about her not so glamorous life, Maisie can't help show support. Soon sleepovers become commonplace, and Maisie can't ignore the blooming feelings she harbors inside. As the pair inches closer together, a photograph of Samantha cuts her American vacation short. Determined not to lose out on love, Maisie starts her journey to reconnect with the girl whose face is known worldwide. Beyond the Pedestal is a coming-of-age, celebrity lesbian romance.