waterbear0821's review
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book isn’t perfect, but I did stay up until 1am binge reading it in one sitting, and that’s worth something. It’s a compelling story about family, immigration, trauma, and a sprinkling of magical realism. The climax and denouement were a bit of a chaotic tumble and that felt like a bit of a let down after weaving these intricate family stories, but there’s a dose of realism there, too. It doesn’t tie up too neatly because life isn’t neat. Still, though, I was all set to be invested in a gut-wrenching finale and it felt just a little meh. Overall, though, I did really enjoy it. The characters are a bit complicated but still endearing. The story is steeped in political morality but it’s generally well executed and not too cliche. A lucky find at the library, I’m glad I picked it up!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence, Sexual violence, Death of parent, Murder, and Deportation
Moderate: Fatphobia, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Cancer, Police brutality, Domestic abuse, and Emotional abuse
starsnotshadows's review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Initially gave 5 stars, knocked down to 4.5 after a little reflection. I really enjoyed this book, but I think I was hoping for a little more definition/development of some characters. I know there's only so much room for this, but the main character, Isabel, I feel like could have been stronger at least. Again, great book and a great main character, but sometimes it felt like she was just a vessel for the story.
Apart from that, this book hooked me in from the first line and kept me going until I was too tired to read. It broke my heart, but still gave me hope somehow! Will be looking for other books from Natalia Sylvester!
Apart from that, this book hooked me in from the first line and kept me going until I was too tired to read. It broke my heart, but still gave me hope somehow! Will be looking for other books from Natalia Sylvester!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Xenophobia, Deportation, and Grief
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Blood, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Sexual assault, Death of parent, Abandonment, Fatphobia, and Cancer
More...