ittywitty's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Well-written. Took a while to get into, but I’m really glad I read it! It’s kind of like a modern Joy Luck Club meets Crazy Rich Asians with a little bit of a Crazy, Stupid, Love twist. Think messy Vietnamese women all dealing with generational trauma and trying to survive the pressures of duty to family and society. All of which have been unlucky in love due to a family curse. Enjoyed hearing about these families and the culmination of hilarious drama that ensues! Also the portrayal of Vietnamese culture felt pretty accurate to me, which I always appreciate in AAPI authors, especially those also named Carolyn. ❤️ Would love to see this story made into a movie!!!
Content Warnings
Minor: Death of parent, Infidelity, Pregnancy, Toxic relationship, Gaslighting, Cultural appropriation, Emotional abuse, Grief, Misogyny, and Racism
victoriaharris001's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Minor: Infidelity, Domestic abuse, Cursing, Death of parent, Grief, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Gaslighting, Miscarriage, Misogyny, Racism, Terminal illness, Toxic relationship, Sexism, Death, Pregnancy, Toxic friendship, and Xenophobia
heatherjchin's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Grief, Panic attacks/disorders, and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Infidelity, Gaslighting, Mental illness, Bullying, Cursing, Death of parent, and Child abuse
Minor: Racism, Xenophobia, and War
The first half was triggering with the inter generational trauma and emotional abuse, while the latter third was uproariously funny. Stark contrast, but works out. A trigger warning would be helpful.
More...