A review by ajarmon17
The Stand-In by Lily Chu
4.25
I liked this book a lot. I enjoyed the writing style, and I really liked how the author included pieces of Gracie’s to-do lists during her search for the perfect task organizational system. I found the characters quite endearing, though I don’t think Sam’s initial irritation with Gracie is well-explained. The twist wasn’t one I expected, but
I didn’t read the content warnings before starting this book, and I’m not sure I would’ve chosen to read another book with a focus on mental health and real-life struggles (money, work, general satisfaction with life). I’m a bit exhausted by these topics and am not looking to read about them. But I did like the book enough to power through.
I did find a little frustrating. I think I find stories more realistic when a character’s words and actions have significant power and repercussions. Idk.
But I liked this quite a bit overall!
Spoiler
considering the general plot, I should’ve seen the separated-at-birth plot line coming.I didn’t read the content warnings before starting this book, and I’m not sure I would’ve chosen to read another book with a focus on mental health and real-life struggles (money, work, general satisfaction with life). I’m a bit exhausted by these topics and am not looking to read about them. But I did like the book enough to power through.
I did find
Spoiler
Sam’s willingness to forgive Gracie after the nursing-home incidentBut I liked this quite a bit overall!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Chronic illness