A review by katjacatbeans
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo

challenging mysterious reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

It wasn't at all clear from the description on Libby, but this book is Great Gatsby fanfic* with the pov character as an original character who is close friends with a supporting character in the original text. We spend a lot of time with all the major characters in GG, including Gatsby himself. 

*Fanfic is fantastic, it just was not what I was expecting here! 

The magical realism aspect was both less prominent and less explored than I both anticipated and hoped. It feels like a lot was left on the table in that regard. The general vibe of the book is very faithful to the original text, and Gatsby remains somewhat enigmatic.
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