A review by aprilyang1
Stay with My Heart by Tashie Bhuiyan

lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I absolutely loved the found family trope and boy band dynamic. I honestly wish I could experience Third Eye for real 😩 and just know that I’d be front row for ‘Late Night’! I also loved the therapy representation. It's always heartwarming when characters actively seek therapy because they understand its importance.

Tashie Bhuiyan does a great job placing a bit of realism into the story with the direction she decided to take Liana and her fathers relationship. It mirrors reality for many people, really emphasizing that family can extend beyond blood to include the friends around you. 

However, I was somewhat disappointed because the story didn't resonate with me as well as I expected. I struggled to understand and appreciate Liana’s choices. While I empathize with her need for her father's attention, her character felt a bit selfish because her inability to own up to her mistakes by being honest. I felt like she justified her lies based on her situation and the others were expected to just allow things to happen without regard for their own situations.

I loved the book's general premise, and despite falling short for me, it still had so many heartwarming aspects that I really enjoyed.
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