A review by madelinedalton
Malibu Rising, by Taylor Jenkins Reid

emotional hopeful reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Taylor Jenkins Reid writes excellent three-dimensional, unique characters, and that really shines in this book. Not only are the four Riva siblings compelling in their family dynamic, but each one of them is interesting and easy to root for. 

Part 1 of this book is so strong, but Part 2 is where it unravels. So many side characters are introduced at the Riva party, and I found it really distracting. The heart of the story is the Riva family, and it would have been even more impactful without random scenes of intoxicated celebrities doing stupid shit interspersed throughout. 

Overall, I would definitely recommend this story to people who like sibling and family dramas!! 
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