A review by hello_lovely13
How We Fall Apart by Katie Zhao

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I’ve been waiting for this book to release, and I finally read it!  Zhao sets the tone of the book so well, and it everything feels so realistic.  I especially appreciate the care that went into the subtleties, such as details that concern Jamie’s relationship with her father.  Alexander Lin is my new comfort character.  He is a pure cinnamon roll that needs to be loved and protected!  It’s hard to find something related to dark academia that has a diverse cast (something I’m always on the prowl for), and this book NAILS it.  This book brought up so many true and tough topics that need to be discussed more.  I was definitely brought back to my competitive, anxiety-filled, under-too-much-pressure self when reading because Zhao set it up so well (I said it once, and I’ll say it again, Zhao NAILS the tone).  There are so many complex characters that are lovable, yet hatable at the same time (again, except Alexander, who only deserves love).   Zhao blends diverse stories and backgrounds so well that the characters felt real.  It’s just a well done book!  I’ll admit, there is a bit about the twist that I personally was just *eh* about, but otherwise…just spectacular!  Also, props and great respect for Zhao adding the trigger warnings in the Author’s Note at the beginning of the book!
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