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katharina90's review
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
A multigenerational drama largely centered around family secrets and dysfunctional dynamics.
The characters are beautifully complex, sometimes loveable, sometimes infuriating. As with Salt Houses, I found myself much more invested in the lives of the older generation.
At times, the pacing was slower than I would have liked but pushing through those parts was well worth it.
The one thing I really didn't care for was the amount of infidelity. It felt repetitive for almost every character to either cheat or be cheated on, or both.
The characters are beautifully complex, sometimes loveable, sometimes infuriating. As with Salt Houses, I found myself much more invested in the lives of the older generation.
At times, the pacing was slower than I would have liked but pushing through those parts was well worth it.
The one thing I really didn't care for was the amount of infidelity. It felt repetitive for almost every character to either cheat or be cheated on, or both.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Physical abuse, Abortion, Grief, Murder, Drug use, Sexual assault, Racism, Infidelity, and Homophobia
Minor: Classism, Death of parent, and Fatphobia
bookedbymadeline's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I loved this book! The complex look at family and sibling relationships drew me in and made me feel part of these characters lives. My heart was aching and I cried a few times throughout the novel as I got to know these people. The ending felt perfect but I’m definitely going to have a book hangover.
The story makes me want to learn more about Lebanon and the conflicts discussed throughout the book. Also enjoyed the switching POVs and timelines to get an in depth look at each character. Will definitely be reading more of Alyan’s novels!! Highly highly recommend.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. All the opinions above are my own.
The story makes me want to learn more about Lebanon and the conflicts discussed throughout the book. Also enjoyed the switching POVs and timelines to get an in depth look at each character. Will definitely be reading more of Alyan’s novels!! Highly highly recommend.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. All the opinions above are my own.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug use, Grief, Infidelity, Sexual content, Violence, and Xenophobia
Moderate: Abortion, Body shaming, Fatphobia, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Racism, Sexual assault, and Toxic relationship
Minor: Chronic illness and Gun violence
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