3.46 AVERAGE

funny slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This is a total romp and a fun sequel that is both ridiculous and heartwarming.

Too much like the first book, will I be reading the third book in this series? Of course. Enjoyed the ending and really just like this authors writing style.

The first book was chaotic and required suspension of disbelief, but in a good way—like a fun action movie where somehow the hero is never seriously injured even though they really should be. But this book went off the rails. 

I hated Meddy for being the worst communicator on the planet and also fairly stupid. She talks about how Nathan’s so deep, but she seems to love him entirely because he’s sexy and he lets her treat him like shit without calling her out on it. 

I hated Nathan for being entirely spineless and having no personality outside of adoring Meddy (and being sexy). Meddy misses more than half of their phenomenally expensive wedding and he… is a tiny bit disappointed? She lies about everything, ruins their wedding, and he is… a lil sad :(

I hated the aunts for crossing the line into ridiculous caricatures who have zero self-awareness and don’t have personalities other than their one allotted characteristic (like, I get that second aunt does tai chi). In the first book they seemed like strong women; in this book they’re clowns.

The plot didn’t make much sense and relied on our favorite trope, miscommunication. The general concept could’ve been reasonably okay, but I didn’t enjoy it because I was so frustrated with Meddy and the rest of the characters. 
adventurous emotional funny lighthearted
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Titled “Four Aunties and a Wedding,” this book falls short of its namesake. As a sequel to “Dial A for Aunties,” readers can anticipate a thrilling ride with the final installment of the Aunties series, “The Good, The Bad, and the Aunties” due out in March. (Well, I’ve stumbled upon a predicament – how can one procure the coveted autographed editions?)

It is with great admiration that I have been a loyal admirer of Jesse Q. Santanto ever since I was introduced to her work through “Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers”. Jesse’s masterful character development, unpredictable plot twists, and exploration of our inherent family traits have captivated me. Additionally, her use of dry sarcasm adds depth and wit to their storytelling. As I immerse myself in her work, I cannot help but envision myself as the protagonist, questioning the surreal events unfolding before me. In short, Jesse Q. Santanto’s writing has left a lasting impression on me.

In consideration of the book’s status as a sequel, we must focus our attention on Meddy’s journey, which is rife with the comical and endearing antics of her Aunties. While they have her best interests at heart, their efforts often resemble the futile task of restraining four young and energetic children chaotically. Despite these challenges, Meddy remains composed and takes responsibility for her actions, a trait that I possess as well. (Allow me to offer a rational critique and apologize for any offense.)

Jesse aptly reminds us that our familial ties are unequivocally unique to us. As inhabitants of this vast world, it is natural for us to possess distinct perspectives, mannerisms, and reactions that may not align with those of previous generations or other cultural backgrounds. Nonetheless, the significance of family remains steadfast. Beyond superficial differences, we are all bound by our shared humanity, respiration, and desire for unwavering support, just as Meddy has exemplified.

I am currently welcoming submissions for more Aunties.
funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

i loved this sequel just as much as i loved the first book, the plot twist is there, more fluffy romance and auntie drama and humour.

I love the books but also the premise is a little ridiculous in a good way mostly!

This book, per Jesse's note at the beginning of the book, is about the diaspora experience. I related so hard to Meddy's fear of her immigrant family not firing in with any other family, even if they're from a similar culture. Where people immigrate and how they settle into that new culture is so different for every person. And it's really important to write about!!

So many wild things happened that it was almost too much. But at the same time, I love the energy of the aunties and can envision all of it happening. I enjoyed this book and how easily it is to fall into Meddy's mind.