Reviews with content warning for Xenophobia - Ace of Spades

I fell in love with the cover of this book way before I knew what it was about. When I read the synopsis I thought "this is going to be a "5-star book" easily", but that didn't happened quite as I expected.

I really liked this book, it addresses very important issues that our society tries to pretend that don't happen anymore: not only bullying and racism, but also homophobia and classicism - And I think that the author does it very well.

I think my problem with this book it that every single character (except Devon) is so unlikeable... I understand that that's the point but, apart from Devon, I couldn't really connect with any of them. Chiamaka's "friends" are described in the most despicable way; Jamie is red flags all over, since the beginning of the story; even Terrell is a bit weird...; but for me Chiamaka is the worst - she is the worst main character ever: dates guys and makes "friends" for social status, mistreats people that she considers "inferior", thinks the entire world revolves around her... ugh...

Even though I think that some of the situations described are a bit "too much", what made me give a 4-star review is the plot itself - what a brilliant storyline!

I don't want to reveal to much but - if you are looking forward to read this book - you are not going to be dissapointed!

Content Warnings

anonymous_blobfish's review against another edition

Go to review page

challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I don’t even know where to start with this review because HOLY SHIT this was a phenomenal book…

I guess firstly, check the trigger warnings. This book is a lot for so many different reasons and may not be something you’re in the right place to read.

I always feel conflicted when it comes to reviewing something like Ace of Spades because I am not the voice that should be listened to in this space. But for what it’s worth I thought this was incredible. The detail, world building and characters were so realistic it felt almost more autobiographical than fiction. It was also really hard to read when I felt so powerless and privileged all at once.

I think the main thing I want to comment on is this: racism is a spectrum that all white people exist on. But how the hell are people questioning the authenticity of the institutionalised racism?? Get a fucking grip, open your eyes and educate yourself on how fucked up we - white people - have made this world. Also do your own research and stop relying on Black voices to educate you.

Rambling points aside, I would die for Chi and Von and I encourage everyone to read their stories and fall in love with their characters just as much as I have.

******Spoiler-ish below:

P.S. in case you need it there is a light at the end of the tunnel that is this story.

Content Warnings