Reviews tagging 'Violence'

If You Could See the Sun by Ann Liang

17 reviews

sophiesmallhands's review against another edition

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emotional fast-paced

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

4.0

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stllyltc's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark emotional funny inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced

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

4.5

It masterfully combined elements of the modern century and Gen Z, speaking about instances that involved disparities among the rich, poor, and middle class, addressing issues such as racism, and prompting questions about one's own conscience. Despite involving superpowers, it presented realistic points and maintained a friendly, amiable tone, even if it might be a bit cliché and cringe-worthy. Although I'm not a big fan of how the storyline unfolded, the main character's commendable actions in shouldering responsibility while facing disadvantages are noteworthy. It's not solely due to her decisions but also influenced by other adults, creating the environment in which she navigates. It is relatable, especially for Asians. For instance, in a conversation with Henry, Alice exclaimed, "Why do I feel so f*cking tired all the time?" and I couldn't not relate that badly. The book is filled with impactful and impressionable lines that stir emotions, and I'm pleased with how it concluded. The open ending leaves room for improvement, noting that accepting uncertainties is crucial for personal growth.

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celeste329's review

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adventurous dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

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

4.0

Let me just start by saying that this book is exquisite in portraying and conveying emotions - I particularly enjoyed each and every scene with Alice and her family, showcasing their interactions, hopes, values, etc. I also liked how Alice's relationship evolved over time, specifically her and Chanel's friendship (I was hoping for more shenanigans with them, but alas). I also liked the overall message and themes of the book.

Now, onto some gripes: i) I just didn't quite enjoy the romance side-plot (I think it's more a side-plot than subplot since it's made obvious from the start). I just thought the whole relationship side-plot was rather predictable and in some ways did not fully make sense (given that we only get Alice's perspective and the initial feeling that for her, it was mainly a competition, whereas Henry seemed fine to just go along with her); ii) the technical aspect of

completely overhauling an app, that originally took about 4 days to be made, in a few hours. Not just a patch mind-you, a complete rebranding (is that even possible?)

; and iii) the lack of detail in seeing Alice's inner turmoil about accepting the last job -

she went from deleting compromising pics, to stealing some random test answers to full-blown assisting in kidnapping and her turmoil was kind of toned down a little. Would have loved to see more about her weighing pros and cons, and really battling with the idea and whether the reward was truly worth it.

Overall, a solid read that totally did not make me cry at times (spoiler: it kinda did XD)

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kelreadsbooks's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful lighthearted reflective tense fast-paced

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

5.0

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serendipity421's review against another edition

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emotional funny inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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milflover01's review

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adventurous inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

This book ids such a good book. It is actually fast pace. The plot was interesting but not too hard to follow. It is definitely a book for teens because im used to young adult books it was a bit underwhelming but that is my fault the book makes you reflect on yourself but it is not too heavy i related to the main character so much and im glad the ending wasn’t too predictable. Overall I would read again I believe it would become one of my comfort books and i have the biggest crush on the love interest he is literally the love of my life.

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