Scan barcode
lovecommamelis's review
5.0
Honestly, I haven't read a book in its entirety for a while (most probable to taking reading intensive courses for University), but I am so glad I (re)read Raspberry Jam in its print form.
Raspberry Jam: a realistic fiction novel about Gemma, a hardworking writer who unveils the different meanings of life, death, and love through varying perspectives, and how those aspects impact her sense of identity.
Raspberry Jam is like reading poetry. Each sentence is embellished with a metaphor that is not only written in great detail, but also leaves you emotionally breathless, always hitting the nail on the head with the meaning it conveys. You could tell the author gave great attention and care to each word they've written. Every scene along with its tangible feeling is formed into a masterpiece thanks to the author's ability in tackling the readers' different senses. I'm always left in awe, as well as in reflection to the weight these sentences hold.
"'Did you know pomegranates aren't just symbolic of death? They also represent rebirth.' ... 'Sometimes bitter endings can be just the thing to give way to find the sweetness you so craved. Even if we don't all come to the same conclusions for ourselves.'"
Each word tugs at my heart, playing at its strings like a guitar. The tune that plays is bittersweet; you truly feel for Gemma, our protagonist, but can't help be affected by the other prominent characters who surround her. For instance, Krystal, Gem's ghostly lover, initially left a sour taste in my mouth—her holding onto Gemma before leaving her can be seen as a selfish act. But like raspberry jam, she blended into sweetness—being a person who I was able to understand and truly feel for. Like everyone else in this world, love is what keeps one going for a long time (though, do not be fooled that this is your ordinary romance novel, take it from someone who has cried reading this book). So, she now has a soft spot in my heart along with Karma and her headstrong attitude yet caring behaviorisms, and Keanu and their cold front with a secret dorky, warm side underneath. Each character and their quirks will find a way into your heart. They did for mine. (P.S. Keanu and Karma, please give me a chance.)
The initial publication of Raspberry Jam left me craving more; however, the added epilogue in the print version sealed everything quite nicely in its jar, preserving what I've fallen in love with in my first read all over again.
Raspberry Jam: a realistic fiction novel about Gemma, a hardworking writer who unveils the different meanings of life, death, and love through varying perspectives, and how those aspects impact her sense of identity.
Raspberry Jam is like reading poetry. Each sentence is embellished with a metaphor that is not only written in great detail, but also leaves you emotionally breathless, always hitting the nail on the head with the meaning it conveys. You could tell the author gave great attention and care to each word they've written. Every scene along with its tangible feeling is formed into a masterpiece thanks to the author's ability in tackling the readers' different senses. I'm always left in awe, as well as in reflection to the weight these sentences hold.
"'Did you know pomegranates aren't just symbolic of death? They also represent rebirth.' ... 'Sometimes bitter endings can be just the thing to give way to find the sweetness you so craved. Even if we don't all come to the same conclusions for ourselves.'"
Each word tugs at my heart, playing at its strings like a guitar. The tune that plays is bittersweet; you truly feel for Gemma, our protagonist, but can't help be affected by the other prominent characters who surround her. For instance, Krystal, Gem's ghostly lover, initially left a sour taste in my mouth—her holding onto Gemma before leaving her can be seen as a selfish act. But like raspberry jam, she blended into sweetness—being a person who I was able to understand and truly feel for. Like everyone else in this world, love is what keeps one going for a long time (though, do not be fooled that this is your ordinary romance novel, take it from someone who has cried reading this book). So, she now has a soft spot in my heart along with Karma and her headstrong attitude yet caring behaviorisms, and Keanu and their cold front with a secret dorky, warm side underneath. Each character and their quirks will find a way into your heart. They did for mine. (P.S. Keanu and Karma, please give me a chance.)
The initial publication of Raspberry Jam left me craving more; however, the added epilogue in the print version sealed everything quite nicely in its jar, preserving what I've fallen in love with in my first read all over again.
claireatherton's review
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
geehawkes's review
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Sat down and read this in one sitting - I absolutely loved this book and was crying pretty hard, pretty early on! The writing is amazing and really sucked me in, I felt my heart aching for the main character and I could feel every emotion that was portrayed.
shannonreadraspberryjam's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This is a beautiful short story about living with the trauma of losing someone you love unexpectedly and learning how to slowly reconcile with yourself that maybe there was nothing you could’ve done to save them.
I love all the characters and they are written like people I might know and love in another life.
I love all the characters and they are written like people I might know and love in another life.
yvettevegaa's review
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was an absolute masterpiece that I read multiple times. Such a touching story that made me laugh, cry, cry some more, and filled me with hope. It has quickly become one of my favorites on my bookshelf for sure.
cherieliquor's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Grief, Toxic relationship, Panic attacks/disorders, and Mental illness
Minor: Suicide, Suicidal thoughts, Alcoholism, Death, Toxic friendship, and Lesbophobia
More...