A review by cariam
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

emotional inspiring reflective 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

4.0

This book gave me all the feelings. There was so much second-hand embarrassment at the first half, and so many goosebumps in the second. 

It deals with issues like racism, a spectrum of autism and Asperger’s syndrome, self-confidence and westernized thinking. You may not imagine any of these things when you first lift up this book - but it makes it so much more worth it to actually read. 

After reading Helen’s reasons for making My/Esme the heroine of her story, it makes me love the character infinitely more than I ever thought I could love a character. She’s smart, vulnerable but strong, and most of all brave. 

This story made me queasy and question all my favourite attributes of my favourite characters in the past - but that made my enjoyment so much more real. The progression of Khai’s and Esme’s relationship and character growth within themselves was so raw and true for their POV’s that it’s hard to think only one person was writing this story. 10/10 would definitely recommend!
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