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luminaryleah 's review for:
Yellowface
by R.F. Kuang
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
It was enjoyable and novel to read a book with such a nasty unlikeable narrator. I appreciate the risky approach, and the opportunity to dive into the mind of a difficult protagonist. I appreciate the concept and the vast details and inside knowledge about writing, authorship, and publishing. My critiques mostly revolve around the many points that feel summarized or breezed past. I think sitting with our narrator more, really living in her day-to-day life would have strengthened this narrative immensely. Many moments felt trivialized because of the quickened pace and non-descriptive nature. I also felt like we left where we began the novel, and I would have appreciated something more finite.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Xenophobia, Vomit, Cultural appropriation, War
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Suicidal thoughts, Grief, Gaslighting, Colonisation