A review by chloeeereads
The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang

challenging emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

I’m not even sure I can adequately express just how much I loved this book or how validated and seen it made me feel. 

It is definitely not a light and fluffy romance, but an incredibly powerful story covering themes of physical and mental illness, depression, anxiety, suicidality, family conflict, sacrifice, unconditional love, and learning to speak up for what you want and who you love. 

Anna is on the autism spectrum (which she learns during the course of the story) and is constantly analysing others and the situation in order to determine how to respond. She can’t say no, she doesn’t want to let people down, and she doesn’t know how to stick up for herself. While I’m not on the spectrum, I related to Anna’s experiences so much - her constant anxiety and need to be perfect, her unbearable need to please, and the constant worry about what others think. 

Then there’s Quan, still recovering from a physical surgery and dealing with feeling like he is less of a man, he is kind and understanding and wants what is best for others. The relationship between Anna and Quan was literally incredible. I loved how patient and tender they were with each other, and you could really tell how much they meant to the other. There are other characters that you HATE, but I also found them quite realistic. I also loved seeing more of Michael in this book, as well as some nods to Stella and Khai.

The thing that really got me about this story was the caring aspect, when Anna and her family are required to care for their ill father. If you have ever been a carer of someone with a mental or physical illness, you will relate to Anna’s experience - the burnout, the guilt, the lack of boundaries, and the mental and physical consequences for caring for someone else to your own detriment. The authors note also brought this home for me. 

I honestly could not recommend this book enough. You’ll laugh, blush, cheer and cry. It’s wonderful. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings