A review by obscurepages
For the win by Catherine Dellosa

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

"But I am not an NPC. I refuse to be one."

If anyone saw me cry at 2 AM because of this book, NO YOU DID NOT. 😂

This was so, so good. It's short, it's simple, and it packs quite a punch. This book is very much a story about the good and the bad of experiencing young love, and the changes youth need to go through as we grow.

I love that this book highlighted the naivety and misguidedness of young love, the fear of things changing and things not going into plan, of how friendships and a good support system from family can be everything for someone, and how relationships are ultimately more than just love and attraction. The author got all of this on point and oh it was so good. Made my heart ache yes, but it was so, so good.

I also love how funny and light the writing style, but the storytelling still didn't shy away from these serious topics. I love the nostalgia the author created with Internet cafes 😆 And the fact that Philippine mythology was a big part of the video game in the story! (Like how cool?!)

Overall, For the Win was just entertaining and deeply moving. If you need a good cry or you just want to be reminded of young love, this might be it for you 😆

Exact rating: 4.5

Thank you Penguin SEA and author for the e-ARC! This of course does not affect my overall opinion of the book.

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