A review by likeagilmoregirl
When Oceans Rise by Robin Alvarez

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense 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

4.0

When Oceans Rise is a powerful story about finding your voice and reclaiming your life after abuse. As is her family curse, Malaya’s first boyfriend quickly turns abusive. As he continues to apologize and charm his way back into her life, Malaya stays quiet about the abuse she is experiencing until, one day, it goes too far and a distraught Malaya seeks escape from her relationship with the help of a cunning sea witch. Malaya’s reality is dissolved and new monsters begin to surface in her new life.

Steeped in Filipino mythology, When Oceans Rise explores not only the power of voice, but also the way our limited  perspective shapes the way we form relationships with our family, friends, and partners. 

I thought this book was heartwarming, entertaining, and empowering and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. 

*Huge thanks to NetGalley and Robin Alvarez for the audiobook version of this novel*
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