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A review by rkjreads
I Love You Don't Die by Jade Song

dark emotional
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This has been compared to Rooney and Moshfegh, to me this felt like a slightly darker Emily Austin with a deeply interior and depressed protagonist. 

There’s a real heaviness to this especially when it comes to suicide and suicidal ideation so be wary if this is a triggering topic for you. Additionally, these characters are complex and very unlikeable which may be offputting to some.

It’s rare to see ace and poly representation in litfic and even bi rep is pretty limited so I enjoyed seeing this here. While there is romance here, friendship is at the front and center, explored at its best and worst.

I also liked the exploration of Vicky’s identity as a 3rd generation immigrant who is both othered by white America and disconnected from her Chinese heritage.

There was something almost dystopian about this book despite it being set in the present day. It feels satirical in how it digs into the despair of late stage capitalism and trying to survive as a creative. It offers a sharp critique on identity as a commodity or a market waiting to be unlocked.

I did enjoy this, and I’m glad I picked it up despite not really vibing with Chlorine.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
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