A review by ash0312
Made in Korea by Sarah Suk

emotional inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

This book made me feel all of the things I did not think I would feel. What I went into thinking would be a cute, rivals to lovers type story, ended up being one of the most emotional, reflective and inspiring books I've read in a long time. 
Valerie's character was beautifully written. I didn't expect to relate so heavily to her every emotion and to sympathize with her as much as I did. Not to mention her relationship with her halmeoni. That relationship was truly the best aspect of the entire story. Whenever Valerie talked to her parents or discussed (internally) how they made her feel, I will fully admit that those moments had me bawling my eyes with, over how relatable and open those scenes were. Every thought and emotion was portrayed so perfectly, it was like I was in the book myself like I was Valerie.
I also really enjoyed Wes' character, although I wished there was more to the story with his parents throughout the book rather than having the big blow up right at the end with the hopeful light to their relationship in the future. That's a trope that I see very often and I had hoped that their relationship and the pressures Wes felt were more discussed, but I am satisfied nonetheless.
Overall, this book was absolutely amazing, the only reason I couldn't give it a five-star rating was because of how much I cried. I can safely say that this book has made its way onto my list of all-time favourite books.