A review by shannahtan
Loveboat, Taipei by Abigail Hing Wen

emotional hopeful fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

I have a soft spot for this book because it reminded me of Chinese Youth Camp. I heard a lot about Loveboat! I do think it was odd that Ever was going to Loveboat when her parents were in Fuijian China. Maybe I skimmed over how they are Taiwanese. I do think all the pinyin was odd for Taiwan since we generally learn bopomofo. Also, they used the simplified version of 愛 at points. Maybe that was an accident. 

For the plot, I wanted her to be with Xavier because I feel like she had more deep conversations with him and overall, spent more time with him than with Rick? I also really didn’t like Sophie’s revenge plot. It was messed up that she shared Ever’s nude photos & that’s really unforgivable. She also lied to Ever about Xavier’s gifts and her relationship with him. Absolutely bananas that the resolution was Ever saying she was wrong too. It wasn’t the same at all. 

I feel this book was way too dramatic. Jenna’s depression made Rick stay with her until he realized he loved Ever. But, he’s a “good guy” because he just almost kissed her not actually kiss her?! Also, the car accident with her dad before she performs bo staff in the talent show on basically a sprained ankle and dislocated shoulder was ridiculous.

I do love how Ever finds herself and focuses on what she wants in life rather than doing what her parents want or doing the complete opposite. I also appreciate and can relate to rejecting your Asian side growing up in the United States then visiting Taiwan and falling in love with that Asian side of yourself. Also, experiencing life as a majority visually over a minority. 
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