A review by cozygreylibrary
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
"Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang, narrated by Helen Laser, was an absolutely gripping experience for me. From the moment I started listening, I was completely drawn into the story, unable to tear myself away.


Let me tell you, Helen Laser's narration was spot-on. She brought the characters to life in such a compelling way that I was hooked from the very beginning. The book delves into some heavy topics, like racism in the publishing industry and the intense pressure for five-star reviews, but it does so in a way that feels both eye-opening and utterly engrossing.


The protagonist, June, is a complex character whose actions kept me on the edge of my seat. When she seizes the opportunity to claim someone else's work as her own, I found myself both fascinated and horrified by her choices. As the story unfolded and June's deception unraveled, I was gripped by a sense of unease that only intensified as the narrative progressed.


Overall, "Yellowface" is a thought-provoking and deeply compelling read that sheds light on some of the darker aspects of the publishing world. It's a book that will stay with me for a long time, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a riveting listen.