A review by merakiomia
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I absolutly loved how this was set in Cali in the early 80s, although I’m not incredibly familiar with this era, it wasn’t hard to imagine what it was like. I think having watched moonbeam city beforehand really helped set the vibe for me. The characters were interesting enough for me, although sometimes I did feel like they only existed to say a specific line or play a specific role in a scene, it didnt always feel real or genuine if that makes sense. I hated the flashbacks a lot because in all honestly I did not give a fuck about the upcoming of these siblings, but I did like reading about the rise and fall of June and Mick’s relationship. I thought it was really cool how it all took place in the duration of 24 hours. Then the ending just beautifully wrapped up this chaotic overwhelmingly complicated story of interpersonal family relationships. I would definitely go through the hell of rereading those flashbacks again just to experience that ending again for the first time. It was very cinematic. Hope I didn’t deter anyone from reading this because it was all worth it, the flashbacks aren’t as bad as I’m making them out to be. All in all this was great, I know I will be thinking and reflecting on this book for a very long time! 
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