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A review by goldenelegy
A Bánh Mì for Two by Trinity Nguyen
adventurous
emotional
informative
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
caution: do not read this book with an empty stomach (the food descriptions will make you hungry)
this book follows the life of two girls: one is a vietnamese girl who operates a banh mi stall in saigon, and the other is a vietnamese diaspora who fakes her travel from her mom. throughout this book, they both explores saigon's street foods and landmarks (and fell in love <3)
the introductions to the MCs are done perfectly, i was immersed right away. it centers around both characters' family problems, dealing with grief, trust, and even love itself. for vivi, she also deals with identity confusion as a diaspora. the raw portrayal makes it easy for us to relate to. it also depicts life after the vietnam war, which is important to add to the context. the description in the book feels so alive, it's like i truly experience queuing at the banh mi 98 stall, tasting the foods, and strolling around the busy city.
i would definitely give it 5 stars if it weren't the ending that felt too rushed. but then again this is meant to be a light, relaxing read, highlighting the MC's daily life and character development.
if you're looking for a sweet sapphic romance with no misunderstanding trope and no complicated conflict, this is for you <3
this book follows the life of two girls: one is a vietnamese girl who operates a banh mi stall in saigon, and the other is a vietnamese diaspora who fakes her travel from her mom. throughout this book, they both explores saigon's street foods and landmarks (and fell in love <3)
the introductions to the MCs are done perfectly, i was immersed right away. it centers around both characters' family problems, dealing with grief, trust, and even love itself. for vivi, she also deals with identity confusion as a diaspora. the raw portrayal makes it easy for us to relate to. it also depicts life after the vietnam war, which is important to add to the context. the description in the book feels so alive, it's like i truly experience queuing at the banh mi 98 stall, tasting the foods, and strolling around the busy city.
i would definitely give it 5 stars if it weren't the ending that felt too rushed. but then again this is meant to be a light, relaxing read, highlighting the MC's daily life and character development.
if you're looking for a sweet sapphic romance with no misunderstanding trope and no complicated conflict, this is for you <3