A review by katiepope86
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I'm definitely a Taylor Jenkins Reid fan. I've read Evelyn Hugo, Daisy Jones, and now Malibu Rising. I read this book in about 36 hours, and that's only because I had to work, and it's too busy to sneak in a Kindle - haha. I would have.

It's odd I'm so drawn to these books, because all three center the lives of celebrities, and I don't follow gossip columns or swoon over anyone famous. The Riva family, though, really gripped my interest. Maybe it's because, in these books, I'm witnessing depth and drama from the inside (something the media can't ever quite reach). Even though the characters were quite different from me, I was eager to know all of their stories - June and Nina's, in particular.

I knocked off a star because of
the last third of the book. I wasn't really interested in the random people at the party, though I do agree hearing their stories back-to-back set such a chaotic mood. Appropriate. I also liked the interactions with Mick Riva and his kids - it's believable that in a moment of loneliness he might circle back to his family, just as he did with June after leaving her. I found the introduction of his possible fifth child - and the family's immediate acceptance of her - a little cheesy. Similarly, when Nina spoke about living for herself and *immediately* went to Portugal. I don't know. The ending felt forced; contrived. I loved the experience of reading Malibu Rising so much, though, that I shrugged and let it be. The kids seeing their father and realizing he wasn't going to change was all the ending I needed. They're probably right.


I will read everything Taylor Jenkins Reid writes - she's a unique author who takes on fame in a way I find fascinating. I still can't believe I can't Google Evelyn Hugo and the Riva family! I would. I'm so excited Atmosphere was recently released and I have something to look forward to.
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