sand_between_pages 's review for:

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

4.0

emotional inspiring mysterious sad medium-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

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 "They had taught her that family is found, that whether it be blood or circumstance or choice, what binds us does not matter. All that matters is that we are bound."
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Oh Taylor! What a story!
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I really enjoyed Malibu Rising but definitely found it to be much different than all of TJR's previous novels. This felt like a lot like Little Fires Everywhere, a build up of several different story lines and issues, all culminating with a bang at the end. A subtle bang, though. (Is that an oxymoron?)
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What wasn't different, though, was TJR's ability to write amazing characters and endure the reader to their stories. I was absolutely attached to the four Riva children and rooted for them every step of the way. I respected Nina and the way she fought for her family, admired Kit's bravery to be herself, and smiled at Jay and Hud and their bond that grew from bizarre happenstance.
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And also, true to TJR, this book totally pulled at my heartstrings. There is a lot of subtlety to the way TJR grips the reader, but it's there and I couldn't help but let the tears flow freely. There isn't a book she's written that hasn't made me cry.
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Definitely read this one!