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plot_twist_turtle's Reviews (87)

Wide-Eyed

Esme Brett

5.0

funny informative lighthearted medium-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

Esme Brett is NZs own Ali Hazelwood. This fun, lighthearted but heartfelt story had me laughing, cringing, relating, asking “WHY” and tearing up a little.

First, the characters. Mike and Lyssa are some of the most visceral characters I’ve ever read in a Romcom. Their big personalities shone through so much that I had to fancast. Mike is a classic kiwi bloke who’s super cocky, but ultimately a big softie. Lyssa was a tornado of a character, that made sure she was always noticed. Esme made a classic trope- best friends brother- so new and interesting in how she chose to bring these two together and I didn’t want to put it down.

The plot was absolutely driven by these characters. They made some out-the-gate decisions, but it worked for the characters and didn’t feel forced or stale. The humour and banter were incredible. This book was everything I wanted it to be and more.

And I’ll say it again- Ali Hazelwood vibes. If you love Ali, you’ll love Esme.

Content Warnings

Eye Candy

Esme Brett

5.0

funny lighthearted 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

You know it’s a good romcom if you laugh on the first page. Which I did with the Heimlich liberated olive story.
Esme is Aotearoa’s very own Ali Hazelwood. But instead of a bunch of academic references, you get Kiwi references and I LOVE IT. This story is “what if Chidi and Eleanor from the Good Place were super horny onscreen?” And that spice is 10/10.