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Interim Goddess of Love #1
Interim Goddess of Love by Mina V. Esguerra
College sophomore Hannah Maquiling doesn't know why everyone tells her their love problems. She's never even had a boyfriend, but that doesn't stop people from spilling their guts to her, and asking for advice. So maybe it shouldn't be a surprise when the cutest guy in school tells her that she's going to have to take on this responsibility -- but for all humanity.The Goddess of Love has gone AWOL. It's a problem, because her job is to keep in check this world's obsession with love (and lack of it). The God of the Sun, for now an impossibly handsome senior at an exclusive college just outside of Metro Manila, thinks Hannah has what it takes to (temporarily) do the job.While she's learning to do this goddess thing, she practices on the love troubles of shy Kathy, who's got a secret admirer on campus. Hannah's mission, should she choose to accept it, is to make sure that he's not a creepy stalker and they find their happily ever after -- or at least something that'll last until next semester. (As if she could refuse! The Sun God asked so nicely. And he's so, well, hot.)
Paperback
First published January 14, 2012
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About the author
Mina V. Esguerra
47 books595 followersMina V. Esguerra writes contemporary romance and young adult novellas. She has a bachelor's degree in Communication and a master's degree in Development Communication, put to good use in her work as trainer and content management consultant. Mina lives in Metro Manila, Philippines, with her husband and daughter.
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
February 7, 2017
The idea sounded very interesting, but the way the author played it was rather simplistic. All these gods seemed so much more like some popular teens rather than important deities. I couldn't relate to any character, even though the protagonist is a psychology major as I am and our personalities are somewhat similar, but her decisions were just eh...questionable at best.
January 26, 2012
Original post at One More Page
You know a book is good when you go back and rereadsome most of the book the moment you're done. Sometimes it's just to read your favorite parts, but for others (especially for novellas), it's almost like reading the entire book because you just can't get enough of it and you want to relive the events of the book.
Such is Mina V. Esguerra's newest novel (and her YA debut), Interim Goddess of Love. College sophomore Hannah Maquiling is a scholar in exclusive Ford River College, and she's caught the eye of Joaquin Apolinario, aka Quin, one of the hottest guys in school. But it wasn't in a way that she (or anyone else) expected. She caught Quin's eye because Quin is also the Sun God, and he needs her to be the Interim Goddess of Love. The real Goddess of Love has gone missing, and someone needs to fill in her shoes for a while, and Hannah fits the bill. Hannah accepts (because the Sun God was nice, not to mention cute), and starts using her powers on Kathy Martin, a shy classmate who's all flustered about her secret admirer.
So cute. I've always loved Mina's books, but Interim Goddess of Love had me giggling and grinning when I was done (and when I was rereading some parts), almost like how I was when I was reading Fairy Tale Fail . I admit that I may have already loved Hannah before I read the book -- she had me at this: "She's never even had a boyfriend, but that doesn't stop people from spilling their guts to her, and asking for advice." But I loved her even more as I got to know her. Hannah's voice sounds authentic and different from other YA heroines -- it's nice to read someone who isn't too whiny and who doesn't sound too old for her age, too. She's a very likeable and reliable narrator, and she sounds like someone I would want to be friends with. It was so easy to stick with her and to root for her and hope for a happy ending for her. She's not perfect, but boy did I find her easy to relate to. :P
Speaking of happy endings, there are the boys. As usual, Mina created very crushable guys to go with her heroine, not just as romantic interests. I found it funny that one of the questions that came up while reading this book was "Who's your favorite?" That's because there's not one but three guys in the book, each with their own charm. I am particularly fond of Quin, but mostly because he's the one in spotlight, but the other two guys provide good contrast (and competition) for the god of the sun.
That's another thing to love about this book too: Interim Goddess of Love is not your usual contemporary YA romance because it had elements of Philippine mythology in it. Oh, you thought the gods and goddess reference were just figurative? It's not. It doesn't provide an in-depth discussion on Philippine mythology, but if just a taste of it, then you'll get just that in this book. Then like Hannah, you'd end up wanting to know more because there's just so much more to know. I look forward to reading more about them and how exactly they all relate to each other in the next books. :)
Interim Goddess of Love is another great book from Mina, and I still can't stop grinning when I think of my favorite scenes. My only wish was it was longer because I definitely wanted more when I was done. I am so glad that this is the first book of a planned series and that the next book will be released later this year. I can't wait to read about Hannah's next goddess project (and more Quin moments, hihi :"> ).
ETA: Okay, no more excuses not to get this title -- You can get Interim Goddess of Love for free from Amazon until January 28! Get it now! :)
You know a book is good when you go back and reread
Such is Mina V. Esguerra's newest novel (and her YA debut), Interim Goddess of Love. College sophomore Hannah Maquiling is a scholar in exclusive Ford River College, and she's caught the eye of Joaquin Apolinario, aka Quin, one of the hottest guys in school. But it wasn't in a way that she (or anyone else) expected. She caught Quin's eye because Quin is also the Sun God, and he needs her to be the Interim Goddess of Love. The real Goddess of Love has gone missing, and someone needs to fill in her shoes for a while, and Hannah fits the bill. Hannah accepts (because the Sun God was nice, not to mention cute), and starts using her powers on Kathy Martin, a shy classmate who's all flustered about her secret admirer.
So cute. I've always loved Mina's books, but Interim Goddess of Love had me giggling and grinning when I was done (and when I was rereading some parts), almost like how I was when I was reading Fairy Tale Fail . I admit that I may have already loved Hannah before I read the book -- she had me at this: "She's never even had a boyfriend, but that doesn't stop people from spilling their guts to her, and asking for advice." But I loved her even more as I got to know her. Hannah's voice sounds authentic and different from other YA heroines -- it's nice to read someone who isn't too whiny and who doesn't sound too old for her age, too. She's a very likeable and reliable narrator, and she sounds like someone I would want to be friends with. It was so easy to stick with her and to root for her and hope for a happy ending for her. She's not perfect, but boy did I find her easy to relate to. :P
Speaking of happy endings, there are the boys. As usual, Mina created very crushable guys to go with her heroine, not just as romantic interests. I found it funny that one of the questions that came up while reading this book was "Who's your favorite?" That's because there's not one but three guys in the book, each with their own charm. I am particularly fond of Quin, but mostly because he's the one in spotlight, but the other two guys provide good contrast (and competition) for the god of the sun.
That's another thing to love about this book too: Interim Goddess of Love is not your usual contemporary YA romance because it had elements of Philippine mythology in it. Oh, you thought the gods and goddess reference were just figurative? It's not. It doesn't provide an in-depth discussion on Philippine mythology, but if just a taste of it, then you'll get just that in this book. Then like Hannah, you'd end up wanting to know more because there's just so much more to know. I look forward to reading more about them and how exactly they all relate to each other in the next books. :)
Interim Goddess of Love is another great book from Mina, and I still can't stop grinning when I think of my favorite scenes. My only wish was it was longer because I definitely wanted more when I was done. I am so glad that this is the first book of a planned series and that the next book will be released later this year. I can't wait to read about Hannah's next goddess project (and more Quin moments, hihi :"> ).
ETA: Okay, no more excuses not to get this title -- You can get Interim Goddess of Love for free from Amazon until January 28! Get it now! :)
August 3, 2012
I recommend Interim Goddess of Love.
*****
I have a sucky history with Filipino-written pocketbooks. Way back in the 90's, I got to read these 100+ pages or so of romance novels by Filipino authors. I was stuck in the province with nothing to do during Holy Week. I asked my aunt if there was something, anything to read. I was given 3 pocketbooks written in Tagalog-English and it was awful experience. Awful in a sense that the authors were trying very hard to inculcate Western cliches into their stories. Awful because I never once thought that the authors were Filipinos while reading it.
I stopped reading them.
Last Saturday, I saw Mina V. Esguerra during my good friend KD's birthday celebration. She's very nice. Maybe i can sample one of her books for nicety's sake?
I bought Interim Goddess of Love in Amazon for $0.99 only. Boy, it was a steal! Kinda short, but I was surprised to have 'kilig' or swoon moments here and there. Hee! The mythology angle was fun to read. :)
Hannah's character was okay, although i felt she was more like a high school kid than a college sophomore. Quin... erm, i have a crush on him. *blushes* all business about gods and goddessess; not bothering to take Hannah's bait in showing any emotion. But Quin in Hannah's dreams are the best! Can i be stuck in a little bamboo raft with you? *winks*
Then there's (rough) Diego and (sweet) Robbie. C'mon now, why do i like all of these guys, huh?!
I was like Hannah once. The shock absorber of my friends' woes on love. I didn't mind. I just hate it when they come to me and ask for advice but do the opposite. :( Yeah, yeah. the story of my life (with friends, that is).
Interim Goddess of Love is a light read. Pretty cute, if you ask me. Just enough to warm me on these typhoon-infested days.
Can i get another dose of Quin, please?
*****
I have a sucky history with Filipino-written pocketbooks. Way back in the 90's, I got to read these 100+ pages or so of romance novels by Filipino authors. I was stuck in the province with nothing to do during Holy Week. I asked my aunt if there was something, anything to read. I was given 3 pocketbooks written in Tagalog-English and it was awful experience. Awful in a sense that the authors were trying very hard to inculcate Western cliches into their stories. Awful because I never once thought that the authors were Filipinos while reading it.
I stopped reading them.
Last Saturday, I saw Mina V. Esguerra during my good friend KD's birthday celebration. She's very nice. Maybe i can sample one of her books for nicety's sake?
I bought Interim Goddess of Love in Amazon for $0.99 only. Boy, it was a steal! Kinda short, but I was surprised to have 'kilig' or swoon moments here and there. Hee! The mythology angle was fun to read. :)
Hannah's character was okay, although i felt she was more like a high school kid than a college sophomore. Quin... erm, i have a crush on him. *blushes* all business about gods and goddessess; not bothering to take Hannah's bait in showing any emotion. But Quin in Hannah's dreams are the best! Can i be stuck in a little bamboo raft with you? *winks*
Then there's (rough) Diego and (sweet) Robbie. C'mon now, why do i like all of these guys, huh?!
I was like Hannah once. The shock absorber of my friends' woes on love. I didn't mind. I just hate it when they come to me and ask for advice but do the opposite. :( Yeah, yeah. the story of my life (with friends, that is).
Interim Goddess of Love is a light read. Pretty cute, if you ask me. Just enough to warm me on these typhoon-infested days.
Can i get another dose of Quin, please?
December 29, 2013
This is my 6th time to read a Mina V. Esguerra book and I think this is so far, her best.
Here, she tried incorporating Philippine mythology to romance and the result is just astounding! Esguerra took the risk and it paid off well. It surprised me to find a chick lit that is really interesting, hip and not too mushy at all.
This is the story of Hannah Maquiling who is appointed by the sun god, Quin to be the Interim Goddess of Love (think Venus or Aphrodite but only a sub). Then both of them are studying in some rich kids' college together with other gods and goddesses like Vida, the moon goddess and Diego, the god of the sea. Then there are mortals falling in love with some gods and goddess and these unions produce gods and goddess of second and third levels and all these remind me of Percy Jackson and the Olympians Boxed Set and their being students in one university not to mention one god appointing a mortal to a semi-god position (like Hannah) reminded me of the Twilight series with Quin (as Edward) and Hannah (as Bella).
There is of course nothing wrong with getting some good elements from this or that popular books or movies and incorporating them on your own especially if you put your own ingredient (like Philippine mythology). There is also nothing wrong with joining the trend especially what really sells in the market. After all, writing books is business and we all have bills to pay. So I am just expressing what I felt while reading (and enjoying) this book.
Overall, as I said, I think this book surprisingly upped the ante of writing Philippine chick lit. Very ingenious. Very fresh take on how chick lit is normally written.
Well done, Mina!!!
Here, she tried incorporating Philippine mythology to romance and the result is just astounding! Esguerra took the risk and it paid off well. It surprised me to find a chick lit that is really interesting, hip and not too mushy at all.
This is the story of Hannah Maquiling who is appointed by the sun god, Quin to be the Interim Goddess of Love (think Venus or Aphrodite but only a sub). Then both of them are studying in some rich kids' college together with other gods and goddesses like Vida, the moon goddess and Diego, the god of the sea. Then there are mortals falling in love with some gods and goddess and these unions produce gods and goddess of second and third levels and all these remind me of Percy Jackson and the Olympians Boxed Set and their being students in one university not to mention one god appointing a mortal to a semi-god position (like Hannah) reminded me of the Twilight series with Quin (as Edward) and Hannah (as Bella).
There is of course nothing wrong with getting some good elements from this or that popular books or movies and incorporating them on your own especially if you put your own ingredient (like Philippine mythology). There is also nothing wrong with joining the trend especially what really sells in the market. After all, writing books is business and we all have bills to pay. So I am just expressing what I felt while reading (and enjoying) this book.
Overall, as I said, I think this book surprisingly upped the ante of writing Philippine chick lit. Very ingenious. Very fresh take on how chick lit is normally written.
Well done, Mina!!!
August 31, 2016
An easily enjoyable read with a seriously A+ concept. I wanted more development but at least I'm excited to read the rest of the series to find out what happens to Hannah's goddess endeavors!
March 12, 2012
First off, I am not on a Mina fan-fest. It just so happened that I am reading light, easy books these days and Mina's books perfectly fit the bill. Interim Goddess of Love is no different. Now, on to the not-so-standard review. :P
The blurb says this:
College sophomore Hannah Maquiling doesn't know why everyone tells her their love problems. She's never even had a boyfriend, but that doesn't stop people from spilling their guts to her, and asking for advice. So maybe it shouldn't be a surprise when the cutest guy in school tells her that she's going to have to take on this responsibility -- but for all humanity.
The Goddess of Love has gone AWOL. It's a problem, because her job is to keep in check this world's obsession with love (and lack of it). The God of the Sun, for now an impossibly handsome senior at an exclusive college just outside of Metro Manila, thinks Hannah has what it takes to (temporarily) do the job.
While she's learning to do this goddess thing, she practices on the love troubles of shy Kathy, who's got a secret admirer on campus. Hannah's mission, should she choose to accept it, is to make sure that he's not a creepy stalker and they find their happily ever after -- or at least something that'll last until next semester. (As if she could refuse! The Sun God asked so nicely. And he's so, well, hot.)
To be really candid, it took me quite a while – maybe just about half of the book – to get into the groove of this one. There was just something about the YA setting (college, campus, teenagers) that didn't exactly jive with Philippine deities. To me, the infusion of one into the other initially felt awkward and forced.
For example, I couldn't really grasp the idea of a bunch of college students
Halfway through, however, and to be fair, I tried to think of IGoL as a retelling of sorts – because retellings, especially of mythology and folklore, I do appreciate. When I look at the novella from that perspective, I found that it was easier to digest, and I began to recognize the uniqueness of the story. Why, it's not all that different from alternative Filipino legends and other similar retellings! Hannah and her boylets – Quin, Diego and Robbie, the latter being my favorite for being muy simpatico – just became.
That being said, I guess the best part about IGoL, really, is the infusion of Philippine mythology and legends into the plot. Without this element, I acknowledged that the novella would be just another blah YA contemporary romance. So, on that score, it would be safe to conclude that it's the idea of the Philippine divinities themselves being incarnated as college kids that is the selling point of the book.
Alamat ng araw at buwan, anyone? :)
Original post here.
February 18, 2014
Dates read: December 23, 2013 to December 31, 2013 with PRPB.
This is my second read and second review of the Interim Goddess of Love (Interim Goddess of Love, #1).
I felt the same way I had felt the first time I read this book so my rating remains the same.
In fact I appreciated this book more after reading it again. Kasi, I had to ask questions for our group read - kaya naman parang bawat sentence yata noong book - binutingting ko na. LOL.
---
First review: (Date read: Feb. 2013)
I totally love this book!
I was feeling down and in panic and swamped with work - I didn't know which one should come first anymore. And so, I picked up this book which has been in my bed for quite sometime already.
--
I call it Mina magic - the author's ability to make me smile and feel kilig. Her books have the ability to uplift my spirits which I think is currently on an all-time low due to my [daily?] emotional turmoil and all that.
Anyway, I love the characters - Hannah, Quin, Robbie, Sol, and even Diego and etc. I have my own theories why Quin's like that but I'm going to leave it at that!
I can't wait to read the second book! ^_^
This is my second read and second review of the Interim Goddess of Love (Interim Goddess of Love, #1).
I felt the same way I had felt the first time I read this book so my rating remains the same.
In fact I appreciated this book more after reading it again. Kasi, I had to ask questions for our group read - kaya naman parang bawat sentence yata noong book - binutingting ko na. LOL.
---
First review: (Date read: Feb. 2013)
I totally love this book!
I was feeling down and in panic and swamped with work - I didn't know which one should come first anymore. And so, I picked up this book which has been in my bed for quite sometime already.
--
I call it Mina magic - the author's ability to make me smile and feel kilig. Her books have the ability to uplift my spirits which I think is currently on an all-time low due to my [daily?] emotional turmoil and all that.
Anyway, I love the characters - Hannah, Quin, Robbie, Sol, and even Diego and etc. I have my own theories why Quin's like that but I'm going to leave it at that!
I can't wait to read the second book! ^_^
August 8, 2014
Originally posted here.
I'm a Mina V. Esguerra fangirl. I've read and reviewed all of her books and even did and interview and giveaway last year. She's my favorite Filipino chick lit writer and I keep recommending her books to my girlfriends because all of her novels are so light and fun. I knew she was planning to release Interim Goddess of Love in 2012 and I was really looking forward to it, not only because I'll read anything she writes, but because she's tackling a new genre. All of Mina's other books are contemporary romance with women in their twenties as main characters. This time, she decided write a contemporary young adult novel, with a hint of Philippine mythology in it.
I initially thought the "goddess of love" bit in the title and the premise was figurative. It's not. Hannah is a descendant of one of those unions between a mortal and a god so she has enough magic in her to be the interim goddess of love. Basically, she has to help out fellow students in Ford River College with their love problems. If you've been reading my blog for a while, you know that one of my frustrations is not having enough Filipino YA novels to read. Which is why I'm thrilled that Mina has written Interim Goddess of Love and has two sequels scheduled to be released this year. I loved the college setting of the novel because Ford River reminded me of my own college. If you want to get a feel of what college (or university or uni in other parts of the world) is like here in the Philippines, then read this book. I know I keep saying this about Mina's novels but I could really relate to the characters because they're all Filipinos. Interim goddess role aside, I could connect with Hannah's college experiences. It felt like I was back in my own school - attending core curriculum subjects, hanging out with friends in the cafeteria, participating in school organizations and getting to know classmates. Based on just the title, you know that romance is a focus of this novel and I think that's pretty realistic because most college teenagers tend to worry about their love lives. Here's a snippet that I really liked:
Hannah has never had her own boyfriend but she's not willing to be a wallflower either and I liked that about her. The huge cast of characters in this short work of fiction may be confusing for some people but that's one aspect of Interim Goddess of Love that I really enjoyed. Thank you, Mina, for giving us so many swoon-worthy guys in one book! I couldn't decide which guy I should root for. This installment is about Kathy's romance but in the process of finding her true love, we get hints about Hannah's possible love story as well. I think the number of characters sets up the sequels quite nicely - I'm hoping to read more about the other characters in the next books. Interim Goddess of Love is a promising introduction to Mina's YA work and it's just as charming and fun as her other books. After finishing this, I went online so I could bug Mina about the sequels. I can't wait to read them and I will recommend this one to anyone interested in reading Filipino fiction because I have a feeling they'd enjoy reading Interim Goddess of Love as much as I did.
I'm a Mina V. Esguerra fangirl. I've read and reviewed all of her books and even did and interview and giveaway last year. She's my favorite Filipino chick lit writer and I keep recommending her books to my girlfriends because all of her novels are so light and fun. I knew she was planning to release Interim Goddess of Love in 2012 and I was really looking forward to it, not only because I'll read anything she writes, but because she's tackling a new genre. All of Mina's other books are contemporary romance with women in their twenties as main characters. This time, she decided write a contemporary young adult novel, with a hint of Philippine mythology in it.
I initially thought the "goddess of love" bit in the title and the premise was figurative. It's not. Hannah is a descendant of one of those unions between a mortal and a god so she has enough magic in her to be the interim goddess of love. Basically, she has to help out fellow students in Ford River College with their love problems. If you've been reading my blog for a while, you know that one of my frustrations is not having enough Filipino YA novels to read. Which is why I'm thrilled that Mina has written Interim Goddess of Love and has two sequels scheduled to be released this year. I loved the college setting of the novel because Ford River reminded me of my own college. If you want to get a feel of what college (or university or uni in other parts of the world) is like here in the Philippines, then read this book. I know I keep saying this about Mina's novels but I could really relate to the characters because they're all Filipinos. Interim goddess role aside, I could connect with Hannah's college experiences. It felt like I was back in my own school - attending core curriculum subjects, hanging out with friends in the cafeteria, participating in school organizations and getting to know classmates. Based on just the title, you know that romance is a focus of this novel and I think that's pretty realistic because most college teenagers tend to worry about their love lives. Here's a snippet that I really liked:
Some girls can’t stand to be around the guy they like. They get really nervous, and rather than make fools of themselves, they just stay away. I was the opposite; the more I liked a guy, the more I wanted to be around him. I was the type who’d join the same org, or pick the same elective. Sure I was probably looking like a fool five times a day over a bunch of things, but I liked being close to someone I admired.
The act of doing something about the feelings, no matter how futile the exercise, was still way better than sitting around just hoping they’d notice the girl who never said anything.
Hannah has never had her own boyfriend but she's not willing to be a wallflower either and I liked that about her. The huge cast of characters in this short work of fiction may be confusing for some people but that's one aspect of Interim Goddess of Love that I really enjoyed. Thank you, Mina, for giving us so many swoon-worthy guys in one book! I couldn't decide which guy I should root for. This installment is about Kathy's romance but in the process of finding her true love, we get hints about Hannah's possible love story as well. I think the number of characters sets up the sequels quite nicely - I'm hoping to read more about the other characters in the next books. Interim Goddess of Love is a promising introduction to Mina's YA work and it's just as charming and fun as her other books. After finishing this, I went online so I could bug Mina about the sequels. I can't wait to read them and I will recommend this one to anyone interested in reading Filipino fiction because I have a feeling they'd enjoy reading Interim Goddess of Love as much as I did.
April 25, 2017
This was seriously so adorable. I love love, reading about love and happy endings is seriously my favourite thing to do, so obviously a book about the goddess of love being a college student just trying her best to pair people up is right up my alley, I cannot wait to read the following books because all the characters introduced in this book totally intrigued me.
June 22, 2016
Yesssssss. I finally read a Mina V. Esguerra book and it feels wonderful and fresh and cute. Interim Goddess of Love has gods as college students, and a goddess of love that has this thing that people ask her love advices all the time. She is gonna try to help this girl to figure out who is this guy who keeps sending her cute gifts.
To be honest, my favorite part were all the gods. Quin, Vida, and Diego were so fun to meet and to get to know just a bit in the first book. We also get glimpses of their lives before being in Manila as college students, and it's great to read about it!
→ Filipino main characters + #ownvoices (written by Filipino author)
→ Gods as college students doing college-y things? WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR. Like Quin, God of the Sun is the captain of the basketball team and Vida is the president of the school council!
→ Fun scenarios where Hannah aka our interim goddess of love meets lots of amazing characters
→ I swear I could see this an animated show or a Youtube series or something. The changing of scenes were so spot on; you don't get bored and it is what makes it so fresh and so easy to read. In fact, you just can't STOP READING.
To be honest, my favorite part were all the gods. Quin, Vida, and Diego were so fun to meet and to get to know just a bit in the first book. We also get glimpses of their lives before being in Manila as college students, and it's great to read about it!
→ Filipino main characters + #ownvoices (written by Filipino author)
→ Gods as college students doing college-y things? WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR. Like Quin, God of the Sun is the captain of the basketball team and Vida is the president of the school council!
→ Fun scenarios where Hannah aka our interim goddess of love meets lots of amazing characters
→ I swear I could see this an animated show or a Youtube series or something. The changing of scenes were so spot on; you don't get bored and it is what makes it so fresh and so easy to read. In fact, you just can't STOP READING.
Read
March 19, 2013Dear Mina,
WHAT IS BITIN? Haha! I totally like this book especially the touch of Filipino mythology (really awesome). This book should have a manga version! I can imagine the panels already esp the mythology tales asdfghjkl it will be so beautiful! I just wish I can draw!
Not to sound like a demanding fan but WHEN IS THE NEXT PART? Bitin na bitin!
New Crazy Fan,
Tricia
WHAT IS BITIN? Haha! I totally like this book especially the touch of Filipino mythology (really awesome). This book should have a manga version! I can imagine the panels already esp the mythology tales asdfghjkl it will be so beautiful! I just wish I can draw!
Not to sound like a demanding fan but WHEN IS THE NEXT PART? Bitin na bitin!
New Crazy Fan,
Tricia
August 15, 2017
Another one that's long been in my TBR, way before this review went up ( <-- written by a friend whose recs I trust, so I'm referencing it), but I brought it along on a trip, and finally found the time to get to it. I'm blown away by the concept—Philippine gods and goddesses in high school, and in awe by just how much the author is willing to ~spread her wings. While I must admit I was missing some things from this first installment, I'm sure to still be reading the next ones because the answers to my questions WILL be there. A gem in local YA, this is worth picking up for both teen and adult readers.
August 20, 2013
4 stars. Originally posted on My Book Musings.
With Interim Goddess of Love, we are introduced to the main characters who play pivotal roles for the next three books: Quin, the sun god; Vida, the moon goddess; and Hannah, the interim goddess of Love. Diego, god of the sea, is also introduced, but while he does play a meaningful role here, I felt that he was more of a secondary, supporting character to the first three.
What can I say about gods? They're gorgeous, and they can do whatever they want. And Quin, Vida, and Diego do get away with a lot. Quin doesn't seem to be manipulating people, but Vida, she does what she wants to get her way. And Diego fights a lot, for some reason. I still don't get why he has to cause so much trouble. They have had a millenia to go about in their god ways. Hannah, on the other hand, was just chosen by Quin. I don't know (and it wasn't explained) why Quin chose her, but she is eager to fulfill this new role.
Quin is...well, the typical, brooding, secretive, darned attractive kind of male character. He should also be called the God of Mixed Signals because throughout the whole book, he keeps hanging out with Hannah and being there in the nick of time for her, and he seems nice, even gentle, towards her but he never says anything. Always so mysterious, that one. But then again, if you know how everything plays out and how things are supposed to go, then I guess he has his reasons for being the handsome, silent type, which is actually contrary to his being a sun god. Sun gods are usually the loud, showy types, aren't they?
Vida, physically, is your typical perfect leader in college. The characters are described as the typical king and queens you had in college, although describing them as such is justified since they are gods, after all, and they are typically physically perfect. I'm not sure how I feel about her - whether to sympathize with her, or to think she's really a manipulative cow who just wants more power. But then hating her would just be too easy. Also, she is contrary to being the moon goddess - you know, quiet, contemplative - but Vida is...out there. She's not exactly showy, but you can't help but notice her.
Hannah actually reminds me a bit about myself - the one people go to for love troubles, and friends with the guidance counselor (yeah, I was!). She is eager to perform her duties, either as an SK (scholarship kid) or as the goddess of love. I actually liked getting to know her.
In just 120 pages, Mina Esguerra was able to establish the personalities of the different characters in a creative way. She gave their character descriptions through the results of the personality tests that their school, Ford Rivers, give to students every year. I like that Mina contrasted Quin and Vida's personalities with their god designation. Sadly, they don't seem to have the usual powers like flying or invisibility, although Quin seems to be able to read minds or send messages via telepathy. I had fun reading about Ford Rivers, too, because it sounds a lot like the college I went to! Of course there were a few differences, but I really felt like I was back in college. In fact, I was imagining the characters moving in my alma mater as I read the book.
The Interim Goddess of Love was a smooth ride. Honestly, it didn't make me feel so kilig (this Filipino term does not have a direct English translation, but for lack of a better term: giddy - in a romantic way) and I didn't get hooked into the book as easily as I did with Mina Esguerra's other books (like My Imaginary Ex), but I decided to keep on reading. You know what? I finished the book with a smile on my face.
I cannot recall, at the moment, reading a book with a similar plot. I like that the ending does not feel forced. I also appreciate that Mina didn't push Quin and Hannah together, no matter how much they look cute together. There's also another guy for Hannah, Robbie, and he's just a normal mortal who likes her and even saved her. So maybe they're more suited for each other, them being both normal mortals, and Hannah is just the interim goddess after all. Wait, the mechanics of her being an interim goddess wasn't explained much in the book. Hopefully, this god-goddess factors will be explained more in the second book, Queen of the Clueless.
With Interim Goddess of Love, we are introduced to the main characters who play pivotal roles for the next three books: Quin, the sun god; Vida, the moon goddess; and Hannah, the interim goddess of Love. Diego, god of the sea, is also introduced, but while he does play a meaningful role here, I felt that he was more of a secondary, supporting character to the first three.
What can I say about gods? They're gorgeous, and they can do whatever they want. And Quin, Vida, and Diego do get away with a lot. Quin doesn't seem to be manipulating people, but Vida, she does what she wants to get her way. And Diego fights a lot, for some reason. I still don't get why he has to cause so much trouble. They have had a millenia to go about in their god ways. Hannah, on the other hand, was just chosen by Quin. I don't know (and it wasn't explained) why Quin chose her, but she is eager to fulfill this new role.
Quin is...well, the typical, brooding, secretive, darned attractive kind of male character. He should also be called the God of Mixed Signals because throughout the whole book, he keeps hanging out with Hannah and being there in the nick of time for her, and he seems nice, even gentle, towards her but he never says anything. Always so mysterious, that one. But then again, if you know how everything plays out and how things are supposed to go, then I guess he has his reasons for being the handsome, silent type, which is actually contrary to his being a sun god. Sun gods are usually the loud, showy types, aren't they?
Vida, physically, is your typical perfect leader in college. The characters are described as the typical king and queens you had in college, although describing them as such is justified since they are gods, after all, and they are typically physically perfect. I'm not sure how I feel about her - whether to sympathize with her, or to think she's really a manipulative cow who just wants more power. But then hating her would just be too easy. Also, she is contrary to being the moon goddess - you know, quiet, contemplative - but Vida is...out there. She's not exactly showy, but you can't help but notice her.
Hannah actually reminds me a bit about myself - the one people go to for love troubles, and friends with the guidance counselor (yeah, I was!). She is eager to perform her duties, either as an SK (scholarship kid) or as the goddess of love. I actually liked getting to know her.
In just 120 pages, Mina Esguerra was able to establish the personalities of the different characters in a creative way. She gave their character descriptions through the results of the personality tests that their school, Ford Rivers, give to students every year. I like that Mina contrasted Quin and Vida's personalities with their god designation. Sadly, they don't seem to have the usual powers like flying or invisibility, although Quin seems to be able to read minds or send messages via telepathy. I had fun reading about Ford Rivers, too, because it sounds a lot like the college I went to! Of course there were a few differences, but I really felt like I was back in college. In fact, I was imagining the characters moving in my alma mater as I read the book.
The Interim Goddess of Love was a smooth ride. Honestly, it didn't make me feel so kilig (this Filipino term does not have a direct English translation, but for lack of a better term: giddy - in a romantic way) and I didn't get hooked into the book as easily as I did with Mina Esguerra's other books (like My Imaginary Ex), but I decided to keep on reading. You know what? I finished the book with a smile on my face.
I cannot recall, at the moment, reading a book with a similar plot. I like that the ending does not feel forced. I also appreciate that Mina didn't push Quin and Hannah together, no matter how much they look cute together. There's also another guy for Hannah, Robbie, and he's just a normal mortal who likes her and even saved her. So maybe they're more suited for each other, them being both normal mortals, and Hannah is just the interim goddess after all. Wait, the mechanics of her being an interim goddess wasn't explained much in the book. Hopefully, this god-goddess factors will be explained more in the second book, Queen of the Clueless.
September 8, 2012
Enter the Interim Goddess of Love. Meet Hannah, a typical college sophomore and scholar at Ford River College… or so she though, until she chances upon meeting Quin, one of the hottest guys on campus. Surprised and somewhat flattered by the attention this hunk has been giving her, Hannah finds herself hanging out with Quin on a daily basis, until finally Quin reveals the real reason behind it all. Quin is the Sun God, and this god wants Hannah to work as the Goddess of Love. Although a little doubtful and intimidated by the task at hand, Hannah does her best to learn the ropes, and soon finds herself on her very first assignment, that’s when things start to get all crazy…
Let me put it right out, that this is my favourite among Mina Esguerra’s books! Yup, I’ve read them all. Interim Goddess of Love is not the typical contemporary love stories that the other books Ms. Esguerra has written. There’s the mix of mythology (which I am absolutely in love with), and a setting on the YA world (my preferred book genre). So yes, those alone already made me love this book, but the storyline itself made it even better.
Hannah is like every heroine from Mina Esguerra’s books; she’s strong, independent and definitely has character; nothing like a good sense of woman empowerment to make me eager to read on. I found it very fitting that Hannah took on the job of being the goddess of love, while taking up a degree in psychology.
Now let’s talk boys. Honestly, even though she’s the one doing the whole “love connection” thing, I expected Hannah to have formed a love interest here, but right now I guess it’s too soon to tell. There are potential guys to pair up with her of course, there’s Quin, Robbie and then there’s Diego. Hello, Diego! *wiggling eyebrows* Is it obvious who I’m rooting for? And even if they don’t end up together, he’s still my bet. Even better, I can have him for myself. Ha ha ha!
Interim Goddess of Love is a little slow on development of events, but I can understand the flow since the oh-so-wise sun god, Quin, wants Hannah to learn things slowly but surely. I like how things where set in place. Each part of the story is like a piece of a puzzle that once you’ve completed, you get to see a beautiful picture in the end.
However, this isn’t the end, is it? Hannah’s journey has only begun and I am all the more excited to read about her adventures… even misadventures. Plus I still have a lot of unanswered questions, and since I know this is a series, I need them ASAP. Yeah, Quin, I’m as impatient as Hannah, so sue me!
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
Let me put it right out, that this is my favourite among Mina Esguerra’s books! Yup, I’ve read them all. Interim Goddess of Love is not the typical contemporary love stories that the other books Ms. Esguerra has written. There’s the mix of mythology (which I am absolutely in love with), and a setting on the YA world (my preferred book genre). So yes, those alone already made me love this book, but the storyline itself made it even better.
Hannah is like every heroine from Mina Esguerra’s books; she’s strong, independent and definitely has character; nothing like a good sense of woman empowerment to make me eager to read on. I found it very fitting that Hannah took on the job of being the goddess of love, while taking up a degree in psychology.
Now let’s talk boys. Honestly, even though she’s the one doing the whole “love connection” thing, I expected Hannah to have formed a love interest here, but right now I guess it’s too soon to tell. There are potential guys to pair up with her of course, there’s Quin, Robbie and then there’s Diego. Hello, Diego! *wiggling eyebrows* Is it obvious who I’m rooting for? And even if they don’t end up together, he’s still my bet. Even better, I can have him for myself. Ha ha ha!
Interim Goddess of Love is a little slow on development of events, but I can understand the flow since the oh-so-wise sun god, Quin, wants Hannah to learn things slowly but surely. I like how things where set in place. Each part of the story is like a piece of a puzzle that once you’ve completed, you get to see a beautiful picture in the end.
However, this isn’t the end, is it? Hannah’s journey has only begun and I am all the more excited to read about her adventures… even misadventures. Plus I still have a lot of unanswered questions, and since I know this is a series, I need them ASAP. Yeah, Quin, I’m as impatient as Hannah, so sue me!
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
August 22, 2013
Actual rating: 3.5
(View this review on My Library in the Making.)
I've been meaning to read Interim Goddess of Love since January of last year, and now I'm mentally kicking myself for waiting this long to read it. I sure had been missing out! This book is very cute, fun, and light, but that doesn't mean its plot lacks complexity. There are so many aspects to this story aside from what is indicated in the title, and to mix all that in less than two hundred pages makes this a gripping read—not to mention the Philippine setting makes it easier to envision the story.
With her smartness, determination, and practicality, it's impossible for me not to like Hannah. She doesn't let anything stop her from reaching her goal and faces everything head-on, even if it's deities from Filipino myth who are stopping her. One of the very few issues I have with this book, though, is her characterization. Even with the first person POV, I don't feel like I connected much with Hannah.
Filipino myth—which I shamefully know little about—isn't the only thing that Interim Goddess of Love is full of. Get this: cute boys. A whole lot of them. Well, not really, but three of them. And they're in one group of friends, like, just as Hannah says, a freaking boy band. First is Quin, the Sun God and Hannah's boss. The mixed signals he keeps on sending confused and frustrated me just as much as they do to Hannah, but the little snippets of memories that enter her dreams suggest a whole other thing. Next is Diego, the moody bad boy who never fails to find, or start, trouble. He's more like a new friend at this point, but there are two more books... And then there's Robbie, the nicest and most normal of the bunch, and the one I'm currently rooting for.
"Where is the Original Goddess of Love?" That's a question I'd been distracted from up until the final quarter of the book. I'm pretty sure it's not my failing memory, so I'm disappointed that this question doesn't get an answer in this first book. But I'm sure we'll get that and a deeper knowing of the characters in the next books, which I'll certainly get to before this year ends!
MY FAVORITE PART is Bash night :3
(View this review on My Library in the Making.)
I've been meaning to read Interim Goddess of Love since January of last year, and now I'm mentally kicking myself for waiting this long to read it. I sure had been missing out! This book is very cute, fun, and light, but that doesn't mean its plot lacks complexity. There are so many aspects to this story aside from what is indicated in the title, and to mix all that in less than two hundred pages makes this a gripping read—not to mention the Philippine setting makes it easier to envision the story.
With her smartness, determination, and practicality, it's impossible for me not to like Hannah. She doesn't let anything stop her from reaching her goal and faces everything head-on, even if it's deities from Filipino myth who are stopping her. One of the very few issues I have with this book, though, is her characterization. Even with the first person POV, I don't feel like I connected much with Hannah.
Filipino myth—which I shamefully know little about—isn't the only thing that Interim Goddess of Love is full of. Get this: cute boys. A whole lot of them. Well, not really, but three of them. And they're in one group of friends, like, just as Hannah says, a freaking boy band. First is Quin, the Sun God and Hannah's boss. The mixed signals he keeps on sending confused and frustrated me just as much as they do to Hannah, but the little snippets of memories that enter her dreams suggest a whole other thing. Next is Diego, the moody bad boy who never fails to find, or start, trouble. He's more like a new friend at this point, but there are two more books... And then there's Robbie, the nicest and most normal of the bunch, and the one I'm currently rooting for.
"Where is the Original Goddess of Love?" That's a question I'd been distracted from up until the final quarter of the book. I'm pretty sure it's not my failing memory, so I'm disappointed that this question doesn't get an answer in this first book. But I'm sure we'll get that and a deeper knowing of the characters in the next books, which I'll certainly get to before this year ends!
MY FAVORITE PART is Bash night :3
October 2, 2016
I knew that when people thought of love they thought of moments. Whether or not a marriage worked out, or if they stayed together after graduation, or if they did go to the big dance together, the story's end mattered less, and the highlights in between mattered more. Those are what lingered, and what people can go back to, even when they had nothing left.
This was so short and cute and intriguing. This is the story of Hannah, who was just appointed to be the goddess of love, and her job includes helping people with their love stories, or pairing some of them together. But of course, not everyone can get their happy ending, and Hannah is struggling at some point with those she doesn't want to hurt. Along the way, she realizes that the Gods of the older generation hold even more power than her, and that there's rivalry and history between them that goes deeper beyond her story. Hannah is left trying to prove that she is in fact fit for the role now that she was chosen.
I personally loved Hannah so much. She was charming, kind and childish at times in a way that wasn't at all annoying. She was also very determined to help out. On the other hand, I felt like Quin was a bit of a mystery, the two dreams Hannah had about him sort of tell that there is a history to him that we haven't yet worked out. However, he was very stoic and bland at times and I felt like I wanted to get to know him more (hopefully, in the sequel this would happen).
I also really enjoyed how this didn't revolve around the main character's love story but rather about those surrounding her. From the beginning, I was intrigued with Kathy and her secret admirer and the revelation was just adorable. I do hope the sequel shows us more of what happens between them even if to Hannah, it's already considered a done job.
The writing of this book was simple and to the point. I feel like there is more to the plot building that could have been added, and it would have made the book a little bit longer, and also gave us a bit of a background to the Gods and their histories and how Hannah fit into all this.
Overall, I still enjoyed this very much. And it succeeded in getting me to want to read the second book.
October 11, 2013
This book reminds me of shoujo animés. The heroine acquires a power of some sort, helps other people, and has a love story. The setting is their school Ford River which is divided to "Rich Kids" and "Scholar Kids".
I like the mythical story intertwined with the regular people. I think the author took a great shot of writing the plot. She can incorporate different characters and stories in the series. And what's more exciting? She can put unexpected things from the other world.
It is stated at the last page that the questions the readers have will be answered in the second book but I guess mine's out of the box (and stupid). Why are the gods and goddesses young?; Why is the god of water a bad boy? Shouldn't he be the calm one? (because when I think of hot-headed guys, god of fire automatically comes to my mind).
~~~***~~~***~~~
In the Aklatan 2013 event, I saw Mina Esguerra for the first time. This is the only book of hers I have that got signed. She wrote "Which team?" After reading this, I still can't choose between the guy characters =.= maybe after reading the second book of the series..?
I know most girls get drawn on bad boys like Diego because they have appeal, being strong and confident, I guess. Girls will never get wrong with Robie the nice guy, but most likely they choose bad or cool guys like Quin. Like in this book, I would say that Hannah is better with Robie, but she clearly has feelings for Quin, and can also have a chance with Diego. I'll bet on Quin for now.
I like the mythical story intertwined with the regular people. I think the author took a great shot of writing the plot. She can incorporate different characters and stories in the series. And what's more exciting? She can put unexpected things from the other world.
It is stated at the last page that the questions the readers have will be answered in the second book but I guess mine's out of the box (and stupid). Why are the gods and goddesses young?; Why is the god of water a bad boy? Shouldn't he be the calm one? (because when I think of hot-headed guys, god of fire automatically comes to my mind).
~~~***~~~***~~~
In the Aklatan 2013 event, I saw Mina Esguerra for the first time. This is the only book of hers I have that got signed. She wrote "Which team?" After reading this, I still can't choose between the guy characters =.= maybe after reading the second book of the series..?
I know most girls get drawn on bad boys like Diego because they have appeal, being strong and confident, I guess. Girls will never get wrong with Robie the nice guy, but most likely they choose bad or cool guys like Quin. Like in this book, I would say that Hannah is better with Robie, but she clearly has feelings for Quin, and can also have a chance with Diego. I'll bet on Quin for now.
January 19, 2013
Wait, there should be a sequel, right? Because that was such a bitin ending. More thoughts later.
REVIEW UPDATE:
I am not a big fan of mythology and I must confess that I often confuse my Roman gods and goddesses with their Greek counterparts. However, reading this charming novella containing Philippine folklore is something refreshing, not to mention close to home, and not at all a turn-off for someone who doesn't dig mythical creatures like me.
I must say though that this isn't exactly my favorite Mina V. Esguerra book (so far, I loved Love Your Frenemies better). Hannah, the main protagonist, is a college girl and even though my college days weren't that too long ago (12 years isn't that long ago, right?), I still can't get into her character. Or maybe, yes, it's been so long since I've been to college, haha!
The guy characters (i.e. Quin) is not that swoon-worthy for me, because I can't really get into the world where gods and goddesses abound. Quin maybe cute as depicted but somehow the thought of him having powers and knowing my thoughts just don't catch my fancy.
What makes me more interested in the story is the knowledge that this book is a first of a series and despite not being too keen about Quin and Hannah, I definitely would want to know more about Kathy and other girls (if ever there would be) who would benefit from Hannah's favors as the Interim Goddess of Love.
REVIEW UPDATE:
I am not a big fan of mythology and I must confess that I often confuse my Roman gods and goddesses with their Greek counterparts. However, reading this charming novella containing Philippine folklore is something refreshing, not to mention close to home, and not at all a turn-off for someone who doesn't dig mythical creatures like me.
I must say though that this isn't exactly my favorite Mina V. Esguerra book (so far, I loved Love Your Frenemies better). Hannah, the main protagonist, is a college girl and even though my college days weren't that too long ago (12 years isn't that long ago, right?), I still can't get into her character. Or maybe, yes, it's been so long since I've been to college, haha!
The guy characters (i.e. Quin) is not that swoon-worthy for me, because I can't really get into the world where gods and goddesses abound. Quin maybe cute as depicted but somehow the thought of him having powers and knowing my thoughts just don't catch my fancy.
What makes me more interested in the story is the knowledge that this book is a first of a series and despite not being too keen about Quin and Hannah, I definitely would want to know more about Kathy and other girls (if ever there would be) who would benefit from Hannah's favors as the Interim Goddess of Love.
December 28, 2016
This was really cute! There were some moments of infodumping and awkward phrasing but the story was adorable and I want more (good thing I have the other two books on queued up!). I really liked Hannah and all her glory. I thought she was a great MC because we saw her grow as a person, a character, and a goddess all at the same time but she didn't really realize or acknowledge it throughout. It was nice to see a character unaware of how much they had changed until it really mattered because most people are like that. She felt so realistic and as though I was reading about a friend. I liked the parallel between her story and Kathy's as well, that was a nice touch.
I would have liked a tiny bit more mythology in this one because I'm not super familiar with the stories behind these gods and what the cultural context is -- but neither was Hannah. I would have enjoyed seeing a bit more of the research that Hannah did to find out about her position, power, etc. because I would have liked to know for myself. I hope this is expanded on in the rest of the series.
I really liked the relationships and how they are developing. I am intrigued to see more of the power dynamics between the gods and goddesses in the future, especially with Hannah there to shake things up. I am really excited to read more of this one tbh. It is probably the best money I've spent on a book.
If you like cute romance novels with likeable characters plus mythology included, this is the book for you.
I would have liked a tiny bit more mythology in this one because I'm not super familiar with the stories behind these gods and what the cultural context is -- but neither was Hannah. I would have enjoyed seeing a bit more of the research that Hannah did to find out about her position, power, etc. because I would have liked to know for myself. I hope this is expanded on in the rest of the series.
I really liked the relationships and how they are developing. I am intrigued to see more of the power dynamics between the gods and goddesses in the future, especially with Hannah there to shake things up. I am really excited to read more of this one tbh. It is probably the best money I've spent on a book.
If you like cute romance novels with likeable characters plus mythology included, this is the book for you.
October 12, 2012
Honestly, I have mixed feelings about this book so I'm giving it a neutral rating. Mina Esguerra has got all the right ingredients for a good YA novella: a good theme and a young girl's voice telling the story; a sprinkling of traditional Filipino myths; the popular set in the campus with god super-powers; some romance; etc. I just thought the author could have written more; but on second thought, it might have been an overkill had there been more love missions. So see, I can't even decide if I wanted more or not... There's a sequel coming up; let's see if I'll still be wavering after I read that.
May 2, 2012
[Originally posted here]
Mina V. Esguerra is back, now with her new book, abbr. IGoL, and she is back with a bang. Contrary to her past novels, IGoL is not just a contemporary romance. It is also a YA book (her first! And I’m pretty sure that it’s not gonna be the last as it’s only the first book in the series!)
This book is probably one of my 2012 favorite reads so far. I mean, there’s so much about it that I know I should love, beginning with the little touches of Philippine mythology throughout the series (hello, Ms. Maquiling!), to a set of diverse characters that will not only make you fall for them, but make you want to be like one of them (I mean, seriously. Who doesn’t want to be a God/Goddess in their own right, even if it’s just temporary?)
I’ve read so many books before this, but you will notice that I don’t blog regularly. But as this is the Mina V. Esguerra, of course I have to review this one.
Let’s start with Hannah Maquiling, the series’ heroine. Being a half-blood (or a demigoddess), she was assigned by the Sun of God, Joaquin “Quin” Apolinario, to be the Interim Goddess of Love as the real one has gone missing, and someone has to take over in that position. Even though she’s never been in a relationship herself in the past, she gladly accepts the offer because it’s Quin we’re talking about and she has a huge crush on him. But what kept my interest even longer was reading Kathy’s storyline. If this is a film, Kathy’s role is probably just a small one; a supporting role — which is being used to drive the plot of the story. I’ve always liked character-driven stories, but this one I just couldn’t get myself to care care because I think it works both ways. It elevates the events of the story, and it also gives growth to Hanna’s character as the Goddess of Love. And it’s not just the three of them. This one, unlike Mina’s previous works, consists of many characters — diverse set, actually, that made me love it even more. Moreover, to the girls out there, there are so many guys you can squeal about in this novel. You get to choose. It’s like Team Edward or Team Jacob all over again.
Anyway, before I’d finish this, I’d like to say something else.
In my past book reviews to Mina’s works, I kept saying that I love her writing style because she keeps it really light. I would just like to correct myself. Mina’s writing style is not exactly light. The truth is that there’s magic in her way of writing that even those messages that should give the reader a feeling of heaviness, even by just a little bit, she can make it so light for the readers.
One example of those is this:
I didn’t see her much when I was growing up, so it was easy to forget that she and my mom came from the same place. Of course, they’d have similar habits, share the same vocabulary.
“Why do I remind you of her?” I asked, almost expecting her answer to be similar.
“When we were younger, I was always getting into trouble, and your mom would always try to help me,” Tita Carmen said. “But I wasn’t always happy about it. And she’s ask me why I was so annoyed, when she was only trying to help.”
Yeah, that was my mother. She was always doing right by someone, offering good deeds even if they didn’t want them. There was this one time –
“Wait.You think I turned into my mom?”
Because wait one second! My mom was the ultimate “will martyr myself for friends and family and bitch about it to my daughter when I’m punished for my good deeds.” I love her but it’s true, and I sat through one too many of these conversations. It was exhausting sometimes, getting that peek into my mother’s life.
So true! Sometimes, it’s hard for us to accept the fact that we are turning into our parents, because there are things about them we don’t want to be like. That’s the kind of thing about Mina. She can keep you giggling, blushing probably, and smiling or laughing even when you’re alone. But one thing that I really noticed: she can keep you nodding with the use of her words; agreeing to what she was telling you, and letting you see yourself in a way you probably haven’t even noticed — through her characters. Because that’s the kind of writer she is. She narrates the story lightly, but she’s actually, and definitely, heavyweight.
Fearless Forecast: I have this feeling that we will get to meet the real Goddess of Love, and she will be an adversary for Hannah. Also, I think QotC is the next book in this series, and I’m guessing it means “Queen of the Campus.”
Well, those are just my guesses. Don’t take my word for it. I’m really like this when I got hooked to something: I don’t stop thinking about the possibilities of the story and its future.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series, and I’m recommending this one to those of you who wants to see a glimpse of the Philippine mythology. I really believe, wherever you are, whatever kind of mythology you were used to believing at as you were growing up – Interim Goddess of Love has got no way of failing you!
Mina V. Esguerra is back, now with her new book, abbr. IGoL, and she is back with a bang. Contrary to her past novels, IGoL is not just a contemporary romance. It is also a YA book (her first! And I’m pretty sure that it’s not gonna be the last as it’s only the first book in the series!)
This book is probably one of my 2012 favorite reads so far. I mean, there’s so much about it that I know I should love, beginning with the little touches of Philippine mythology throughout the series (hello, Ms. Maquiling!), to a set of diverse characters that will not only make you fall for them, but make you want to be like one of them (I mean, seriously. Who doesn’t want to be a God/Goddess in their own right, even if it’s just temporary?)
I’ve read so many books before this, but you will notice that I don’t blog regularly. But as this is the Mina V. Esguerra, of course I have to review this one.
Let’s start with Hannah Maquiling, the series’ heroine. Being a half-blood (or a demigoddess), she was assigned by the Sun of God, Joaquin “Quin” Apolinario, to be the Interim Goddess of Love as the real one has gone missing, and someone has to take over in that position. Even though she’s never been in a relationship herself in the past, she gladly accepts the offer because it’s Quin we’re talking about and she has a huge crush on him. But what kept my interest even longer was reading Kathy’s storyline. If this is a film, Kathy’s role is probably just a small one; a supporting role — which is being used to drive the plot of the story. I’ve always liked character-driven stories, but this one I just couldn’t get myself to care care because I think it works both ways. It elevates the events of the story, and it also gives growth to Hanna’s character as the Goddess of Love. And it’s not just the three of them. This one, unlike Mina’s previous works, consists of many characters — diverse set, actually, that made me love it even more. Moreover, to the girls out there, there are so many guys you can squeal about in this novel. You get to choose. It’s like Team Edward or Team Jacob all over again.
Anyway, before I’d finish this, I’d like to say something else.
In my past book reviews to Mina’s works, I kept saying that I love her writing style because she keeps it really light. I would just like to correct myself. Mina’s writing style is not exactly light. The truth is that there’s magic in her way of writing that even those messages that should give the reader a feeling of heaviness, even by just a little bit, she can make it so light for the readers.
One example of those is this:
I didn’t see her much when I was growing up, so it was easy to forget that she and my mom came from the same place. Of course, they’d have similar habits, share the same vocabulary.
“Why do I remind you of her?” I asked, almost expecting her answer to be similar.
“When we were younger, I was always getting into trouble, and your mom would always try to help me,” Tita Carmen said. “But I wasn’t always happy about it. And she’s ask me why I was so annoyed, when she was only trying to help.”
Yeah, that was my mother. She was always doing right by someone, offering good deeds even if they didn’t want them. There was this one time –
“Wait.You think I turned into my mom?”
Because wait one second! My mom was the ultimate “will martyr myself for friends and family and bitch about it to my daughter when I’m punished for my good deeds.” I love her but it’s true, and I sat through one too many of these conversations. It was exhausting sometimes, getting that peek into my mother’s life.
So true! Sometimes, it’s hard for us to accept the fact that we are turning into our parents, because there are things about them we don’t want to be like. That’s the kind of thing about Mina. She can keep you giggling, blushing probably, and smiling or laughing even when you’re alone. But one thing that I really noticed: she can keep you nodding with the use of her words; agreeing to what she was telling you, and letting you see yourself in a way you probably haven’t even noticed — through her characters. Because that’s the kind of writer she is. She narrates the story lightly, but she’s actually, and definitely, heavyweight.
Fearless Forecast: I have this feeling that we will get to meet the real Goddess of Love, and she will be an adversary for Hannah. Also, I think QotC is the next book in this series, and I’m guessing it means “Queen of the Campus.”
Well, those are just my guesses. Don’t take my word for it. I’m really like this when I got hooked to something: I don’t stop thinking about the possibilities of the story and its future.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series, and I’m recommending this one to those of you who wants to see a glimpse of the Philippine mythology. I really believe, wherever you are, whatever kind of mythology you were used to believing at as you were growing up – Interim Goddess of Love has got no way of failing you!
August 22, 2015
For more reviews, visit Books and Insomnia
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Very light and fluffy. If you're looking for a short and feel-good book, Interim Goddess of Love will definitely satisfy your craving. This is my first Mina Esguerra book, and one thing is for sure: I will definitely be reading more from her.
Interim Goddess of Love is entertaining and filled me with good vibes because it's quite simple and drama-free. The plot is pretty much straightforward and there's not much conflict. The story revolves around Hannah taking on the job as the replacement for the missing goddess of love, and how she works on her first "project" (as she calls people with love problems). And of course, because she's a newbie with this goddess stuff, Quin, the sun god (and her recruiter), needs to train her.
Now, I really liked this book because it's so Filipino. (The author's a Filipina. Duh.) It's published in English, yes, but the characters and the story are not Westernized. It retained its Filipino spirit without sacrificing the quality of the writing. It didn't feel forced or awkward. And the infusion of Philippine mythology! Okay, confession time: I'm not really familiar with Filipino myth, especially The Legend of the Sun and the Moon, which is actually a big part of the story. *hides in the corner and wears the cone of shame* BUT this book is written so well that even though I have little knowledge about it, I didn't feel confused. There's no info-dump, either. Mina Esguerra found that perfect balance between informative and entertaining. And kudos to this book for introducing Filipino myth to young and modern readers like me!
As for the romance, I don't know if I want to ship Hannah and Quin. Sure, Hannah likes him, but I sense no chemistry at all between them. And Quin is this distant and all mysterious popular guy in the campus. What's with your half smiles, Quin? Huh. I'm not that impressed. I think I liked Robbie more, with his good and gentlemanly manners. But hey, I'm not closing my doors on Quin. YOU STILL HAVE TWO MORE BOOKS TO REDEEM YOURSELF, DUDE.
Like I said, Interim Goddess of Love has no complicated plot that will overload your brain cells, but I liked it because of its enjoyment factor and entertainment value. Plus, the local myth lessons. It's a light and fun read, and it's really nice to indulge in simple and cute stories once in a while.
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Purchase this book from: Amazon | The Book Depository
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Very light and fluffy. If you're looking for a short and feel-good book, Interim Goddess of Love will definitely satisfy your craving. This is my first Mina Esguerra book, and one thing is for sure: I will definitely be reading more from her.
Interim Goddess of Love is entertaining and filled me with good vibes because it's quite simple and drama-free. The plot is pretty much straightforward and there's not much conflict. The story revolves around Hannah taking on the job as the replacement for the missing goddess of love, and how she works on her first "project" (as she calls people with love problems). And of course, because she's a newbie with this goddess stuff, Quin, the sun god (and her recruiter), needs to train her.
Now, I really liked this book because it's so Filipino. (The author's a Filipina. Duh.) It's published in English, yes, but the characters and the story are not Westernized. It retained its Filipino spirit without sacrificing the quality of the writing. It didn't feel forced or awkward. And the infusion of Philippine mythology! Okay, confession time: I'm not really familiar with Filipino myth, especially The Legend of the Sun and the Moon, which is actually a big part of the story. *hides in the corner and wears the cone of shame* BUT this book is written so well that even though I have little knowledge about it, I didn't feel confused. There's no info-dump, either. Mina Esguerra found that perfect balance between informative and entertaining. And kudos to this book for introducing Filipino myth to young and modern readers like me!
As for the romance, I don't know if I want to ship Hannah and Quin. Sure, Hannah likes him, but I sense no chemistry at all between them. And Quin is this distant and all mysterious popular guy in the campus. What's with your half smiles, Quin? Huh. I'm not that impressed. I think I liked Robbie more, with his good and gentlemanly manners. But hey, I'm not closing my doors on Quin. YOU STILL HAVE TWO MORE BOOKS TO REDEEM YOURSELF, DUDE.
Like I said, Interim Goddess of Love has no complicated plot that will overload your brain cells, but I liked it because of its enjoyment factor and entertainment value. Plus, the local myth lessons. It's a light and fun read, and it's really nice to indulge in simple and cute stories once in a while.
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Purchase this book from: Amazon | The Book Depository
August 27, 2013
For more of my reviews, visit Books For YA!
With a good dose of romance, adventure and Philippine Mythology, Interim Goddess of Love by Mina Esguerra is a light and fun read that is certified un-put-downable. A great start to an awesome series.
Aside from studying and doing her student assistant duties, sophomore Hannah Maquiling also have an "extra-curricular" activity that made her college life a little more interesting. You see, she's the Interim Goddess of Love and she has a responsibility to fulfill, and that is, to monitor all love problems in the world. But since she's just newly hired and still in training, she's going to do it one love problem at a time, and her first "project" is Kathy and her secret admirer problem. Will she succeed to create a happy ending or will she screw this up big time? Read this book to find out.
Hannah Maquiling is easy to relate with. She reminds me of my college days which was not so long ago. She was funny and has a natural charisma that makes other people trust her. As the temporary Goddess of Love, she's still figuring things out and slowly adapting to her new job. It's actually a bit ironic that she got the position since she's a member of the NBSB club or the No Boyfriend Since Birth club but people don't care about that, they just needed someone who will listen to them. And that's what Hannah do best. She listens and she's sincere with it.
But Hannah is not as loveless as you think, if you include her secret infatuation with Quin a.k.a. the Sun God and the one who recruits her. He's a junior at Ford River College and captain of the basketball team. And as Hannah puts it in this quote:
"When I first met him, I really thought he was a god.
Not literally. More like the way a freshman girl sees a junior guy with chiseled features and perfect skin and assumes he looks like a marble sculpture of a god. I had never been to Italy or Greece, never seen those statues up close, but I was eighteen years old and my limited experience told me that they were probably modeled after guys like Joaquin Apolinario."
He's also caring and he trained her in using her newfound abilities. He's also strict and a bit uptight. He's always logical which makes him the voice of reason whenever Hannah's decisions go too far. It's hard not to fall for him, because such a great guy but he never showed a clear sign that he likes Hannah too (but that's just me).
And then there's also Robbie, Quin's teammate. He's cute, friendly, fun to hang out with and a mortal human. He likes Hannah ever since she was a freshman and not the Interim Goddess of Love at that time. But he's a bit shy(torpe) to ask Hannah out and I don't know why but I find him adorable. Yes, I'm on TEAM ROBBIE and I'm proud of it. I loved what he did at the end of this book, it was sweet and romantic. To those who read this book, you know what I'm talking about.
Overall, this was a fun and awesome book. I love the romance, the mythology and the mystery. And if you like all the things I've mentioned, you'll love this book, too.
With a good dose of romance, adventure and Philippine Mythology, Interim Goddess of Love by Mina Esguerra is a light and fun read that is certified un-put-downable. A great start to an awesome series.
Aside from studying and doing her student assistant duties, sophomore Hannah Maquiling also have an "extra-curricular" activity that made her college life a little more interesting. You see, she's the Interim Goddess of Love and she has a responsibility to fulfill, and that is, to monitor all love problems in the world. But since she's just newly hired and still in training, she's going to do it one love problem at a time, and her first "project" is Kathy and her secret admirer problem. Will she succeed to create a happy ending or will she screw this up big time? Read this book to find out.
Hannah Maquiling is easy to relate with. She reminds me of my college days which was not so long ago. She was funny and has a natural charisma that makes other people trust her. As the temporary Goddess of Love, she's still figuring things out and slowly adapting to her new job. It's actually a bit ironic that she got the position since she's a member of the NBSB club or the No Boyfriend Since Birth club but people don't care about that, they just needed someone who will listen to them. And that's what Hannah do best. She listens and she's sincere with it.
But Hannah is not as loveless as you think, if you include her secret infatuation with Quin a.k.a. the Sun God and the one who recruits her. He's a junior at Ford River College and captain of the basketball team. And as Hannah puts it in this quote:
"When I first met him, I really thought he was a god.
Not literally. More like the way a freshman girl sees a junior guy with chiseled features and perfect skin and assumes he looks like a marble sculpture of a god. I had never been to Italy or Greece, never seen those statues up close, but I was eighteen years old and my limited experience told me that they were probably modeled after guys like Joaquin Apolinario."
He's also caring and he trained her in using her newfound abilities. He's also strict and a bit uptight. He's always logical which makes him the voice of reason whenever Hannah's decisions go too far. It's hard not to fall for him, because such a great guy but he never showed a clear sign that he likes Hannah too (but that's just me).
And then there's also Robbie, Quin's teammate. He's cute, friendly, fun to hang out with and a mortal human. He likes Hannah ever since she was a freshman and not the Interim Goddess of Love at that time. But he's a bit shy(torpe) to ask Hannah out and I don't know why but I find him adorable. Yes, I'm on TEAM ROBBIE and I'm proud of it. I loved what he did at the end of this book, it was sweet and romantic. To those who read this book, you know what I'm talking about.
Overall, this was a fun and awesome book. I love the romance, the mythology and the mystery. And if you like all the things I've mentioned, you'll love this book, too.
August 26, 2013
Read other book reviews at Book Junkie Joint.
A uniquely Filipino brand of mythology told from the perspective of Hannah Maquiling, a college student, a responsible daughter, and presently, the Interim Goddess of Love.
Story-wise, I love how Miss Mina had incorporated Philippine folklore into the story. Sure, Philippine mythology is totally different from the more famous Roman or Greek, but it's none the less colorful, and without the complicated sexual relations among the gods. *snicker*
I also like Hannah. She's like a completely relatable friend. At the beginning of the story, she's just like any other girl, which is one of the charms of the story. She's a listener, she's good-natured and she's level-headed
Personally, I feel like I've found a kindred soul in Hannah. I've been the confidant of several of my friends, and I'm mostly a listener rather than a talker. This is one of the reasons why I really liked her. I'm no Interim Goddess of Love, though. I think it's too much work, and I'm too lazy. LOL.
And then there's also Quin - leader type, mysterious and enigmatic Quin. I've been pinning for him and Hannah to end up together, but he's just too... aloof. Yes, he's polite. Yes, he's always there when Hannah needs him. Yes, it's very easy to fall for him. But he has this wall up around him!
During the scene where Quin awakened some of Hannah's Goddess powers, I kept imagining that Quin didn't really need to be touchy feely with Hannah, but he did anyway because it gave him a valid excuse to touch her. (I think this is just a product of my imagination, but what the hell?)
I honestly wanted more to happen between Hannah and Quin. Sure, Kathy Martin's love life seriously needed help, but I was more into Quin and Hannah, so when the story ended, I was crying for more! The ending seriously frustrated me that I had a hang-up about the story for almost three days. (Can you imagine that?!)
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it's too short and I wanted more!!
All in all, the whole story was engrossing. It painted a pretty accurate picture of a middle-class community in the Philippines. It incorporated Philippine folklore into the story. The characters were distinct and engaging, and the story is sure to make the reader want more.
A uniquely Filipino brand of mythology told from the perspective of Hannah Maquiling, a college student, a responsible daughter, and presently, the Interim Goddess of Love.
Story-wise, I love how Miss Mina had incorporated Philippine folklore into the story. Sure, Philippine mythology is totally different from the more famous Roman or Greek, but it's none the less colorful, and without the complicated sexual relations among the gods. *snicker*
I also like Hannah. She's like a completely relatable friend. At the beginning of the story, she's just like any other girl, which is one of the charms of the story. She's a listener, she's good-natured and she's level-headed
Personally, I feel like I've found a kindred soul in Hannah. I've been the confidant of several of my friends, and I'm mostly a listener rather than a talker. This is one of the reasons why I really liked her. I'm no Interim Goddess of Love, though. I think it's too much work, and I'm too lazy. LOL.
And then there's also Quin - leader type, mysterious and enigmatic Quin. I've been pinning for him and Hannah to end up together, but he's just too... aloof. Yes, he's polite. Yes, he's always there when Hannah needs him. Yes, it's very easy to fall for him. But he has this wall up around him!
During the scene where Quin awakened some of Hannah's Goddess powers, I kept imagining that Quin didn't really need to be touchy feely with Hannah, but he did anyway because it gave him a valid excuse to touch her. (I think this is just a product of my imagination, but what the hell?)
I honestly wanted more to happen between Hannah and Quin. Sure, Kathy Martin's love life seriously needed help, but I was more into Quin and Hannah, so when the story ended, I was crying for more! The ending seriously frustrated me that I had a hang-up about the story for almost three days. (Can you imagine that?!)
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it's too short and I wanted more!!
All in all, the whole story was engrossing. It painted a pretty accurate picture of a middle-class community in the Philippines. It incorporated Philippine folklore into the story. The characters were distinct and engaging, and the story is sure to make the reader want more.
August 22, 2016
When I first started reading this book, I immediately stop after a few page. It didn't make sense (at least that time.)
For #BuwanNgMgaAkdangPinoy, I decided to take this book and give it one more chance. And I still feel that it didn't make sense, not for the same reason as the first, but rather I was questioning myself why didn't make sense for me before because this book is great!
I love Quin but after Diego and Hannah's first talk my inner fangirl was screaming that they'll be together. I agree with Sol, Diego is better! He just has that effect. Besides, I feel a great chemistry between him and Hannah.
The story ended nicely in HFN, understandably so as this book is not only about the Interim Goddess but also many other students at the Ford Academy. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
***First reviewed at my blog
For #BuwanNgMgaAkdangPinoy, I decided to take this book and give it one more chance. And I still feel that it didn't make sense, not for the same reason as the first, but rather I was questioning myself why didn't make sense for me before because this book is great!
I love Quin but after Diego and Hannah's first talk my inner fangirl was screaming that they'll be together. I agree with Sol, Diego is better! He just has that effect. Besides, I feel a great chemistry between him and Hannah.
The story ended nicely in HFN, understandably so as this book is not only about the Interim Goddess but also many other students at the Ford Academy. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
***First reviewed at my blog
February 2, 2017
This is my first time reading a romantic novel written by a Filipino author. I got it for free from instafreebie.com thanks to a Litsy friend.
- The story had a definite Filipino air to it as the writing felt like I was just meeting a friend for coffee and she monopolized the whole conversation with her talking about this interim goddess. But instead of speaking in Tagalog, she's talking in English. The story flowed pretty much like that.
- It alternated between ridiculous, cute and relatable. Just when I think "finally" then the story gives me a plot detail that is downright ridiculous.
- Gaps in the plot and world building? I know this is romance but itis somewhat based on fantasy so I want my world building please.
I would recommend this book to teens as am sure they'd be all over the abundance of "IT" guys in this book. Oh which reminds me, I felt like the characters didn't have enough depth and personality for me to be invested in each of them personally.
But then I don't really read much YA contemp, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt.
- The story had a definite Filipino air to it as the writing felt like I was just meeting a friend for coffee and she monopolized the whole conversation with her talking about this interim goddess. But instead of speaking in Tagalog, she's talking in English. The story flowed pretty much like that.
- It alternated between ridiculous, cute and relatable. Just when I think "finally" then the story gives me a plot detail that is downright ridiculous.
- Gaps in the plot and world building? I know this is romance but itis somewhat based on fantasy so I want my world building please.
I would recommend this book to teens as am sure they'd be all over the abundance of "IT" guys in this book. Oh which reminds me, I felt like the characters didn't have enough depth and personality for me to be invested in each of them personally.
But then I don't really read much YA contemp, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt.
September 5, 2016
This was really cute. I love the idea of reincarnated (?*) gods on a college campus and for a book that's only a little over 100 pages, this packs a lot of story without ever feeling forced, rushed, or unfinished. The transitions between scenes are a little abrupt sometimes, but that might be because of the formatting on my kindle. I'm not quite sure what I ship yet, but I love the balance between romance, friendship, family, and personal growth. Hannah has a very witty and enjoyable way of phrasing things and I love how white supremacist beauty standards are called out and counteracted. This would also work really well as a TV show imo.
* it doesn't give a lot of background on the mythology yet so let's hope Hannah finds that library book on Filipino myths soon because I want to know mooooore.
* it doesn't give a lot of background on the mythology yet so let's hope Hannah finds that library book on Filipino myths soon because I want to know mooooore.
September 6, 2016
novella about a filipina girl temporarily filling in for the goddess of love who's gone ghost for some reason (you get some hints, i imagine we'll have the full explanation by the end of the trilogy). it's a fun light read, i can't recall at all what inspired me to pick it up (saw it on my kobo and gave it a shot but idk where/when i bought it) but good move past me. 3 stars
December 23, 2018
"Because, though I'd seen and felt just a fraction of all the love in the world, I knew that when people thought of love, they thought of moments. Whether or not a marriage worked out, or of they stayed together after graduation, or if they did go to the big dance together, the story's end mattered less, and the highlights in between mattered more. Those are what lingered, and what people can go back to, even when they had nothing left."
I loved this whole mythology twist especially since it comprises of our own local legend. I am loving Mina Esguerra's chic lit by the minute. Will definitely finish the trilogy.
I loved this whole mythology twist especially since it comprises of our own local legend. I am loving Mina Esguerra's chic lit by the minute. Will definitely finish the trilogy.
February 28, 2013
I've always been fascinated by myths... Roman and Greek mythology, that is but I've never believed in, even thought of looking into Filipino myths, the only epic I know is Biag ni Lam Ang and I've already forgot his story. My only connection with Filipino stories is that artsy fartsy shirt I bought years back just to dodge the possibility of bumping into my ex whilst strolling around the mall.
So, this goddess thing really got me. But what really caught my attention is the original goddess of love. Who is she? How is she like?
Ugh. Please Ms Mina tell us already. :)
So, this goddess thing really got me. But what really caught my attention is the original goddess of love. Who is she? How is she like?
Ugh. Please Ms Mina tell us already. :)
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