Rie Lee > Recent Status Updates

Ugh. This is such an intricate deep-dive into the psyche of a lonely, traumatised teenaged girl that it’s almost painful to read. Words like “rape” or “parental abandonment” aren’t used; rather, they’re described in excruciating play-by-plays and I want to look away, to stop reading, but I can’t.

A thoroughly good read. Really valuable and insightful.

Holy crap, what a writer. Hardly any plot has happened 62 pages into this book but the work Cline does to make me feel for her protagonist—and the universalities of teenaged girlhood, especially that feeling of desperate invisibility—is incredible. It’s sort of like a creeping vine and the writing is just exquisite. Read two chapters without realising it.

Also, Nik is a hero.

On page 288 is the first time we learn how Hani and Aisling became friends. That’s probably the one thing I would change about this book—understanding that history much earlier on. Even then, I only get two lines chronicling the good parts of their friendship.

However! That doesn’t mean that Hani’s outburst is in anyway unsatisfying! I LOVE finally seeing her speak her mind.

Aisling is a TRASH FRIEND and that principal is a TRASH PRINCIPAL

Pacing is super fast. Character connection feels genuine. Loving this book.

For real though, why IS Hani friends with Aisling and Dee???

Oh dear, I’m so concerned about Ishu’s relationship with her parents and how toxic her need for achievement is because of how dependent she is on achievement for parental love. That’s rough. I’ve been there, too, so that’s a thing to keep in mind if you’re looking to read this book (which you should).

Fast-paced. Real and fluffy and heavy all at the same time. Don’t want to put it down.

Wow. What an incredible book that provides a nuanced voice in YA. I can make out our protagonists’ concerns about culture and code.switching—they’re well written and I’m only in the first few chapters!