This was such a different novel than hard boiled wonderland. It was both serial and not, almost all of the time. I found it really interesting how much the main character takes from the women in his life unconsciously, while being despondent from the world itself.

It feels uniquely tapped into Asian cultural/societal issues, almost like it ruminates on it with almost every character interaction, actually. And there’s a prevalent air of sadness at all times, even when he believes he is experiencing happiness. Very relatable and encapsulating of adolescence (18-21 ish, I believe it was). Enjoyable and well written. I was waiting for something to tie it all together or annunciate a theme, or maybe a twist!—but it never came. While that is entirely appropriate for the overall text, it left me feeling a bit let down by the book, which would otherwise might have even made it to the 5 star mark for me.