ambershelf's reviews
1295 reviews

Even though Quito Cruz is a genius pianist and composer, his dream of going to Broadway hasn't panned out. Quito knows exactly why, or rather, who. Since that fateful night in college with his high school best friend & attractive athlete Emmett Aoki, Quito hasn't been able to make music. When Quito's dad asks him to help produce a charity performance with Emmett—now the hottest Hollywood star—Quito has to face his past ghost and put on a perfect show.

RIGHT NOTES is an exceptional literary composition that beautifully weaves together themes of identity, culture, and the power of music. What sets this book apart is its ability to craft a heartfelt narrative that doesn't rely on the trauma often associated with being gay or a person of color. Instead, RIGHT NOTES delivers a refreshing and uplifting story that leaves a lasting impact.

I also love the homage to Phillippine food, culture, Tagalog, and the genuine relationship between Quito and his dad. The celebration of these elements is beautifully integrated into the narrative, creating an immersive reading experience I relished deeply. The bond between Quito and Dad is portrayed with such tenderness and authenticity that it tugs at my heartstrings. Through their interactions, Lim explores themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and the power of familial love.

RIGHT NOTES is a heartwarming romance that transcends the usual narrative associated with LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC characters. Lim's ability to create a vibrant world filled with music, culture, and acceptance is truly remarkable.

Thank you to Forever for the gifted copy

As a second-generation Korean American, Samantha Kang doesn’t get her mom, Priscilla, and her emphasis on the all-American high school experience. Sam just wants to enjoy K-pop and eat Korean food. Why does her mom hate everything Korean? But when a huge fight between Sam and her mom sends her back to the 90s, Sam must figure out how to blend in as a Gen Z while helping Priscilla—now her classmate—win homecoming queen.

THROWBACK is a refreshing and entertaining read that effortlessly bridges the generational gap between a first-generation Korean American and her Gen Z daughter. Goo masterfully explores the universal struggles between mothers and daughters, proving that the challenges of understanding and connecting with each other are timeless.

I adore Sam, who embodies the quintessential Gen Z spirit. Her relatable, witty, and unhinged nature makes Sam an incredibly endearing character. She fearlessly takes a stand and speaks up for others, displaying remarkable bravery. Sam is exactly the character I want to see in the “unhinged woman” genre that too often masquerades racism as quirkiness.

The pacing of THROWBACK is spot-on, ensuring the story unfolds at just the right speed. While it is a longer YA book, I was fully immersed in the audiobook and didn’t want the story to end. Goo's adeptness at developing her characters shines through, providing a satisfying arc for each of them. Witnessing Sam’s growth and transformation throughout the book is a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

THROWBACK is a brilliant story that explores the universal struggle between mother and daughter, yet from a refreshingly different perspective. I love everything from the humor, Sam’s loyalty & bravery, and the wholesome romance, to the family dynamic. For those who grew up in the 90s in the US, THROWBACK will stir up lots of nostalgia too! Just don’t overthink about how time travel works in the story (especially about parallel universes or the grandfather paradox

Oliver Harding, a tenured English professor, develops a dangerous obsession with his new colleague, Ruhaba Khan, a Pakistani Muslim law professor. When her teenage nephew arrives from France in America, Oliver becomes the boy's mentor to draw close to Ruhaba. But as protests break out on campus demanding diversity in faculty and syllabus, Oliver finds him and Ruhaba on opposite sides.

LAUGHTER is a thought-provoking yet challenging satire that boldly confronts the issues of othering & exotification; it's not an easy read and may not be suitable for everyone. But LAUGHTER is a perfect fit for those who appreciate sarcasm and satire. Jha masterfully employs these literary devices to unveil the normalization and internalization of racism within academia. She sheds light on the constant challenges faced by BIPOC women, who are incessantly exoticized and tokenized, even when these white people "support Hilary."

While it's disconcerting to read Oliver's POV, I also appreciate how Jha gives Ruhaba a voice through her brilliant writing. Jha skillfully presents the complexities of identity, showcasing Rahaba's humanity, flaws, dreams, anger, and desires. Ruhaba defies being reduced to a mere token hijabi woman; Jha explores her multifaceted nature, going beyond religious stereotypes and providing a deeper understanding of Muslim women often portrayed as "oppressed." Jha's nuanced exploration of Ruhaba's thoughts on wearing a hijab extends beyond religion, touching upon personal choices, empowerment, and societal perceptions. This aspect of the book reminded me of HIJAB BUTCH BLUES (Lamya H.) and A STONE IS MOST PRECIOUS WHERE IT BELONGS (Gulchehra Hoja), two memoirs that delve into the depth and complexity of Muslim women's experiences beyond the surface-level stereotypes.

LAUGHTER is the ultimate "unreliable narrator" and "dark academia" book I want to see more in these genres. Jha unravels the layers of systemic oppression and entrenched racism, exposing the harsh realities within academic environments. Books like YELLOWFACE (R.F. Kuang) and HARRY SYLVESTER BIRD (Chinelo Okparanta) also employ similar devices to discuss racism through deeply problematic MCs. But where LAUGHTER shines is Jha's portrayal of Ruhaba, with all her complexities and imperfections, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

This book may not be for everyone, given its challenging subject matter. Still, for those who appreciate biting sarcasm & an unflinching exploration of systemic oppression, THE LAUGHTER is an essential read.

Thank you to BookSparks for the giveaway copy.

Natsu is a thirty-something single woman living in Tokyo struggling to support herself. When her older sister and niece visit, Natsu observes how the overwhelming pressures of womanhood weigh differently on the mother-daughter duo. Ten years later, when Natsu finally has more job security, she is again hit by a wave of uncertainty as she grows old, alone and childless.

B&E is a captivating novel that delves into profound themes of periods, breasts, and childbearing. Split into 2 parts spanning 10 years, I was especially drawn to part 2, where Kawakami raises intriguing philosophical questions about the complex nature of motherhood. She deftly tackles the idea that no one asks to be born, questioning the inherent selfishness of birthing children. Through Natsu's experiences, Kawakami invites readers to ponder the ethical dimensions of bringing new life into the world through artificial insemination by donor (AID), and the responsibilities that come with it. I adore how this exploration encourages me to reflect on societal expectations, heteronormative family structures, and the role of women in a patriarchal society.

B&E raises profound questions about the intersection of sex, identity, and personal fulfillment. By intertwining the characters' journeys with the physicality of their bodies—specifically focusing on breasts, menstruation, and childbirth—Kawakami sheds light on the insecurities, social pressures, and inequalities in a society shaped by patriarchal norms. B&E confronts uncomfortable realities about womanhood, fertility, and the expectations placed upon women's bodies, yet it leaves room for readers to interpret these themes personally.

I read B&E in Mandarin and could really see the similarities between Kawakami and Murakami, particularly with their lyrical prose and the ability to navigate complex themes with clarity and depth. For those curious about Murakami's work but discouraged by his "masculine" writing style, Kawakami's works (I've read B&E and ALL THE LOVERS IN THE NIGHT) focus on women and their experiences in modern Japan. B&E is a fascinating contemporary literature that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling ✨

Eleanor Liu secretly married her boyfriend of eight months, quit her PhD program, and is now performing unauthorized research on extra lab mice. Her mother is also dead. But Eleanor knows she's fine. As she navigates her new identities—grieving daughter, wife, PhD dropout—Eleanor contemplates the meaning of family.

QUITTER is a quiet and contemplative read following the POV of three Liu women, Elanor, her mother, and her older sister. The book is reminiscent of CHEMISTRY (Weike Wang), GOODBYE, VITAMIN (Rachel Khong), DAYS OF DISTRACTION (Alexandra Chang), TRANSCENDENT KINGDOM (Yaa Gyasi), and SEA CHANGE (Gina Ghung). This type of plot-light and character-driven story with a quirky FMC that sometimes makes questionable life decisions has slowly become a genre of itself, and I'm all for this messiness

Sashi grew up adoring her oldest brother, who is training to become a doctor. But as a vicious civil war tears through Sri Lanka, Sashi's dream of pursuing medicine spins off course. When mounting violence forces her family to make difficult choices, Sashi finds herself at a crossroads with her four brothers and childhood friend. Which side should she support? Is there ever a right choice?

BROTHERLESS is a breathtaking novel that explores the impact of a nation's civil war. The title alone hints at the emotional rollercoaster that awaits, and Ganeshananthan's captivating writing succeeds in breaking my heart into a million pieces while also offering moments of profound beauty and tenderness.

This book delves into the harrowing reality of disappearing boys and young men during times of conflict, demonstrating how the consequences ripple through society and leave indelible marks, particularly on women. Ganeshananthan refuses to sugarcoat the harsh realities of war, exposing the violence and its devastating effects on both individuals and communities.

BROTHERLESS challenges the narrative we are often presented with and questions the recorded history, prompting us to reflect on our complicity in perpetuating violence and bloodshed. By doing so, Ganeshananthan invites us to reconsider the oversimplified notions of good vs. evil, instead painting a vivid and nuanced portrait of humanity in all its complexities. With its depth and tenderness, this type of historical fiction is a rare gem that will leave an indelible impact on readers.

Ganeshananthan's skillful storytelling not only showcases the multitudes of humanity but also highlights the kindness and brutality that coexist within us. The characters are beautifully rendered, their struggles and triumphs mirroring the spectrum of human experience. Her prose is evocative and haunting, transporting me to a time and place where pain and resilience intertwine.

BROTHERLESS is a remarkable work of fiction that seamlessly blends historical events with deeply human stories. It is a book that demands to be read, as it carries the weight of history and offers a compassionate perspective on the consequences of war. This is a book that will stay with me for a long time, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone who seeks a thought-provoking and profoundly moving reading experience.