pros:
> i love a romance book set on a tv/film set or revolving around a reality show, they're my weakness
> the sex scenes were so good, like there's one star for the mirror scene alone
> love the family dynamics for both main characters

cons:
> probably the only one being jasmine's reaction only felt necessary to make a third act conflict and didn't seem realistic, particularly to her character

pros: 
> the fantasy infused with historical racism is something i wish i could have read when i was younger
> i didn’t like bree at first, but i grew to understand her pain and her grief, as well as other characters like selwyn
> the writing was emotional and raw 
> nick and selwyn are their own pro bc just look at them

cons:
> at some points the magic system was a little murky, a lot of information dumping
> the poetry chapter was a little awkward
> nothing to do with the plot but the font was so small it kind of put me off a little

pros:
- a fully fleshed out cast with asian characters at the forefront
- lots of discussions about expectations of first generation students
- the beginning was a bit slow but it picked up quickly 

cons:
- the writing was a repetitive 
- although unexpected the twist was a little unoriginal
- not enough stakes, it felt like they were just letting it all happen with little retaliation
- wasn’t a fan of the open ending

I really enjoyed the retellings of many known and unknown Greek myths, with a detailed focus on the women involved. The first chapter was a little rocky and very reference heavy. However, it was a very accessible read with explained mentions to Greek literature and modern references that were surprisingly relevant. There were a lot of references to art and sculptures, and it was fun looking them up and seeing these women immortalised in museums. 

Kinda boring

A deep and thoughtful book about family and trying to find a home in a culture you’re unfamiliar with, something I can relate to. There’s also amazing conversations on the different forms of depression and accepting those parts of you. I think my only problem was there being too many ‘um’s and ‘uh’s, which kind of dimmed down the writing.

A poetic and lyrical read, with characters I fell in love with and lavish descriptions. 

I read RW&RB last year and loved it. This book also didn’t disappoint. I loved the plot, the characters, the found family of it all, and the romance, not just between the two MCs but falling in love with a city and with friends who become family. An absolutely amazing and magical first book of 2022.