msrichardsreads89's Reviews (2.64k)

This book has Jane Austen vibes, all the sass, and dragons. I cannot wait to read book 2! 

This is a stunning story, told by a woman in a prison cell in Israel who is reflecting on her past in Palestine, Kuwait, and Jordan. This book explores the issues of race, tragedy, homosexuality, rape, and finding your identity. The plot wove together seamlessly. This is definitely a book that made me reflect, was educational, and will stick with me. 

This novel by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai is beautiful, heartbreaking, and full of hope. I love how all the plot threads were woven together to depict the multigenerational story of the Tran family and 20th century Vietnam history, as well as the themes of family, love, humanity, and peace. The writing is lyrical and gripping. 

Ever since I finished this book, I have been thinking about it, and I already want to read it again. It is a book that taught me so much and will stick with me. 

After the major cliffhanger at the end of the last book, I was very eager to read this one. I was hooked from the beginning and all the way through. I loved being back in Stoneham with my favorite characters, and I love that this story explored not only a murder mystery but familial relationships as well. The ending was epic. I am not sure if I like the direction the ending took, but I still really enjoyed my time reading this. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.