This book is a lot of fun, filled with modern colloquialisms and pop culture references. It’s reminiscent of gossip girl, and it reads like a fast-paced movie. I can see how young adults would enjoy this, although it does get sexually graphic in parts. The book touches on important issues such as racism, privilege and mental health. It’s great to see a YA author address these issues, and not shy away from them (especially in a debut – I’m impressed!).
Whilst this is a brilliant and clever modern re-telling of a classic, I did feel as though some of the characters felt more realistic and ‘likeable’ than others. Both Anna K and Count Vronsky felt to me as though they lacked depth as characters, and I struggled to connect with them or even like them. In comparison, Kimmie and Dustin felt far more realistic, and I found myself rooting for them not just as a couple, but individuals in their own right. I read to the end to see how their story would play out, as opposed to Anna K and the other characters. Overall, a strong debut and I will be looking out for more books by this author.
Whilst this is a brilliant and clever modern re-telling of a classic, I did feel as though some of the characters felt more realistic and ‘likeable’ than others. Both Anna K and Count Vronsky felt to me as though they lacked depth as characters, and I struggled to connect with them or even like them. In comparison, Kimmie and Dustin felt far more realistic, and I found myself rooting for them not just as a couple, but individuals in their own right. I read to the end to see how their story would play out, as opposed to Anna K and the other characters. Overall, a strong debut and I will be looking out for more books by this author.