Who is this book for?
- Readers interested in behind-the-scenes looks at the publishing industry.
- Those who enjoy social commentary and satire on timely issues.
- Fans of books that spark discussion about race, identity and cultural appropriation.
- People who like fast-paced, suspenseful literary fiction.
- Readers who appreciate complex, morally ambiguous characters.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Those looking for likable or relatable protagonists.
- Readers who prefer more subtle or nuanced approaches to social issues.
- People who dislike books heavily focused on social media drama.
- Those who are uncomfortable with stories featuring unethical main characters.
- Readers expecting a similar style or tone to Kuang's fantasy works.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Compelling and thought-provoking satire on racism and cultural appropriation in publishing
- Fast-paced and gripping narrative that's hard to put down
- Insightful commentary on the publishing industry and social media
- Complex and flawed characters that feel realistic
- Skillful exploration of themes like plagiarism, authenticity, and who gets to tell certain stories
- Timely and relevant subject matter
- Darkly humorous at times
- Nuanced look at the commodification of diverse voices in publishing
- Sparks important conversations about racism and representation
- Kuang's writing is sharp and incisive
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Some find the main character June too unlikable and frustrating
- Heavy-handed or unsubtle approach to themes at times
- Ending felt unsatisfying or anticlimactic to some readers
- Excessive focus on social media drama for some
- Writing style may feel flat or simplistic compared to Kuang's other work
- Potential author self-insert character feels distracting to some
- Lack of nuance in portraying certain issues according to some readers
- Repetitive narrative at times
- Some find it lacks depth beyond surface-level commentary
- Satirical elements don't always land for all readers
