As an avid fiction reader, I always appreciate books that transport me into a new world while also delivering rich, emotionally layered storytelling. The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei does exactly that. This beautifully written debut novel captivated me with its exploration of family, ambition, and identity, all set against the vivid backdrop of Singapore—a place I felt I came to understand more intimately through the novel's details.

The story follows Genevieve Yang, who grows up believing she is an only child, until her cousin Arin enters the picture and becomes an integral part of the family. Their evolving dynamic, shifting from childhood closeness to something more complicated in adulthood, resonated deeply with me—especially as someone with two sisters. The novel captures the nuances of sibling relationships so well: the quiet rivalries, the deep-seated love, the ways we both hurt and support each other.

Wei's writing is immersive, balancing introspection with sharp dialogue and evocative descriptions. I found myself completely engaged, not just with the characters but with the setting itself. Singapore isn't just a backdrop here—it's woven into every part of the narrative, from the intense academic pressures to the social hierarchies that shape Genevieve and Arin's lives.

What I particularly appreciated was how the novel avoids easy answers. The characters are complex and flawed, making decisions that aren't always likable but feel deeply human. I felt emotionally invested in their struggles, particularly Genevieve's journey as she grapples with belonging and self-worth.

If I had any critique, it would be that the pacing in certain parts felt slow, particularly in Genevieve's internal conflicts. But that's a minor issue in what is otherwise a deeply compelling, thought-provoking read.

Overall, The Original Daughter is a novel that lingers. It's a book about sisterhood, class, and the unspoken tensions within families. It made me think, it made me feel, and it left me eager to see what Jemimah Wei writes next. Highly recommended!

A captivating read that's hard to put down, this book is one of my favorite new releases in 2021. It reframes the notion of family and what it means to belong and find your place in the world. Really timely and thought-provoking.

I loved this book. When I first started reading, I thought the plot would be somewhat formulaic, but I was quickly proved wrong. Sadie and Norman are a wonderfully human family that you can't help but root for as they carry on both their literal and figurative journeys. The ending was bittersweet and uplifting in equal measures. This is a book with a wonderful message about life, dreams and love, making it a great read for these pandemic times.

I knew I'd enjoy this book from the minute I read the description. Love, friendship, and astronomy? I'm in! Sara Seager has a clear-eyed and bracingly pragmatic voice that is nevertheless poignant as she shares her grief at the loss of her husband, and walks us through her path to healing. A wonderful book that celebrates sisterhood and reaffirms the courage, resiliency, and strength of women.

Grateful to @algonquinbooks and @bookbrowse for my ARC of this incredible novel by @carolineleavitt . After being together for 20 years, Stella and Simon now find themselves at a crossroad in their relationship. Responsible Stella wants to get married and start a family, while rocker Simon is focused on reviving his languishing musical career. When Stella slips into a coma and awakens with a new personality, they are forced to question whether they still belong together. This novel was beautifully written, heartfelt but never maudlin. I couldn't put it down. Maybe it's because I'm around the same age as the protagonists but the central themes of the book — commitment, friendship, finding yourself, making peace with the past, and growing up — really resonated with me. This book was a poignant rollercoaster read. It broke my heart but it also made me wiser, humbled by all the ways people change and the resilience of the human spirit. ????????

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