Review of Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

 Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

"Our parents live inside of us, whether they stick around or not." p130

Ok, can this woman even write a bad book? Like I'm convinced that even her shopping list is freaking amazing! Yes TJR has written yet another home run novel! I'm just impressed every time because I'll read the plots and think eh maybe this one won't be for me and again I'm proven completely wrong! Malibu Rising is a phenomenal book about family, trauma, siblings, and love. It's so much in one novel that you'll be craving more when you're done with it. TJR really has a way to pull you into her novels and makes you feel like you truly know every single one of her characters and it's truly a work of art. 

But let's get into this novel, this story follows the Riva family from when the parents met in the late 50s and follows the children's adult lives in the 80s. The sibling connection in this novel is so powerful and organic, if you have a sibling or a lifelong friend you can understand this novel so well.  TJR crafted such a fascinating group of people to focus on, with their own issues and quirks that only make you love them more. With the backdrop of some of the most interesting times in the 19th century and with the absolutely amazing location of Malibu, California. I mean this book really knocks you on your ass with how good it is! It's about parenthood, about the scars you live on your children, and what it means to care for those you love. But above everything, this book is about love. 

Stand out quotes:  

"Maybe our parents' lives are imprinted within us, maybe the only fate there is is the temptation of reliving their mistakes. Maybe, try as we might, we will never be able to outrun the blood that runs through our veins. 

or. 

Maybe we are free the moment we're born. Maybe everything we've ever done is by our own hands." p 191 

Some questions to ponder: 

1. Which was your favorite Riva? 
2. Did Mick truly love June? His children? 
3. On page 130, Hud, says our parents live inside us, do you agree with this? 
4. On page 340, Nina talks about parenthood, do you think she regrets or feels any burden about her siblings? 

Please read all of TJR books I promise you won't regret it! 

Thanks for stopping by, 

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