Review~ Bonjour Shanghai
This is the second book in a duology and should not be read as a stand-alone (which I made the mistake of doing). A lot of the character and relationship building for the main characters happens in the first book, and the storyline from the first book is referred to frequently throughout this one.
There are several things I liked about this book, but also some things that fell a little short for me.
I liked Clementine and felt that she was fun and quirky. She is passionate about eco-fashion, which is something that has recently come into my sightline, so this feels really timely for me. She is also a blogger, and I always love a blogger. Clem is also terribly insecure and seems a bit immature. I’m not sure exactly how old she is supposed to be, but she is shown drinking wine in a bar in New York, so I’m assuming early twenties, but she has a distinct child-like quality at times.
I enjoyed the friendship between Jake and Clem, but feel like there was a lot wanting in her relationship with Jonathan. I think this would have been different if I had started with the first book and seen their relationship come about. I also liked that Sandra was there for Clem in China when she needed her.
As far as Henry, let’s just say that my opinion of Henry never changed throughout the story. But his interactions with Clementine did change my feelings about her at times. I can’t really say more without spoilers on this.
I felt like some of the storylines were wrapped up a little too neatly and easily, but I guess a rich benefactor can do that. But then I also felt like there were some loose ends left that weren’t completely resolved. I don’t know if there was a 3rd book planned and this is why, or if the author just chose to let us make up our own ending.
All in all, this was a fun, pretty quick read. But definitely start with book 1, Bonjour Girl, before starting this one.
Disclaimer: I received a DRC through Net Galley on behalf of the publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.