Malibu Rising: A Novel - Book reviews of Malibu Rising: A Novel

'Malibu Rising: A Novel' book reviews

Review for'Malibu Rising: A Novel'

“Malibu Rising: A Novel” by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a compelling and emotionally resonant tale that masterfully intertwines the lives of the Riva siblings, set against the backdrop of the glitz and glamour of 1980s Malibu. Reid, known for her keen ability to craft deeply human characters, does not disappoint in this latest offering, which is as much about family dynamics and personal identity as it is about the sun-soaked allure of California's coast.

The story revolves around the annual end-of-summer party hosted by the Riva siblings: Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit. It's a much-anticipated event for Malibu's elite, but this year, the party becomes the catalyst for revelations and confrontations that have been simmering under the surface for years. Reid's narrative alternates between the day of the party in 1983 and flashbacks that delve into the Riva family's past, particularly focusing on their parents, Mick and June. This dual timeline structure not only adds depth to the characters but also keeps readers engaged as the layers of the family's history are peeled back.

Nina Riva, the eldest sibling and a supermodel struggling with her own sense of self-worth and recent abandonment by her husband, emerges as the heart of the novel. Her sense of duty towards her siblings and her internal conflict between personal desires and familial responsibilities are portrayed with poignant realism. Jay, a champion surfer dealing with the potential end of his career due to health issues, and Hud, a photographer with a secret that threatens to unravel his relationship with Jay, provide additional emotional weight to the story. Kit, the youngest, is on a quest to find her own identity separate from her siblings' shadows, adding another layer of complexity to the family dynamics.

Reid’s writing is evocative and immersive, painting a vivid picture of Malibu’s beaches and the inherent tension of the impending wildfire that mirrors the escalating tensions within the Riva family. Her ability to capture the essence of each character’s internal struggle and external persona is remarkable, making the Rivas feel intensely real and relatable. The thematic exploration of fame, love, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of familial bonds is handled with a deft touch, ensuring that the novel resonates on multiple levels.

One of the standout aspects of “Malibu Rising” is Reid’s nuanced portrayal of the costs of fame and the ways in which the past can haunt and shape the present. Mick Riva, the absentee father and rock star, serves as a cautionary figure whose choices reverberate through his children’s lives, prompting reflections on the nature of legacy and forgiveness.

However, while the novel excels in character development and emotional depth, some readers might find the pacing in the first half a bit slow as it sets up the extensive backstories. Nevertheless, the payoff is well worth the patience as the narrative crescendos to a dramatic and satisfying climax.

In conclusion, “Malibu Rising: A Novel” is a beautifully written exploration of a family caught between the pull of the past and the uncertainties of the future. Taylor Jenkins Reid has crafted a story that is both an ode to the resilience of the human spirit and a poignant reminder of the ties that bind us. Fans of Reid’s previous works and new readers alike will find themselves captivated by the Riva family’s journey through love, loss, and ultimately, redemption.

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