Taylor Jenkins Reid has shown she’s a skilled writer, unafraid of using nonlinear storylines to develop the world of her characters. Malibu Rising is no different. Add to that the family saga of the Rivas and this is the kind of book you can sink into.
The Rivas value their family bonds, a value that is tested over and over with their parents, siblings and their choice of loves. For a group as loyal as the four children, Nina, Jay, Hud and Kit, their secrets keep them from being completely authentic with each other, but for some reason, this, along with insecurities we don’t expect from the celebrities they’ve become, make them relatable characters we just want to cheer for.
Set against glamorous Malibu, with the ocean, surfing, fires and wild parties that just the name Malibu brings to mind, this was a satisfying novel with just enough escapism to make it an ideal summer read. Cinematic in its scope and execution, this book would be a great movie. Another hit for TJR!
Malibu Rising publication day is June 1, 2021. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy!
