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jonre_fiction's review against another edition
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.25
abookolive's review against another edition
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
kanda_yuu's review against another edition
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
bread_'s review against another edition
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
silversparkles50's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
cinderellaeyes's review against another edition
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Kyla Zhao’s Valley Verified marks a significant improvement from her debut. It delves into the tech industry’s challenges for women, tackling issues like sexual harassment, misogyny, and the pressures of hustle culture. Zhao also explores job insecurities, job transitions and the impact of toxic leadership.
Additionally, Valley Verified thoughtfully addresses adult relationships in the workplace and emphasising that one’s identity should not be solely defined by their job.
The novel also examines power dynamics and the differing treatment of men and women in the workplace. Zhao skillfully portrays how women often face additional hurdles and biases, making their professional journeys more complex and challenging. The protagonist was also an Asian, working in a predominantly white and male organisation, which adds to her struggles.
One qualm I had with this book was that seems unrealistic how the protagonist was being hired without any background checks. Although it highlights how paper qualifications doesn’t necessarily mean competence, I think basic background checks is still essential.
The romance subplot develops quietly and seamlessly, adding a charming element without disrupting the main plot.
Overall, Valley Verified is a thoughtful read that tackles important issues with insight and nuance. Zhao’s storytelling has clearly evolved, making this novel a compelling and reflective work.
Additionally, Valley Verified thoughtfully addresses adult relationships in the workplace and emphasising that one’s identity should not be solely defined by their job.
The novel also examines power dynamics and the differing treatment of men and women in the workplace. Zhao skillfully portrays how women often face additional hurdles and biases, making their professional journeys more complex and challenging. The protagonist was also an Asian, working in a predominantly white and male organisation, which adds to her struggles.
One qualm I had with this book was that seems unrealistic how the protagonist was being hired without any background checks. Although it highlights how paper qualifications doesn’t necessarily mean competence, I think basic background checks is still essential.
The romance subplot develops quietly and seamlessly, adding a charming element without disrupting the main plot.
Overall, Valley Verified is a thoughtful read that tackles important issues with insight and nuance. Zhao’s storytelling has clearly evolved, making this novel a compelling and reflective work.
sajung36's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
amphytrite's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
meganmustachebeard's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
jenniferforjoy's review against another edition
2.0
Not bad, just kind of boring. I ended it thinking, "Oh, I guess that was the whole story." A bit of a shrug and moving on.