3/5 Stars: ‘These Violent Delights’ (Book #1 of ‘These Violent Delights’) by Chloe Gong.
→ Age Range: Young Adult.
→ Genre: Retelling, Historical Fantasy.
→ Trigger Warnings: Gang Warfare, Suicide, Gore.

In-depth Rating:
→ Plot: ★★★
→ Character Development: ★★
→ Setting: ★★★★
→ Entertainment Level: ★★
→ Writing: ★★★★

General Comments: Allusions to ‘Romeo and Juliet’ are evident, but familiar themes of family, loyalty, and identity bear new significance in this inventive adaptation. Language is a tool wielded deftly by the multilingual cast; amid the turmoil of a city torn apart by colonialism. Grounded in immersive historical detail, the slow-burning romance and pacing unfortunately lagged at times, becoming dull and tiresome.

Favourite Quote: ‘The stars incline us; they do not bind us.’

Time Read: Five Days.
→ Audiobook: No.
→ Audiobook Narrator: -