Malibu Rising

Malibu Rising, written by bestselling author Taylor Jenkins Reid, is a captivating novel about family, fame, and forgiveness. This review will delve into the story, characters, and themes of the book, as well as offer a personal opinion on the novel. Fans of Reid’s work and those interested in a compelling family drama will be intrigued by the world she has created in Malibu Rising.

Malibu Rising follows the lives of the Riva siblings - Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit - as they prepare for their annual, extravagant summer party at Nina’s Malibu mansion. The story weaves between the past and present, unveiling the struggles of their parents, Mick and June Riva, and how their choices shaped the lives of their children.

Characters:

The Riva siblings:

Nina: The eldest sibling, a famous model known for her beauty and strength, who is struggling with her recent divorce and the responsibilities of being the primary caretaker for her family.
Jay: A professional surfer with a secret that threatens to destroy his career and relationships.
Hud: A talented photographer, who hides a significant secret of his own.
Kit: The youngest sibling, trying to find her place in the world and her family while also harboring her own secrets.

Other characters:

Mick Riva: The siblings' father, a famous singer who abandoned his family in pursuit of fame and fortune.
June Riva: Their mother, who fought to keep the family together despite the hardships and eventually succumbed to alcoholism.

Themes:

Family bonds:

Malibu Rising explores the deep connections and bonds that exist between the Riva siblings, despite their individual struggles. The novel emphasizes the importance of family and the unconditional love and support that they provide for each other.

Fame and its consequences:

The novel delves into the consequences of fame, both through the experiences of Mick Riva and the impact his choices have on his family. The story highlights the sacrifices and compromises made in pursuit of success, and the potential for fame to corrupt and destroy relationships.

Writing Style and Structure:

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s writing style in Malibu Rising is engaging and immersive, drawing readers into the lives of the Riva family. The novel’s structure, alternating between past and present, allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their relationships.

Personal Opinion:

Malibu Rising is a captivating and emotional read that expertly balances family drama with the allure of fame and the consequences it can have on relationships. The characters are well-developed, and their individual stories are both compelling and relatable. The novel’s themes of forgiveness and the power of family bonds resonate deeply and serve as a reminder of the importance of those connections. Overall, Malibu Rising is a must-read for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid and those who enjoy an engaging family saga.

Conclusion:

Malibu Rising is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that delves into the complexities of family, fame, and forgiveness. With her vivid characters and captivating storytelling, Taylor Jenkins Reid has once again demonstrated her prowess as a writer, leaving readers eager for her next literary adventure.