Helen Hoang quickly became an auto-buy author with The Kiss Quotient and The Bride Test solidifies that decision 100%.
The Rundown
Bride Test is the second book in The Kiss Quotient Series
#1 The Kiss Quotient (Review Here)
2. The Bride Test – You are here!
3. The Heart Principle – currently reading haha
So far there are only 3 books in this series but I’m game for more and I’m sure others are as well. I love the way Helen Hoang writes and how she develops her love stories. These aren’t insta-love, these aren’t stories you can read half heartedly. You are invested in their growth, their culture, their families, ther struggles, and it is EVERYTHING.
I read a lot of romance and if you know me, usually it’s paranormal. I like to have ‘more’ with my reading and like the ~extra~ plot points. Haha I say this because these books…. THESE books are so much MORE than just romance. I’m not sure how to quantify it. However, it’s the reason I always pause, click, and buy Helen Hoang’s books. Always. Her books are ‘more’ and contain that special something that keeps you engaged.
So he could read a novel about alien demon things.” – Helen Hoang , The Bride Test
TO THE REVIEW
This book is an amazing #ownvoices novel involving Vietnamese culture and Autism. While that is similar to The Kiss Quotient, these characters are completely different and the story is (in my opinion) more intense. It goes straight for the heart.
Esme made my heart ache. As far as character development, she wins all the things in this novel. Her strength, her bravery, and sheer tenacity stood out above everyone else. I hurt when she got frustrated and I cried when she cried. Esme’s relationship with her immediate family and her struggles are stark and gut wrenching.
The mothers were major characters in The Bride Test and they took no prisoners. They are the definition of steel balls and I was ‘side eyeing’ their interactions with everyone else. I loved it. Specifically, I love how each character’s impact was reflected on our main characters. Defining a family and upbringing dynamic that is highlighted throughout.
It took me a bit to realize how they’re all connected. Michael Phan from The Kiss Quotient is the cousin of Khai Diep in The Bride Test. There is only a slight mention of Michael in one of the most hysterical scenes in this book. #nospoilers #youneedtoreadthis
What to say on Khai. I think he’s a work of art. How Helen articulates his interactions. How he strives to be a good son and a good brother to his family. He is alive on the page and yes, like any hero in a book you want to yell at him when he messes up. I think my favorite parts in the book are his family interactions. Especially with his brother and sister. I’m HOPING his sister gets a book. #crossingfingers
Wrap up
Overall, I recommend this to anyone that enjoys contemporary or romance. Even if it’s not your usual cup of tea. GIVE IT A GO! These books are some of the best and won’t disappoint.
Overall rating: 4.5
Plot: 4.0
Character Development: 5.0
Dialogue: 4.5
Writing: 4.5
Happy Reading,
Ash~
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