A review by betweentheshelves
Everything We Never Had by Randy Ribay

emotional informative reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Multi-generational stories are always so fascinating to me. It's interesting to see how all of the threads of the family connect, how certain decisions affect later decisions. It's clear Ribay also put a lot of care in telling the story of this Filipino American story, reflecting the struggles of Filipinos throughout US history.

My only complaint is setting this during COVID. I know a lot of writers probably process things that way, but it's still too soon for me. The setting did help with the reconnection of family, though, even if it doesn't quite have the happiest ending. More of an open ending for you to interpret how you'd like. All in all, if you're a fan of multi-generational historical fiction, definitely give this one a try!
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