Like Mandarin

Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

After reading Hubbard's second book Wanderlove I was super excited to read her first book Like Mandarin. One of the things that Hubbard does extremely well is use the setting as an additional character. Set in Wyoming, Like Mandarin is the story of 14 year old brainy Grace and her fascination with 18 year old Mandarin who is known for her trysts with men and running wild through town. Grace is tasked to help Mandarin complete a community service project for graduation. As the two become friends, it is increasingly clear that both girls suffer from psychological issues. Mandarin decides to take off for California after graduation in search of a modeling career and asks Grace to join her.

The opening is promising, but Grace's obsession with Mandarin turns disturbing. I had trouble making heads or tails of the girls relationship and struggled to find the message. That being said, the writing is strong and descriptive. Overall, this is one that might appeal to some teen girls, but I feel that Wanderlove is a stronger effort with a larger appeal.

View all my reviews