Title: Our Violent Ends
Author: Chloe Gong
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: November 16, 2021
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Summary
It’s 1927 in Shanghai and political views are tense. A revolution looms on the horizon. On the gang side of things, Juliette has just sacrificed her relationship with Roma to ensure that the blood feud between their families stays intact. She’s walking on thin ice, as she could be ousted as the Scarlet Gang’s heir at any moment by her cousin. Especially if anyone found out she was working with the heir to the White Flower gang.
Meanwhile, Roma is still trying to piece together what happened with Juliette, knowing that letting her back into his life is what led to Marshall’s death. He’s determined to make it right, no matter the cost. But when both gangs start getting blackmailed, Roma and Juliette might just have to work together again.
Review: Our Violent Ends
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of this to review! These Violent Delights was a treasure to read, and I’m so happy that the sequel lived up to expectations. Who knew that a Romeo and Juliet retelling set in 1920s China could be so dark and entertaining!
What I love most about these books is the way that the original play makes its way into the book. You can see the influence throughout the book, especially as you get closer to the ending. As a reader, I couldn’t help but wonder what changes Gong was going to make to the ending, since the play ends so tragically. Roma and Juliette have such delicious chemistry, and you’re rooting for them up until the very end. And honestly, they are much more likable characters than the ones they’re based on.
At the beginning, it took me a bit to get into this. I think it was a combination of being in the mood for something else and a bit of a slow start. And partly not 100% remembering what happened at the end of the last book. However, the last half of the book definitely makes up for this, as I absolutely couldn’t put it down! The stakes keep getting higher and higher, and you just have to know what’s going to happen next.
As far as Romeo and Juliet retellings go, I think this is one of the most original and interesting ones that I’ve read. There’s that fantasy element, but also some Chinese history as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable read and one that I think a lot of people will enjoy!
4.5/5 stars
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