By Ela Lee.
In Jaded, the protagonist, Jade, conceals herself behind a borrowed name and a meticulously crafted persona. Born to immigrants, Jade adopts a Starbucks name as a symbolic representation of the dual identity many grapple with when navigating multiple cultures. Despite achieving success within her law firm and being loved by a partner, Jade finds herself unable to be her authentic self around him, moulding herself to fit societal expectations.
The carefully constructed façade crumbles after a pivotal night, forcing Jade to confront her true identity and embark on a profound journey of self-discovery. Lee's narrative skilfully captures the complexities faced by individuals torn between personal aspirations and societal pressures. Jaded offers a poignant portrayal of the internal conflicts that arise as Jade navigates the intricate balance between her expectations and external influences.
As the novel unfolds, it gains strength and momentum, drawing readers deeper into Jade's compelling journey of recovery and self-discovery. Through the various stages following a traumatic experience—marked by fear, self-doubt, and anger—Jade grapples with the realisation that her past happiness may not have been as genuine as she believed.
The writing is raw and visceral, skilfully delving into the intricacies of both the physical and psychological aspects of trauma, offering a poignant exploration of Jade's inner struggles.
Thank you so much to the author - Ela Lee as well as the team at Vintage Books for the ARC.
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