Review
An e-copy of the book has been provided by the publisher, Penguin Random House International, in exchange for an honest review.
A strong reflection of what an Asian family can be, ‘The Heart Principle’ is a poignant story of a woman who tries to become somebody that she is not for the sake of pleasing the people she loves.
“I don’t like lying. I do it all the time, though. The harmless little lies that make people feel nice. They’re essential for getting along in society.”
The beginning of this novel is interesting to say the least. It introduces the reader to the main character in a manner that you’ll get to know her not for her skin, but for the soul she hides within. It places you in a moment of realization that you are in such an intimacy with the main character that it’s more beautiful than knowing who she could be with the length of her hair or the fullness of her lips. The brutality of her inner personality stands out very much so that it can get quite confusing whether it entertains you enough to make you laugh or reaches and grasps for your bone making your spines tingle.
Fluidity is what makes up for the simplicity of this book’s writing. It doesn’t have a garden of prose yet it has lingering scent of melancholy—a grim beauty that you’ll truly appreciate. The novel flows really well as it does not cover itself with flowery words. It, instead, offers a straight to your face reality that allows you to ponder on the consequences of actions in life. I adore the pacing of this book; the way everything was placed completely makes sense and although it isn’t a puzzle to build, it was a wonderful path to follow.
“Family is not safe. Not for me. Tough love is brutally honest and hurts you to help you. Tough love cuts you when you’re already bruised and berates you when you don’t heal faster.”
Overall, I truly enjoyed this novel. There is a strong magnanimity within this book and I think that is what makes it special. It does not only mirror how troubled an Asian family could be, but it also reminds us to prioritize ourselves.
About the Author
Helen Hoang is that shy person who never talks. Until she does. And the worst things fly out of her mouth. She read her first romance novel in eighth grade and has been addicted ever since. In 2016, she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in line with what was previously known as Asperger’s Syndrome. Her journey inspired THE KISS QUOTIENT. She currently lives in San Diego, California with her husband, two kids, and pet fish.
