This book is absolutely magnificent. When I first heard the basic premise, I was worried it would be like other tales of a person stealing another dead man's work. I was so wrong. This book is so much more, it evokes such great stories and emphasises the importance of checking your privilege as a white woman. It reminds you Asian people are not there just to fill a box and just because you're white doesn't mean you can act however you want

4.5/5*

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Yellowface is my first book I've read by R.F. Kuang, so I wasn't sure what to expect but the premise sounded interesting. And honestly, it was brilliant!

It's satirical critique of book publishing industry and how it works today. We follow our main character Junie who stole and published a manuscript draft written by her much more successful friend Athena who just died. We see Junie's freud, her motives, her success in publishing, as well as her downfall.

The author brilliantly captures morally questionable actions of all characters and how they justify them by their inner motives. Every character in this book is just a horrible person and I think they all were just so well-written.

The story is gripping and fast-paced. Even though it was predictable at times, the character work and the overal suspenful atmosphere made it an enjoyable read. At times, it even got feels of psychological thriller.

The only thing that bothered me a little were all these real life references I found little bit distracting and they might not age well, in my opinion.

I honestly recommend it to anyone who is interested. R.F. Kuang is definitely such a talented author and Yellowface was fantastic!

RF Kuang is whip smart and a wonderful storyteller. I think through this novel I found out that I'm a much bigger fan of her fantasy stories, but I'll be a fan of hers forever because she has a special place in my heart.

3.75/5

Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

I was nervous going into this book because it's not a genre I read often and I've heard quite polarising reviews. However, whilst it is technically my least favourite of RFK's books, I needn't have worried. R.F. Kuang is out here mastering every genre she comes across.

I thought Yellowface a brilliant satirical thriller. It was addictive to read, I couldn't put it down or glance away, it was like watching a wild car chase. I was also surprised to find it to be so meta, it sometimes read as an author writing about a book about an author writing about a book about an author writing about a book. It delved into the depths of the publishing industry and offered us a very carefully cultivated look inside, behind the makings of a book from its conception to its publication and beyond.

It was a fascinating book. But as someone not very familiar with other satires, I feel I cannot comment on how well it achieves these aspects, however I personally found it to be very adept in its messages. I've seen criticisms that say RFK uses June as a mouthpiece instead of a character, and although I agree it can at times be heavy-handed, I still think June makes a believable (although despicable) character and that the book does allow you to ruminate properly on its themes. R.F. Kuang is direct in what she says and perhaps this voice and framework of storytelling might not be for everyone, but I liked that it was clear what she was trying to say. I think it was still complex as it pulled apart not only the voice of June but of its other characters as well in compelling ways.

Ultimately, Yellowface is a novel about the exploitation of pain. It proved this in many ways, pushing further than I first thought it would. It questions who should be allowed to tell certain stories. When is something yours to tell and when is it not?
I found RFK's skill here incredible and her writing to be beautiful. I am and always will be in awe of her talent, I will read her shopping lists!

I don't think that this book will be for everyone, I never expected it to be a new favourite of mine, but I liked it a lot more than I anticipated. It's thrilling and horrifying. You will despise the main character, you will glimpse the hauntings of her mind, you will watch the captivating train wreck and be unable to look away.
I'm incredibly interested in reading more of the enormous variety of other opinions as they start to flood in.

Thank You NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for a review!

Wow this book was so good! The premise was really interesting, and i couldn’t help but get lost in the book. It discusses very controversial topics that have been topical for a while. It is definitely a book that will be polarising for a lot of people, but in a good way. This book will start and continue conversations on racism in the publishing industry. The main character June wasn’t meant to be likeable, and that added to the book. Having an unreliable narrator, and being exposed to their biases was kinda trippy but at the same time worked really well in the book. While i definitely felt the authors biases and opinions throughout the book, it was needed. I think this book is definitely going to wow many people, with the amazing writing. I would 1000% recommend reading this, and I can’t wait to see what else this author publishes!!!
(*4.5)

Headlines:
Sociopathic prejudice
A runaway train of lies

Yellowface ran away with my time in the best way, bringing me into this wild trip with the most unlikeable protagonist. The context of the publishing industry, an author without values or respect and a storyline that exploded exponentially was truly addictive reading.

The whole reading experience had me incredulous at the thought processes of Juniper, the main character. How something spirals but moreso the internal justification and validation she gave herself made for jaw dropping reading.

The story prods at readers own observation experiences of social media scandals relating to authors or reviewers who have transgressed on cultural and other prejudicial issues. I relished seeing this kind of narrative given life in fiction, it felt credible despite also feeling sensational.

Brilliantly and satirically written.

“Racism is bad, but you can still send death threats to Karens.”

Thank you to Borough Press for the review copy.

In "Yellowface," R. F. Kuang, the beloved author of the acclaimed Poppy Wars series, once again showcases her exceptional storytelling prowess. Having been captivated by Kuang's previous works, including the brilliant "Babel," I was sceptical that anything could surpass it. However, with Yellowface, Kuang has delivered a thought-provoking and captivating novel that has left a lasting impression on me. I find myself enthusiastically recommending it to anyone who will listen.

The content of Yellowface is both provocative and enthralling. The story explores themes of justice, identity, racism, and cultural appropriation in a manner that keeps readers engaged and emotionally invested. As we delve into the narrative, we find ourselves simultaneously rooting for justice and wanting to admonish June, the protagonist, for her audacious actions. Her inability to recognize her own racist behaviour is infuriating, but it adds an essential layer of complexity to the story.

The novel centres around June Hayward, a struggling author who witnesses the death of her literary rival, Athena Liu. Driven by impulse, June steals Athena's just-finished masterpiece, which sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Chinese labourers during World War I. June decides to edit the novel and presents it as her own work, going as far as assuming the pseudonym Juniper Song, complete with an ambiguously ethnic author photo. June believes that the story deserves to be told, regardless of the identity of the teller.

As the New York Times bestseller list recognizes June's stolen success, she is haunted by Athena's shadow. The emergence of evidence threatens to unravel June's deception and puts her hard-earned recognition at risk. The tension escalates as June fights to protect her secret, ultimately exploring the depths of her own moral boundaries.

R. F. Kuang's writing in Yellowface is immersive, showcasing a captivating first-person narrative voice. The novel raises critical questions about diversity, racism, cultural appropriation, and the persistent erasure of Asian-American voices and history in Western white society. Kuang's exploration of these themes within the publishing industry adds an extra layer of relevance and depth to the story.

Yellowface is a timely, razor-sharp, and highly readable novel that delves into important sociocultural issues. R. F. Kuang's exceptional storytelling skills shine through, leaving readers with a deep appreciation for her ability to tackle complex subjects while maintaining an engaging and compelling narrative. I wholeheartedly recommend Yellowface to readers seeking a thought-provoking and resonant exploration of identity, appropriation, and the power dynamics within the publishing world.

This was an interesting read, it was quite different to anything else I have read! I enjoyed the storyline but at times, I did find it a little long. The amount of detail about author reviews and tweets, did not feel necessary to me. But the mystery and diversity within the book was executed very well! It is not a thriller in my eyes, but I did enjoy the thriller concept within the narrative, it helped the story come to life a bit more.

But for someone who works in the publishing world, I feel this would make a very interesting read because it dives into the process and background of being an author and writer. The hype on 'Bookstagram' maybe ruined this book for me a little bit, as it just wasn't what I was expecting. It was still enjoyable and I can see why some people do love it so much, it just wasn't as fulfilling for me, as it may be for others.

4/ 5 Stars

Throughly enjoyed this book!

The writing style was immaculate, and I found the book a really quick and gripping read.

I loved that this was a dark satire and very different from RF.Kuang’s usual writing style.

4.5/5

If I’d read this book without knowing the author and you’d told me it was RF Kuang , I wouldn’t have believed you. Wait a minute…😉😂

Barring a Babel Easter egg quote:
‘an act of translation is an act of betrayal’

There is nothing alike in the writing style between Babel or Yellowface. I know I know, I’m not ‘supposed’ to say this.. but Babel was long and drawn out and too ‘wordy’ for my enjoyment. It took me weeks to read. I read Yellowface in less than a day. I was absolutely ADDICTED.

It’s grippy, thrilling, funny, it’s got a protagonist we’re meant to hate but cant help feeling empathy for. It’s a psychological thriller, it’s a nod and a wink to those in the know at every page.

It reads like an in joke to anyone who works in publishing, an author or anyone with a Bookstagram account or book blog. I absolutely cracked up at
“‘She let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding.’ Really?” 😂🤣 LOL.

My only 0.5 rating reduction is because although I hadn’t guessed the ending, I also wasn’t surprised by it and it was a little anticlimactic. But bloody hell, just go preorder it already.

However what do I know? Don’t listen to me. I’m just a book reviewer. If I had anything good to say, I’d have written my own books. 😉

I think this may be my favourite read of the year so far!

Yellowface is R.F Kuang’s highly anticipated new novel, but I want to preface this review by saying i’ve never read any of her previous work so I had no idea what to expect.

June Hayward is a struggling writer until one day she witnesses the death of her friend and fellow writer Athena. Athena is incredibly successful and her writing is adored by many - so when June spots a manuscript she’d written but not yet submitted she decides to steal it and pass it off as her own.

This book is mad in the best way, June is the worst and the ultimate unreliable narrator. Her decisions made me cringe and tense up but there was something quite thrilling about reading about her terrible choices.

Yellowface is cancel culture, white privilege, cultural appropriation, social media and so much more all crammed into one book - but somehow it really works.

It reads like a thriller and is incredibly fast paced, I raced through it in just two sittings as I was desperate to see what terrible situation June would get herself into next. She was such an awful character but I loved reading about her, and being inside her head was so much fun (even if she is very questionable).

R.F Kuang is such a clever, witty and brilliant writer - I can’t wait to delve into more of her writing.

Wow! What a ride Yellowface was! I haven’t devoured or been this gripped by Rebecca’s work since The Dragon Republic which is one of my favourites.

June Hayward / Juniper Song is a very frustrating protagonist to follow - a deluded, privileged embodiment of ‘woe is me‘ that you’d really like to shake pretty much the entire book. And yet, Kuang’s accessible prose, snappy voice and the juicy, fast-paced plot made this a very compelling read which one could easily breeze through in one sitting, if only the protagonist’s tirades, microagressive racism and Twitter bullying weren’t so exhausting and infuriating to read.

I’m not surprised that numerous reviewers keep comparing Kuang’s success story, life experiences and criticism to that of her fictional counterpart, Athena Liu’s. This book drips with suppressed rage and frustration and in many ways reads like a confrontational Twitter thread – or a Notes app response to haters, which the book pokes fun at, but I found it to be a truly enjoyable and immersive conversation starter. Despite lacking subtlety, it doesn’t lack nuance; Kuang’s approach to themes has always been rather heavy-handed but Yellowface doesn’t provide easy answers. It’s a very well aimed shot at publishing’s problematic practices and cancel culture with a great ending.

Never has a book had me so conflicted in the best way possible. It is both amusing & cringeworthy, intriguing & unsettling, and likeable and detestable. Told in first person from the perspective of June Hayward we are taken on a twisted journey through the publishing world as June reinvents her literary self with the help of her dead friend’s manuscript. Kuang satirically explores the publishing industry, online culture and racism with such subtle power that you’ll constantly question your viewpoints both on the character & story, as well as on a larger scale beyond her words.

I will read anything R. F. Kuang writes. Yellowface was absurd, witty, and so fascinating. It was a gripping and thought-provoking book, and perfectly portrayed the damage that an insufferable self-deluded white woman can inflict on the world around her.

It expertly examined the whiteness and racism of the publishing industry and the "diversification" (indeed tokenization) of BIPOC writers. Fantastic litfic debut.

Thank you NetGalley and The Borough Press for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

This was absolutely fantastic! This takes exactly what I love about dark academia, watching privileged people get their comeuppance, and puts it in a wonderfully modern light. R.F Kuang rights brilliantly as you read about June Hayward "Juniper Song" and how she frames herself as the victim repeatedly. The satire is incredible and R.F Kuang writes so convincingly as this woman who does everything and anything to reassure herself that she isn't that bad. She takes on the publishing industry, racism, misogyny, xenophobia, plagiarism, pretty-privilege turns it into a page-turning incredible satire novel that I couldn't put down. I probably wouldn't have read this book by anyone else as its pretty far outside my usual genres but R.F Kuang is incredible and after Babel I knew that I would be incapable of putting this down. Contemporary satire drama at its absolute best, I already knew that I loved R.F Kuang as a fantasy author but this cements her as an all-time favourite and immediate auto buy!

This book. Omg. This damn book. It’s too early to think about yearly favourites, but I’m not sure if anything will take its place as my top book of the year.

I’m not usually a thriller or mystery reader, but this book has set me off to a thriller spiral and I can’t get enough of the “villains perspective” trope. This is a polarising read in the book community already from its reviews.

It’s actually my first from R F Kuang (sorry, I’m not a fantasy reader) but I will be reading Babel at some point. In comparison to what I’ve heard, Yellowface is more accessible in language and content. It’s a perfect for bookish content creators as it cleverly analyses this, particularly focuses on the swings and roundabouts of Book Twitter in the second half of the the book. However, the concept is so very META and I felt like R F Kuang was mocking the book community at times, which is rather uncomfortable. Yet despite this minor irk, Yellowface is frequently very funny, yet also gripping and thought-provoking.

From my understanding of her other novels, R F Kuang knows how to write unlikeable characters. Yet there is still something in Yellowface that makes you root for the baddie. I, like other readers, fell into this trap of having June yet still somewhat rooting for her despite her malicious actions. We really get an insight into how the villain’s actions can spiral out of control while trying to protect herself.

This satire on the publishing industry is so META that Athena comes across as an extension of R F Kuang herself. The book explores issues in the industry of plagiarism, racism, tokenism, misogyny… this is where the main criticisms lie in the book community, that there is an unclear separation between Kuang’s own experiences and that of her characters. Imo, a justified criticism but not one that takes away any enjoyment from the strong effective narrative.

It has taken me a couple of weeks just to gather my thoughts on this book and I know it will be one that I come back to time and time again, as it’s meta exploration of the book industry lingers in my mind. There is so much more I can say to really unpick and analyse, but if there were ever any doubts, this is a MUST BUY and will be one of the top releases of 2023.

Thank you Net Galley and HarperCollins UK for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Once again, R.F Kuang has set the writing standards high. After finishing this book, I was in awe and shock. The twists and the turns make the plot addictive. You both hate and at times sort of like the protagonist (as much as I hate to admit it). Junie is definitely a handful and incredibly complex; all of this makes the book so enjoyable. Yellowface explores xenophobia and racism within the publishing industry, and the vicious truths behind writers (shocker it’s toxic). I’ve never read anything like this and doubt I’ll ever read anything similar that is anywhere near as good. This is one of my favourite books I’ve read this year, so pick this up and I swear you’ll be sat reading this for the next day (and a bit) unable to stop.

I’ll be honest… this book gave me so much damn anxiety I put it in a two month long time out.

This is my first ever book by RFK and it has now terrified me to read the rest of her works even tho they are a different genre from this. I know her writing is hard on the emotions and wow did this one take my emotions and played with them.

I didn’t know how to feel while reading this the majority of the time. The anxiety was so bad I started projecting emotions. I didn’t root for any of the characters and I have no idea if she truly intended it to be that way or if I’m just missing something here but the repetition made the book so much longer than it is. I get the concept and I wish I could pinpoint exactly what about it I didn’t like.

I will say it was incredibly eye opening to see a bit more of the side of publishing I as a reader don’t get to see. I knew the industry can be cruel and is a fucked up place to be but this out it in a whole new perspective.

I have a headache honestly. The ending??? Idk.. the whole thing was just too much and too little at the same time.

I’m both scared and curious to read her other books.

How is that RFK manages to create a completely different but equally soul destroying masterpiece with every damn book?

I loved this, and I hated this. I love that I hated it. What?! Every moment of reading had me truly horrified but in like a ‘oh my god this is so good’ kind of way. I don’t understand how!!??

Literally every character was terrible. Every time June spoke or had a thought (there were many), my eyes were rolling and I threw up a little bit. Not only is this about June stealing her dead’s friend book and just being a terribly racist human, we get this graphic insight into the gritty nastiness of the publishing world. And the fact that it’s in first person, in June’s point of view, makes the whole read even more sinister. Sometimes in first person, it’s like the thoughts almost become yours, and it was awful.

There’s a lot of talk about cultural appropriation and who should be allowed to tell certain stories and cancel culture. Obviously these are still huge topics of controversy and will be for a long time to come I think, but I’m kind of fascinated by it all and loved reading about it here!

Just the way this made me feel, I’m kind of in awe. I think you all just need to read this one yourselves to understand how brilliant this book is. Loved and hated lol

Also, weirdly, this kind of encouraged me to write. Like now and again I would do a bit anyway but I feel properly focused on it! There’s no way that was the intention of this book as at no point does it really show writing in a positive light, but I’m gonna take it as a plus, so thanks Rebecca

‘Authors June Hayward and Athena Liu were supposed to be twin rising stars. But Athena’s a cross-genre literary darling, and June didn’t even get a paperback release.
When June witnesses Athena’s death in a freak accident, she steals her just-finished masterpiece, and passes it off as her own.
But when emerging evidence threatens to expose her, how far will she go to keep what she thinks she deserves?’

This is an absolute trip! In the acknowledgments the author describes Yellowface as a horror story of sorts and while it may certainly be that, it is also funny, propulsive and breathtakingly accomplished.

Who doesn’t love a good literary plagiarism tale? But that’s just the tip of the iceberg here. This deliciously dark satire twists and turns at breakneck speed, delving deep into hot button issues such as diversity, racism, cultural appropriation and cancel culture in what is a thoroughly modern takedown of the publishing industry.

Kuang’s talent is astonishing and I can’t wait to see what she does next. 5 ⭐️ all the way!