Review of Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams
As someone who’s been captivated by the world of publishing, I was immediately drawn to Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams. The premise—a stark depiction of the highs and lows of life in publishing intertwined with deeply personal themes of loss and toxic relationships—felt like a mirror reflecting my own aspirations and uncertainties. Honestly, I was both excited and apprehensive to dive in, and I sincerely thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! <3
Set against the backdrop of a fictional big publishing house, Bitter Sweet follows Charlie Turner, a 23-year-old publicity assistant grappling with the tragic loss of her mother and caught in a twisted relationship with the celebrated yet predatory author, Richard Aveling. Hattie Williams’s portrayal of this chaotic, competitive world was nothing short of eye-opening for me. As I approach the threshold of entering this industry myself, I found myself both fascinated and cautionary about the cutthroat dynamics Charlie navigates daily. The joy and chaos of publishing come alive in her writing; I could visualize the frenetic energy of a release day or the tension behind the scenes, albeit with a newfound awareness of the emotional toll that accompanies it.
Charlie, with her mixture of ambition and vulnerability, is a character I’m sure many will both empathize with and get frustrated by. I often found myself shouting at the page, urging her to break free from the grasp of Richard, who embodies the worst of power dynamics. At times, I recognized her desperation to be seen and validated, which made me reflect on how often we overlook our self-worth for external approval. Richard, on the other hand, is one of the most despicable characters I’ve encountered this year—his manipulation echoing the chilling resonance of Jacob Strane from My Dark Vanessa. This comparison lingered in my mind as I witnessed Charlie’s emotional unraveling.
But what struck me most deeply were the themes of loss and grief that arc throughout the narrative. The poignant portrayal of Charlie’s ongoing struggle with her mother’s death had me in tears at several points. Williams deftly encapsulates that lingering ache, illustrating how such loss can shape one’s identity, relationships, and life choices. I found myself feeling Charlie’s pain personally, almost as if Williams was tapping into a universal experience that many readers could relate to.
Williams’s writing style is both lyrical and sharp, painting vivid imagery while keeping the pacing engaging. The narrative flows seamlessly, drawing readers into Charlie’s world while balancing the intensity of her inner turmoil and the thrilling chaos of her outward environment. I loved the way Williams expertly navigated both the emotional and professional turbulence Charlie faced—so much so that I often had to put the book down, allowing myself a moment to breathe amidst the heart-wrenching stakes.
For anyone who’s ever experienced the rawness of grief, grappled with toxic relationships, or had dreams of making a mark in publishing, Bitter Sweet offers a candid and compelling exploration. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers who appreciate authenticity blended with emotional depth. Williams’s debut has made me a lifelong fan, and I can’t wait to see what she conjures next. Overall, I’d rate Bitter Sweet 4/5 stars—it’s a deeply moving and thoughtfully crafted story that will resonate on many levels.