Malibu Rising is the story of four siblings who are the source of fascination in Malibu and the world over – especially as children of the legendary singer, Mick Riva. The story is presented in two parts. The first is in two timelines, one starting in 1956 where Mick meets June (who becomes mother to the four siblings), the other on a single summer’s day in 1983. The structure of the novel is clever, the author excelling at the often difficult challenge of jumping about in time. The reader is drawn not just to the fascinating lives of the four siblings, but to their parents, and how the children ended up in the glamorous Californian surf-scene.
The second part of the novel is solely set during an absolutely out of control party at one of the sibling’s mansions overlooking the sea. The scenes and actions of the hundreds of people at the party are brilliant, though occasionally so over-the-top as to be unbelievable. But who knows, maybe that really is how the Hollywood elite lived back in the 80s?
This would be a perfect holiday read. Well-written, but not too taxing. Lovable, flawed characters with such a powerful bond between the brothers and sisters I was brought close to tears, and a setting to take you well and truly away from a cold NZ winter. Highly recommended for fans of Sally Rooney, Beth O’Leary, Marian Keyes, and anyone who has a deep love of surfing and Californian culture.
— Olivia