Blooming Books

ZEITGIEST - GhostsInsideOfMyBed

Summary

It was 4:30 P.M. when Aaliyah Zarren was reported sleeping with the COO of her Public Relations firm.

           Well, allegedly.

           Now jaded and half-functioning with a promised job slipping through her fingers, Aaliyah was desperate to get back on New York City's good graces and impress her boss, or she'd have to return to her life in her father's shadow. And she was willing to do anything, even if it meant becoming Octavio Castellano's, casanova of the art world's nude model.

Characterization

Aaliyah: The second paragraph of the first chapter shows a lot about Alliyah's character as to how she deals with things. Not to mention, it complements the fact that she's a public relations executive and she has a daily routine for it. I found it interesting about why she needed the job. We all have jobs and no one really wants to get fired, but 'needed' was italicized at that time.

           The vivid description of her withdrawal symptoms also added to her characterization. Great job on that.

           She seemed to be a capable person at first, but when Mikayla doubted her, it somehow became untrue. Especially when Mikayla said "rich girls like you never have to fight for anything". That very sentence conveys that Mikayla didn't see Aaliyah's efforts. Which means Aaliyah didn't try enough to show her efforts or even show how good she was with her work. She was not able to make a name for herself. Knowing Mikayla liked her, then there's no reason for her to turn a blind eye on how Aaliyah works.

           I like how she was too scared to get fired. That's one of the things that makes her relatable. But somehow, I didn't find it appealing as to how she became a pushover. The attitude she had (while talking to Talon) before Mikayla showed up shattered when she faced her boss (well, who wouldn't right?). Maybe I expected some dignity out of her—out of her internal thoughts and reactions. Of course, what happened made her human, but she was somehow not what she was portrayed in the beginning. But then again, it depends on how she was meant to be. I guess, I had the wrong impression of her.

           As the story progresses, it was revealed there's this 'weak' girl (not just in work, but also in love) that needs developing. If you're aiming for that, then it's all good. She needs to toughen up, but that development should be evident and not sudden. Factors should be considered. Although, then again, my first impression of her was that she's dignified and composed. So it somehow contradicts her being 'weak'.

           In terms of friendship, questioning where she belonged was somehow sad, but realistic. She knew she was the glue to both different people. That surely adds to her character.

          Mikayla: I think it could have added more impact if the sweetness of Mikayla's voice was shown before telling "that was the thing about Mikayla". Like how would a newcomer mistake her tone to be sweet. Associate it with something and add a bit of action to it.

           It was mostly told how she was as a person, and that's good The key is to be consistent with how it would be shown. It was good how it was evident that Mikayla was a calculating person. Not only it was expressed, but it was implied how she used the scandal to push the obligation of having Octavio sign with them. Jade said it herself, Mikayla set Alliyah up on the road to being laid off. When given a more background depth, I think she'll be a likeable character despite being sadistic.

           Talon and Jade: I can relate to Talon. Except, I usually don't work out, and always eat three meals a day. Celebrating everything, even her failures sure is a highlight of her character. It would be interesting as to how she turn out that way. Similar with Jade, both of them have relatable characteristics that complements Aaliyah when she's more carefree and confident. I just don't think she's as natural when it comes to Mikayla (well, again, she is her boss). But maybe, even just her internal thoughts, she could have been more consistent. Then again, that's what makes her human, a bit of inconsistency here and there.