Keita Nagano

What we have here is a story of one woman's unexpected journey to discovering herself. There are dry parts (ironic considering the title/subject matter...but, there you have it) and parts so infused with "flavor" that one can't bare to turn away...now that I think about it, it's sort of the same balance found in our leading lady's life.

We bare witness to Lindsey san losing faith in her initial mission for coming to this beautiful country, and almost losing her life in the process. We watch as she finds strength after that brush with death, as well as a new sense of purpose. We see her as she discovers her place within the community despite being an outsider, and finally finding a home away from home within a country, with a people, and eventually against all odds, love. It's quite the journey, and by no means paved with roses (or tulips), but it was her's to make, for better or worse.

In the end, I enjoyed my time at sea with Lindsey san and Ichiro, and valued getting to know their souls (fictitious or not) throughout the course of the tides they sailed, and was truly moved by how their story ended. The only downside for me was the intensity with which the fishing industry was delved into...it's not the whole story, but it plays a major part, so be prepared before you cast your lines. Recommended for those readers who wish for an escape from the everyday, and never say never to their dreams.


**ebook received for review; opinions are my own… (mehr)

I read this book in one afternoon. It was that great. Mr. Nagano weaves a lovely poetic story filed with endearing characters. This is a book that readers don't want to miss out on. The Sea of Japan is a hidden gem!

Lindsey and Ichiro were so lovely together. There was more to them than just a "romance". It was like they were soul mates that became one. What I loved the most was Lindsey becoming a fisherwoman. Ichiro was a good teacher. Yet, there are some things that can't be taught like the "heart of the sea". It was during the fishing competition that Lindsey learned this lesson.

Everyone that I met in this book were just as good. They were not just chess pieces in a story or fillers but just as important to the story as Lindsey and Ichiro. This is a recommended read.… (mehr)