The Courtesan and the Samurai - Lesley Downer

Began reading: 21.4.2015
Completed reading: 25.4.2015
Overall rating: 4.3 stars

At the age of seventeen, Hana is expected to lead a life of a demure wife; however, due to a civil war sweeping over Japan, Hana’s husband must leave her to fight for the shogun. Alone and vulnerable, Hana’s household comes under attack by enemy soldiers, and is forced to flee. Seeking refuge in the Yoshiwara, Hana is suddenly sold and forced to train as a courtesan. During her time as a courtesan, Hana meets Yozo, an ally fugitive, and provides him with shelter. When an influential gangster attempts to buy Hana, she and Yozo must find a way to escape for their lives.

The Courtesan and the Samurai by Lesley Downer is a historical fiction novel that focuses on the Japanese civil war in 1868, and contains a hint of romance. This is the second time I have read this novel, and I have enjoyed it far more this time around.

The plot is interesting, as I have not seen many novels that focus on historical Japanese culture. Downer had really done her research, as it showed throughout the novel, and was also evident in the acknowledgements and bibliography. I found it interesting to read about how women could be sold into prostitution, as well as the dangers of civil war and its effects on the country.

There were a few spelling and grammar errors, but I can overlook those. Overall, the novel was well-written.

As they lurched away across the waves Yozo turned for a last look at the ship he loved being broken to pieces on the ice-strewn sea. It felt as if all his hopes were going down with her (p. 69).

The characters and their surrounding were described so well that I felt as though I was right there with them. I really enjoyed reading about the Yoshiwara, and wished that the novel focused a bit more on that. I really enjoyed reading it, and found it very absorbing.

                     

Downer really knew how to keep the novel interesting — there were quite a few plot twists. One especially didn’t make sense, but overall, the plot twists were very good at keeping me interested.

I would have loved to have learned about what happened to the main characters a couple of months or so after the ending, so I was a bit disappointed. I have so many unanswered questions.

Also, I didn’t really enjoy reading Yozo’s perspective all that much. I understand that we have to learn about his experiences of the civil war to understand his character, but I would have loved to have read more about his experiences and thoughts while he was in the Yoshiwara.

The romance seemed a little rushed, which made it feel a little unrealistic. Yozo and Hana don’t even meet until towards the end of the book, and everything afterwards just seemed rushed.

I really loved Hana, and I was really interested in her experiences in the Yoshiwara. Her life as a courtesan seemed very glamorous, but also violent. I would have loved to have read more about her life as a courtesan, and her connection to her clients. When I read about her life as a courtesan, I felt as though I was there with her, and I found it really engrossing.

                         

Hana was very caring and considerate, which was another reason why I liked her character.

Hana had never seen such beautiful things in her whole life.

At first she gazed around, wide-eyed with delight, but little by little the opulence began to make her feel uncomfortable. It didn’t seem right to be surrounded by luxury when there was so much hardship and suffering outside the gates (p. 77).

I seemed to notice how Hana’s personality changed throughout the book. In the beginning, she appeared to be reserved, but was formidable deep down.

Hana wished with all her heart that she could go too. She could fight every bit as well as any of them, she thought (p. 2).

 As the novel went on, Hana began to weaken, acting overly obedient and somewhat pathetic. I didn’t understand why, and it annoyed me. It was like Downer had forgotten about the type of personality she had created for Hana — it wasn’t consistent throughout the novel.

                 

Then, as the novel reached the end, it was as though Downer had remembered that Hana was supposed to be strong. It really left me confused.

                   

Lesley Downer also has a novel, called “The Last Concubine”, which I will be reviewing soon. If you enjoyed “Memoires of a Geisha” by Arthur Golden, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes “The Last Samurai”.

Happy reading!

Buy the book: http://www.bookdepository.com/Courtesan-Samurai-Lesley-Downer/9780593057940

Like and follow!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Basic-Bookworm/659139380862740
Instagram: @thebasicbookworm
Twitter: @BasicBookworm

The Winter Guest - Pam Jenoff

Began reading: 15.4.2015

Completed reading: 21.4.2015

Overall rating: 4 stars

With no parents to care for them, eighteen-year-old twins Helena and Ruth Nowak are forced to look after their younger siblings. In the rural areas of Poland, and under Nazi occupation, there is little in the way of food and money. For the twins, protecting their family from danger and suffering has been their sole priority, until Helena finds an injured Jewish American paratrooper in the woods. Despite the danger that hiding the enemy brings to her and her family, Helena knows that she must keep him safe from the German military. As she cares for the paratrooper, Helena’s feelings deepen and plan a life beyond Poland together. Dealing with jealousy, hardships and an act of betrayal, Helena faces choices and consequences that will impact her and her family over decades and continents.

The Winter Guest by Pam Jenoff is a historical fiction novel that contains aspects of war and traces of romance. Jenoff has infused the novel with themes of betrayal, survival, persecution, family and the hardships of war, which lends the novel a sense of honesty and tragedy.

Jenoff’s novel was brutally honest, which is what I really loved about it. Only a few characters got a happy ending, but by that, I mean that they survived and found some happiness. The characters who survived still had to live with pain, loss and unanswered questions, so they didn’t exactly live happily ever after. The novel contained a lot of emotion, and almost brought me to tears a couple of times. Here are some examples of how brutally honest the plot is:

No one expected to find themselves in these circumstances, parentless with a household of children to care for. People in other times grew up and got married and had families, planning for life to carry on as it had for centuries. It was all different now, though — some of them would make it and some not, it all came down to chance (p. 176).

But even if they stood in place, the world around them would not. Things were pulling them apart, and if they did not move with the powerful tides they would be swept away (p. 192).

There was no good to come from keeping Helena’s hopes alive falsely. But she should accept the hard truth and move on to the next chapter of their lives (p. 251).

                     

As I just mentioned, the story had brought tears to my eyes a few times, which proves how well-written the book really was. Jenoff used a lot of descriptive language to explain the situation of the characters, which made it easier for me to visualise. The plot was very emotional and seemed very realistic.

Our family had become the stuff of once upon a time, bedtime lore or a fantasy world that had not truly existed (p. 305).

The plot focuses around World War II and the Holocaust, which is a significant part of history. I have never read a novel that is based on such a solemn event, so I found it both interesting and chilling. The Nowak family suffers from poverty, so it was interesting to get an insight into how those who are less fortunate live, and how they are able to remain optimistic, despite their hardships.

                      

The Winter Guest was told through only two perspectives: Helena’s and Ruth’s. I think this was great because I got an insight into how different these twins are. According to Ruth, Helena is the stronger, tomboyish twin: “Helena had navigated the steep, rocky countryside with her father all her life” (p. 15). Ruth is described as the more pretty and ladylike twin, who prefers to stay at home doing chores and caring for the children.

My favourite character is Helena Nowak, mostly because she is the character whom I admired the most. She loves adventure, and is very curious. She is brave, loyal and incredibly optimistic. She was also the twin who felt as though providing comfort and affection did not come naturally to her, and had a few insecurities.

She stopped herself from telling him about Ruth, the fact that she had a twin. She did not want to acknowledge her prettier sister (p. 65).

I really enjoyed reading about the relationship between Helena and Sam, the paratrooper, because it was romantic, without being mushy. Sam was so protective of Helena, such a hero, which made me warm to the romance in the novel. This single quote was the one that made me especially emotional:

He wrapped his arms around her and breathed in her ear. “Save me a dance, okay?” She nodded, unable to answer. “Until then, I’ll see you in my dreams” (p. 296).

                     

If you enjoyed “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas”, you will love this book.

Happy reading!

Buy the book: http://www.bookdepository.com/Winter-Guest-Pam-Jenoff/9781848452848

Like and follow!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Basic-Bookworm/659139380862740

Instagram: @thebasicbookworm

Twitter: @BasicBookworm

The Second Empress - Michelle Moran

Began reading: 11.4.2015

Completed reading: 14.4.2015

Overall rating: 4.5 stars

After thirteen years of marriage, Empress Josephine has failed to provide her husband, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, with an heir. Napoleon has decided that the young Austrian princess, Marie-Louise, would be the perfect replacement. For Marie-Louise, marrying the man who had conquered Austria disgusts her. Understanding that it is her duty to obey, Marie-Louise leaves behind her beloved family and love of her life. She finds little comfort as the new Empress of France, but develops an unlikely friendship with Josephine’s daughter, Hortense. The arrival of Marie-Louise at French court is a threat that Napoleon’s sister, Pauline, must destroy — whatever it takes.

The Second Empress is a European historical fiction novel, with the theme of romance mixed in to add a bit of emotion and drama to the plot. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, as historical romance is one of my favourite genres.

The use of figurative language could be seen throughout the novel. The use of figurative language provides readers with a deeper understanding of what the author is attempting to convey. My favourite example of figurative language in this novel was: “Now she buried her head in her hands, and tears slipped through her fingers like rain” (p. 26).

               

I liked that the story was limited to three different perspectives (Marie-Louise, Pauline Bonaparte and Paul Moreau). This prevented confusion, and assisted with developing a deeper connection with these characters. For example, throughout the novel, Pauline Bonaparte was portrayed as cruel and selfish; however, when she reflects on the death of her son, readers can’t help but feel sympathetic.

               

Michelle Moran provided readers with an afterword, historical notes and glossary, which made everything a lot easier to understand. I loved that I was able to read about what happened to each of the characters, following Napoleon’s exile to Elba in 1814. I was not left wondering what became of each character. I think more novels should include an afterword if they cannot write about the characters’ outcomes within the book.

I encourage readers to read the historical note at the back of the book, as it explains the accuracy of the novel, as well as the letters that have been incorporated into the story. Considering that The Second Empress is a fictional novel, much of the plot and information are accurate. Michelle Moran did a great job with her research, and it shows within the book.

                

Pauline Bonaparte’s close relationship with Napoleon has also been included in the novel. The possibility that their relationship could have been incestuous has been explored through the character’s dialogue.

Paul: ‘What? Did you think he would make you queen?’ When she doesn’t respond, I add heatedly, ‘You’re his sister.’

Pauline: ‘Cleopatra married her brother.’

Paul: ‘That was two thousand years ago!’

Pauline: ‘But it’s what I want’ (p. 135).

Though I am sure he will be happy with the Italian I’ve found for his pleasure, I know I am the one who fascinates him (p. 21).

                     

My favourite character was Marie-Louise, closely followed by Hortense de Beauharnais. From the beginning of the story, Marie-Louise proved to be a strong, responsible and compassionate ruler. At just nineteen, Marie-Louise is told that Napoleon requests her hand in marriage. Even though she despises him, she believes that “…a people are a reflection of their monarch, and we must provide a good example for them” (p. 7).

Hortense is very much like Marie-Louise, which strengthens their friendship. When Napoleon divorces her mother, Josephine, Hortense bears no hatred for him or his replacement wife, Marie-Louise. According to Marie-Louise,

By right, she should hate me, yet I search her face and she is perfectly at ease, as if nothing on earth could be so normal as sitting with the woman who took your mother’s crown (p. 152).

I think my favourite part of the book would have to be the very beginning. From the start, readers begin to gain an understanding of Marie-Louise and her court. We learn that Napoleon had conquered Austria, and an alliance with France is essential. We also learn about Marie-Louise’s personality, her close relationship with her father, siblings, stepmother, and lover.

                    

I recommend this book to anyone who likes “Marie Antoinette,” “The Other Boleyn Girl,” and “Girl With a Pearl Earring” by Tracy Chevalier. Also, if you like The Cousins’ War series by Philippa Gregory, you will love this book.

Happy reading!

Buy the book: http://www.bookdepository.com/Second-Empress-Michelle-Moran/9780857388605

Like and follow!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Basic-Bookworm/659139380862740
Instagram: @thebasicbookworm

Friends and Rivals - Tilly Bagshawe

Began reading: 5.4.2015

Completed reading: 10.4.2015

Overall rating: 4.2 stars

After twenty years of marriage, Cat feels as though she is getting old. To make matters worse, her beloved husband, Ivan, has fallen for a much younger woman. There is only one person Cat can turn to for comfort. Kendall has it all: beauty, fame and wealth, but beneath her tough exterior, she is vulnerable and stuck in a one-sided love. Will the success of her career get her what she wants? Ava is an innocent young woman, who is quickly plucked from obscurity to become Kendall's key competition in the music business. With all eyes on Kendall and Ava, who will survive?

Friends and Rivals is a contemporary fiction novel with hints of romance and drama. I enjoyed reading this book more than the previous time. There was so much to love!

             

Firstly, the plot was unique. I have never read a book that focuses on the pressure of being in the music business. This novel highlights the relationships between music stars and their managers, as well as their contracts with record companies. Mixing romance and drama into the plot adds intrigue, making the novel a whole lot more appealing.

              

The use of figurative language was really good! Bagshawe added a lot of metaphors, similes and imagery to enhance the meaning behind the character’s thoughts. Some of my favourites include:

Being in business with Ivan Charles was like walking through life with a bomb strapped to your chest. The unpredictability, the selfishness, all wrapped in a lethally charming package (p. 20).

…there was still something luminous about her. Her flushed, youthful skin, soulful blue eyes, but most of all the immense kindness and warmth that seemed to seep out of her pores like sap oozing from a tree (p. 235).

But like Lucy stepping back through the wardrobe and leaving the magic of Narnia behind, reality reasserted itself unpleasantly now as the car sped away (p. 325).

I didn’t like how often the perspectives of characters changed in a paragraph or chapter. I found it too confusing at times. It would have been better if there were two perspectives per chapter, at most.

                

All of the characters had their flaws or did something to irritate me, but if I had to choose my favourite character, it would be Ava. Although she was clingy (which annoyed me), she was sweet and innocent, as well as relatable.

Ava had leapt out of bed literally shrieking with delight when she saw the snow, and it was hard not to share at least some of her childlike enthusiasm (p. 369).

…all she wanted to do was go home…, crawl under the sheets of her own bed in her own room, and never, ever leave (p. 271).

I didn’t like how Ava’s story ended. She deserved a good ending, something sweet, but no. I would have loved to know what happened to her after the Christmas holidays. Did her career skyrocket, or flop?

                 

My favourite part of the novel would have to have been during the Christmas holidays, when Kendall and Ava had to battle in order to reach number one on the UK music charts. So many revelations occurred during this section of the book, and gave us an insight into what ever character was thinking and going through.

In the beginning of the novel, I despised Kendall. She was annoying and spoiled, but I guess someone had to be hated. As the story progressed, I started to pity her. She went through quite a bit (maybe I thought she deserved everything she got). Unfortunately, I didn’t think she deserved to get the ‘happy ending.’ Maybe she was misunderstood, but really?

                 

If you like the Sheet Music series by Ann Lister, you will love this book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes “The Wedding Singer”, “While We’re Young”, the Pitch Perfect series, and “Begin Again”.

Happy reading!

Buy the book: http://www.bookdepository.com/Friends-Rivals-Tilly-Bagshawe/9780007326532

Like and follow!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Basic-Bookworm/659139380862740
Instagram: @thebasicbookworm

Always on my Mind - Colette Caddle

Began reading: 28.3.2015

Completed reading: 5.4.2015

Overall rating: 3.5 stars

Molly Jackson has it all: a supportive family, a caring best friend, a responsible job, and a dedicated fiancé. However, when Molly’s fiancé, Declan, announces that he must travel to Japan to train for his new job, Molly is forced to postpone the wedding. After dropping Declan off at the airport, she runs into her childhood sweetheart, and realises that she has so many unanswered questions for her ex, regarding a past tragedy. Molly is left with the opportunity to find answers to her questions, as well as decide whether or not going through with a marriage to Declan is what she really wants. Will she stay with Declan, even though he caused her pain, or will she choose a different path with her ex, Luke Fortune?

Always on my Mind is a contemporary fiction novel about the importance of family, and the risks of re-living the past. The story is under the genre of chick lit, and has traces of romance, mystery and suspense. The first time I read this book, I was not prepared for how good it would be. This time around, I was still expecting a predictable plot with bland characters. I was left feeling surprised for a second time!

                    

The book was well-written, but had a few spelling and grammar errors. Disregarding the errors, I really enjoyed how the story began: with Molly driving Declan to the airport, and discussing the announcement that Michael Jackson had just passed away.

 “That’s so sad, isn’t it?” Molly was crouched over the steering wheel, gazing absently at the lines of traffic in front of her.

Declan chewed on a nail and continued to stare out the passenger window. “What?”

“Michael Jackson, he’s dead, haven’t you been listening?”

“No, I’ve been busy wondering if I’m going to make my flight…” (p. 1).

This simple opening dialogue gives the reader an insight as to the personalities of these two characters. Molly is observant and understanding, whereas Declan is serious and direct. With this in mind, the reader is left wondering if this difference will impact Molly’s decision about which guy she chooses.

                     

As the  story progresses, we slowly learn more about Molly, as well as the other characters, including her family, friends and Declan’s brother, Gareth. This is demonstrated through Molly’s thoughts, dialogue, and the different points of view throughout the book. The different points of view are great because we get to learn how each character thinks, giving us a deeper understanding of how their presence influences Molly’s decisions.

                     

The teenage characters: Ashling (Ash), Adam and Neil have been well-written. I believe it’s something that many authors have difficulty with. They usually rely on stereotypes, like parties, alcohol and drugs to make these characters more realistic. The problem with this, is that instead of making them seem realistic, they become clichéd and it becomes difficult to relate to them. Caddle did a good job, making them more realistic and relatable.

Laura: “Sometimes, Ash, I think your whole reason for being is to disagree with me.”

Ash: “Sometimes, I think your whole reason for being is to make me miserable,” Ash retorted (p. 314).

          

The plot itself was interesting. While the romantic side of it may seem clichéd, the issues that other characters face were unique. For example, Ash’s friend, Neil, had problems when he thought that his mother would leave the family, due to constant flirting with strangers. He felt that the only way to keep her from leaving was to do poorly at school and act disobediently.

My favourite characters were Isabelle (Belle) and Oliver — Molly’s parents. Their relationship is so adorable! They joke around a lot, and they are very supportive and accepting of each other and their children.

                      

^^These two from Easy A remind of Molly's parents. If Always on my Mind was a movie, these two would be Belle and Oliver, haha!

I didn’t like Laura (Molly’s sister). She was very arrogant and annoying. I hated how she secretly despised her her family. “…though she would never have admitted it, she had resented her babies, particularly Ash” (p. 130).

                      

I didn’t enjoy Molly all that much, either. She acted ignorant and dumb at times — sometimes, I just wanted to grab her shoulders and shake some sense into her!

Molly turned off the light and slid back under the covers feeling slightly shocked by her sister’s behaviour. She’d always labelled Laura as a bit of a prude, and here she was, rolling in drunk after cavorting around with a total stranger. Apart from seeming out of character, it was downright dangerous… (p. 145).

           

Recommendation time! If you like Jodi Picoult’s book “My Sister’s Keeper”, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, or “Where She Went” by Gayle Foreman, you will love this book. I also recommend this book to anyone who likes “The Lovely Bones” by Alice Sebold, or “Before I Fall” by Lauren Oliver.

Happy reading!

Buy the book: http://www.bookdepository.com/Always-on-My-Mind-Colette-Caddle/9781847378101

Like and follow!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Basic-Bookworm/659139380862740

Instagram: @thebasicbookworm