Review by amberleewilson20 - The Sword of Kaigen

amberleewilson20 's review for:

The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang

4.5

challenging dark emotional inspiring sad tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This was one of the most cinematic books I have ever read. Every scene described so vividly, so eloquently that I couldn't help but see it playing out like a movie in my mind. This was also one of the most challenging books I've ever read due to the sensitive nature of the material. There is not a trigger warning that exists that this book doesn't touch on: rape, murder, sexism, racism, miscarriage, abuse, death of children are all themes that occur in this book, so reader be weary if you aren't in a head space for these themes. It was very hard to read at times as a mother. That being said, it did not pull punches on the reality of war and what it does to a community. I really loved the rawness and realness in this book. The development of the characters was so satisfying, although maybe a teeny tiny bit predictable in places. I do think that the

speed with with Misaki falls in love with Takeru after 15 years of resentment

was a little unrealistic, but if we spent another

several years waiting for them to get to that point

that would have been too slow for the book so I get the decision to write it that way. I also was so shocked when

one of the main characters ended up actually dying. I really appreciate authors who are willing to truly surprise the audience by not giving main characters plot armor, and especially a character that was young with so much potential and earnestness. It really made the death that much more impactful to have spent time from his point of view, and i just really appreciated that in this story.

Also, I listened to this as an audio book and the narrator was INCREDIBLE. Really conveyed the emotion of it all so deeply.

Overall, incredible book but so very emotional. Would recommend if you need several days of crying.

Content Warnings