A review by oh_sheila
The Turtle House by Amanda Churchill

4.0

"The Turtle House" is a stunning Asian historical fiction novel that weaves together the lives of two women, Mineko and Lia, across different timelines and continents. The story begins in pre-war Japan, where Mineko's life is forever changed by the events leading up to World War II. Decades later, her granddaughter Lia finds herself drawn to the same Texas landscape where Mineko once lived, and the two women form a deep and abiding connection.

Through the author's masterful prose, the reader is transported to the lush landscapes of Japan and the dusty plains of Texas, with descriptions so vivid that it's impossible not to feel immersed in the world of the story. But "The Turtle House" is more than just a beautifully written novel - it's a powerful exploration of the secrets and silences that can both bind and divide women across generations.

Mineko and Lia's stories are intertwined by the painful experiences they've endured at the hands of men, and the ways in which they've learned to navigate their trauma. As they find their way towards each other, they must confront the secrets they've kept hidden for so long, and forge a new path forward.

The dual timelines are expertly handled, with each narrative thread complementing the other in unexpected and powerful ways. The audiobook narration is also noteworthy, with a cast of narrators who bring the characters to life with nuance and depth.

Overall, "The Turtle House" is a breathtakingly beautiful novel that will resonate with fans of historical fiction, family dramas, and stories of female resilience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a deeply moving and thought-provoking read.