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paupereads's reviews
49 reviews
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Wow, I finally got a chance to read this one after waiting for so long! People talk about One Dark Window so much, and they say the novel truly lives up to the hype. I'm also curious about it since I rarely read romance fantasy. Having high expectations due to the book's fame, I ended up feeling indifferent towards it.
Elspeth Spindle harbors a dangerous secret: a monstrous entity named the Nightmare dwells within her, granting her magic in exchange for a slow, creeping darkness. In the mist-shrouded kingdom of Blunder, this power keeps her safe, but when a mysterious highwayman turns her world upside down, Elspeth is thrust into a desperate quest.
Joining forces with the charming yet treasonous Captain of the Destriers, she must collect twelve mystical Providence Cards, the key to saving the kingdom from a deadly curse. But as the stakes rise and their attraction deepens, Elspeth faces a horrifying truth: the Nightmare is taking over, and she may not be able to stop it.
What I love most is the world-building, storyline, and how well they blend with character development. Each aspect beautifully complements the others through actions and conversations. I didn't have to wait long for the characters to be moved to the next stage, especially when it involved the story's core or purpose. The magic system's concept is fantastic! It reminds me of tarot cards, or perhaps the anime High Card. The only challenge is remembering each card's power, but hey, no big deal! It's still enjoyable to follow. The Nightmare is a surprisingly interesting character. I love the concept of it living inside Elspeth's mind. However, the romance aspect, despite being listed in the genre, doesn't quite shine through. I didn't see much development in the chemistry between Elspeth and Ravyn (not to say it's bad, but it didn't personally resonate with me) .The story becomes truly captivating towards the end, leaving me curious about what happens next!
How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang
emotional
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This other romance novel I read this month has everyone raving about it! The author even directed Emily Henry's novels, which is why I was so excited to dive in. But be warned, this book tackles some heavier themes. It delves into grief, forgiveness, and especially the emotional baggage the characters carry from past relationships.
two writers, Helen and Grant, who have a complicated history. They are reunited thirteen years later when they are both hired as writers on the same television show. They must work together despite their past and the disapproval of Helen’s parents. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness.
It feels strange to fall for someone connected to your sister's death. Of course, I know he didn't mean it, but is it still odd? However, this might create the foundation for a forbidden romance in the story. I liked the beginning a lot. The author did a great job describing the lives of screenwriters. The atmosphere was really engaging, almost addictive. It kept me reading even though the plot wasn't that strong. However, when the characters started getting closer, it felt rushed. I didn't really feel a connection between them. The plot wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly memorable either. If the main conflict was the family's disapproval, I think the author should have explored that more. It felt rushed when they finally accepted him. This book wasn't terrible, but it wasn't for me.
two writers, Helen and Grant, who have a complicated history. They are reunited thirteen years later when they are both hired as writers on the same television show. They must work together despite their past and the disapproval of Helen’s parents. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness.
It feels strange to fall for someone connected to your sister's death. Of course, I know he didn't mean it, but is it still odd? However, this might create the foundation for a forbidden romance in the story. I liked the beginning a lot. The author did a great job describing the lives of screenwriters. The atmosphere was really engaging, almost addictive. It kept me reading even though the plot wasn't that strong. However, when the characters started getting closer, it felt rushed. I didn't really feel a connection between them. The plot wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly memorable either. If the main conflict was the family's disapproval, I think the author should have explored that more. It felt rushed when they finally accepted him. This book wasn't terrible, but it wasn't for me.
The Rule Book by Sarah Adams
funny
hopeful
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.25
Sarah Adams seems like a good writer, since I'm really interested in reading 'When in Rome.' I got a chance to read one of her other books earlier than expected, and I was really excited to learn more about her writing. Unfortunately, my first impression of her first book wasn't as good as I had hoped.
It's a charming romantic comedy that follows the story of Brooke, who lands her dream job at a publishing company but soon finds herself working under the most infuriatingly attractive man she’s ever met. With a set of rules meant to keep things professional, Brooke and her boss, Ryder, navigate their undeniable chemistry and the challenges of the workplace.
It's a cheesy romance story, as the characters already knew each other in the past, which led to an intense closeness between them. When they try to push each other away, they don't realize they still can't move on from the past. Look, I don't mind this kind of trope. I actually love it! The plot is fast, but I feel bored with it. The characters, especially Nora, seem annoying based on their dialogue and actions. It seems like Nora wants to come across as cute and fun, but her words and actions just make me want to run away from her. Hey, and stop blaming Derek all the time! Not everything is his fault. Both of their communication skills need improvement. And really? They have to be forced into an unexpected marriage to make their relationship better?
I'm a little disappointed that my first book by this author didn't make a good impression on me. However, I'll give her another chance and try reading another book of hers. Hopefully, the next one will impress me!
It's a charming romantic comedy that follows the story of Brooke, who lands her dream job at a publishing company but soon finds herself working under the most infuriatingly attractive man she’s ever met. With a set of rules meant to keep things professional, Brooke and her boss, Ryder, navigate their undeniable chemistry and the challenges of the workplace.
It's a cheesy romance story, as the characters already knew each other in the past, which led to an intense closeness between them. When they try to push each other away, they don't realize they still can't move on from the past. Look, I don't mind this kind of trope. I actually love it! The plot is fast, but I feel bored with it. The characters, especially Nora, seem annoying based on their dialogue and actions. It seems like Nora wants to come across as cute and fun, but her words and actions just make me want to run away from her. Hey, and stop blaming Derek all the time! Not everything is his fault. Both of their communication skills need improvement. And really? They have to be forced into an unexpected marriage to make their relationship better?
I'm a little disappointed that my first book by this author didn't make a good impression on me. However, I'll give her another chance and try reading another book of hers. Hopefully, the next one will impress me!
What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez
Did not finish book. Stopped at 45%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 45%.
I just know the author is racist.
Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey
funny
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Have you ever been excited to read some a popular book, but it turns out you didn't like it? And you are feeling so weird, WHY is this NOT A CUP OF MY TEA?! I wish I could change my mind, but, sadly, Fangirl Down is really going down.
Believed in him. Even when he didn't. Josephine, a die-hard fan, championed grumpy golfer Wells Whitaker through thick and thin. But when Wells throws in the towel, Josephine questions her unwavering faith. Then, in a shocking turn, Wells appears on her doorstep with a proposition as wild as his game: become his caddy, be his cheerleader, and share the spoils of victory. Can Josephine turn him around, or will their off-the-course chemistry explode their carefully constructed plan?
How do I start reviewing this one? Oh, God. I am confusing.
So, I am curious about the sports romance that people love to mention, full of spices? Cute? Romantic? And, etc. Well, I putly high expectations,t especially from the popular author. But, reality really hits me hard. I didn't like it.
The plot just meh. Not kind of thing loves to follow until the end. I don't have a problem with the light conflict, but the conflict inside isn't something special and they have to fight in the end because a thing that can finished at that time if they were communicate? It's easy, baby. Then, god, I don't enjoy the rated part. Just... how Tessa wrote it, not my typical story that is comfortable to read. It's just not my type. The story where the men have more strength, while the women are weak? Moreover, the female character seems pitied because of her illness, personally, I don't like it.
I believe every character is not perfect, but these couples really... I don't know what to says, the chemistry is unlikely. Maybe it's because of the insta love concept? BUUUUT, nothing wrong about Josephine, I kinda love her! just... Wells.. he's not my type.
But, I will try to give the author chance again. Let's see!
Believed in him. Even when he didn't. Josephine, a die-hard fan, championed grumpy golfer Wells Whitaker through thick and thin. But when Wells throws in the towel, Josephine questions her unwavering faith. Then, in a shocking turn, Wells appears on her doorstep with a proposition as wild as his game: become his caddy, be his cheerleader, and share the spoils of victory. Can Josephine turn him around, or will their off-the-course chemistry explode their carefully constructed plan?
How do I start reviewing this one? Oh, God. I am confusing.
So, I am curious about the sports romance that people love to mention, full of spices? Cute? Romantic? And, etc. Well, I putly high expectations,t especially from the popular author. But, reality really hits me hard. I didn't like it.
The plot just meh. Not kind of thing loves to follow until the end. I don't have a problem with the light conflict, but the conflict inside isn't something special and they have to fight in the end because a thing that can finished at that time if they were communicate? It's easy, baby. Then, god, I don't enjoy the rated part. Just... how Tessa wrote it, not my typical story that is comfortable to read. It's just not my type. The story where the men have more strength, while the women are weak? Moreover, the female character seems pitied because of her illness, personally, I don't like it.
I believe every character is not perfect, but these couples really... I don't know what to says, the chemistry is unlikely. Maybe it's because of the insta love concept? BUUUUT, nothing wrong about Josephine, I kinda love her! just... Wells.. he's not my type.
But, I will try to give the author chance again. Let's see!
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
A STUDY IN DROWNING claimed as dark academia, The gothic, horror, literatures, dark, folklore, enemies to lovers trope can be found inside. It is a blend of exploring themes of identity, gender equality, trauma, the relationship between author and reader, as well as how we can interpret a story which in fact always has many secrets in it. This book became the first one from Ava Reid I had read.
It follows Effy Sayre, a young woman who is passionate about architecture and literature. She gains admission to Llyr's prestigious architecture school, where she hopes to escape her troubled past and study under her idol, the famous architect Edmund Axton. However, she soon discovers that the school hides dark secrets and that Axton may not be who he appears to be. As Effy digs deeper into the mysteries surrounding the school and her own history, she must confront the shadows of her past and the dangerous truths that lie beneath the surface.
Instead, this book is for Young Adults, I think the words were a bit hard to understand in general. I need more time to read this. And, the story lines was confusing. Because the characters researched a literary mystery that also had connections to themselves and the manor, it felt like the story did not blend well. It was similar to the story inside the story. It started so boring, the plot is more interesting when it comes from chapter 12 above.
I don't feel the chemistry between Effy and Preston. The guy not been showing up the enemies kind of thing since the first time they met? It's more like he was trying to get closer to Effy. But, on the other hand, I can see Effy is not a typically welcoming person. So, maybe that's to make the trope represent as enemies to lovers, I guess?
But, because I read this together with my friend in Fable, the mystery is such fun to discuss!
It follows Effy Sayre, a young woman who is passionate about architecture and literature. She gains admission to Llyr's prestigious architecture school, where she hopes to escape her troubled past and study under her idol, the famous architect Edmund Axton. However, she soon discovers that the school hides dark secrets and that Axton may not be who he appears to be. As Effy digs deeper into the mysteries surrounding the school and her own history, she must confront the shadows of her past and the dangerous truths that lie beneath the surface.
Instead, this book is for Young Adults, I think the words were a bit hard to understand in general. I need more time to read this. And, the story lines was confusing. Because the characters researched a literary mystery that also had connections to themselves and the manor, it felt like the story did not blend well. It was similar to the story inside the story. It started so boring, the plot is more interesting when it comes from chapter 12 above.
I don't feel the chemistry between Effy and Preston. The guy not been showing up the enemies kind of thing since the first time they met? It's more like he was trying to get closer to Effy. But, on the other hand, I can see Effy is not a typically welcoming person. So, maybe that's to make the trope represent as enemies to lovers, I guess?
But, because I read this together with my friend in Fable, the mystery is such fun to discuss!
Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver
Need a book recommendation that makes you feel laugh, weird, and scared at the same time? Or specifically, you need a romance story that has a different taste. Let me represent you, Butcher and Blackbird. Yes, girls. I am the one who Fear Missing Out on this book. Look, people talk a lot about this one? It appeared everywhere. I should read it, right? *smiles*
This is a dark romance novel about two serial killers. Sloane and Rowan are rival murderers who develop a twisted friendship. They compete in an annual game to see who can kill the most evil people. As they travel and kill together, they find themselves falling in love. This gory and suspenseful novel explores the dark side of love and humanity.
Listen, the story is not main plot driven. it's not having huge main conflicts, not that complex. it can be explained in short, they meet each other, keep in touch for four years, have fun together, are attracted to each other, then fall in love, come to some little problem, they're good, and married. Ups, I told you a lot, sorry. But, don't worry. Even if you got a spoiler, I think you can still love and enjoy this story so freaking much. Oh, this is how the serial killer proves romantic things. That's how they show their love. *screams*
The main characters are so lovable, their tension was good. I enjoyed seeing the chemistry slowly appearing in them, not to be rushed, but still can get their romantic side. Rowan, you're so falling in love, right? If You're looking for a wife, I am in.
Accidental cannibalism?! Count me in. YES. I AM IN.
adventurous
challenging
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Need a book recommendation that makes you feel laugh, weird, and scared at the same time? Or specifically, you need a romance story that has a different taste. Let me represent you, Butcher and Blackbird. Yes, girls. I am the one who Fear Missing Out on this book. Look, people talk a lot about this one? It appeared everywhere. I should read it, right? *smiles*
This is a dark romance novel about two serial killers. Sloane and Rowan are rival murderers who develop a twisted friendship. They compete in an annual game to see who can kill the most evil people. As they travel and kill together, they find themselves falling in love. This gory and suspenseful novel explores the dark side of love and humanity.
Listen, the story is not main plot driven. it's not having huge main conflicts, not that complex. it can be explained in short, they meet each other, keep in touch for four years, have fun together, are attracted to each other, then fall in love, come to some little problem, they're good, and married. Ups, I told you a lot, sorry. But, don't worry. Even if you got a spoiler, I think you can still love and enjoy this story so freaking much. Oh, this is how the serial killer proves romantic things. That's how they show their love. *screams*
The main characters are so lovable, their tension was good. I enjoyed seeing the chemistry slowly appearing in them, not to be rushed, but still can get their romantic side. Rowan, you're so falling in love, right? If You're looking for a wife, I am in.
Accidental cannibalism?! Count me in. YES. I AM IN.
Happy Medium by Sarah Adler
funny
mysterious
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Never expect paranormal mix-up with a romance things? And it was extremely fun to read. Well, HAPPY MEDIUM seems promisin, I randomly picked because it is a new released. I think it is become a hidden treasure I found in early June.
In a hilarious romantic comedy, Gretchen Acorn, a fake spirit medium, is hired to do exorcism things in the farm that haunted by the ghost. But, the thinga get complicated because Charlie, the farm's owner don't trust her. And, she meet a real ghost named Everett. Now, Gretchen must not only convince the farm's owner, Charlie, that the ghost is real, but she also has to save Charlie from a family curse. As they work together, Gretchen and Charlie find themselves falling for each other.
Did Grethen succeed?
I don't expect the story will be good like this, I did not like every kind of slow burn story. But Happy Medium was interesting since earlier. It heard kinda complex, In my opinion, it was mostly felt a comfy story. The conflict focused on the relationship between Charlie and Grethen and also a cute Everett who comes and makes the story so fun! I think Grethen and Everett have a lot of commons, that's make them become good friend. Have you ever imagined being a friend with an old ghost? If he's not there, the story might be boring. Especially when the conflict feels like stuck in the moment how to make Charlie trust her. It was not a lovely dovey relationship, but it was still cute. There's twists in the end that make me want to hit Everett so much, just like Gretchen did :-) It ended so warm and good.
In a hilarious romantic comedy, Gretchen Acorn, a fake spirit medium, is hired to do exorcism things in the farm that haunted by the ghost. But, the thinga get complicated because Charlie, the farm's owner don't trust her. And, she meet a real ghost named Everett. Now, Gretchen must not only convince the farm's owner, Charlie, that the ghost is real, but she also has to save Charlie from a family curse. As they work together, Gretchen and Charlie find themselves falling for each other.
Did Grethen succeed?
I don't expect the story will be good like this, I did not like every kind of slow burn story. But Happy Medium was interesting since earlier. It heard kinda complex, In my opinion, it was mostly felt a comfy story. The conflict focused on the relationship between Charlie and Grethen and also a cute Everett who comes and makes the story so fun! I think Grethen and Everett have a lot of commons, that's make them become good friend. Have you ever imagined being a friend with an old ghost? If he's not there, the story might be boring. Especially when the conflict feels like stuck in the moment how to make Charlie trust her. It was not a lovely dovey relationship, but it was still cute. There's twists in the end that make me want to hit Everett so much, just like Gretchen did :-) It ended so warm and good.
A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft
Then, why are you still giving a high score when you know the story is not perfect?
Well, it's the magic of being a reader. We can hate a lot of the things from the book we read, but we can still give a high score because many reasons. for this, I just enjoy it. This novel is not perfect, but I love how the story can give me a mixed feeling when read it.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
If we met a little dark while reading A Far Wilder Magic, this time through A Fragile Enchantment, a classic and elegant atmosphere gives a small Bridgeton over here. I think, Allison Saft is specialist about fantasy mixed up well with romance.
Niamh is a magical dressmaker. She commisioned to design the wardrobe for a royal wedding. The wedding is in a neighboring kingdom called Avaland, which is full of political unrest. She met Kit, a prince that she should create clothes for. She develops the relationship with him. A gossip columnist starts spreading rumors about them, and Niamh must decide if she’ll risk her future for love.
Disclaimer, this might be a messy review. But, I will try hard. So, what should I start?
While reading this and found out a word of season, my mind quickly remembered about Bridgeton vibes. So, that's how people call this. I haven't been looking for it before, so I am a bit surprised. The plot began slowly, with Niamh's background, her struggle, her situation, and her feelings. I can say, I emphasize to her. If I can explain it this year, she can be called as sandwich generation. She describes herself as a hopeless romantic person who is seeking for a happiness, but she can't because she needs to think about her family. When the first time she met Kit, the atmosphere was not that good. Kit describes as cold guy, he arguing a lot with Niamh. But, there's a lot of things that happened and forced them in the same situation.
Mostly, I don't like the slow-burn relationship. But, this one is different. I was enjoying myself following the relationship both of them, I love how the author can involve the character each other without pushing them too much in every kind situation. They didn't have to be always said cute words or act like interest since the first time they met. But, when they realized each other about their feeling through every moment they shared together, it completely became a high point.
But, there's a lot of things annoying me.
Niamh is a magical dressmaker. She commisioned to design the wardrobe for a royal wedding. The wedding is in a neighboring kingdom called Avaland, which is full of political unrest. She met Kit, a prince that she should create clothes for. She develops the relationship with him. A gossip columnist starts spreading rumors about them, and Niamh must decide if she’ll risk her future for love.
Disclaimer, this might be a messy review. But, I will try hard. So, what should I start?
While reading this and found out a word of season, my mind quickly remembered about Bridgeton vibes. So, that's how people call this. I haven't been looking for it before, so I am a bit surprised. The plot began slowly, with Niamh's background, her struggle, her situation, and her feelings. I can say, I emphasize to her. If I can explain it this year, she can be called as sandwich generation. She describes herself as a hopeless romantic person who is seeking for a happiness, but she can't because she needs to think about her family. When the first time she met Kit, the atmosphere was not that good. Kit describes as cold guy, he arguing a lot with Niamh. But, there's a lot of things that happened and forced them in the same situation.
Mostly, I don't like the slow-burn relationship. But, this one is different. I was enjoying myself following the relationship both of them, I love how the author can involve the character each other without pushing them too much in every kind situation. They didn't have to be always said cute words or act like interest since the first time they met. But, when they realized each other about their feeling through every moment they shared together, it completely became a high point.
But, there's a lot of things annoying me.
- Kit will have a marriage to a girl named Rosa from other kingdoms. Even though this is a business purpose, it is still official. I do not like the concept of forbidden relationships between Kit and Nimh because Kit has another commitment, and it feels like a situation similar to cheating. Rosa knows about this, she didn't like Kit either, but she's acts professionally because she thinks about her responsibility. So, what can it be called?
- A lack of world building, there's a lot of the aspects can be explained more on this book. But, we only have it a little, and it is described mostly in Nimh's POV, which is we can not see more the world of they are living widely. I think it's maybe the author wants to focus on the romance, so she didn’t add more information.
- The characterts character itself, the man is described as someone who has power, and the woman is typically weak. But, whatever, I still can accept this kind of concept.
- Plot mess. A lot of plot hole. For example, Niamh tells if she might die, but why it didn't it explain too much? (Or I missed it), then the ending of the story, including the kingdom's financial situation after the wedding was failed, etc.
Then, why are you still giving a high score when you know the story is not perfect?
Well, it's the magic of being a reader. We can hate a lot of the things from the book we read, but we can still give a high score because many reasons. for this, I just enjoy it. This novel is not perfect, but I love how the story can give me a mixed feeling when read it.
The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai
Every time Nagare comes up with the explanation about the food, it makes me want to eat! How about sushi, next? I love it. I love it when it's not just an ingredient, but also anything behind that. It can make us think about the foods that we eat, which comes from people who put a lot of effort into making it delicious.
My favorite part is napolitan spaghetti, which makes me remember to my grandfather. I am growing up with him, so sometimes, I remember every food that we love to eat in the past. Whatever, simple or not, the food is, each person maybe has a special memories there.
Look, I have a personal issue with Japanese literature. Including this book, mostly, it didn't have a storyline, and the paced is slow. It can be enjoyable. But, also frustration. But, luckily, this book is so entertaining and good.
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
Food and detective are a combination that can we denided. We love it. But, this one is typically a heartwarming story about father and daughter who find out the food based on customer's memoeries. Exciting? Yes! I think Japanese literature always gives us a soft and touching plot.
So, it is about Koishi and Nagare, a team of Daugher and Cather runs a restaurant in Kyoto. They're the Kamogawa Food Detectives on a mission to recreate the lost dishes that haunt your memories. Sounds interesting, isn't it?
With an amazing intuition and a dash of culinary genius, They'll find based on the clues of the forgotten meals, unlocking forgotten moments, and bringing back the lost happiness.
Did they succeed in doing it?
Yes. How?
Like the other's detective stories, Koishi is changing herself as a mystery seeker. The customer comes into the place, then with a hints that not all of them can remember and describe it well, Koishi must find out the foods. Like, how you can know that? You must be someone who has traveled around Japan. The concept was good, and also, when Koishi explained that to the customer, I love how she trying to involve their memories.
So, it is about Koishi and Nagare, a team of Daugher and Cather runs a restaurant in Kyoto. They're the Kamogawa Food Detectives on a mission to recreate the lost dishes that haunt your memories. Sounds interesting, isn't it?
With an amazing intuition and a dash of culinary genius, They'll find based on the clues of the forgotten meals, unlocking forgotten moments, and bringing back the lost happiness.
Did they succeed in doing it?
Yes. How?
Like the other's detective stories, Koishi is changing herself as a mystery seeker. The customer comes into the place, then with a hints that not all of them can remember and describe it well, Koishi must find out the foods. Like, how you can know that? You must be someone who has traveled around Japan. The concept was good, and also, when Koishi explained that to the customer, I love how she trying to involve their memories.
"Kure, the district which the island of Toyoshima belongs to, is said to be the birthplace of nikujaga stew. Now, with Kure-style nikujaga you’d normally use May Queen potatoes, which don’t fall apart when you boil them, but your mother Kimie used a famous brand of potato from Akasaki, not far from the island. Dejima potatoes, they’re called – and still popular to this day. The onions were from Awajima, and the soy sauce from Shodoshima. This was almost thirty years ago, so sourcing ingredients of that quality would have been quite a challenge. You must really have been the apple of her eye."
Every time Nagare comes up with the explanation about the food, it makes me want to eat! How about sushi, next? I love it. I love it when it's not just an ingredient, but also anything behind that. It can make us think about the foods that we eat, which comes from people who put a lot of effort into making it delicious.
"Oh yes. The individual differences might be small, but the combined effect in the dish can be pretty noticeable. For example, when she bought ingredients for her stock from Fujiya, she made sure it was top-grade Matsumae kombu, and combined that with Soda bonito flakes and dried mackerel flakes. Then, when she was making up the stock at home, she’d add Urume sardines to the mix. Chieko told your neighbour all about it, apparently."
My favorite part is napolitan spaghetti, which makes me remember to my grandfather. I am growing up with him, so sometimes, I remember every food that we love to eat in the past. Whatever, simple or not, the food is, each person maybe has a special memories there.
Look, I have a personal issue with Japanese literature. Including this book, mostly, it didn't have a storyline, and the paced is slow. It can be enjoyable. But, also frustration. But, luckily, this book is so entertaining and good.