What do you think?
Rate this book
The Yakuza Path #1
Blood Stained Tea
A bloody past haunts him. A devastating present calls him back…
Nao hides from his violent past in the Japanese mob by opening a teahouse in Japan's cultural center, Kyoto. His past comes flooding back when he discovers a gravely injured man with a tattooed chest, a bloody knife, and a Korean business card.
Saehyun would've died if not for Nao's help. He knows nothing of his savior's connection with the local mafia, but Saehyun has his own secrets. He commands the Korean mafia, the mortal enemy of Nao’s former syndicate.
As Nao and Saehyun grow closer, so does the strength of the Korean mob. A shocking murder pulls Nao back into a past he'd all but abandoned. War is looming, and Nao must choose between protecting Saehyun or avenging the honor of his old mafia family.
Blood Stained Tea is the first book in the The Yakuza Path series. If you like complex characters, blood-soaked violence, and twists you won't see coming, then you'll love Amy Tasukada’s gritty crime masterpiece.
Buy Blood Stained Tea to dive deep into the Asian mafia tale today
mafia tale today!
Nao hides from his violent past in the Japanese mob by opening a teahouse in Japan's cultural center, Kyoto. His past comes flooding back when he discovers a gravely injured man with a tattooed chest, a bloody knife, and a Korean business card.
Saehyun would've died if not for Nao's help. He knows nothing of his savior's connection with the local mafia, but Saehyun has his own secrets. He commands the Korean mafia, the mortal enemy of Nao’s former syndicate.
As Nao and Saehyun grow closer, so does the strength of the Korean mob. A shocking murder pulls Nao back into a past he'd all but abandoned. War is looming, and Nao must choose between protecting Saehyun or avenging the honor of his old mafia family.
Blood Stained Tea is the first book in the The Yakuza Path series. If you like complex characters, blood-soaked violence, and twists you won't see coming, then you'll love Amy Tasukada’s gritty crime masterpiece.
Buy Blood Stained Tea to dive deep into the Asian mafia tale today
mafia tale today!
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2016
388 people are currently reading
1300 people want to read
About the author
Amy Tasukada
17 books82 followersInternational best-selling author Amy Tasukada writes thrilling times of crime, love, and gore. Readers who crave diverse characters, unique settings, and edge-of-your-seat action will devour her Yakuza Path series. Readers who seek less blood and more love will swoon over the Yakuza Path Romance and Would it Be Okay to Love You? Series. Amy is an atheist, queer author who enjoys drinking tea, Japanese street fashion and visual kei music. Her calico cat, O’Hara, is never far from her side. Amy lives in North Texas, but is always planning her next trip to Japan. Amy is also sought-after speaker for her lectures on author newsletters, writing LGBT+ characters, and cultural proficiency, diversity, and inclusion.
Connect with Amy on...
Youtube
Facebook
Connect with Amy on...
Youtube
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
February 1, 2017
Aesthetically stunning
I chose this book for two reasons: Yakuza and Japan. I'm enamored by Japan and all the various Japanese customs and traditions. The intricacies of which I don't really understand but I like that their culture seems to value respect and has an innate hierarchy. Also, I like mob stories and mobsters. Truth be told, I tend to gravitate towards characters that are a little bit ruthless, sinister even and perhaps slightly diabolical.
This story centers around Nao who is ex-Yakuza and something else that would be spoilerish to reveal but he still has ties to the Kyoto Yakuza. He's now owns a tea house and is constantly in the pursuit of a new and sensational tea, oolong in particular. He stumbles across Saehyun almost immediately in the muck and unconscious, takes him home and then equally immediately becomes smitten.
The problem is Saehyun is Korean, Korean mafia (Double Moon) who are vying to wrest control of Kyoto from the Yakuza. Saehyun is also modern, cocky and brash whereas Nao clings to Kyoto's old world traditions, festivals, wears a yukata, is polite and at times comes across as meek. I'll come back to this.
So, we've got star-crossed lovers. I'm so there! Who doesn't like this trope? Plus the whole Japan/Korea history added to the sense that they were battling a larger and more pervasive foe which I find appealing.
Only there's really no relationship development between them; no connection. Sex doesn't equal love by any stretch though it can show intensity between protagonists but there was very little sex content. They're not together all that often but when declarations were made I had a hard time believing them, though after reaching the end I'm now wondering if that was purposeful. Ideally, I like to see it, feel it and have it shown to me rather than being told that it's so.
Very little happens in the first 75% of the book. The focus is on aesthetics e.g. making tea, tea customs, bringing sweets to the Yakuza boss, fixing pottery, trying to shake the bodyguard, the cat... my attention waned. There was some of what I affectionately refer to as the Japanese head game which held my attention for awhile, but overall the pacing was brutally glacial until the last 25%.
The last 25% of this book... I can't even say how many times the word WHAT?!!? came out of my mouth. I was surprised and not to sound arrogant but that's a rarity. The last 25% of this book ensured that I would read the next one. I actually cannot even hazard a guess as to what this story arch is going to throw at me next and that excites me more than I can articulate.
Takusada's usage of language to create atmosphere is top notch. Occasionally there would be a random line about strawberry lube or topping that I found jarring and jerked me out of the story. However, I oftentimes find the first book serves to set the stage and that's usually the one I have the most trouble with in a series. Because I'm American and lack patience. If my hunch is correct this is the opening salvo of what could turn into a stellar series.
The only other thing that I had trouble reconciling was Nao's characterization. Not only is he former Yakuza but he was The Badass that no one wanted to cross, so I would think that guy wouldn't be squeamish. But he is. He trembles at some of the violence and seems helpless and in need of saving at others. Just inconsistencies that I had a hard time reconciling. I crave depth and complexity as much as the next reader, but this verged on split personality.
Some things to anyone considering reading this:
It's not overly violent which was kind of a bummer for me, since Yakuza. There are moments though so beware if you're squeamish.
I wouldn't characterize this story as a romance thus would not recommend it to those seeking MM romance or erotica.
There is no HEA/HFN.
I think there might be a badass female character in the next book which gives me much excite!
A review copy was provided.
I chose this book for two reasons: Yakuza and Japan. I'm enamored by Japan and all the various Japanese customs and traditions. The intricacies of which I don't really understand but I like that their culture seems to value respect and has an innate hierarchy. Also, I like mob stories and mobsters. Truth be told, I tend to gravitate towards characters that are a little bit ruthless, sinister even and perhaps slightly diabolical.
This story centers around Nao who is ex-Yakuza and something else that would be spoilerish to reveal but he still has ties to the Kyoto Yakuza. He's now owns a tea house and is constantly in the pursuit of a new and sensational tea, oolong in particular. He stumbles across Saehyun almost immediately in the muck and unconscious, takes him home and then equally immediately becomes smitten.
The problem is Saehyun is Korean, Korean mafia (Double Moon) who are vying to wrest control of Kyoto from the Yakuza. Saehyun is also modern, cocky and brash whereas Nao clings to Kyoto's old world traditions, festivals, wears a yukata, is polite and at times comes across as meek. I'll come back to this.
So, we've got star-crossed lovers. I'm so there! Who doesn't like this trope? Plus the whole Japan/Korea history added to the sense that they were battling a larger and more pervasive foe which I find appealing.
Only there's really no relationship development between them; no connection. Sex doesn't equal love by any stretch though it can show intensity between protagonists but there was very little sex content. They're not together all that often but when declarations were made I had a hard time believing them, though after reaching the end I'm now wondering if that was purposeful. Ideally, I like to see it, feel it and have it shown to me rather than being told that it's so.
Very little happens in the first 75% of the book. The focus is on aesthetics e.g. making tea, tea customs, bringing sweets to the Yakuza boss, fixing pottery, trying to shake the bodyguard, the cat... my attention waned. There was some of what I affectionately refer to as the Japanese head game which held my attention for awhile, but overall the pacing was brutally glacial until the last 25%.
The last 25% of this book... I can't even say how many times the word WHAT?!!? came out of my mouth. I was surprised and not to sound arrogant but that's a rarity. The last 25% of this book ensured that I would read the next one. I actually cannot even hazard a guess as to what this story arch is going to throw at me next and that excites me more than I can articulate.
Takusada's usage of language to create atmosphere is top notch. Occasionally there would be a random line about strawberry lube or topping that I found jarring and jerked me out of the story. However, I oftentimes find the first book serves to set the stage and that's usually the one I have the most trouble with in a series. Because I'm American and lack patience. If my hunch is correct this is the opening salvo of what could turn into a stellar series.
The only other thing that I had trouble reconciling was Nao's characterization. Not only is he former Yakuza but he was The Badass that no one wanted to cross, so I would think that guy wouldn't be squeamish. But he is. He trembles at some of the violence and seems helpless and in need of saving at others. Just inconsistencies that I had a hard time reconciling. I crave depth and complexity as much as the next reader, but this verged on split personality.
Some things to anyone considering reading this:
It's not overly violent which was kind of a bummer for me, since Yakuza. There are moments though so beware if you're squeamish.
I wouldn't characterize this story as a romance thus would not recommend it to those seeking MM romance or erotica.
There is no HEA/HFN.
I think there might be a badass female character in the next book which gives me much excite!
A review copy was provided.
beta-or-critique
December 15, 2016I was privileged to be a critique partner on this book, so I got to read it early on in the process and it's so good, you guys. M/M fans, please read it! I cannot recommend it enough. Get the word out, guys!!!
Fair warning: While there is a love story here, THIS IS NOT A ROMANCE. And not for the faint of heart. Don't say I didn't warn you.
But it is a fun ride and so worth your time. I can't say more because spoilers would ruin it.
Fair warning: While there is a love story here, THIS IS NOT A ROMANCE. And not for the faint of heart. Don't say I didn't warn you.
But it is a fun ride and so worth your time. I can't say more because spoilers would ruin it.
February 1, 2017
Well...it was a frustrating read for me. I liked the premise more than I liked the book.
I probably would have DNF it if I had read it alone. But it was an intimate BR with my dear friend Sofia and I didn't want to give up this struggle and leave her alone.
Besides, it is always a pleasure to exchange thoughts with her. It's only pity that this book didn't give too many opportunities for an interesting discussion.
This book was not awful. Even if the story-line and the characters lacked of logic and depth, it was easy to come through. Like a comic cartoon. That is one of a few positive things about this book for me. What I also found interesting is the cultural aspect and the setting.
Blood Stained Tea takes place in Kyoto, Japan. It was refreshing and new for me, and I googled. I always enjoy books that teach me something new, and here it was Kyoto's festivals, Japanese tea ceremony and traditions.
It COULD have been a beautiful enemies-to-lovers romance story, rich in plot and a cultural background and with much passion. COULD HAVE...but it wasn't.
Unfortunately the author failed on all fronts, IMO.
A story summary:
After the Korean mafia has established itself in Osaka forcing the Japanese mafia there into a bloody territory war Kyoto is its next target for expansion. Nao, a son of a Godfather of the Yakuza Japanese mafia, withdrew from the family business 4 years ago, for private reasons, and runs since then his own small tea-house. He lives a very solitary and simple life, when one rainy night he finds a badly wounded young man on the street. As he takes him home to take care of, he doesn't know that this attractive Korean young man is an important member of the Korean mob...
How the story goes on, is easy to guess: they fell in love, and...well...their origins make everything only complicated. But don't rush to stamp this book as a gay Romeo and Juliet story. IT IS NOT. But you can find it yourself.
My issues:
Insta-love.
I'm not going to read the next book in the series. I can imagine how it ends: Nao will get a new kitty.
I think I'm not going to read more by the author.
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
February 6, 2017
3.5 stars
This was really different. I admit I decided to read it based soley on the fact that I love all things tea related and this is about a tea house owner and has a fantastic cover with a Matcha tea bowl covered in blood. I was immediately intrigued.
This is a hard book to describe because I'm not really sure what genre to drop it in. It's part love story, but is by no means a traditional romance book, but at the same time it's not really a love story. (& I can't explain that without spoilers) It's kind of a thriller but not really. After giving it some thought I think it's really a core a story about a man reinventing himself. Nao has a history as a Yakuza member but has retired due to an unspeakable tragedy. It's left him almost like a ghost. He's not really a part of anything and has nothing he cares about other than his teas. He uses the traditional art of tea as a type of meditation and a means of keeping himself in control of both his temper and his grief. (I loved how the author tied aspects of tea into the entire book and I thought she did a great job of it.) Nao's calm life takes a turn when he brings home an injured man he finds along the river one night. Saehyun is a member of a Korean gang that is trying to take over the city. Neither man realizes who the other is when they begin their romance and once they do understand they're in too deep and they care too much about the other. Nao though, doesn't want to give up his life as a ghost, and as the story goes on I came to think that he would have been way better off if he had been left alone in his tea house.
I liked this book but I didn't love it. It had the potential to be an amazing book. The overall plot was good and the set up between the two characters was good. It fell short in some of the execution though. There were parts of the war between the two gangs that seemed silly or not taken very seriously. These are two rival gangs......I just can't believe some of the things that happened (I know this is super vague and probably not very helpful but I can't go into details without spoilers) Let's just leave it at none of them seemed to be very good criminals. I was Monday morning quarter backing all their activities and I'm still convinced I could lead a mafia group better. Also, both characters lacked the depth I wanted to see. It was really hard to get a good read on either of them. I think that was partially due to writing style. I also think that part is due to the fact that a lot of the love story takes place off page, we're told they've been together for a few months, but we don't see a lot of them together. Also, none of the sex takes place on page. I don't mind there being no on page sex if I'm seeing a strong emotional attachment on page. I could never get a good read on Nao's feelings, which may have been on purpose, and I did think that Saehyun truly loved him, but I feel like the end of the book should have had me in tears but it didn't.
I will say that even with the foreshadowing that something bad was coming I was still shocked at the ending. Completely and totally shocked. That doesn't happen to me often so I have to give the author props for that.
So....I liked this. It's really different and that's always a good thing in my book. I liked it enough to read more of this author and I think that if you read the blurb and note the warnings and you're ok with them then I definitely recommend this.
**Review copy provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
This was really different. I admit I decided to read it based soley on the fact that I love all things tea related and this is about a tea house owner and has a fantastic cover with a Matcha tea bowl covered in blood. I was immediately intrigued.
This is a hard book to describe because I'm not really sure what genre to drop it in. It's part love story, but is by no means a traditional romance book, but at the same time it's not really a love story. (& I can't explain that without spoilers) It's kind of a thriller but not really. After giving it some thought I think it's really a core a story about a man reinventing himself. Nao has a history as a Yakuza member but has retired due to an unspeakable tragedy. It's left him almost like a ghost. He's not really a part of anything and has nothing he cares about other than his teas. He uses the traditional art of tea as a type of meditation and a means of keeping himself in control of both his temper and his grief. (I loved how the author tied aspects of tea into the entire book and I thought she did a great job of it.) Nao's calm life takes a turn when he brings home an injured man he finds along the river one night. Saehyun is a member of a Korean gang that is trying to take over the city. Neither man realizes who the other is when they begin their romance and once they do understand they're in too deep and they care too much about the other. Nao though, doesn't want to give up his life as a ghost, and as the story goes on I came to think that he would have been way better off if he had been left alone in his tea house.
I liked this book but I didn't love it. It had the potential to be an amazing book. The overall plot was good and the set up between the two characters was good. It fell short in some of the execution though. There were parts of the war between the two gangs that seemed silly or not taken very seriously. These are two rival gangs......I just can't believe some of the things that happened (I know this is super vague and probably not very helpful but I can't go into details without spoilers) Let's just leave it at none of them seemed to be very good criminals. I was Monday morning quarter backing all their activities and I'm still convinced I could lead a mafia group better. Also, both characters lacked the depth I wanted to see. It was really hard to get a good read on either of them. I think that was partially due to writing style. I also think that part is due to the fact that a lot of the love story takes place off page, we're told they've been together for a few months, but we don't see a lot of them together. Also, none of the sex takes place on page. I don't mind there being no on page sex if I'm seeing a strong emotional attachment on page. I could never get a good read on Nao's feelings, which may have been on purpose, and I did think that Saehyun truly loved him, but I feel like the end of the book should have had me in tears but it didn't.
I will say that even with the foreshadowing that something bad was coming I was still shocked at the ending. Completely and totally shocked. That doesn't happen to me often so I have to give the author props for that.
So....I liked this. It's really different and that's always a good thing in my book. I liked it enough to read more of this author and I think that if you read the blurb and note the warnings and you're ok with them then I definitely recommend this.
**Review copy provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
February 6, 2017
I liked the title, the cover, the idea of the blurb and that I was going to read something in a different setting than usual, so I entered this read with a good feeling. It is a good read if you are into blood and drama verging on melodrama. I did expect something more though.
We got the tea, we got the festivals but we did not get the relationships or the characters. There is a dissonance between what we are told, the inner dialogue of the characters and what they are doing and what is happening in the story. They do not match. I would have loved if Tasukada wrote the relationships as she wrote the tea. I think the writing kept me from being more into the story. When I should have been rooting for the characters or anxious to see how things turn out, I wasn't.
I am not an expert on either Japanese or Korean culture so I cannot comment on the veracity. I did get the feeling of the conflicts that exist between these two countries eventhough these were very lightly mentioned.
Read with Lena - I wish we had more to not pick together.
ARC gently given by author/publisher in exchange for a review.
Fits into slot 31. of my reading challenge-A book where the main character is a different ethnicity than you
April 8, 2019
This should definitely be in the genre of gay fiction and not romance. But that doesn't bother me at all. I loved this!! Wow! The author drug me around by my nose through all the tension and conflict. This was beautiful and perfect. It was also gory and violent for those that don't care for that.
dnf
January 16, 2017I received an arc from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review
dnf @ 5%
I was very skeptical going into this book. It sounded interesting when I read its summery (especially since the note from the publisher was that it was a thriller that happened to have a m/m romance rather than just being a m/m romance) but after I requested it I realised it was by a straight woman who feels the need to talk about how much she loves boys kissing (hello fetishising) and how her books are inspired by Japanese culture ; that was the first red flag.
I wanted to give this book a fair chance, I really did but when the character Park tries to coerce Nao into letting him give him oral sex I knew that his book would fetishise gay men. Park wanted to give him oral sex as a way to 'pay off his debt' after Nao took him off the street when he was barely conscious. While Nao was attracted to Park (in a way that felt insta-lovey to the point he felt ~electricity when they touched~) it made me uncomfortable, especially when Nao eventually said he'd only let him do it to get rid of Park.
I really didn't want to dnf this since it is an arc but when I saw the not really that consensual oral sex coming (and really hoped it wouldn't) I told myself it'd be the last chance I'd give the book since there were other comments made that weren't appreciative. I would've rather them to build a relationship rather than jump into sex (especially since during Park's coercing he said 'pretend I'm a girl) because that feels like fetishise to me. This is why I'm usually skeptical of straight women writing about queer men; you usually get stuff like this. I have found ones I loved though which is why I continue to give them chances. This isn't there with the good ones, go read an own voices instead.
dnf @ 5%
I was very skeptical going into this book. It sounded interesting when I read its summery (especially since the note from the publisher was that it was a thriller that happened to have a m/m romance rather than just being a m/m romance) but after I requested it I realised it was by a straight woman who feels the need to talk about how much she loves boys kissing (hello fetishising) and how her books are inspired by Japanese culture ; that was the first red flag.
I wanted to give this book a fair chance, I really did but when the character Park tries to coerce Nao into letting him give him oral sex I knew that his book would fetishise gay men. Park wanted to give him oral sex as a way to 'pay off his debt' after Nao took him off the street when he was barely conscious. While Nao was attracted to Park (in a way that felt insta-lovey to the point he felt ~electricity when they touched~) it made me uncomfortable, especially when Nao eventually said he'd only let him do it to get rid of Park.
I really didn't want to dnf this since it is an arc but when I saw the not really that consensual oral sex coming (and really hoped it wouldn't) I told myself it'd be the last chance I'd give the book since there were other comments made that weren't appreciative. I would've rather them to build a relationship rather than jump into sex (especially since during Park's coercing he said 'pretend I'm a girl) because that feels like fetishise to me. This is why I'm usually skeptical of straight women writing about queer men; you usually get stuff like this. I have found ones I loved though which is why I continue to give them chances. This isn't there with the good ones, go read an own voices instead.
dnf
May 4, 2017In the two years that I've been requesting books from NetGalley, this is only the second one I haven't been able to finish.
The writing style is not the issue, it's well told, everything described in beautiful detail. However, the plot wasn't what I was expecting, and I found it painfully slow. I trudged on hoping the pace would pick up and I'd become invested in one of the Main characters to care about their fate. When that didn't happen, by the 55% mark, I came to the conclusion life is too short to read books that aren't working for me.
NOTE: Ignore the word 'blood' and 'Yakuza' in the title. Focus on the word 'tea' instead and it will give you an indication of a large part of the first 1/2 of this story.
DNF = no rating.
Copy received via NetGalley
The writing style is not the issue, it's well told, everything described in beautiful detail. However, the plot wasn't what I was expecting, and I found it painfully slow. I trudged on hoping the pace would pick up and I'd become invested in one of the Main characters to care about their fate. When that didn't happen, by the 55% mark, I came to the conclusion life is too short to read books that aren't working for me.
NOTE: Ignore the word 'blood' and 'Yakuza' in the title. Focus on the word 'tea' instead and it will give you an indication of a large part of the first 1/2 of this story.
DNF = no rating.
Copy received via NetGalley
March 26, 2017
3.5*
Much too brutal for me.... but can't wait to read the next book.
Nao ist der Sohn des Yakuza Boss in Kyoto. Vor vier Jahren hat er die Familie beschämt, den Tod seines Lovers verursacht und hat sich von den Yakuza getrennt. Jetzt hat Nao ein Teehaus und verzaubert den Leser mit seiner Liebe zur japanischen Kultur.
Sein ruhiges Leben wird erschüttert, als er den verletzten Koreaner Saehyun findet und zum verarzten mit in seine Wohnung nimmt. Beide reden wenig über sich selbst und kommen sich doch immer näher. Doch die Koreaner sind in Kyoto um die Yakuza zu vernichten, die Stadt zu übernehmen und dabei gehen sie mit voller Gewalt vor - ein regelrechtes Blutbad das mir oft zu heftig war.
Romeo und "Romeo" in einem japanischen Mafia-Krieg. Der Sex kommt mir zu kurz. Kein Cliffhanger, aber ein heftiges Ende. Wenn mal mal was ganz anderes lesen möchte.
February 2, 2022
The story was a bit draggy at first but it skyrocketed soon after. Filled with so much action, violence and blood, I was very much captivated by the story. I only have myself to blame for not reading the reviews or checking out the lists the book is in. I was not ready for that ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2017
All right. I made it about half-way through this and now have to give it up as not for me. I'm really struggling to find a genre to put this in. It's just not all that suspenseful or thrilling. There are definitely star-crossed lovers with cultural and family ties that make it difficult if not impossible for them to be together, and as much as I want to like the characters and the romance side of it, it just isn't well developed enough to matter.
Add to that the brutality displayed in the non-romantic parts, it's really hard to cheer for this relationship to be a success. As I wouldn't recommend any of my friends stay in a relationship with someone with those kind of brutal anger issues, I don't want to see the owner of a tea-shop do so either. Regardless of background/history.
I have a feeling this is going to turn into a "But love CHANGED HIM!" story and I can't do it. I just can't do it. It's a fairy tale that doesn't come true and so many lives are damaged by the belief that it does happen.
Add to that the brutality displayed in the non-romantic parts, it's really hard to cheer for this relationship to be a success. As I wouldn't recommend any of my friends stay in a relationship with someone with those kind of brutal anger issues, I don't want to see the owner of a tea-shop do so either. Regardless of background/history.
I have a feeling this is going to turn into a "But love CHANGED HIM!" story and I can't do it. I just can't do it. It's a fairy tale that doesn't come true and so many lives are damaged by the belief that it does happen.
January 22, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.com Review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-9rW on 1/23
From that review: " This was undoubtedly one of the hardest reviews I've had to write in the past year, most of it is totally my fault. I approached this story full of false assumptions. I skimmed over the blurb and immediately assumed that it was a murder/mystery romance with a Yakusa foundation along the lines of some of my favorite romances and I could not have been more wrong. Those false expectations colored my viewpoint for two thirds of this story. Luckily, the plot, the characters and the superb writing kept taking my assumptions and drowning them in the river in Kyoto, along with many, many bodies..."
For all our reviews, author interviews, and all things books, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-9rW on 1/23
From that review: " This was undoubtedly one of the hardest reviews I've had to write in the past year, most of it is totally my fault. I approached this story full of false assumptions. I skimmed over the blurb and immediately assumed that it was a murder/mystery romance with a Yakusa foundation along the lines of some of my favorite romances and I could not have been more wrong. Those false expectations colored my viewpoint for two thirds of this story. Luckily, the plot, the characters and the superb writing kept taking my assumptions and drowning them in the river in Kyoto, along with many, many bodies..."
For all our reviews, author interviews, and all things books, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Want to read
January 20, 2018 Currently FREE on Amazon!
January 22, 2018
“Bang Bang :)”
I Am Shook
This book really impressed me, it went places that I didn't think it Would but where it Needed To Go. I've never read a male romance before so that was also new but Be Warned It Isn't A Romance (!!!!!) I didn't go into it thinking it was so I think I had a better idea (no idea 😎 ) than other people who've reviewed it because it Super not a romance at this point so they were #hoodwinked and Didn't get what they bargained for anyways
I was Very impressed with how the romance was handled I think this is one of the cutest and most realistic portrayals of a relationship (like apart from the obvious bits lmaO) that I've read, like all the things they'd describe/say to each other were things I'd hear from like irl people in relationships and in love or whatever (not me bc I am Loner Kid 😎 ), rather than just oH MY gOd!!!!!! So Hot And Like Just Gorgeous!!! THoSe👏EyES👏 but maybe that's just indicative of the trash i read:)) but I thought it was really sweet and well-written.
I aLso thought the parts when Nao was struggling particularly hard with depression (which is only mentioned like once but it is Obvious) were the most well-written and accurate descriptions I've read (which I literally Don't Read descriptions of bc I've Never Read A Book And I Failed My Challenge Last Year) and I was really impressed (that's all I say but Anyways) because other books (notlikeothergirls) are always like I'm so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sadness Is Depression!!!!!!AllIFeelIsPain!!!!!!!!!!! and don't understand the numbness and Lack Of Feeling that comes with it which iiiiiiiiii Resonated with
anyways yall tho omg
I liked the cats too, I reaaaally identified with Nao when he was talking about Kuma and said “She needed him, and that small reminder of being essential to something filled his emptiness.” because I've been in that same position Exactly
anyways it was well written and i am impressed, i will probably read the others
I Am Shook
This book really impressed me, it went places that I didn't think it Would but where it Needed To Go. I've never read a male romance before so that was also new but Be Warned It Isn't A Romance (!!!!!) I didn't go into it thinking it was so I think I had a better idea (no idea 😎 ) than other people who've reviewed it because it Super not a romance at this point so they were #hoodwinked and Didn't get what they bargained for anyways
I was Very impressed with how the romance was handled I think this is one of the cutest and most realistic portrayals of a relationship (like apart from the obvious bits lmaO) that I've read, like all the things they'd describe/say to each other were things I'd hear from like irl people in relationships and in love or whatever (not me bc I am Loner Kid 😎 ), rather than just oH MY gOd!!!!!! So Hot And Like Just Gorgeous!!! THoSe👏EyES👏 but maybe that's just indicative of the trash i read:)) but I thought it was really sweet and well-written.
I aLso thought the parts when Nao was struggling particularly hard with depression (which is only mentioned like once but it is Obvious) were the most well-written and accurate descriptions I've read (which I literally Don't Read descriptions of bc I've Never Read A Book And I Failed My Challenge Last Year) and I was really impressed (that's all I say but Anyways) because other books (notlikeothergirls) are always like I'm so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sadness Is Depression!!!!!!AllIFeelIsPain!!!!!!!!!!! and don't understand the numbness and Lack Of Feeling that comes with it which iiiiiiiiii Resonated with
anyways yall tho omg
I liked the cats too, I reaaaally identified with Nao when he was talking about Kuma and said “She needed him, and that small reminder of being essential to something filled his emptiness.” because I've been in that same position Exactly
anyways it was well written and i am impressed, i will probably read the others
October 8, 2019
Born into the yakuza family that controls Kyoto, Nao Murata turned his back on his violent past after a traumatic loss and has been leading a quiet life since, running a teahouse and keeping to himself. All that changes when he finds an injured man and brings him home. What he doesn't know: Saehyun Park is one of the leaders of the Korean mafia gang Double Moon, which is fighting a violent battle against the local yakuza to take over the city. As Nao and Saehyun become closer, neither is willing to disclose his criminal connections to the other, and while they're building a relationship on secrets and lies, the increasingly brutal gang feud in the streets of Kyoto escalates into a bloodbath that pitches them against each other.
Very intriguing premise, and set in a city I love - how could I not pick this up? I think the main problem I had with this book is that I wasn't the slightest bit invested in the romance, so the ending didn't hit me anywhere near as hard as I assume it was intended to. (At least I'm pretty sure I wasn't supposed to... y'know... cheer.) Still, I'd like to see where the story goes from here at some point.
Very intriguing premise, and set in a city I love - how could I not pick this up? I think the main problem I had with this book is that I wasn't the slightest bit invested in the romance, so the ending didn't hit me anywhere near as hard as I assume it was intended to. (At least I'm pretty sure I wasn't supposed to... y'know... cheer.) Still, I'd like to see where the story goes from here at some point.
July 1, 2018
Review Coming
June 12, 2021
This is a tough book for me to review. It has a romantic subplot that ends in neither HEA nor HFN, steam level of 1.5 with most encounters either off page, fade to black or short and not very descriptive. The writing style is a bit different than what I usually like but here it mostly works. The chapters end a certain way and in the next there is no continuation of the previous scene most of the time. Like I said it should not have worked but it did. I really like immersion in Japanese culture and traditions. Some of the things I found really fascinating.
The MCs, Nao and Saehyun, are both morally ambiguous characters. Being Japanese and Korean respectively, they are on the opposite sides. Yet despite the lies and betrayal they find comfort in each others arms. This book is not about finding love but is about making choices and finding one's purpose in life. Nao makes a decision that changes his life and stands up for what he believes. He sees the bigger picture. He is a very interesting character. There is honor and so much loyalty in him to those who probably do not deserve it. Saehyun while seeking happiness unfortunately only brings destruction in his wake, but he loves fiercely and is able to forgive.
The story has a trope that really is not a favorite of mine. Dead lover/pining for dead lover/comparing everyone with the said dead lover. So be in the know.
The pace is steady and there is plenty of action and gory fighting. This is not a light-hearted book. But throughout the story Nao finally comes out of his shell. He has been stagnant for so long that his return is loud and sends long lasting ripples through everyone. I like that he is not perfect. He is a man wracked with guilt and unable to let go. But Saehyun sets him on the path of change, reflection and hopefully one day healing.
There was a moment I wanted to stop reading. But I chose to continue. And the story turned so compelling. It's a blend of modern world, old fashioned traditions and men who have integrity despite the evil deeds they commit either out of love or loyalty forced or otherwise. I enjoyed it. The author made me root for her deeply flawed men.
Extra: tough man who likes stray cats, all you need to know about tea, deep in the heart of Japan.
The MCs, Nao and Saehyun, are both morally ambiguous characters. Being Japanese and Korean respectively, they are on the opposite sides. Yet despite the lies and betrayal they find comfort in each others arms. This book is not about finding love but is about making choices and finding one's purpose in life. Nao makes a decision that changes his life and stands up for what he believes. He sees the bigger picture. He is a very interesting character. There is honor and so much loyalty in him to those who probably do not deserve it. Saehyun while seeking happiness unfortunately only brings destruction in his wake, but he loves fiercely and is able to forgive.
The story has a trope that really is not a favorite of mine. Dead lover/pining for dead lover/comparing everyone with the said dead lover. So be in the know.
The pace is steady and there is plenty of action and gory fighting. This is not a light-hearted book. But throughout the story Nao finally comes out of his shell. He has been stagnant for so long that his return is loud and sends long lasting ripples through everyone. I like that he is not perfect. He is a man wracked with guilt and unable to let go. But Saehyun sets him on the path of change, reflection and hopefully one day healing.
There was a moment I wanted to stop reading. But I chose to continue. And the story turned so compelling. It's a blend of modern world, old fashioned traditions and men who have integrity despite the evil deeds they commit either out of love or loyalty forced or otherwise. I enjoyed it. The author made me root for her deeply flawed men.
Extra: tough man who likes stray cats, all you need to know about tea, deep in the heart of Japan.
May 5, 2017
Blood Stained Tea not only lives up to the promise of its blurb, it goes beyond that. Yakuza and m/m sounded intriguing enough but there was a lot more that kept me glued to the book.
Amy Tasukada's writing style is crisp and lyrical, like snowflakes dancing in the night. She describes with the same ease and elegance steeping of tea and spilling of blood. Without getting into unnecessary detail, she transports us to historical Kyoto as the background of the war between the Japanese and Korean mafia and the impossible love of Nao and Saehyun.
The dialogue is witty and dynamic, with entwined bits and pieces about their cultural differences that are quite interesting. Keep in mind that if you've never been exposed to Japanese/Korean culture in any way , you may find some of the character's behavior and decisions questionable and irrational but they are not such in the least.
The chemistry between Nao and Saehyun is wild and rugged. It's not a sugar coated romance and there's no pink bubbly end. It's a raw romance amidst violence, love wounded by honor and necessary lies - harsh, beautiful and broken.
Blood Stained Tea was thrilling throughout but the last third was a total twist in the gut. I really don't know what Amy Tatsukada has mixed up for us in Better Than Suicide (Yakuza Path #2) but I'm sure it would be as strong and sensual as oolong tea.
This was definitely my first 5-star read of 2017.
Amy Tasukada's writing style is crisp and lyrical, like snowflakes dancing in the night. She describes with the same ease and elegance steeping of tea and spilling of blood. Without getting into unnecessary detail, she transports us to historical Kyoto as the background of the war between the Japanese and Korean mafia and the impossible love of Nao and Saehyun.
The dialogue is witty and dynamic, with entwined bits and pieces about their cultural differences that are quite interesting. Keep in mind that if you've never been exposed to Japanese/Korean culture in any way , you may find some of the character's behavior and decisions questionable and irrational but they are not such in the least.
The chemistry between Nao and Saehyun is wild and rugged. It's not a sugar coated romance and there's no pink bubbly end. It's a raw romance amidst violence, love wounded by honor and necessary lies - harsh, beautiful and broken.
Blood Stained Tea was thrilling throughout but the last third was a total twist in the gut. I really don't know what Amy Tatsukada has mixed up for us in Better Than Suicide (Yakuza Path #2) but I'm sure it would be as strong and sensual as oolong tea.
This was definitely my first 5-star read of 2017.
July 1, 2017
Pros: well researched setting and depiction of organized crime in Japan. I loved the tea house setting. The entire story was vividly described in visual terms. I always find that enjoyable to read.
The secondary characters were well drawn, so the book didn't read like two lovers in a world of cardboard cutout characters.
I liked the depiction of the Koreans' position in Japanese society and though this was very credible.
Cons: I felt like the main characters weren't emotionally consistent. Both of our heroes are incessant liars, but that alone wouldn't necessarily be a mark against the book, considering their occupation. The part that really threw me is how Nao switches to momentary violent action and enjoys it at a deep visceral level. The combination of this with his usual fearful and shy disposition doesn't come across believable to me. I also think the sense of duty and debt should have been more heavily emphasized in his inner dialogues. A little PTSD would not have been out of place in a guy who's witnessed what Nao has.
I imagine this plot could be written in an entirely different way as a hard-boiled crime novel, where Nao is as cynical and dark as they come. That would perhaps be a more credible depiction of someone who's committed cold blooded murder and seen terrible things. He could still feel sorrow, lust, even love, but all in the context of a sort of brutal realism.
The secondary characters were well drawn, so the book didn't read like two lovers in a world of cardboard cutout characters.
I liked the depiction of the Koreans' position in Japanese society and though this was very credible.
Cons: I felt like the main characters weren't emotionally consistent. Both of our heroes are incessant liars, but that alone wouldn't necessarily be a mark against the book, considering their occupation. The part that really threw me is how Nao switches to momentary violent action and enjoys it at a deep visceral level. The combination of this with his usual fearful and shy disposition doesn't come across believable to me. I also think the sense of duty and debt should have been more heavily emphasized in his inner dialogues. A little PTSD would not have been out of place in a guy who's witnessed what Nao has.
I imagine this plot could be written in an entirely different way as a hard-boiled crime novel, where Nao is as cynical and dark as they come. That would perhaps be a more credible depiction of someone who's committed cold blooded murder and seen terrible things. He could still feel sorrow, lust, even love, but all in the context of a sort of brutal realism.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2017
"A cat chooses it's owner."
Kyoto: a young Japanese teahouse owner searches for a new oolong to add to his tea menu whilst still trying to destroy the memories of his troubled past; a young Korea mafia member hopes to escape retribution from a gang boss by taking this city away from the Yamaha replacing their supremacy with that of the Korean Double Moon.
Stunning, simply and beautifully written, visually vibrant, this brutal story of star-crossed lovers was for me totally unexpected. It is a story of love, but no romance. And love can take many forms.
I was gifted this book by Book Review 22. When first offered it, I nearly refused. Thank goodness I changed my mind. Blood Stained Tea is one of the most stunning books I have read for a long time and I savoured the writing, the pictures created, even the sadness and despair which alternated with joy of discovery. I am now anxiously awaiting a second book by the author. I believe another is due for publication sometime later this year. Meanwhile, if you haven't already done so, buy and read this first story by Amy Tasukada. It will tear at your soul
Kyoto: a young Japanese teahouse owner searches for a new oolong to add to his tea menu whilst still trying to destroy the memories of his troubled past; a young Korea mafia member hopes to escape retribution from a gang boss by taking this city away from the Yamaha replacing their supremacy with that of the Korean Double Moon.
Stunning, simply and beautifully written, visually vibrant, this brutal story of star-crossed lovers was for me totally unexpected. It is a story of love, but no romance. And love can take many forms.
I was gifted this book by Book Review 22. When first offered it, I nearly refused. Thank goodness I changed my mind. Blood Stained Tea is one of the most stunning books I have read for a long time and I savoured the writing, the pictures created, even the sadness and despair which alternated with joy of discovery. I am now anxiously awaiting a second book by the author. I believe another is due for publication sometime later this year. Meanwhile, if you haven't already done so, buy and read this first story by Amy Tasukada. It will tear at your soul
October 24, 2019
Wow - what a roller-coaster ride of a read. It was such fun delving into the hidden world and mores of the Yakuza society; I learnt a lot about member loyalties/duties, their complex interplay with local law enforcement authorities and gang responsibility to their community businesses and safety. The rather violent ending did shock me a little and readers be warned that there is no HEA here.
February 4, 2017
Blood Stained Tea is bloody and violent, but also very compelling. It is definitely not a HEA romance. Nao's story is full of twists and turns that definitely have me wanting to know what happens next.
December 22, 2017
I like books which defy expectations. I like books which surprise me. Sometimes, I feel I've seen it all - this is why picking up this novel was so exciting!
March 19, 2018
Does a good job of subverting expectations throughout the book, well written, and enjoyable. Well done to Amy Tasukada!
April 5, 2017
This is a difficult book to review. I had the honor of beta reading it, and when I did, I was under the impression that this was a romance. It isn't. There is a romantic relationship in this book, but as the avid romance-reader knows, a romance must end a certain way to be considered a romance...and to keep this review as spoiler free as possible, let's just say that this book doesn't conform with that requirement.
And this is why it's hard for me to review. I feel like I'm judging it unfairly. After all it was my own fault that I hadn't done my research properly and learned the genre of the book. But I still can't look past the ending, which is why I can only give it four stars.
That being said: there's a lot of things I really love about it. I'm in awe of the amount of research Amy Tasukada has done and I feel like I'm transported to Kyoto when I read it. I'm the type of person who googles everything she doesn't know, so I've googled The Philosopher's Path, the Gion festival floats, and Japanese funeral clothing—just to mention a few things—to see what they look like, and the author's descriptions are spot on. The Philosopher's Path looked exactly like Tasukada described it, and I would really love to travel to Kyoto and walk the path.
I just hope I don't encounter Nao Murata while I do :-)
Another thing I absolutely love is all wonderful tea references. Phrases like
It only swirled his memories like whisked matcha.
and
The bitterness of Father's words stayed in Nao's mouth like oversteeped tea
are amazing.
I also really love the character development for the two main characters, Nao and Saehuyn. Saehuyn starts out as a real asshole that annoys me to death, but manages to redeem himself through his relationship with Nao, to the point that he's my favorit character in the whole book, despite what he does.
Nao, on the other hand, takes a completely different path. From being somber and serious, carrying sorrows that are yet unknown to the reader, but being a seemingly decent human being, he completely deteriorates. So while their relationship makes Saehuyn a better person, the relationship (and Saehuyn's actions) have the complete opposite effect on Nao. It's very interesting.
This is a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who love to read about organized crime, star crossed lovers, and above all, tea.
I also want to mention the amazing cover. I love that it's dramatic, but still restrained and not over the top. It's very beautiful.
But consider yourself warned: this is not a romance :-)
And this is why it's hard for me to review. I feel like I'm judging it unfairly. After all it was my own fault that I hadn't done my research properly and learned the genre of the book. But I still can't look past the ending, which is why I can only give it four stars.
That being said: there's a lot of things I really love about it. I'm in awe of the amount of research Amy Tasukada has done and I feel like I'm transported to Kyoto when I read it. I'm the type of person who googles everything she doesn't know, so I've googled The Philosopher's Path, the Gion festival floats, and Japanese funeral clothing—just to mention a few things—to see what they look like, and the author's descriptions are spot on. The Philosopher's Path looked exactly like Tasukada described it, and I would really love to travel to Kyoto and walk the path.
I just hope I don't encounter Nao Murata while I do :-)
Another thing I absolutely love is all wonderful tea references. Phrases like
It only swirled his memories like whisked matcha.
and
The bitterness of Father's words stayed in Nao's mouth like oversteeped tea
are amazing.
I also really love the character development for the two main characters, Nao and Saehuyn. Saehuyn starts out as a real asshole that annoys me to death, but manages to redeem himself through his relationship with Nao, to the point that he's my favorit character in the whole book, despite what he does.
Nao, on the other hand, takes a completely different path. From being somber and serious, carrying sorrows that are yet unknown to the reader, but being a seemingly decent human being, he completely deteriorates. So while their relationship makes Saehuyn a better person, the relationship (and Saehuyn's actions) have the complete opposite effect on Nao. It's very interesting.
This is a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who love to read about organized crime, star crossed lovers, and above all, tea.
I also want to mention the amazing cover. I love that it's dramatic, but still restrained and not over the top. It's very beautiful.
But consider yourself warned: this is not a romance :-)
April 18, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Is this book a bit over dramatic and soap opera-y at time? Yes. Despite that does it still hit on some of my favorite tropes? Yes! Did I absolutely love it? Y E S !
Ok, just a few points I want to touch on in this review:
I feel like the beginning of the story kind of sets up a wrong expectation for what you're going to get in the rest of the book. Mainly that one of the main characters blows the other one like immediately after meeting him so you're sitting there thinking 'ok this is going to be an erotica book with like a side of half-baked plot thrown in there'. But really that's the most explicit thing that happens in the entire book and it's in the first couple of chapters. I mean they mention having sex later in the book but it's always 'fade to black' stuff, so really I feel like it would have been better to cut/change that scene in the beginning. Especially since I see a few reviews on here of people not finishing the book solely based on that.
Secondly, I really like how the author included different Japanese and Korean traditions in the novel as well as some history about Kyoto and the conflict between Korea and Japan. It was fun to read about and it shows that she actually did some research. You can always tell when authors just set their stories in Japan because it's 'exotic' or because they just watched too much anime as a teenager but haven't actually done any cultural research, but this is not one of those books. I'm sure the mob stuff has been fudged in several places, but to me that's acceptable to heighten the drama of the story because I refuse to believe that real life yakuza and Korean mob people are this incompetent lol
But I think the thing I loved most about it was the ending.
Is this book a bit over dramatic and soap opera-y at time? Yes. Despite that does it still hit on some of my favorite tropes? Yes! Did I absolutely love it? Y E S !
Ok, just a few points I want to touch on in this review:
I feel like the beginning of the story kind of sets up a wrong expectation for what you're going to get in the rest of the book. Mainly that one of the main characters blows the other one like immediately after meeting him so you're sitting there thinking 'ok this is going to be an erotica book with like a side of half-baked plot thrown in there'. But really that's the most explicit thing that happens in the entire book and it's in the first couple of chapters. I mean they mention having sex later in the book but it's always 'fade to black' stuff, so really I feel like it would have been better to cut/change that scene in the beginning. Especially since I see a few reviews on here of people not finishing the book solely based on that.
Secondly, I really like how the author included different Japanese and Korean traditions in the novel as well as some history about Kyoto and the conflict between Korea and Japan. It was fun to read about and it shows that she actually did some research. You can always tell when authors just set their stories in Japan because it's 'exotic' or because they just watched too much anime as a teenager but haven't actually done any cultural research, but this is not one of those books. I'm sure the mob stuff has been fudged in several places, but to me that's acceptable to heighten the drama of the story because I refuse to believe that real life yakuza and Korean mob people are this incompetent lol
But I think the thing I loved most about it was the ending.
March 31, 2017
I received this book from the publishers through Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
3.5
I really enjoyed this but I didn't love it. I did really like the mafia aspect because I love gangster novels, and I totally agreed with how it ended but I felt that some more could have been done with it, nothing that I can explain to be honest, I really do not know what was missing for me. Just something.
So this book is about this man who loves tea so much he created his own tea shop, whom used to be a gangster before he seeked the normal life. Until one night, he finds a injured man whom he takes care of and there forms a relationship with the opposing mafia to his fathers. Where lies, truth, blood and violence get all mixed up.
Likes - I loved seeing their relationship progress because the love interest has no idea how far up his lover is and it was so amusing. I really liked seeing the Japanese world, especially the underground.
I really felt for both of the two main protagonists. They were both so dark and vulnerable in different ways, so easily to fall for and root for. Also I really felt the setting, it was brought to life so vividly.
Points towards the godfather of the mafia actually loving his son. I felt that the instance I met him. Need more family love in these darker tone families.
Cons - One negative I can pinpoint was that sometimes the pace felt slow then it went fast then slow then fast again. It just needed a little more consistency.
I was disappointed that we got the first sex scene between them when they were strangers but every time they had sex during their relationship, it was only hinted at, nothing happened. And I just think that it is such a disservice to them as a couple with deep feelings to one another to only show the sex when they mean nothing to one another.
I do feel like it is an ending I can expect
3.5
I really enjoyed this but I didn't love it. I did really like the mafia aspect because I love gangster novels, and I totally agreed with how it ended but I felt that some more could have been done with it, nothing that I can explain to be honest, I really do not know what was missing for me. Just something.
So this book is about this man who loves tea so much he created his own tea shop, whom used to be a gangster before he seeked the normal life. Until one night, he finds a injured man whom he takes care of and there forms a relationship with the opposing mafia to his fathers. Where lies, truth, blood and violence get all mixed up.
Likes - I loved seeing their relationship progress because the love interest has no idea how far up his lover is and it was so amusing. I really liked seeing the Japanese world, especially the underground.
I really felt for both of the two main protagonists. They were both so dark and vulnerable in different ways, so easily to fall for and root for. Also I really felt the setting, it was brought to life so vividly.
Points towards the godfather of the mafia actually loving his son. I felt that the instance I met him. Need more family love in these darker tone families.
Cons - One negative I can pinpoint was that sometimes the pace felt slow then it went fast then slow then fast again. It just needed a little more consistency.
I was disappointed that we got the first sex scene between them when they were strangers but every time they had sex during their relationship, it was only hinted at, nothing happened. And I just think that it is such a disservice to them as a couple with deep feelings to one another to only show the sex when they mean nothing to one another.
I do feel like it is an ending I can expect
February 7, 2017
I wanted a violent book to read, and man, was I not disappointed. Amy Tasukada has crafted a vicious world where the Yakuza are at war with the Korean mafia, and it’s never clear who will be the winner.
The book starts with Nao, a former Yakuza member, stumbling across a Korean man injured in an alley on the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto. He takes him home and tends to his wounds, and it all goes downhill from there. Saehyun is a Korean mafia member whose group plans to take over Kyoto and destroy the Japanese Yakuza. Nao has no choice but to rejoin the Yakuza he has left after a violent, heartbreaking incident in his past.
I don’t want to give too much of the plot away, but I will say this book is not for the faint of heart. There is torture, death, and sorrow. There is also, at its heart, a love story, however ill-fated it may be. So many times I had to take a break because I was heartbroken over the actions. However, that does not take away from the story. While I loved and hated the characters, it was written so well I felt as if I was there.
Having visited Japan twice, including Kyoto both times, I could picture every single place Tasukada wrote of. I have walked the Philosopher’s Path, and when she wrote, I could close my eyes and place myself there with Nao. I remember it being such a lovely, peaceful walk. I enjoyed revisiting it with him.
Throughout this brutal novel, I cried several times. However, given the nature of the world the men live in, the brutality was not unexpected. The author does not pull any punches, and for that I am grateful. Had she gone soft on some of the events, it would have done the story and the characters a disservice.
I am very happy that there will be a second book in the series. I don’t know what it will be about, given the ending of this one; however, I do look forward to it. If you don’t mind violent books, then I highly recommend this novel set in Japan. It has beautiful imagery when people are not being brutalized, and the characters are complex.
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach Reviews
The book starts with Nao, a former Yakuza member, stumbling across a Korean man injured in an alley on the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto. He takes him home and tends to his wounds, and it all goes downhill from there. Saehyun is a Korean mafia member whose group plans to take over Kyoto and destroy the Japanese Yakuza. Nao has no choice but to rejoin the Yakuza he has left after a violent, heartbreaking incident in his past.
I don’t want to give too much of the plot away, but I will say this book is not for the faint of heart. There is torture, death, and sorrow. There is also, at its heart, a love story, however ill-fated it may be. So many times I had to take a break because I was heartbroken over the actions. However, that does not take away from the story. While I loved and hated the characters, it was written so well I felt as if I was there.
Having visited Japan twice, including Kyoto both times, I could picture every single place Tasukada wrote of. I have walked the Philosopher’s Path, and when she wrote, I could close my eyes and place myself there with Nao. I remember it being such a lovely, peaceful walk. I enjoyed revisiting it with him.
Throughout this brutal novel, I cried several times. However, given the nature of the world the men live in, the brutality was not unexpected. The author does not pull any punches, and for that I am grateful. Had she gone soft on some of the events, it would have done the story and the characters a disservice.
I am very happy that there will be a second book in the series. I don’t know what it will be about, given the ending of this one; however, I do look forward to it. If you don’t mind violent books, then I highly recommend this novel set in Japan. It has beautiful imagery when people are not being brutalized, and the characters are complex.
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach Reviews
April 16, 2017
I'm a sucker for scenery, ongoing motifs and the deterioration of the human spirit. This books successfully provides all of those things. I was pleasantly surprised at the realness of the main characters. Their histories and identities were something that you wanted to know more and more about as the plot unfolded. I was left heartbroken over some of the characters stories and this particular book will remain with me for a very long time. Amy Tasukada did a fantastic job of showing how the human mind can change and how in the end humans are very rarely capable of change. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 14, 2023
A fine, casual read? The action scenes were far too short to get a taste of the intensity, and the slow, romantic, getting-to-know-you scenes were repetitive because we literally said the same things repeatedly. The premise is cute, but so much seemed to happen in just a blip, yet still meandered over hundreds of pages. I'm not sure I am inspired to read the next one, but I'm leaving feeling fond of the book and its set up for the next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews