Roslyn

In the broad landscape of european perspectives during the second world war, I think while the book has a lot of stylistic and pacing issues, especially with jolty timeskipping, it captures broad issues of culture, patriotism, and naturalization of korean japanese.

The character development fell flatter as the book progressed however, I think there was a good sense of closure by the end.

I think it is worth a read to learn about east asian history if that is of interest.

Romance isn't the usual genre I read, and the main characters making it to the end fairly unscathed was pretty predictable. It's a fluffy historical fiction that does the job I was hoping for it to do. It does also insert a little commentary on the treatment of Black soldiers/people and I found it quite natural within the plot and refreshing since I haven't read a historical fiction touching upon this topic. For the research, writing, and bibliography I have to give it to Julie Berry- her style satisfied what I was looking for- just a plain and simple feel good historical fic. I do appreciate the research and thoughtful ties to real historical figures of music. There is some lack of depth for what I hoped for with the Gods being intermingled, and a little bit with the characters who I did find, were still a little basic, regardless -the combo of this neat concept and warm writing style kept me engaged enough to finish it!