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eralbesu's review
challenging
fast-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? No
3.0
I really want to enjoy this book, and there were elements I did enjoy. For instance, I enjoyed reading about The Hague and the trials and the work of an international court interpreter. However, the story felt a bit shallow. Every time I thought I’d discovered the plot line that was going to add more depth to the story, it plateaued.
All in all, it was a quick read that managed to feel light, despite moments of darker subject matter. Sometimes I need that in a book.
All in all, it was a quick read that managed to feel light, despite moments of darker subject matter. Sometimes I need that in a book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Genocide, Hate crime, Violence, and Infidelity
Moderate: Religious bigotry, Pregnancy, Gun violence, and Mass/school shootings
Minor: Grief, Cursing, Death of parent, Death, Blood, and Cancer
literarysaara's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A reflective, easy-to-read story that is the combination of 3 main ingredients combined into the melting pot that is this book: self-reflection, people-watching, and a strong desire to feel as if you belong to a place.
The story is told through the eyes of a half-Japanese, half-Caucasian woman who has recently moved to the Netherlands for interpretive/translation work for a local court. As she adjusts to this life in a new country, she begins to notice the small moments of intimacy that occur both within her work as an interpretor/translator, but also within her personal life as she adjusts to this new place, amongst new people. A prolific people-watcher, she has a strong desire to feel as if she belongs somewhere. And as the story progresses, we as the readers accompany her on this journey of self-discovery, and the tumultuous nature of interpersonal relationships and encounters.
The story is told through the eyes of a half-Japanese, half-Caucasian woman who has recently moved to the Netherlands for interpretive/translation work for a local court. As she adjusts to this life in a new country, she begins to notice the small moments of intimacy that occur both within her work as an interpretor/translator, but also within her personal life as she adjusts to this new place, amongst new people. A prolific people-watcher, she has a strong desire to feel as if she belongs somewhere. And as the story progresses, we as the readers accompany her on this journey of self-discovery, and the tumultuous nature of interpersonal relationships and encounters.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infidelity
Minor: Cursing, Death of parent, and Genocide
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