Reviews

The Storyteller and his Three Daughters by Lian Hearn

theconstantreader's review

5.0

This is the first Lian Hearn book that I've read and I really struggled to decide whether to give it a 4 or a 5. There was something I really enjoyed about reading this book though that made me not want to stop until it was over which I felt made it deserving of a 5.

None of the characters are overly likeable but I felt like the whole story was told so frankly and unashamedly that I couldn't get enough. I also really liked the way the dialogue was laid out and it all came across as very authentic.

The book was good at creating suspense and immersed me in another culture in an unapologetic way which was refreshing and exciting.

I really want to read the Tales of the Otori of the back of this.

jonathanbutlerauthor's review

4.0

Interesting read with great characters and better handled historical context (than Blossoms and Shadows). A story from an outsiders perspective however, reduces emotional involvement, which is what made the Tales of the Otori series so special.

inkbee's review

informative mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.25

bibliotechied's review

4.0

This is a book about writing and so much more engaging than Peter Carey's Amnesia although there are surprisingly some similarities. The central character is a middle aged storyteller somewhat past his prime who gets involved in political machinations involving another country (Korea) as a result of his relationship with a rich and powerful patron. The insight into life in Tokyo in the 1880s as well as the variety of interesting characters make this a very enjoyable read.

wildwoila's review

adventurous lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

Aging man in Meiji Japan spins tall tales about his neighbours, only to stumble upon a cabal of ex-samurai plotting to regain power & glory. Gently told, a pleasant read.

abunny's review

lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

2.75

leahmouse's review

3.0

I liked it. Interesting style and setting, if slightly contrived plot. Made me want to read more of her books.

midnightjinx's review

mysterious reflective medium-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.5