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Review Excerpts
San Francisco Chronicle – October 30, 2007
“A terrific first novel… Tokunaga creates completely believable characters
who move us with their pain and dreams, making us root for them to the end.
Their satisfying conversations fill this fast-paced book, which Tokunaga has
deftly plotted, tying together strands of romance and intrigue. Just as the
right dessert hits the spot, reading this delicious slice of escapism makes
for a perfect afternoon. But instead of suffering a sugar crash afterward,
you'll muse for days about the characters you've left behind and why they
matter so much to you.” – Eve Kushner
Charleston Gazette – September 30, 2007
“Wendy Nelson Tokunaga’s short novel not only blends Japanese and
American cultures successfully, it sheds light on the dating scene for
30-something singles. I was expecting a cheesy “Sex and the City” vibe
before diving in, but was pleasantly surprised to find something a bit
deeper. The book draws upon vivid imagery when defining traits of Japanese
culture and really hits the nail on the head when depicting some American
attitudes toward others. The characters were easily digested, and I found
Midori’s thoughts and feelings throughout the book... witty and charming. At
246 pages, this is a quick-read paperback that will entertain.” – Phil Perry
Publishers Weekly – September 03, 2007
“Aspiring Cinderella Midori Saito does not heed her mother's
warning-"Running off with a foreigner will bring you nothing but trouble"-in
Tokunaga's delectably frothy debut. Trouble is exactly what Midori finds
after following English teacher Kevin Newbury from her native Japan to San
Francisco, where Prince Charming quickly becomes Prince Alarming after a
nightmarish engagement party. Fortunately, Kevin's old friend Shinji
Nishimura, who met Midori at the ill-fated party, offers Midori refuge while
she figures out her next moves. Tokunaga depicts Midori's determination to
create her own version of the American dream with exuberance.”
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