Although it took me a few chapters to settle into this book, I became thoroughly engrossed in the stories that unfolded in its pages. I’m always fascinated by stories where Christianity intersects with other religions and cultures, and here, that intersection is experienced from two very different perspectives. The first is that of Akira, a man who has been raised in the religious traditions of Japan, as he comes to terms with his capture during WWII, Japan’s subsequent surrender, and what that means for his future. The second perspective is that of a young Japanese Jesuit who is married into a Buddhist household and must fight to retain her freedom to live and worship according to her Christian faith.

Of the two primary characters, I found myself slightly more engaged in Sono’s story—perhaps inevitable due to the nature of some of her experiences—but both stories were powerful in their own way and shared an interesting connection. I’m not really qualified to comment as to the historical or cultural accuracy of this story, but it read to me as being well-researched and respectful in the way it handled the religious and cultural differences that arose. Having said that, it doesn’t downplay the radical contrasts between Christianity and the traditional religious teachings and practices of the Japanese, and those contrasts play a significant role in shaping the course of both Akira’s and Sono’s stories.

I haven’t yet had the opportunity to read The Plum Blooms in Winter, the first book in this series and the companion to this novel, but I found that didn’t impact my enjoyment or understanding of this story. I’ve come away reminded that there is an incomparable beauty in the love, hope, and forgiveness offered in Christ, regardless of our earthly circumstances.