I had this libro on my to read list for several years after getting it recommended on here from people who sang its praises. I’m 500 some odd pages and it’s been a bit of a grind. Firstly, the writing itself isn’t very good. That’s not the end of the world as I enjoy sci-fi books which often have bad prose but make up for it with fascinating ideas/plot. That said, the plot isn’t particularly engaging and the characters are pretty much one dimensional archetypes I’ve read about/seen in movies for my whole life. The book does offer interesting anecdotes about 1600s Japanese culture juxtaposed against 1600s European culture which is interesting and pretty well done. That said, these moments are separated by long sections of dull plot. I can’t believe I have like 700 pages left in this. I don’t love not finishing a book I’m this far into but I’m leaning to just move on. I’m interested in hearing others experiences with this book especially people who weren’t as enamored with it as they expected.
by HighFastStinkyCheese