Firstly, I have to mention how absolutely beautiful this book is. As you may know, I have a real love of cherry blossoms, so there was no way I was leaving the shop without adding this one to my bookshelf!

I actually had the book recommended to me by an assistant at Waterstones, who told me about Japanese author Takuya Asakura and described him as such a talented writer. I’m so glad I took their recommendation.

This was a very different book for me. It had a mysterious quality to it, and I found myself gradually trying to piece together what was happening. I’ll admit, I struggled a little at the beginning to understand the story, although I think that was probably more to do with me not concentrating enough than the book itself!

What really stood out to me was the beautiful way the book explores loss. I don’t want to say too much because I think it’s one of those stories where knowing too much beforehand could take away from the experience.

If you have ever loved and lost someone, be warned, this book may bring a few tears. But perhaps they are the tears we sometimes need.

It’s thoughtful, mysterious, beautifully written and unlike anything I’ve read for a while. I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend giving it a read, especially if, like me, you have a soft spot for cherry blossoms.

A beautiful and unusual read that stayed with me long after I finished it.