Review of The Abalone Ukulele

[Maria Sanchez 34]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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R. L. Crossland's novel, The Abalone Ukulele: A Tale of Far Eastern Intrigue, revolves around the intricate relations between China, Korea, Japan, and the United States during a pivotal historical moment. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of characters like Yi, Hobson, and Draper.

The story begins with Yi, a Korean Army officer seeking redemption and plotting against Japanese oppressors, illustrating the broader political tensions of the era. The historical details are perfectly researched, providing enough insights into the cultural dynamics and geopolitical maneuvers shaping East Asia at the time. Subsequently, we are introduced to Hobson and Draper, two US Navy men. They get involved with Yi, and I find honor among thieves for the first time in fiction. The story takes an enthralling turn filled with action, fight scenes, and suspense, so readers who enjoy these themes should pick up this book. 

The depth of historical detail in the book is realistic. The author skillfully interweaves historical facts with fictional drama, bringing all the locations from East to West to life. The exploration of themes like wealth and power was entertaining, and I enjoyed it a lot.

One aspect that particularly impressed me was the author's use of cultural and conversational analogies, which added authenticity and depth to the narrative. However, the book's length and occasional use of foreign expressions posed challenges to me, and although a glossary was included, I found it after reading.

Overall, this book is an exceptionally crafted work of fiction that educates as much as it entertains. I found no errors while reading it, indicating that the book was perfectly edited. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars and cannot give it a perfect rating due to the drawbacks I mentioned earlier. However, my rating is commendable, as it is way above average. I recommend it to anyone interested in Asian history and intricate geopolitical narratives.

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The Abalone Ukulele
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