Parts of it a bit frazzled. Iraq. Guitars. Economists. A-bomb in Japan. Lotsnif subjects squeezed in this book. Some of it a bit unbelievable. ( )

This is a book about love and what real love requires. Makino is a Japanese classical guitarist who has never had a serious love. Yoko is a French journalist on assignment in Iraq. Through a mutual friend, they meet and immediately a deep bond is felt; however, their careers take them in vastly different directions. Through Skype, they continue to meet and have long satisfying talks. Although Yoko is engaged to Richard back in the US, she begins to look differently at that relationship.

This is a complicated story not just about the relationship between these two characters, but Yoko's childhood, Makino's musical career and his manager who has devoted her life to his music. Although Makino and Yoko have only three actual meetings, they are so intertwined emotionally -- is this love, friendship? Yoko goes on to marry and have a child but the marriage ends in divorce. Makino marries his manager and also becomes a father.

There are many twists to the story, all believable of jealously, forgiveness, sacrifice, and respect. This is not a quick read as every word counts (however, there might be a bit too much detail regarding the musical pieces that Makino plays). Interesting story and not the kind of book I usually read, but glad I did. Hirano is wonderful writer. ( )