From Publishers Weekly Set in Japan, this over-long saga of two entwined families draws on the carnage of World War II for much of its dramatic appeal. For three generations, the Hosokawa-Napier silk works flourishes under the joint ownership of American and Japanese heirs. Threatened by bankruptcy in 1936, Douglas Napier and Baron Hosokawa strike an uneasy, though profitable, deal with Germany to produce war goods that fuel the conflict brewing in Europe. Their enduring partnership is also threatened from within by young Max Napier and the Baron's daughter, Shizue, star-crossed lovers determined to defy the unbending traditions that separate their worlds. When war engulfs Europe, Douglas attempts to redress old wrongs by saving Jewish refugees and is interned in a prison camp when Japan enters the fray. Max remains free through a trick of fate but is forced to fight on the American side, torn by the knowledge that the war may destroy both the woman and the land he loves. The novel suffers from heavy padding and uneven writing; descriptions are rich, but the dialogue if often stilted. Vivid war scenes include the bombing of Nagasaki and its terrible aftermath. 100,000 first printing; $100,000 ad/promo. Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. Read more From Library Journal In 1871 Andrew Napier and Fujio Hosokawa found a large silk textile mill in Nagasaki. Two generations later, Douglas Napier and Tadashi Hosokawa are not only Harvard classmates but the closest of friends. The story unfolds in 1936 as love is growing between Douglas's son, Max, and Tadashi's daughter, Shizuea union verboten because of the mixture of blood. Forbidden love, however, did not stop Douglas, who in his youth fathered a child by a Japanese noblewoman. In this exceptional novel, the author shows great insight into the Japanese and their obsession with honor and tradition. The characters are well drawn and memorable, and the smooth narrative vividly captures the world tensions leading up to World War II, which tears the fabric binding these two families together. Highly recommended. Maria A. Perez-Stable, Western Michigan Univ. Libs., KalamazooCopyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. Read more
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