Review of The Abalone Ukulele

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
Post Reply
User avatar
Nancy004
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 481
Joined: 05 May 2023, 23:18
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 169
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-nancy004.html
Latest Review: Why Paul by S. R. Ely

Re: Review of The Abalone Ukulele

Post by Nancy004 »

The Abalone Ukulele by R. L. Crossland intricately weaves a tale of honor, betrayal, and redemption across continents. While initially challenging, the rich historical detail and unexpected twists make it a rewarding read for fans of complex, culturally immersive historical fiction.
Latest Review: Why Paul by S. R. Ely
Precious Anavheoba
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 494
Joined: 12 Dec 2022, 08:25
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 60
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-precious-anavheoba.html
Latest Review: How I became a mother of seven by Calanda J. Owens

Post by Precious Anavheoba »

This book doesn't sound like my cup of tea but from the review, it has a great 4 star rating. Yi and his adventures specifically Japan seems to hold some level of interest. The characters are also developed in a full plot.
Laurence Kipkirui
Posts: 5
Joined: 26 Nov 2022, 09:00
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 2

Post by Laurence Kipkirui »

The Abalone Ukulele is a complex book, as Crossland takes his time to flesh out his characters and show the reader how they arrived at their motivations, as they hurtle towards a shared climactic event. His characters are complicated, and what I really enjoy about how Crossland writes – you feel they react realistically to the situations that challenge them. Obviously, there are moments that were included for dramatic effect, but they feel genuine. Recommended for lovers of historical and naval fiction
User avatar
Bethany Morgan 3
Posts: 1
Joined: 12 Feb 2024, 06:04
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 2

Post by Bethany Morgan 3 »

Very nice detailed review! I appreciate the way you explained it to us! I have to read this book now I'm already invested! Thank you!
User avatar
Sbitan Mohammad
In It Together VIP
Posts: 188
Joined: 07 Nov 2023, 16:13
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 95
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-sbitan-mohammad.html
Latest Review: Break by Wes Grant

Post by Sbitan Mohammad »

This is a combination of historical fiction written in combination with modern times. I look forward to learning more about how Yi attempts to rectify the issue of tributes. Thanks for the amazing review.
Latest Review: Break by Wes Grant
User avatar
Martina Sette
Minimum Wage Millionaire Reader
Posts: 548
Joined: 04 Oct 2023, 06:47
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 99
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-martina-sette.html
Latest Review: Harold and Lewey by Bela Feketekuty

Post by Martina Sette »

The detailed backgrounds of characters, especially Skookum Yi, enhance the rich narrative of the book. The intricate plot, coupled with thoughtful cultural insights, creates an interesting reading experience.
Janet Kimetto
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1370
Joined: 12 Jan 2021, 15:24
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 100
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-janet-kimetto.html
Latest Review: Henrietta Lacks The Untold Story by Ron Lacks

Post by Janet Kimetto »

This book combines adventure and historical facts in the intriguing story of Skookum Yi. Yi flees Korea in disgrace after Korea's tribute to China, which he was charged with, is intercepted by Japanese insurgents. To regain his honor, he must steal gold ingots from Imperial Japan, but how would he pull off such a feat? Congrats on BOTD!
“Be wary. Be clever. Be good.”
User avatar
mrlefty0706
In It Together VIP
Posts: 2307
Joined: 06 Aug 2020, 00:45
Favorite Author: Jack Winnick
Favorite Book: Where, Right Matters
Currently Reading: This Is Your Last Warning
Bookshelf Size: 1274
Reading Device: B00I15SB16
fav_author_id: 77547
2025 Reading Goal: 150
2025 Goal Completion: 115%

Post by mrlefty0706 »

Hi @Rahul Singh 29, for some unknown reason I receive an email notification when a member comments on the BOTD after I post my comments. I read the comments posted since I learn from other members. I liked your review and I think you summarized it very well. @Mrlefty0706
User avatar
mrlefty0706
In It Together VIP
Posts: 2307
Joined: 06 Aug 2020, 00:45
Favorite Author: Jack Winnick
Favorite Book: Where, Right Matters
Currently Reading: This Is Your Last Warning
Bookshelf Size: 1274
Reading Device: B00I15SB16
fav_author_id: 77547
2025 Reading Goal: 150
2025 Goal Completion: 115%

Post by mrlefty0706 »

Hi @Janet Kimetto, your comments on the BOTD should encourage other members to read this book and learn if Yi does regain his honor. Thank you. @Mrlefty0706
Post Reply

Return to “Historical Fiction”