A thoroughly enjoyable and educational read, there is no better way to learn about historical events than through the stories of people who experienced them. David has written a historically accurate and engaging account of events that have shaped our country. The way the characters lives' are intertwined and impacted throughout the novel keeps the reader engaged and enraptured (yes, I kept sneaking ahead to see what would happen). This would be a fabulous Australian history novel for students and for anyone wanting to immerse themselves into our past. If you liked A Town Like Alice...you will like this even more!

Ashes and Sakura transports readers to post-war Japan and Australia, following the compelling stories of the characters first introduced in the first novel, An Attractive Naivety. Through their journeys, the reader discovers the ruins of Japan and the moral complexity of peace times. David Gormley-O’Brien once again gives us another brilliant history lesson, that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and vividly recommend!

It is a great read! The history is fascinating (and confronting) and the storyline compelling. I became quite attached to Tom, Misty and Evelyn, and have found myself wondering what might be next for them.
I’ve just realised that a friend’s father was part of the Occupation Force, so I’m sending him a copy — I think he’ll really enjoy it.
Thanks so much for another wonderful book.