Reader reviews

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.

Enjoyed Ashes & Sakura.

Had a feel of authenticity of the era and an intriguing array of motivations/emotions of service personnel, families and individuals.

Economical approach - author chose not to wax lyrical about scenery, reflections and philosophical contemplation that some authors do (suits me!)

Thanks for shedding light on the little described time.

A moving multi-generational story spanning from the early to mid 1900s, with the characters experiencing some of the major milestones of the times. I cried, I laughed and learned a whole lot about Australian modern history along the way. I absolutely loved it.

I really liked this way of learning about Australia's history. There is such a beauty to the characters in the book, their passions, love and tenderness. The lightness on character depth allowed me to remember that this story is actually about real events in history and real experiences and dilemmas. Meanwhile those reflections on the last page stay with me still.