‘Dogs and Punching Bags’: A Review
It felt like *I* (i.e., my heart) was the one being punched with all the emotions..
Upon receiving word of her estranged father's declining health, 34-year-old Nichiko leaves her life in Tokyo, returning to her small island hometown. While healing from her isolated past and re-rediscovering her sense of self, she meets Chimaki, a young man with puppy energy and a heart of service. However, the reason for Chimaki's altruism may not be as innocent as it seems..
Don't be fooled by the title - there is a lot less dog in the story than expected (barring Chimaki's personality), but also a lot more depth and meaning than expected.
As for the punching bag, it felt like *I* (i.e., my heart) was the one being punched with all the emotions I experienced while reading this.. I really felt for both of our incredible MCs. Although being a stand-alone volume, I felt that the characters were well fleshed out, their personalities and growth clear. Also, I love to see a mature, non-toxic couple!
This was such a beautiful story on self-identity, love, loss, loneliness, belonging.. plus so much more. I'm already ready for the re-read!
