Review of The Abalone Ukulele

[Christabel Uzoamaka]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Skookum Yi is part of the Mugwa in Korea, a warrior. As a courier man, he handles Korea’s tribute to China and makes sure it reaches the Empress of China. When Japanese insurgents intercept the tribute under Yi’s charge, he becomes a disgrace and is forced to flee Korea. Yi’s journey leads him to different places, including Alaska, Canada, and San Francisco. He meets Ephraim, who he regards affectionately, but the Spuytens murder Ephraim. Yi must regain his honor and pay the Spuytens back in their coin. To regain his honor, Yi enlists the help of the US Navy, particularly officers Hobson and Draper. They must steal gold ingots from Imperial Japan. But international matters are not so straightforward, especially when love and lust are involved.

The Abalone Ukulele by R. L. Crossland has five parts. The first part covered Yi’s story, including how Japan made him a disgrace. I was glad for this insightful detail into Yi’s background, and it set the tone for later parts of the story. Readers get to feel Yi’s humility, foresight, and suffering. After Yi’s story, we soon see Hobson. While there is not much focus on his backstory, the author managed to flesh out Hobson’s character, letting us know why he is emotionally tied to Korea and why Yi would eventually hold him in high regard.

By the time we meet Draper, the final instrumental character in the theft of the gold ingots, there is no room for confusion, and the story progresses smoothly. The gradual progression that the author employed in revealing the storyline helped reduce whatever confusion I had due to the complex writing style the writer employed. This book is not science fiction, but the world the author created is not an easy one to read about. It is evident that the author researched every detail he drew inspiration from.

There were many new words and cultural introductions. The book mentioned things and places in Asia that I had no idea about. The author must have known that this book will not be an easy read, so he included a Glossary with links to several words in the story. I was grateful for the links because they took me directly to the meaning of the new words without much interruption to my reading flow.

The only thing I disliked about this book was that it was truly not an easy read, so it took me a while to settle into the story. But by the middle of the story, I was sitting on the edge of my seat and eagerly flipping the pages. The author was too clever in giving Yi an unexpected end. The author also included Historical Notes that showed that he drew his inspiration from actual historical events and people. Despite the time it took for me to appreciate this story, I must say that it is a work of creative genius, so my rating is 4 out of 4. This book is for historical fiction buffs. If you like reading about Asian adventures, this is a book for you. There is the use of profanity and some sexual scenes.

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The Abalone Ukulele
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[Astral Magi]

Yi's adventures to clear his name sound riveting. Do they succeed in stealing the gold from Japan? Thank you for a wonderful review.

[Chinaza Nnabuenyi]

International novels as this are always interesting to read because they expose you to so much information.

[Nkgchidimma080]

I find this book so informative,would add this book to my book shelves,beautiful review.

[Jhamae De Vera]

Informative book. It's great that I know the history and culture of japan and korea. I am grateful and will definitely read this.

[Gabriella1997]

I think it wount be a bad idea reading international novels, it's informative, thanks for the honest review.

[Sushan Ekanayake]

The Abalone Ukulele by R.L. Crossland is a masterful blend of history and adventure, weaving Skookum Yi's quest for honor across Asia and America with rich detail and cultural depth. A challenging yet rewarding read for fans of historical fiction. Congratulations on being BOTD!

[Paris Kumar]

This review provides a compelling overview of "The Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland, highlighting the intricate character development and immersive storytelling. The intricate plot involving international intrigue and personal redemption piques my interest in exploring the novel further.

Congratulation on BOTD

[Asma Aisha Ansari]

Skookum Yi's journey in 'The Abalone Ukulele' from Korea to Alaska is a riveting tale of honour and redemption. With intricate character arcs and historical depth, I'm eager to delve into this quest for vengeance and integrity.

[Jorge Leon Salazar]

This historical fiction story features Asian adventures based on true events. Yi's character looks intriguing. The story includes international affairs, love and lust.

[Olesya Teivan]

It was informative and interesting to read about intercultural relationships

[Chitra Ayengar]

Yi is a courier man who handles Korea's tribute to China. When Japan intercepts the tribute under Yi'a charge he is forces to flee Korea. Read this book based on new cultural introductions to know if Yi cleared his name. Thanks for the detailed review.

[Mamman Alhassan Thomas]

Informative book. It is a masterful blend of history and adventure, a tale of honour and redemption. Congratulations on BOTD

[Julius Adekunle]

"Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland is a gripping historical tale filled with intrigue and redemption. Despite its initial complexity, the Glossary aids comprehension, and once engaged, it's hard to put down. Fans of historical fiction will appreciate the vivid characters and unexpected twists. 4 out of 4 stars.

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

I am already intrigued by the cover; beautifully coloured, with the promise of the East with those red sails. Immediately it is obvious that R. L. Crossland knows his subject. The story seems complex, and brings together Easter and Western cultures in a brilliant and interesting g book.