The author had done her research well about the historical events of the day - the end of the Tokogawa Shogunate and the beginning of the Meiji Era, and was essentially correct in her depiction of the sake brewing family. The plot follows the strong-willed daughter of the family who actually runs the business. She never makes a mistake and only her husband was opposed to her. The main character's plotting and scheming in business and the lives of those who work under her, made me think the author has seen too many Yakuza movies with the strong female character. Also the writing style was too much like a romantic novel. The main character's love interest was unbelievable. The Scent of Sake demonstrated the gradual change in a woman's role throughout the end of the Tokugawa era into the Meiji era of Japan. Of course, not every woman saw an increase of independence or power and Rie was definitely the first to push her way into the "man's world" of sake brewing. A fascinating read for anyone interested in Japanese culture and brought back nostalgic memories of Kobe and Kyoto for me.
Loved the historical facts and strong female characters.Felt like Memoirs of a Geisha
—kearneya
Good fictional novel with interesting cultural facts.
—aec
Wannabe blockbuster that it is not!
—dean
beyond excellent!
—Susan
