This was a reread, and even the second time around I absolutely LOVED the story. First of all, the chess part was captivating. I'm an amateur payer and don't know much about the technicalities of this sport, but this book achieved what only the Queen's Gambit series managed before: made me want to dive into chess and learn as much and play as much as I can. (It would be interesting to delve into the fact that the author mentions in her Acknowledgement that she finally had the opportunity to write this story -- soon after the enormous success of a chess series.) What Ali did really well is that chess wasn't simply a background noise, but almost felt like one of the characters. In many sports romances, the sport itself doesn't get enough focus, but this novel had the perfect balance. But what was even better: the characters themselves. Mallory, this bisexual queen, is so loveable. For sure, she puts too much pressure on herself, but it really makes her relatable. As all the Hazelwood-heroines, she is incredible oblivious to what's happening around her: whether it's her BFF, her sisters or Nolan himself. On the other hand, Nolan is just... perfect. And he is the opposite of oblivious. He knows exactly what he wants (Mallory, in any shape or form he can get her, nothing else) and is willing to do anything necessary to get there. Even compromise his own success. Their chemistry is really hot for a YA book, but the spice is closed, so it's a safe read. Absolutely LOVED it!

I got this book as a Christmas gift, and it's a great thing because otherwise I might have not discovered this treasure of a story. The novel is a collection of five stories, we get glimpses of five lives that are connected by one thing: in times of need or imbalance, they all end up going to the Ginza Shihodo Stationary Shop, where the owner, Ken Takarada intuits their every need and gently pushes them in the right direction. The individual stories are captivating and are perfect representations of Japanese culture and the atmosphere. I can't decide whose story I loved more. First, in Fountain Pen, we meet Nitta, a young man trying to find his way and connect his present to his past, while finding the words to say thank you to his grandmother, who raised him. In Organiser, Yuri, the young hostess of an elegant an exclusive club is preparing for the next step in her career, and is need of advice. In Notebooks, Nanami, the vice-captain of a high school archery team is figuring out a way to confess her feeling to her co-captain. In Postcards, Sho, the ageing businessman is regretting his life choices and losing the one person who truly supported him. And finally, in Memo Pads, Fuda, the successful sushi chef is remembering his past and his humble beginnings. Each story shows ordinary lives, but elevates them, and even the simplest actions seem extraordinary in the lenses of the story. It was lovely to start every day immersing myself in a new chapter, meeting these lovely characters, and more over, learning about Ken, the owner, who definitely deserves his own happy ending - hopefully in the next book! The translation by Emily Balistrieri is amazing.