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Secrets of the Apple
Warning: The hero and heroine do not hate each other on page one and tear their clothes off on page three. There is no mention of “the ice around his heart,” or any character’s “crumbling walls.” There may be some laughing and possibly a little crying, but no brain cells will die in the reading of this book. Oh, and don’t be bothered should there be a tiny bit of death and dismemberment, a touch really, hardly any at all. Just so we’re clear.
Ever watched a man fall in love from the inside, a man really kicking and screaming, fighting it all the way? Our hero is a wealthy, arrogant businessman, a real beast to work for, and his new assistant Kate is a thorn in his paw. But their meeting will send them both on an epic exploration of love that will take them from San Francisco, to the urban jungles of Brazil, and finally to a penthouse office in Tokyo, gradually forcing them each to confront who they are within.
Ever watched a man fall in love from the inside? It’s complicated, and beautiful.
Ever watched a man fall in love from the inside, a man really kicking and screaming, fighting it all the way? Our hero is a wealthy, arrogant businessman, a real beast to work for, and his new assistant Kate is a thorn in his paw. But their meeting will send them both on an epic exploration of love that will take them from San Francisco, to the urban jungles of Brazil, and finally to a penthouse office in Tokyo, gradually forcing them each to confront who they are within.
Ever watched a man fall in love from the inside? It’s complicated, and beautiful.
368 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 16, 2012
Let me say first and foremost that I am married to Paula, so anything I say will be totally biased. Let me instead quote the Kirkus Review of the book IN FULL:
Full Kirkus Review:
"Detailing how family dynamics, cultural diversity and past relationships shape who we are, debut novelist Hiatt subtly explores the cavern between a successful life and a meaningful one. Kate, a young idealistic American, and Ryoki, a wealthy Japanese businessman—both divorced—pair up professionally when Ryoki needs an assistant quickly and it just so happens that Kate’s teaching position fell through. (Readers learn later that their mutually caring families have a hand in the “coincidence.”) Their two families deeply respect each other with a long-standing business partnership and friendship, though neither Kate nor Ryoki knows each other.
Ryoki reluctantly accepts Kate into his office; he seriously doubts her capabilities and is concerned she'll negatively impact his big project and professional reputation. After all, he demands a grueling pace from his assistant and the responsibilities are enormous. Kate quickly proves that what she lacks in training, she makes up for with brains, intuition and hard work. In the office, she mothers and nags Ryoki for being a workaholic, and her quirks and eccentricities annoy him. Eventually, Ryoki notices that he feels differently when Kate is away.
Hiatt uses interesting metaphors and visual descriptions as the love story slowly boils below the surface, though occasionally those unique metaphors are distracting. Ryoki's thoughts—a surprising amount of self-doubt and hurt—linger under his suit, but like Ryoki, we're never quite sure of Kate's thoughts. The reader and Ryoki want to know more about her, which keeps both pushing forward. He invites her to work for him in Brazil, arranging her quarters in a guest cottage outside his home. Kate wonders why he goes to such pains for a “temporary” assistant and Ryoki wonders why himself. In Sao Paulo, they remain platonic and professional but as intimate as a couple can be without sex. Each secretly cherishes this escape from the life they had been living before—Ryoki especially—but in their tense, tender connection, he’s afraid to act on his emotions until another man threatens to swoop in and take Kate away from him.
An exceptional first effort that captures the harmony of two beating hearts."
Full Kirkus Review:
"Detailing how family dynamics, cultural diversity and past relationships shape who we are, debut novelist Hiatt subtly explores the cavern between a successful life and a meaningful one. Kate, a young idealistic American, and Ryoki, a wealthy Japanese businessman—both divorced—pair up professionally when Ryoki needs an assistant quickly and it just so happens that Kate’s teaching position fell through. (Readers learn later that their mutually caring families have a hand in the “coincidence.”) Their two families deeply respect each other with a long-standing business partnership and friendship, though neither Kate nor Ryoki knows each other.
Ryoki reluctantly accepts Kate into his office; he seriously doubts her capabilities and is concerned she'll negatively impact his big project and professional reputation. After all, he demands a grueling pace from his assistant and the responsibilities are enormous. Kate quickly proves that what she lacks in training, she makes up for with brains, intuition and hard work. In the office, she mothers and nags Ryoki for being a workaholic, and her quirks and eccentricities annoy him. Eventually, Ryoki notices that he feels differently when Kate is away.
Hiatt uses interesting metaphors and visual descriptions as the love story slowly boils below the surface, though occasionally those unique metaphors are distracting. Ryoki's thoughts—a surprising amount of self-doubt and hurt—linger under his suit, but like Ryoki, we're never quite sure of Kate's thoughts. The reader and Ryoki want to know more about her, which keeps both pushing forward. He invites her to work for him in Brazil, arranging her quarters in a guest cottage outside his home. Kate wonders why he goes to such pains for a “temporary” assistant and Ryoki wonders why himself. In Sao Paulo, they remain platonic and professional but as intimate as a couple can be without sex. Each secretly cherishes this escape from the life they had been living before—Ryoki especially—but in their tense, tender connection, he’s afraid to act on his emotions until another man threatens to swoop in and take Kate away from him.
An exceptional first effort that captures the harmony of two beating hearts."
February 17, 2013
A fabulous book with a poor ending.
I read this book with this phrase constantly in my mind. “That was different.” The author is very sensitive, for lack of a better word. Her delivery is spot-on. I adored her original phrasing. The romance is delectable. Slow and easy but definitely happening. The way the author hand-crafted Ryoki's love for Kate is exquisite. It feels real and masculine, not at all sappy. It is tangible and the best bit of all, is that Ryoki's love is not blind. He really sees Kate, without rose-tinted glasses. I mean, that's what true love is sans magical fairy dust. Ryoki longs for Kate and her affections but he doesn't put her on a pedestal. He's also fully aware of the cultural barriers between them and holds her at arm's length.
Ryoki is a traditional Japanese. He is a meticulous, proud, and reserved workaholic. He is taken aback by his new assistant who has no decorum or protocol. He struggles to figure her out. Despite his paradoxical ways, I enjoyed Ryoki's character. It's mainly the little things. His chivalry, his knowledge of human nature, his precision, and the poetic way he desires Kate makes him an unusual but delightful hero. His attitude towards Kate is hard to describe. Part of it is very “I'm the man and I'm always right” and part of it is his reluctant admiration of her. On one hand, he's often critical of her while at the same time he is in awe of her. Kate is such a mystery to him, and as the months goes on he slowly unravels her and discovers what makes her tick. I loved that he bothered to look beneath her bravado and see her for who she really is.
Kate is extremely efficient even though she lacks social grace and elegance. I was as shocked as Ryoki when Kate refers to him as a “punk kid”. She really takes him down a peg or two. But she's good for him – she lightens him up and her behaviour is completely platonic. I couldn't figure out if she was falling for Ryoki or not. I loved that she isn't bubbly in that stereotypical bouncy fashion. She's just happy, likes to smile and is such a funny character. She loves to sight-see and enjoy the moment, two things that Ryoki never ever does because he hates “wasting time”. Kate's personality keeps Ryoki on his toes with her unexpected sarcasm, steady aura and the fact that she never says his name. She's both absent-minded and observant, street smart and yet often clueless. Completely unpredictable. Ryoki can never pull one over her and his coldness doesn't scare her. At the very least she is multi-dimensional, at most she is exotic/unfathomable in a world of bland heroines.
PS. I loved that the author captured music the way I have always experienced music. Without fanfare but still from the soul.
She didn’t close her eyes or make flourishing gestures with her hands, or add any of the theatrical indulgences committed by those who believe themselves carried away by art rather than by their own vanity. It seemed to Ryoki that she played lit from within, as one who plays for the sheer love of the sound, and nothing to prove to anybody.
I read this book with this phrase constantly in my mind. “That was different.” The author is very sensitive, for lack of a better word. Her delivery is spot-on. I adored her original phrasing. The romance is delectable. Slow and easy but definitely happening. The way the author hand-crafted Ryoki's love for Kate is exquisite. It feels real and masculine, not at all sappy. It is tangible and the best bit of all, is that Ryoki's love is not blind. He really sees Kate, without rose-tinted glasses. I mean, that's what true love is sans magical fairy dust. Ryoki longs for Kate and her affections but he doesn't put her on a pedestal. He's also fully aware of the cultural barriers between them and holds her at arm's length.
Ryoki is a traditional Japanese. He is a meticulous, proud, and reserved workaholic. He is taken aback by his new assistant who has no decorum or protocol. He struggles to figure her out. Despite his paradoxical ways, I enjoyed Ryoki's character. It's mainly the little things. His chivalry, his knowledge of human nature, his precision, and the poetic way he desires Kate makes him an unusual but delightful hero. His attitude towards Kate is hard to describe. Part of it is very “I'm the man and I'm always right” and part of it is his reluctant admiration of her. On one hand, he's often critical of her while at the same time he is in awe of her. Kate is such a mystery to him, and as the months goes on he slowly unravels her and discovers what makes her tick. I loved that he bothered to look beneath her bravado and see her for who she really is.
Kate is extremely efficient even though she lacks social grace and elegance. I was as shocked as Ryoki when Kate refers to him as a “punk kid”. She really takes him down a peg or two. But she's good for him – she lightens him up and her behaviour is completely platonic. I couldn't figure out if she was falling for Ryoki or not. I loved that she isn't bubbly in that stereotypical bouncy fashion. She's just happy, likes to smile and is such a funny character. She loves to sight-see and enjoy the moment, two things that Ryoki never ever does because he hates “wasting time”. Kate's personality keeps Ryoki on his toes with her unexpected sarcasm, steady aura and the fact that she never says his name. She's both absent-minded and observant, street smart and yet often clueless. Completely unpredictable. Ryoki can never pull one over her and his coldness doesn't scare her. At the very least she is multi-dimensional, at most she is exotic/unfathomable in a world of bland heroines.
PS. I loved that the author captured music the way I have always experienced music. Without fanfare but still from the soul.
She didn’t close her eyes or make flourishing gestures with her hands, or add any of the theatrical indulgences committed by those who believe themselves carried away by art rather than by their own vanity. It seemed to Ryoki that she played lit from within, as one who plays for the sheer love of the sound, and nothing to prove to anybody.
October 25, 2012
Wow, why aren't more people talking about this book?
Maybe because readers don't know it exists. Because I have to think if they knew, they'd love it as much as I did. I'd give it more of a 4.5, than a 4.
The story is about love, a clash of cultures, overcoming not only social barriers, but also discovering that you should never judge a person's character based off first impressions. If it sort of sounds like P&P, I think it's because it did lean heavily on an Austenesque influence. Though, at first glance it doesn't appear so. The pov is told almost solely from the man's perspective, which is refreshing in 1st pov (that almost always and without exception told by the woman). Secondly, he's an uptight Japanese buisness man, she's a modern American woman. They are so opposite, and yet, beneath the thin facade they both hide behind, they discover they're not so different after all.
This isn't a fast romance. It isn't an unrealistic romance, at times it's ugly, gritty, and real.
This book is such a departure from my typical fare, and maybe that's why I enjoyed it so much. This book is firmly in G camp, but no less toe curling and romantic, especially toward the end when Ryoki (our hero) begins to loose his strict Japanese upbringing and let her in. When he calls her honey, I seriously swooned. Yup, sank down in my pillow with a happy, happy sigh.
I loved this book and would highly recommend any fan of true romance, to pick it up and give it a try.
Maybe because readers don't know it exists. Because I have to think if they knew, they'd love it as much as I did. I'd give it more of a 4.5, than a 4.
The story is about love, a clash of cultures, overcoming not only social barriers, but also discovering that you should never judge a person's character based off first impressions. If it sort of sounds like P&P, I think it's because it did lean heavily on an Austenesque influence. Though, at first glance it doesn't appear so. The pov is told almost solely from the man's perspective, which is refreshing in 1st pov (that almost always and without exception told by the woman). Secondly, he's an uptight Japanese buisness man, she's a modern American woman. They are so opposite, and yet, beneath the thin facade they both hide behind, they discover they're not so different after all.
This isn't a fast romance. It isn't an unrealistic romance, at times it's ugly, gritty, and real.
This book is such a departure from my typical fare, and maybe that's why I enjoyed it so much. This book is firmly in G camp, but no less toe curling and romantic, especially toward the end when Ryoki (our hero) begins to loose his strict Japanese upbringing and let her in. When he calls her honey, I seriously swooned. Yup, sank down in my pillow with a happy, happy sigh.
I loved this book and would highly recommend any fan of true romance, to pick it up and give it a try.
October 7, 2015
Not enough words to say how much I loved this book. Paula Hiatt created a story that drew me into wanting to learn so much more about the Japanese and Brazilian cultures and to visit the locations described in her book. As someone who is from two different cultures myself I feel a natural affinity to stories and people who are multiracial. No one really gets the dynamics involved in trying to balance both worlds unless you are a mixed. It is both very rewarding and very difficult to relate to people especially in a minority culture as you are seen as not quite right or one of us but yet you are. Hiatt does a great job of creating the right vibe for Ryoki who tries to live up to higher standards and pressures. The story is also incredibly funny and has a great classic romance. Secrets of the Apple reminded me of a Hepburn or Bacall movie. Obviously I highly recommend buying Hiatt’s book and have already added her name to my list of authors I follow, waiting for their next book. I have already bought a copy for the library as I am hoping many others will discover this wonderful author.
Want to read
May 3, 2019*To Read*
Thoughts:
I love romances. This is what attracted me to this one!
Thoughts:
I love romances. This is what attracted me to this one!
September 26, 2012
The beginning of this book was really, really good. It was so good, actually, that I was going to give the book 5 stars, which I don't do so often. Unfortunately, I thought that the story dragged at some point and the ending felt extremely rushed. Therefore 4 stars.
The tale is about Ryoki Tanaka, a Japanese businessman, and his secretary, Kate.
Ryoki is sceptical at first because Kate is't actually a trained assistant, but rather a linguist. Still, he soon discovers the hidden talents that lie behind her pink suit and amused demeanor.
Anyway, what I liked most about this book was the voice. The voice of Ryoki, the narrator, was very interesting and witty at times, clearly displaying the author's talent.
The characters were multi-layered, Ryoki being one of the most developped and understandable characters I had ever read about. Kate, on the other hand, felt a bit underdevelopped - which is probably due to the fact that not much is revealed about her till the very end. She always seems a bit distant and too mysterious for my liking. The main problem was that Ryoki didn't understand her - and neither did I.
The character interaction was really good and very realistic, for that I applaud the author.
I also liked the multi-cultural aspect of the novel, the story taking place in America, Tokyo and even Brazil.
I was impressed with how the author handled Ryoki being Japanese - I myself having lived there for awhile would say that the image Ms. Hiatt produced is quite accurate. She handles the japanese culture very well and I liked that. I'm a person who gets really worked up when faced with a blonde American kung fu/samurai/priest girl who is apparently an ancestor of a Chinese/Korean/Japanese god and now has to fight evil demons. In America.
All in all, this was a good read. I really liked this book even though I don't agree with the rushed ending. There should have been more. The main problem was that the realistic issues Kate and Ryoki had with each other were still there at the end. You can't just explain them away with love conquers all. That wasn't good. I felt that many strings were left unbound in the end and quite a few questions unresolved.
Apart from that, the book was excellent, especially considering this is the author's first novel.
I definetely recommend it.
The tale is about Ryoki Tanaka, a Japanese businessman, and his secretary, Kate.
Ryoki is sceptical at first because Kate is't actually a trained assistant, but rather a linguist. Still, he soon discovers the hidden talents that lie behind her pink suit and amused demeanor.
Anyway, what I liked most about this book was the voice. The voice of Ryoki, the narrator, was very interesting and witty at times, clearly displaying the author's talent.
The characters were multi-layered, Ryoki being one of the most developped and understandable characters I had ever read about. Kate, on the other hand, felt a bit underdevelopped - which is probably due to the fact that not much is revealed about her till the very end. She always seems a bit distant and too mysterious for my liking. The main problem was that Ryoki didn't understand her - and neither did I.
The character interaction was really good and very realistic, for that I applaud the author.
I also liked the multi-cultural aspect of the novel, the story taking place in America, Tokyo and even Brazil.
I was impressed with how the author handled Ryoki being Japanese - I myself having lived there for awhile would say that the image Ms. Hiatt produced is quite accurate. She handles the japanese culture very well and I liked that. I'm a person who gets really worked up when faced with a blonde American kung fu/samurai/priest girl who is apparently an ancestor of a Chinese/Korean/Japanese god and now has to fight evil demons. In America.
All in all, this was a good read. I really liked this book even though I don't agree with the rushed ending. There should have been more. The main problem was that the realistic issues Kate and Ryoki had with each other were still there at the end. You can't just explain them away with love conquers all. That wasn't good. I felt that many strings were left unbound in the end and quite a few questions unresolved.
Apart from that, the book was excellent, especially considering this is the author's first novel.
I definetely recommend it.
November 13, 2014
First of all, I'd like to thank Paula for a copy of this book. I really enjoyed it. I received a copy of this book from the First Reads giveaways.
The whole time I was reading it I had mixed emotions about how I felt about it. I often found that I couldn't quite place my finger on the reason why I found it so enthralling to read, because in theory, it's quite a simple plot line. But once I got into reading, I just couldn't stop turning the pages.
The characters of Ryoki and Kate are wonderful, and I was so pleased with the ending of the book - it really was perfect. It's such an interesting book and it's definitely changed my perspective of many things. I wouldn't hesitate to compare it to a modern day Romeo and Juliet, often finding myself frustrated that the characters don't hurry up and admit they love each other sooner!
The way that Hiatt has capture Japanese cultures and the interplay that occurs when cultures clash is amazing. I've definitely gained a new appreciation for Japanese culture after reading this, that's for sure. And that is probably one of my highlights from reading this book. I love finishing a book and being able to say "that changed me", this certainly did.
I really do think this is a wonderful read, although I did struggle with it a bit simply because it's not usually a genre I read, I soldiered on, and I'm very, very glad I did. If you have a thing for absolutely PERFECT endings then this book is for you. But there you go, I gave it a spin, and I'm certainly glad I did. If you get the opportunity to read this book I really think you should go for it. It's so unique and spellbinding in the way it weaves the lives of the characters together or apart. In short, it's a stunning novel.
The whole time I was reading it I had mixed emotions about how I felt about it. I often found that I couldn't quite place my finger on the reason why I found it so enthralling to read, because in theory, it's quite a simple plot line. But once I got into reading, I just couldn't stop turning the pages.
The characters of Ryoki and Kate are wonderful, and I was so pleased with the ending of the book - it really was perfect. It's such an interesting book and it's definitely changed my perspective of many things. I wouldn't hesitate to compare it to a modern day Romeo and Juliet, often finding myself frustrated that the characters don't hurry up and admit they love each other sooner!
The way that Hiatt has capture Japanese cultures and the interplay that occurs when cultures clash is amazing. I've definitely gained a new appreciation for Japanese culture after reading this, that's for sure. And that is probably one of my highlights from reading this book. I love finishing a book and being able to say "that changed me", this certainly did.
I really do think this is a wonderful read, although I did struggle with it a bit simply because it's not usually a genre I read, I soldiered on, and I'm very, very glad I did. If you have a thing for absolutely PERFECT endings then this book is for you. But there you go, I gave it a spin, and I'm certainly glad I did. If you get the opportunity to read this book I really think you should go for it. It's so unique and spellbinding in the way it weaves the lives of the characters together or apart. In short, it's a stunning novel.
October 12, 2013
A slow, drama filled, romantic story of two lives coming together. Paula Hiatt is a true poet, meaning she put words to motion in this novel and produced a really great story. Secrets of the Apple transcends two races and two cultures. It is like that perfect cup of coffee, separately the ingredients are subpar but mixed together in a precise timely fashion it makes the perfect blend; the perfect cup. This novel follows the business adventures of Ryoki esteemed, wealthy and attractive business man and Kate, the attractive American assistant. The two backgrounds are deeply intertwined from youth but can they overcome their differences culturally?
Hiatt plays the story out in a series of events that span multiple countries and languages. It is a breath of fresh air to read basically the adventures of Kate and see Ryoki not take life and those around him so seriously. He is a young successful man and Kate might be the right person to loosen him up. Both characters have shared their respective bad relationships that have harden them and stopped them from truly loving another. Hiatt places the reader on a rollercoaster ride of adventures and emotions in this novel.
Secrets of the Apple is a quick romantic read and easy to follow. Hiatt definitely produced a good book and I cannot wait to read more of her work.
Hiatt plays the story out in a series of events that span multiple countries and languages. It is a breath of fresh air to read basically the adventures of Kate and see Ryoki not take life and those around him so seriously. He is a young successful man and Kate might be the right person to loosen him up. Both characters have shared their respective bad relationships that have harden them and stopped them from truly loving another. Hiatt places the reader on a rollercoaster ride of adventures and emotions in this novel.
Secrets of the Apple is a quick romantic read and easy to follow. Hiatt definitely produced a good book and I cannot wait to read more of her work.
February 3, 2013
Started: 1/30/13
Finished: 2/2/13
This book had a good plot. The two main characters Ryoki and Kate had an interesting connection and the gentle way they fell in love was very well written. I enjoyed most of the book, however, there were times when the writer went off to describe this or that and I felt myself glossing over the filler to get to the good stuff. This was not a funny book but there were a few times I did laugh out loud.
“You’re certainly not a racecar driver,” he said as the closing credits of his life rolled past his eyes. Paula Hiatt – The Secrets of the Apple
The book was written from Ryoki’s POV which I find to be happening more and more in the literary world and it’s not a bad thing. I like to read from the guy’s perspective. Sometimes though I found him to be a whiny, spoiled-brat. I have quite the collection of “book boyfriends” but Ryoki didn’t do it for me and I didn’t fall in love with him.
This book was not a must.get.to.the.end.now type book – which is what I normally read. But it was a gentle love story that is worth reading. A good debut novel from Paula Hiatt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review. A more in-depth review was posted on my blog
Finished: 2/2/13
This book had a good plot. The two main characters Ryoki and Kate had an interesting connection and the gentle way they fell in love was very well written. I enjoyed most of the book, however, there were times when the writer went off to describe this or that and I felt myself glossing over the filler to get to the good stuff. This was not a funny book but there were a few times I did laugh out loud.
“You’re certainly not a racecar driver,” he said as the closing credits of his life rolled past his eyes. Paula Hiatt – The Secrets of the Apple
The book was written from Ryoki’s POV which I find to be happening more and more in the literary world and it’s not a bad thing. I like to read from the guy’s perspective. Sometimes though I found him to be a whiny, spoiled-brat. I have quite the collection of “book boyfriends” but Ryoki didn’t do it for me and I didn’t fall in love with him.
This book was not a must.get.to.the.end.now type book – which is what I normally read. But it was a gentle love story that is worth reading. A good debut novel from Paula Hiatt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review. A more in-depth review was posted on my blog
July 15, 2013
Is it possible for a Japanese man and an American woman to find love in each other? Can two people overcome cultural differences, not to mention their own pasts? In this book, the author has given the reader a fantastic look at how love is born, nurtured and grows between a Japanese man, Ryoki, and his assistant, Kate. At first glance they are about as different as two people can be, but over the course of the book, they manage to overcome their differences. Ryoki has his Japanese background forming his life and actions, while Kate has her American background. The author has given the reader an excellent insight into Japanese culture and its influences while showing the reader how both the Japanese man and American in a loving manner. I loved the way this book does not follow the usual boy meets girl, boy dates girl and they fall in love pattern found in so many romance novels. This was a refreshing change of pace. The book is very well written and the characters are believable and true to themselves. For a new author, Ms. Hiat has definitely shown that she can produce a great book. I look forward to reading more from her. I received this book from Goodreads.
December 15, 2013
Goodreads First Reads Giveaway Book.
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A modern international love story is the primary theme of Secrets of the Apple. It’s a story that draws the reader into the growing emotional relationship between Ryoki, a Japanese executive, and his assistant and family friend, Kate, an English instructor. In addition to the primary love theme, the author uses thrilling suspense of murder and kidnapping throughout the story to keep the reader’s interest.
It becomes clear in the book that the author has a strong passion with English literature and even the English profession. Paula Hiatt, holding a degree in English, includes academic background of holding an English degree for the story’s characters. In one section, she mentioned a conference of English professors. Further, if you look closely, you can find several familiar themes or paraphrases from classic English literature.
With interesting metaphors and visual descriptions, Secrets of the Apple provides a romantic story filled with adventures and emotions. A good book to add to anyone’s library.
------------------------------------
A modern international love story is the primary theme of Secrets of the Apple. It’s a story that draws the reader into the growing emotional relationship between Ryoki, a Japanese executive, and his assistant and family friend, Kate, an English instructor. In addition to the primary love theme, the author uses thrilling suspense of murder and kidnapping throughout the story to keep the reader’s interest.
It becomes clear in the book that the author has a strong passion with English literature and even the English profession. Paula Hiatt, holding a degree in English, includes academic background of holding an English degree for the story’s characters. In one section, she mentioned a conference of English professors. Further, if you look closely, you can find several familiar themes or paraphrases from classic English literature.
With interesting metaphors and visual descriptions, Secrets of the Apple provides a romantic story filled with adventures and emotions. A good book to add to anyone’s library.
August 23, 2012
Secrets of the Apple is not an exciting book nor is it a page turner. What it is, is a wonderfully written book that is realistic and heart warming. I usually do not care for romances but this was not a typical sappy boy gets girl, loses girl and gets her back sort of book. It is a book that shows how a business partnership, boss and assistant progress through their work and how a friendship grows which turns into a caring and repectful love even though they really do not think it will work. Ryoki is a Japanese business man who is introduced to Kate by her uncle. Ryoki is in the USA and heading down to South America to further expand his family's business. Kate accompanies Ryoki as his assisant since she is a linguist who speaks Japanese and Portugese. Both have been hurt in past relationships which have ended in divorce which causes them to keep their feelings and emotions gaurded.
I truly recommend this book as a wonderful summer read where you can curl up on the couch and just escape. I received this book for free from Goodreads.
I truly recommend this book as a wonderful summer read where you can curl up on the couch and just escape. I received this book for free from Goodreads.
August 17, 2014
A slow building, believable romance that completely grips you from beginning to end. Paula Hiatt does a beautiful job of injecting cultural differences, past relationships, expectations, and importance of family into this story.
The story is told from Ryoki’s view and thus as a reader, we are never really sure of what Kate is ever thinking or feeling left to only contemplate and hope as Ryoki does throughout the story. It was frustrating at times as I wanted a look into Kate’s head. But I’m glad it was written this way, it put me in Ryoki’s shoes often wondering and hoping that she felt the same way. Ryoki and Kate are two people that fiercely guard their hearts and emotions and even as they slowly, gently fall in love, they are hesitant to ever act on them due to previous marriages tainting their views on love.
This is not a fast-paced romance that you can skim through, every interaction between the two matters and builds into a complicated, tentative yet magnificent love by the end.
The story is told from Ryoki’s view and thus as a reader, we are never really sure of what Kate is ever thinking or feeling left to only contemplate and hope as Ryoki does throughout the story. It was frustrating at times as I wanted a look into Kate’s head. But I’m glad it was written this way, it put me in Ryoki’s shoes often wondering and hoping that she felt the same way. Ryoki and Kate are two people that fiercely guard their hearts and emotions and even as they slowly, gently fall in love, they are hesitant to ever act on them due to previous marriages tainting their views on love.
This is not a fast-paced romance that you can skim through, every interaction between the two matters and builds into a complicated, tentative yet magnificent love by the end.
August 8, 2012
Secrets of the Apple is essentially about a japanese man and an american woman finding love with each other. Ryoki and Kate seem so destined to be together but they have some muck in the way. Some of the muck is themselves. There are cultural differences that play a big role as to why the 2 didnt get together sooner. They also have some past relationship issues and it seems they will never be able to move forward for fear of making the same mistakes. I thought this was a very good book. the author did a wonderful job with her characters and the building of the story. (It was a little slow going til the last third of the book but it is neccessary info that makes you love Ryoki and Kate) I know a few things were borrowed from the authors real life which makes me love the story more. Mrs Hiatt know how to write a book! I look forward to more from this lady!!!
***disclaimer***
I received a free copy of this book from bookrooster.com in exchange for an honest review.
***disclaimer***
I received a free copy of this book from bookrooster.com in exchange for an honest review.
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February 19, 2013Netgalley provided me with a copy of this book for my honest review
Ryoki is an executive with a tendency to care more about work than people. He has to be in control of things, he works all the time and when he does have an off day he spends it drinking and sleeping with meaningless women. He meets Kate who is his temporary asistant, he starts to see things differently. This book was a slow love story, it focused on the importance of family. This book was well written, the characters had layers that were slowly exposed through out the book. The meetings of old customs and new ideas was interesting to read about. This book had a lot going for it and I am sure there are a lot of people who will enjoy it. However, I don't feel that I can accurately rate it, I don't think it would be fair to author to give it a one star just because it was it was not my personal taste. I also can't give it anything higher because I can't see past my dislike.
Ryoki is an executive with a tendency to care more about work than people. He has to be in control of things, he works all the time and when he does have an off day he spends it drinking and sleeping with meaningless women. He meets Kate who is his temporary asistant, he starts to see things differently. This book was a slow love story, it focused on the importance of family. This book was well written, the characters had layers that were slowly exposed through out the book. The meetings of old customs and new ideas was interesting to read about. This book had a lot going for it and I am sure there are a lot of people who will enjoy it. However, I don't feel that I can accurately rate it, I don't think it would be fair to author to give it a one star just because it was it was not my personal taste. I also can't give it anything higher because I can't see past my dislike.
June 19, 2013
I received this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
This book for me was not a page turner and didn't have me wondering or excited. It is well written and lengthy, but makes you see Ryoki's point of view from a cultural standpoint. I am a fan of romance and would have liked a little more action in terms of stating the obvious feelings for one another. Another thing is that the author wrote some of the points of view from the maid's and other characters in the book. I particularly enjoyed how we found out about her marriage in her journal. Would have liked to have heard a discussion about it and or secrets she felt toward Ryoki. Some will like it and some will hate it. I am in between the two.
This book for me was not a page turner and didn't have me wondering or excited. It is well written and lengthy, but makes you see Ryoki's point of view from a cultural standpoint. I am a fan of romance and would have liked a little more action in terms of stating the obvious feelings for one another. Another thing is that the author wrote some of the points of view from the maid's and other characters in the book. I particularly enjoyed how we found out about her marriage in her journal. Would have liked to have heard a discussion about it and or secrets she felt toward Ryoki. Some will like it and some will hate it. I am in between the two.
February 7, 2013
One of the best books I've read in a long time.
It was slow, long and fascinating. I didn't want to put it down and when it was finished I had to start from the beginning again because I wasn't ready to let go of the delicious contemplative feeling it created.
I don't know much of the Japanese way of thinking so the love story in this book was like a strange and captivating foreign world to me. I loved it. I didn't necessarily relate to the characters but they were credible with strong integrity, consistent, so I found them lovely anyway.
I will be looking forward to more from this author.
It was slow, long and fascinating. I didn't want to put it down and when it was finished I had to start from the beginning again because I wasn't ready to let go of the delicious contemplative feeling it created.
I don't know much of the Japanese way of thinking so the love story in this book was like a strange and captivating foreign world to me. I loved it. I didn't necessarily relate to the characters but they were credible with strong integrity, consistent, so I found them lovely anyway.
I will be looking forward to more from this author.
October 12, 2013
Secrets of The Apple by Paula Hiatt is a romantic novel. The story is about Ryoki a very serious Japanese businessman and his american assistant. Secrets of The Apple is not an insta-love romance. It is a slow, realistic approach to two people following in love.
I will be honest, it took me a little bit to warm up to this story. It is not a fast-paced romance. Ryoki is not a typical hero but he grew on me and the more I read, the more I liked. Different can be good, very very good. I am so glad I gave this book a chance. Definitely recommend!
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads.
I will be honest, it took me a little bit to warm up to this story. It is not a fast-paced romance. Ryoki is not a typical hero but he grew on me and the more I read, the more I liked. Different can be good, very very good. I am so glad I gave this book a chance. Definitely recommend!
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads.
March 10, 2013
It took me a little bit to get into this book, but once I did, I was hooked. I really enjoyed the character-driven plot. Ryoki and Kate were deep and multi-layered characters. I loved the complexities of their relationship and seeing the growth in Ryoki’s character (who I really couldn’t stand in the beginning). I enjoyed the author’s clever writing and the humor sprinkled throughout the story. Any book that makes me stay up too late and delay pressing duties deserves at least four stars.
Four Stars.
Four Stars.
April 14, 2013
A clean romance story between a rich Japanese man (told from his perspective) falling in love with his temporary assistant, an American. It tells how he grows from not respecting her to learning he can't live without her. Through the story you are wishing you could get into her head. He was such a hardened businessman, shut off from his emotions from his divorce. She is such a strong woman recovering from her own divorce a few years before and waiting for her English professor position to open at a college in the East. This book was so fun to read, probably 4.5 stars, but I rounded up.
October 20, 2016
This was probably one of the most sedate dramas I have ever read. It read like a Jane Austin soap opera and I loved it. The language was very readable and flowed well. I learned several things I didn't know about Japanese culture. Teaching books with a good story are the best in my opinion. I don't think I have ever read a romance exclusively from the man's point of view; it was interesting. I would read more by Hiatt.
December 1, 2012
This book just didn't do it for me. It was pretty boring and I felt like it just dragged along. It didn't really peak my interest until about 85% in. The only reason I kept going with this book was because I was interested in what happened and I usually like to finish books. But I didn't really enjoy this book at all.
March 9, 2013
Amazing book! This is a love story between a Japanese CEO and and American English professor. The clash of cultures, personal experiences and tempers make for a riveting and sometimes very amusing story. The characters are well developed and the prose is lyrical. This is a love story of a love that surpasses the physical and into a more spiritual level of union. Definitely recommended!
December 1, 2013
This was a very good read about a young Japanese man whose mother is half American. Ryoki hires Kate as his assistant when he is sent by his father to run the Brazilian branch of their huge company. Interesting characters and storyline. This is Paula Hiatt's first book and I'm hoping its not her last. She writes well.
July 18, 2013
I won this book through first reads.
I though the story itself was interesting enough. The beginning starts strong but I found the story dragged along and then the ending seemed kind of rushed.
I did like the writing so I would consider reading this author again.
I though the story itself was interesting enough. The beginning starts strong but I found the story dragged along and then the ending seemed kind of rushed.
I did like the writing so I would consider reading this author again.
July 22, 2014
Could not get into this book. Abandoned.
November 11, 2012
I started this thinking it would be a quick, light read. It turned out to be a pleasure, more interesting and complex than I anticipated and I enjoyed every page.
December 29, 2013
This book was suprisingly good. I loved the cultural differences that affected the slowly budding romance.
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February 6, 2017DNF - will not rate since I did not finish
Not my cuppa!
The writing seemed fine just didn't grab my attn.
Not my cuppa!
The writing seemed fine just didn't grab my attn.
July 26, 2012
A great love story that stresses the importance of family and motherhood.
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