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How Much Do You Love Me?
Lovers James and Keiko marry quickly before James goes to World War II and Keiko to an internment camp. Sixty years later their daughter Kazuko, born in the camps, uncovers a secret that could overwhelm the family. Discover the very definition of human love and self-sacrifice in this saga of war, mystery, and romance.
256 pages, Paperback
First published August 10, 2014
6 people are currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Paul Mark Tag
7 books9 followersPaul Mark Tag received degrees in the field of Meteorology from Pennsylvania State University, the last in 1977. He worked for the Naval Research Laboratory as a research scientist for over thirty years before leaving his job to write fiction full-time.
In the late 1990s, in preparation for a career in writing, he began writing short stories. Author/Publisher Arline Chase was his mentor. In early 2001, when he made his career change permanent, he spent a year writing only short stories. These stories have been published in StoryBytes, Potpourri, Greens Magazine, and The Storyteller.
In 2002, Tag started his first novel, a thriller entitled Category 5, that took advantage of his knowledge of meteorology and weather modification. Prophecy, the sequel to Category 5, was published in July of 2007. White Thaw: The Helheim Conspiracy, is the third in the series. He then switched genres, penning his first historical novel, How Much Do You Love Me?
Realizing how much he missed writing thrillers, he returned to his thriller trilogy and wrote the sequel, Retribution times two. He lives with his wife, Becky, in Monterey, California.
In the late 1990s, in preparation for a career in writing, he began writing short stories. Author/Publisher Arline Chase was his mentor. In early 2001, when he made his career change permanent, he spent a year writing only short stories. These stories have been published in StoryBytes, Potpourri, Greens Magazine, and The Storyteller.
In 2002, Tag started his first novel, a thriller entitled Category 5, that took advantage of his knowledge of meteorology and weather modification. Prophecy, the sequel to Category 5, was published in July of 2007. White Thaw: The Helheim Conspiracy, is the third in the series. He then switched genres, penning his first historical novel, How Much Do You Love Me?
Realizing how much he missed writing thrillers, he returned to his thriller trilogy and wrote the sequel, Retribution times two. He lives with his wife, Becky, in Monterey, California.
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August 19, 2014
This story is set in WWII and shifts back and forth between 1941-42 and 2000. In 1941, James and Keiko are in love and want to get married. He's white and she's Japanese and they're not sure how their families will handle the news. Then, Pearl Harbor is bombed and they move their plans up since they know war is coming and James is planning to enlist. Their families take the news fairly well and James isn't too worried about leaving until the government decides to send all the Japanese-Americans to internment camps.
In the year 2000, Keiko has had a stroke and is in the hospital. Her daughter, Kazuko and her son Patrick are worried about her. They get a visitor, a man by the name of Takeo Sato who knew her mother's family at the Japanese internment camps. As Kazuko starts talking to him, he reveals stories that her family has never told her and she starts to sense that her mother is keeping a secret from her. She turns to her Aunt Shizuka for answers, but she's not talking. Their father, James, now has Alzheimer's so they can't turn to him, either.
I loved the history, the characters and the mystery in this book! I haven't read a lot of books about the Japanese internment camps and I feel like I have a better understanding of why this isn't really talked about. Keiko's family showed a lot of strength and courage through a difficult time for all of them. As Keiko's daughter, Kazuko, started looking for the family secret, I was wracking my brain trying to figure out what it could be. I figured it out a little bit before the reveal, and it is stunning. And then after that, there was another reveal that I didn't see coming which stunned me even more. It made the story that much better to me, too.
I loved the flashbacks and getting bits and pieces of the story here and there. I loved Keiko's relationship with James, her in-laws and her immediate family. Her daughter Kazuko was a loving daughter and sister and determined to find answers to her questions. She really had to dig deep and I enjoyed going on her journey with her. This is a book that I am still thinking about and it's definitely worth reading!!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
In the year 2000, Keiko has had a stroke and is in the hospital. Her daughter, Kazuko and her son Patrick are worried about her. They get a visitor, a man by the name of Takeo Sato who knew her mother's family at the Japanese internment camps. As Kazuko starts talking to him, he reveals stories that her family has never told her and she starts to sense that her mother is keeping a secret from her. She turns to her Aunt Shizuka for answers, but she's not talking. Their father, James, now has Alzheimer's so they can't turn to him, either.
I loved the history, the characters and the mystery in this book! I haven't read a lot of books about the Japanese internment camps and I feel like I have a better understanding of why this isn't really talked about. Keiko's family showed a lot of strength and courage through a difficult time for all of them. As Keiko's daughter, Kazuko, started looking for the family secret, I was wracking my brain trying to figure out what it could be. I figured it out a little bit before the reveal, and it is stunning. And then after that, there was another reveal that I didn't see coming which stunned me even more. It made the story that much better to me, too.
I loved the flashbacks and getting bits and pieces of the story here and there. I loved Keiko's relationship with James, her in-laws and her immediate family. Her daughter Kazuko was a loving daughter and sister and determined to find answers to her questions. She really had to dig deep and I enjoyed going on her journey with her. This is a book that I am still thinking about and it's definitely worth reading!!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
August 11, 2014
This book is BEYOND AMAZING!
SO TOUCHING!
FANTASTIC!
Keiko's family rents a farm from James' family because Keiko's parents are first generation Japanese and therefore cannot own their own land here in America.
And Keiko and James have a secret...they have fallen in love...something almost forbidden.
And now the Japanese have bombed Pearl Harbor...
Keiko's family knows what is coming for their family and the internment that is inevitable.
So Keiko and James decide to marry before James volunteers to fight in World War II.
Now "sixty years later their daughter Kazuko, who was born in the camps, uncovers a secret that could possibly overwhelm the family."
"Discover the very definition of human love and self-sacrifice in this saga of war, mystery, and romance."
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!
The twist in the plot is mind-blowing it is SO INCREDIBLY HEART-TOUCHING!
SO TOUCHING!
FANTASTIC!
Keiko's family rents a farm from James' family because Keiko's parents are first generation Japanese and therefore cannot own their own land here in America.
And Keiko and James have a secret...they have fallen in love...something almost forbidden.
And now the Japanese have bombed Pearl Harbor...
Keiko's family knows what is coming for their family and the internment that is inevitable.
So Keiko and James decide to marry before James volunteers to fight in World War II.
Now "sixty years later their daughter Kazuko, who was born in the camps, uncovers a secret that could possibly overwhelm the family."
"Discover the very definition of human love and self-sacrifice in this saga of war, mystery, and romance."
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!
The twist in the plot is mind-blowing it is SO INCREDIBLY HEART-TOUCHING!
May 5, 2015
What’s It About?
“In all our lives, a little rain has to fall.”
How Much Do You Love Me?, is a novel about a Japanese-American family who are forced into a concentration camp, an unnecessary precaution after the bombing at Pearl Harbor.
The story spans from the 1940’s to the year 2000, with the grown up children eager to learn anything about the experiences of their family, but not getting any answers. Daughter Kazuko, makes it her mission to learn what secrets have been hidden from her and her brother, Patrick.
There is also a romantic element to this story, with the forbidden love of a mixed relationship in the 1940’s, between a white man, and a Japanese-American woman.
My Thoughts
Ok, I will be honest… I didn’t think I would like this book, but accepted it to read and review anyways because I love to read and can’t turn down a book! (My acceptance policy has changed from back then). Despite my initial reservations, this novel had me fully engrossed, and eager to turn the page! I LOVED this book, and I am seriously still stunned SPEECHLESS about the amazing turn of events that I DID NOT SEE COMING! Holy moly! This book gave me chills!
While classified as a “romance”, this is really a mystery novel, first and foremost. And like any good mystery novel, the author provided a “problem” that needed to be sorted out, and all the clues necessary to arrive at the “solution”. I had a wonderful time sorting out the clues and learning the truth!
In addition to that, the author created extremely likable, sympathetic characters who are relatable and interesting. The Tanakas are an amazing, resilient family who kept loyal to the United States despite their despicable circumstances. Nobody knew how long the war would last, and they made the best of it, comforted in the fact that their family could stay together, and “keep dry”. Mind you, the Tanaka family were forced out of their homes, sent on a four day sweltering hot train ride, and forced into a concentration camp where they had no privacy, were surrounded by barbed wire, and their food was rationed, among other things!
This novel is a historical fiction, but the circumstances and the aftermath of Pearl Harbor is all too real. How Much Do You Love Me?, teaches us how precious life is, and how quickly it can all be lost…
Recommendation
I would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a good mystery, with elements of romance.
Full review & Giveaway @ https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
“In all our lives, a little rain has to fall.”
How Much Do You Love Me?, is a novel about a Japanese-American family who are forced into a concentration camp, an unnecessary precaution after the bombing at Pearl Harbor.
The story spans from the 1940’s to the year 2000, with the grown up children eager to learn anything about the experiences of their family, but not getting any answers. Daughter Kazuko, makes it her mission to learn what secrets have been hidden from her and her brother, Patrick.
There is also a romantic element to this story, with the forbidden love of a mixed relationship in the 1940’s, between a white man, and a Japanese-American woman.
My Thoughts
Ok, I will be honest… I didn’t think I would like this book, but accepted it to read and review anyways because I love to read and can’t turn down a book! (My acceptance policy has changed from back then). Despite my initial reservations, this novel had me fully engrossed, and eager to turn the page! I LOVED this book, and I am seriously still stunned SPEECHLESS about the amazing turn of events that I DID NOT SEE COMING! Holy moly! This book gave me chills!
While classified as a “romance”, this is really a mystery novel, first and foremost. And like any good mystery novel, the author provided a “problem” that needed to be sorted out, and all the clues necessary to arrive at the “solution”. I had a wonderful time sorting out the clues and learning the truth!
In addition to that, the author created extremely likable, sympathetic characters who are relatable and interesting. The Tanakas are an amazing, resilient family who kept loyal to the United States despite their despicable circumstances. Nobody knew how long the war would last, and they made the best of it, comforted in the fact that their family could stay together, and “keep dry”. Mind you, the Tanaka family were forced out of their homes, sent on a four day sweltering hot train ride, and forced into a concentration camp where they had no privacy, were surrounded by barbed wire, and their food was rationed, among other things!
This novel is a historical fiction, but the circumstances and the aftermath of Pearl Harbor is all too real. How Much Do You Love Me?, teaches us how precious life is, and how quickly it can all be lost…
Recommendation
I would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a good mystery, with elements of romance.
Full review & Giveaway @ https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
November 3, 2014
How Much Do You Love Me? is a novel about the internment of Japanese and Japanese-Americans in America during WWII. It's a topic I read about a lot in other titles such as John Okada's No-No Boy, Joy Kogawa's Obasan, and David Gutterson's Snow Falling on Cedars. How Much Do You Love Me? switches off between two points of view. One is in year 2000 Monterey, California, and the other is 1942 Bellevue, Washington. The main characters are Kazuko, a strong-willed social worker playing a gumshoe truth-seeker and Keiko from the past, Kazuko's beautiful mother who bore a secret from her children. The plot is poignant, but for me, it took a backseat to the main narrative of describing the Japanese Internment Camps from Keiko's POV. The first few chapters flow smoothly, and I think any history major can appreciate the novel's dedication to historical accuracy.
But if I have any criticism of the book, it's that the characters seem too perfect from a literary point of view. They don't have the cynicism I'd expect from internment prisoners, but are calmly collected. They rationalize why they were interned, seeing the humanistic side of the government, attributing it to paranoia. I would've liked to see more flaws in the characters. This is why I think the historical account of the internment was more compelling to me than the life events and motives of the characters.
Overall, I thought How Much Do You Love Me? was a well-written novel full of wholesome characters placed in a disenfranchised situation. It's well grounded in history. There's no antagonist, unless you count the unjustified internment of American citizens by their own government. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, best read in cold weather served with hot cocoa.
But if I have any criticism of the book, it's that the characters seem too perfect from a literary point of view. They don't have the cynicism I'd expect from internment prisoners, but are calmly collected. They rationalize why they were interned, seeing the humanistic side of the government, attributing it to paranoia. I would've liked to see more flaws in the characters. This is why I think the historical account of the internment was more compelling to me than the life events and motives of the characters.
Overall, I thought How Much Do You Love Me? was a well-written novel full of wholesome characters placed in a disenfranchised situation. It's well grounded in history. There's no antagonist, unless you count the unjustified internment of American citizens by their own government. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, best read in cold weather served with hot cocoa.
May 14, 2016
So, if I could give this book beyond 5 stars, I would do it! This story took me through many emotions-some negative- shame, anger,sadness, but also, some very positive ones- joy,admiration,kindness,and the greatest one-love. Love knows no barriers,in this story, a couple of a mixed marriage is proof of that, in spite of the many contradictory circumstances,that existed. The setting for this story took place in 1941, when the bombing of Pearl Harbor took place, and thousands of Japanese-Americans who lived along the West coast, were sent to camps,because they were considered a threat to the U.S. This story is told by one of the characters that experienced living in those camps. Thank you, Mr.Tag, for an awesome book! I highly recommend this book!
January 21, 2021
On December 7, 1941, Keiko Tanaka finds her whole world affected by the Pearl Harbor bombings. Normally friendly neighbors are suddenly suspicious of her Japanese ancestry, and her engagement to James Armstrong—a Caucasian—becomes a crisis rather than a celebration. Despite their parents’ protests, Keiko and James decide to marry before she is sent to the internment camps and he to the war.Nearly sixty years later, Keiko’s daughter, Kazuko—born in the camps—attends to Keiko on her deathbed. However, a chance incident makes her suspect that her mother is harboring a secret. The truths she is about to uncover might unravel the family . . . and change her very perception of abiding love.In 1942, the Bellevue Strawberry Festival was cancelled.The primary reason was that some 90% of the agricultural workforce in the area was of Japanese ancestry, and all of these farmers and their families had been forcibly interned in camps following the start of WWII.They went to Puyallup and were temporarily interned at Camp Harmony.Roosevelt authorized Executive Order 9066, on February 19,1942, which allowed regional military commanders to designate "military areas" from which "any or all persons may be excluded."The War Relocation Authority (WRA) was a government agency established to handle Japanese-American internment camps ie Tule Lake. WRA camp living was difficult.Resistance to camp guards and escape attempts were a low priority for most. Residents were more often concerned with the problems of daily life: improving their often shoddily-constructed living quarters, and self improvement. Many of those who were employed,made their jobs the focus of their lives,along with religion and education.Nisei(second generation,American born Japanese with US citizenship),and Sansei("third generation"; the children of Nisei). The rest were Issei ("first generation") immigrants born in Japan who were ineligible for US citizenship.Many internees lost irreplaceable personal property due to restrictions that prohibited them from taking more to camps, and also due to theft.Medical care was also lacking.They faced violence and hostility. Their sufferings should never be forgotten nor repeated.
July 29, 2019
Wow. Just wow. I couldn't put it down. I had actually guessed Keiko wasn't really Keiko about a quarter of the way into the book, but learning that her parents, sister, and even the real Keiko's husband all knew was a total curveball, especially that latter one. I hardly ever leave reviews, but I just had to write something for this one. Can't believe I waited so long after getting it to actually read it! 5/5 stars, and definitely among my favorites of this year. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2021
Met the author who was sharing this new book. His question to me was, “do you like historical fiction?” Of course he had me at THAT question!! 😍He signed my copy and I’m super impressed by the story!
February 24, 2019
The history was really good but it wasn’t a book that kept me wanting to read it. The love story was not my favorite. It was sad the turn of events.
Want to read
August 22, 2020how much do u luv/like me? xDD
February 25, 2017
Such a great read!!! I was captivated from start to finish! What also sparked my interest was this month marked the 75 anniversary since the signing of law that placed Japanese-Americans in internment camps. This book was a great eye opener to events that occurred during that time. In addition to being well written by enabling the reader to have a sense of jumping between two eras in time, you can't help but dive into the secrets that is posed. What an ending! A definite recommend for those who enjoy historical fiction and love stories!!
August 27, 2014
The Tanaka family works hard and appreciate all the opportunities they've been given. The father, Isamu, moved to the United States looking for work. He eventually acquired a picture bride, Akemi, and they raised a wonderful family of 4 children. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor though, everything began to change. Freedoms they had taken for granted suddenly seemed taken away from them. People began to question their loyalty. The Japanese living in the US were soon forced to leave everything they had and live in camps. Daughter Keiko has fallen in love with someone who is not Japanese, and so she hurries and marries him before he leaves for for war. Meanwhile, in the present, Keiko's two children are dealing with their mother's illness. A mysterious stranger come to visit, and Shizuka and Patrick begin to learn all about the past their parents tried to hide. What they learn changes everything.
I was very interested in this book. The internment camps during World War II are an awful part of our history that I feel we often try to forget. This book was an excellent reminder of a past that should never be repeated. Mixed in with the stories of life in the camp is a story of Keiko Tanaka Armstrong's two children. Their mother is at the end of her life, and her children are finding out things they never knew about their family. Something doesn't seem quite right though, and as Shizuka works to unravel the mystery, things become even stranger than she had imagined.
I actually guessed the resolution to the mystery then thought I must be wrong because it was kind of out there. Turns out I was correct! It made for a very sad ending though. I wanted to give everyone involved more time to work through things, but that was not to be. There is a little romance, a little mystery, and a lot of history in this book. The jumping back and forth from past to present wasn't too jarring for me, so that helped me to enjoy the book. Sometimes I did want to skip ahead though as the stream of one part of the story was sometimes interrupted to get to the other part of the story. This was an enjoyable book to read though. History buffs and people interested in the treatment of the people in internment camps should definitely read this book.
Book provided for review.
I was very interested in this book. The internment camps during World War II are an awful part of our history that I feel we often try to forget. This book was an excellent reminder of a past that should never be repeated. Mixed in with the stories of life in the camp is a story of Keiko Tanaka Armstrong's two children. Their mother is at the end of her life, and her children are finding out things they never knew about their family. Something doesn't seem quite right though, and as Shizuka works to unravel the mystery, things become even stranger than she had imagined.
I actually guessed the resolution to the mystery then thought I must be wrong because it was kind of out there. Turns out I was correct! It made for a very sad ending though. I wanted to give everyone involved more time to work through things, but that was not to be. There is a little romance, a little mystery, and a lot of history in this book. The jumping back and forth from past to present wasn't too jarring for me, so that helped me to enjoy the book. Sometimes I did want to skip ahead though as the stream of one part of the story was sometimes interrupted to get to the other part of the story. This was an enjoyable book to read though. History buffs and people interested in the treatment of the people in internment camps should definitely read this book.
Book provided for review.
July 10, 2014
Keiko Tanka and James surprise engagement is huge news to both of their families. Not only was their romance hidden from both of their families but their inter-rational relationship came at a time in American history when tensions were very high with the Japanese following the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
This historical fiction begins in the present day with Keiko's two children rushing to her bedside after a stroke has left her in a coma. A surprise visitor sets the kids Aunt on guard, making the now grown children wonder what happened in their mother's past, a past she rarely talks about; a past with years spent in the relocation centers the government ordered Japanese American's along the west coast into following the bombing.
The book flashes back to the 1930's and 40's and takes you through the Tanka's family experience as they are forced to leave their home and business. The author does a great job transporting you back there, and then jumps to the modern day where more clues and mysteries are slowly revealed.
It left me not being able to turn the pages fast enough, trying to figure out what truly happened in the past. It is one of those books that when I finished, just left me sitting there with my head spinning thinking of all that happened.
This book addressees a hard time in America's history in such a way that not only did I learn a lot but had characters that I feel in love with and a story that flowed so well.
It is a quick read and I highly recommend it. This is also a clean book free of vulgar language, sexual content or graphic imagery.
This historical fiction begins in the present day with Keiko's two children rushing to her bedside after a stroke has left her in a coma. A surprise visitor sets the kids Aunt on guard, making the now grown children wonder what happened in their mother's past, a past she rarely talks about; a past with years spent in the relocation centers the government ordered Japanese American's along the west coast into following the bombing.
The book flashes back to the 1930's and 40's and takes you through the Tanka's family experience as they are forced to leave their home and business. The author does a great job transporting you back there, and then jumps to the modern day where more clues and mysteries are slowly revealed.
It left me not being able to turn the pages fast enough, trying to figure out what truly happened in the past. It is one of those books that when I finished, just left me sitting there with my head spinning thinking of all that happened.
This book addressees a hard time in America's history in such a way that not only did I learn a lot but had characters that I feel in love with and a story that flowed so well.
It is a quick read and I highly recommend it. This is also a clean book free of vulgar language, sexual content or graphic imagery.
August 14, 2014
***3.5 stars***
Keiko and James were in love. They didn't realize how hard it would be for a Caucasian man and a Japanese Woman to marry and live together during WWII. James would leave to serve his country and Keiko would leave to an internment camp.
The overall feeling of the book for me was sadness. It wasn't overwhelming, it was present throughout the book. As the book begins, it is the year 2000. Keiko has suffered a stroke and is in a coma. James has Alzheimers and is in a care center.
As Keiko lies in her hospital bed, she listens to her son, daughter, and sister talk. She is able to reminisce about her secret courtship with James and her life in the camp. The thoughts take new turns as an old friend from the camp comes to visit her. He was the fiancee of her twin sister who passed away at the camp. His visit brings questions of Keiko's life and family secrets.
I was unaware that during the time period that marriage between a white/asian couple was only legal in a few states. I was saddened by the sub-standard conditions that people of Japanese descent were forced to live in. It is unthinkable that a race of people would be forced to leave their homes, livelihood, family, and friends because of fear. I have read a few books about the Japanese internment camps and I remain unimpressed/disgusted with the US government for lack of understanding and letting fear rule policy.
This book was very interesting. It shows the love that people can have for one another. It shows eventual acceptance of the unusual from family. The major point of the story is sacrifice.
Keiko and James were in love. They didn't realize how hard it would be for a Caucasian man and a Japanese Woman to marry and live together during WWII. James would leave to serve his country and Keiko would leave to an internment camp.
The overall feeling of the book for me was sadness. It wasn't overwhelming, it was present throughout the book. As the book begins, it is the year 2000. Keiko has suffered a stroke and is in a coma. James has Alzheimers and is in a care center.
As Keiko lies in her hospital bed, she listens to her son, daughter, and sister talk. She is able to reminisce about her secret courtship with James and her life in the camp. The thoughts take new turns as an old friend from the camp comes to visit her. He was the fiancee of her twin sister who passed away at the camp. His visit brings questions of Keiko's life and family secrets.
I was unaware that during the time period that marriage between a white/asian couple was only legal in a few states. I was saddened by the sub-standard conditions that people of Japanese descent were forced to live in. It is unthinkable that a race of people would be forced to leave their homes, livelihood, family, and friends because of fear. I have read a few books about the Japanese internment camps and I remain unimpressed/disgusted with the US government for lack of understanding and letting fear rule policy.
This book was very interesting. It shows the love that people can have for one another. It shows eventual acceptance of the unusual from family. The major point of the story is sacrifice.
August 21, 2014
5 STARS
Might want tissues handy. I really cared for these characters. I shed lots of tears from joy to mourning, and felt terrible that our Country did that to our citizens. It was a emotional time, and dangerous time of WW2. Lots of drama.
The plot is about one family Tanaka. It follows what happens to them after Pearl Harbor. It was unheard of a mixed raced marriage. Because of Keiko and James marriage things go a little easier on the Tanaka at least to the property and things left behind.
The story jumps from present to back in the past a lot. As Kazuko Armstrong tries to find out what happened to her family. They did not talk a lot about the war. It draws you into wanting to know more about them.
It is not a easy story to read when you realize that stories like this was happening to a lot of real people.
Akemi Tanaka she has 4 children not a citizen
Isamu Tanaka He is a truck farmer not a citizen Father
Keiko marries James Armstrong. She is a twin to Misaki
Misaki twin the twins are super close to each other.
Masao only son
Shizuka the baby of the family
Harrison Armstrong Father to James, Benjamin, and Wally He is a lawyer.
Barbara Armstrong Mother
James Armstrong in love with Keiko. Joins the Navy
I liked knowing about the past so we don't make the same mistake again hopefully. It is a powerful tale of love of family.
I was given this ebook to read so I could give a honest review of it and be part of it's blog tour.
November 24, 2014
As I'm all for finding fiction with main characters of diverse races, the image of the woman on this novel's lovely cover caught my attention. In How Much Do You Love Me?, author Paul Mark Tag weaves a World War II tale of culture, romance, and mystery, a needful reminder of the wartime internment of many people right in the United States, including loyal U.S. citizens.
As a lifelong resident of the Pacific Northwest, it was quite the experience for me to see the familiar names of local cities--Bellevue, Bainbridge Island, Puyallup, my hometown of Seattle--associated with this unfortunate and rather racially charged aspect of WWII. I'm sure that nowadays, any number of people in my neck of society (and other necks, I presume) take interracial dating and marriage for granted, either forgetting or being unaware that it wasn't too many years ago that marriage between different races was illegal in much of the U.S.
I found this to be an engaging and enlightening novel. The conclusion of the mystery wasn't wholly convincing to me, as while there was an explanation for it, it didn't seem like a strong enough reason for the characters to take such humanly drastic, permanent measures. In essence, I thought, "Ah, I see! But, practically, in their situation, was this really...necessary?" However, the mystery was woven in so well that I still found it interesting.
Here's a great piece of historical fiction that I definitely recommend.
____________
I received a free copy of this book, for which I give my honest review, through Goodreads First Reads.
As a lifelong resident of the Pacific Northwest, it was quite the experience for me to see the familiar names of local cities--Bellevue, Bainbridge Island, Puyallup, my hometown of Seattle--associated with this unfortunate and rather racially charged aspect of WWII. I'm sure that nowadays, any number of people in my neck of society (and other necks, I presume) take interracial dating and marriage for granted, either forgetting or being unaware that it wasn't too many years ago that marriage between different races was illegal in much of the U.S.
I found this to be an engaging and enlightening novel. The conclusion of the mystery wasn't wholly convincing to me, as while there was an explanation for it, it didn't seem like a strong enough reason for the characters to take such humanly drastic, permanent measures. In essence, I thought, "Ah, I see! But, practically, in their situation, was this really...necessary?" However, the mystery was woven in so well that I still found it interesting.
Here's a great piece of historical fiction that I definitely recommend.
____________
I received a free copy of this book, for which I give my honest review, through Goodreads First Reads.
October 31, 2014
(3.5 Stars)I haven't read a book that deals with the Japanese-Americans during WWII and was interested to gain some insight. The story goes back and forth between late 1942/early 1943 and the fall of 2000.
James and Keiko marry quickly before he is sent off to war and she is sent off to a camp. I loved the way the two families were so supportive of their decision, even if it took them off guard. They had a daughter, born while Keiko was in the camp and James was at war, who uncovers a big family secret in 2000 when her mother is in a coma after suffering a stroke. The author has definitely done a lot of research and the story had a lot of information about this time in America's history. I felt that a lot of the book was telling me what was going on, instead of showing me. I did learn a lot, but didn't feel a lot of emotional connection to the characters until the second half of the story, but I'm sure that was due to setting up the plot.
I thought the Kazuko was a great character and was very resourceful in finding ways to aid her in the search. She came across as very kind and loving, as well as loyal and grounded.
I was surprised at the way things ended--I didn't see it coming and was a little upset, but not in a bad way, if that makes sense. If you're in the mood for an informative novel about the latter part of WWII, be sure to pick this one up!
Content: Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
James and Keiko marry quickly before he is sent off to war and she is sent off to a camp. I loved the way the two families were so supportive of their decision, even if it took them off guard. They had a daughter, born while Keiko was in the camp and James was at war, who uncovers a big family secret in 2000 when her mother is in a coma after suffering a stroke. The author has definitely done a lot of research and the story had a lot of information about this time in America's history. I felt that a lot of the book was telling me what was going on, instead of showing me. I did learn a lot, but didn't feel a lot of emotional connection to the characters until the second half of the story, but I'm sure that was due to setting up the plot.
I thought the Kazuko was a great character and was very resourceful in finding ways to aid her in the search. She came across as very kind and loving, as well as loyal and grounded.
I was surprised at the way things ended--I didn't see it coming and was a little upset, but not in a bad way, if that makes sense. If you're in the mood for an informative novel about the latter part of WWII, be sure to pick this one up!
Content: Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
October 17, 2014
This is the first book I have read that included the Japanese internment camps, as a matter of fact I didn’t even realize that this had happen during WW II. I can actually understand why it is not a part of history that the US should be proud of or even discuss often. Just the fact that the Japanese, whether US citizens or not, had to leave their homes just in case they were spies broke my heart. Although, seeing how Keiko and her family handled it and how they were able to build their family ties tighter it ended up being not all bad. I am not saying that it was okay they were sent there, more that some good did come from it.
But now on to the book, absolutely amazing. Going between 1942-1942 and 2000 could be tricky, but Paul Mark Tag did it perfectly. Instead of having two separate stories that sometimes intertwined, this is one story that is told exactly how it needed to be. The flashbacks gave history that needed to be shared and told, while the present is searching for clues of what the secret is. While the secret was kept until the end of the story, I can honestly say I had no clue what it was going to be. I had theories, but none ended up being what happen.
I have to recommend this book. World War II fans, mystery fans, and historical fictions readers will all love this story.
But now on to the book, absolutely amazing. Going between 1942-1942 and 2000 could be tricky, but Paul Mark Tag did it perfectly. Instead of having two separate stories that sometimes intertwined, this is one story that is told exactly how it needed to be. The flashbacks gave history that needed to be shared and told, while the present is searching for clues of what the secret is. While the secret was kept until the end of the story, I can honestly say I had no clue what it was going to be. I had theories, but none ended up being what happen.
I have to recommend this book. World War II fans, mystery fans, and historical fictions readers will all love this story.
August 16, 2014
(4.5)
Stories set in World War II era fascinate me. I think war brings out the worst and best in people so there are priceless lessons to be learned. That’s not what ended happening in this novel. Instead it laid out a beautiful family love story in the backdrop of war time. I’m not a very patient person so it was a frustrating read as the author was setting up for the two big surprises toward the end. But when that first revelation came so did the relief of fulfillment. Every little clue came together and it was magical. It shocked me that I was in love with the families (particularly the Tanaka’s) all along. My personal hardship with political jargon was actually providing the vehicle for my empathy and waiting so long (about 90% along) for the enlightenment was worth it. Then that last surprise just blew me away! It’s a girl’s dream to have a man like James.
I learned some things about the Japanese American internment but it was in the rich secret story of the Tanaka’s that captured my heart and you know me, I’m a sucker for books that tug at the heart.
**Read from review ebook copy provided by publicist in exchange for an honest review.
Jinky is Reading
Stories set in World War II era fascinate me. I think war brings out the worst and best in people so there are priceless lessons to be learned. That’s not what ended happening in this novel. Instead it laid out a beautiful family love story in the backdrop of war time. I’m not a very patient person so it was a frustrating read as the author was setting up for the two big surprises toward the end. But when that first revelation came so did the relief of fulfillment. Every little clue came together and it was magical. It shocked me that I was in love with the families (particularly the Tanaka’s) all along. My personal hardship with political jargon was actually providing the vehicle for my empathy and waiting so long (about 90% along) for the enlightenment was worth it. Then that last surprise just blew me away! It’s a girl’s dream to have a man like James.
I learned some things about the Japanese American internment but it was in the rich secret story of the Tanaka’s that captured my heart and you know me, I’m a sucker for books that tug at the heart.
**Read from review ebook copy provided by publicist in exchange for an honest review.
Jinky is Reading
August 21, 2014
This is the story of a young couple and their families set during WWII when the Japanese Americans were sent into internment camps. The history behind this book is sad. There is just no other way to describe the awful treatment of all Japanese Americans during this time in our American history. It should never have happened.
I appreciate the story itself. It is a good reminder of a past mistake that hopefully never happens again. There is emotion and depth. It is a good tribute to those who should be remembered.
The story moved along very slowly for me. It was hard to stay focused and engaged. The very last bit of the book picked up as Kazuko finally puts the missing puzzle pieces together to solve her family mystery but otherwise the book kept a very sedate pace. I read another blogger's review of this book and she said that the whole book held an overall sadness. I completely agree. Sadness but love too.
Overall "How Much Do You Love Me" was a nice, pleasant read. It wasn't gripping or charged in a way that sucked me in and kept me engaged but it was nice. It felt like a good representation of what really could have happened during this time period.
I appreciate the story itself. It is a good reminder of a past mistake that hopefully never happens again. There is emotion and depth. It is a good tribute to those who should be remembered.
The story moved along very slowly for me. It was hard to stay focused and engaged. The very last bit of the book picked up as Kazuko finally puts the missing puzzle pieces together to solve her family mystery but otherwise the book kept a very sedate pace. I read another blogger's review of this book and she said that the whole book held an overall sadness. I completely agree. Sadness but love too.
Overall "How Much Do You Love Me" was a nice, pleasant read. It wasn't gripping or charged in a way that sucked me in and kept me engaged but it was nice. It felt like a good representation of what really could have happened during this time period.
December 19, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars An emotional story of love and family, November 30, 2014
By SueBiss (USA)
This review is from: How Much Do You Love Me? (Kindle Edition)
I have consistently liked books that are fictional that are originally based on a true story. This story takes place during WWII when the Japanese were sent to internment camps on the west coast. The story centers on the Tanaka family and how their lives are impacted by the bombings of Pearl Harbor and by the time they spent inside the internment camps during this time of turmoil and mistrust in the United States towards people of Japanese descent. The Tanaka's story is about love, family, hope and even romance during a time when most people would lose faith. Then sixty years later, a family secret comes to the surface that changes the family dynamics of abiding love. You will become engrossed in a story that may have you choosing sides or even judging the Tanaka's. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and found them believable and endearing. At times they are like most families today when unexpected information about their family history is revealed.
December 19, 2014
How Much Do You Love Me follows two different plot lines, one in which Keiko, a young Japanese American during WWII, who is forced to move away from her home and into a Japanese internment camp after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The other storyline is set sixty years later, when Keiko lays in a coma, and Keiko’s daughter begins to look into her mother’s past. The stories intertwine, showing a past that Keiko had worked to leave behind.
This story really brought to life the tragic history of the internment camps; Keiko’s story is well told, following her experiences from the small town she lives in, how sentiment turned against her family, and the harsh adjustment to being forced from her home, her husband, and into the internment camp. The author does a great job of making all of this feel very true to life, all the while telling Keiko and her daughter’s stories.
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This story really brought to life the tragic history of the internment camps; Keiko’s story is well told, following her experiences from the small town she lives in, how sentiment turned against her family, and the harsh adjustment to being forced from her home, her husband, and into the internment camp. The author does a great job of making all of this feel very true to life, all the while telling Keiko and her daughter’s stories.
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2015
Wow I am touched. I couldn't put this book down and read it in one day. I was looking for a different kind of read and definite got it. The story switches from WWII 1941 to 2000. The story is based on two families, an Japanese family with their children: Maso, twins Keiko and Misaki and the youngest Shizuka and the Caucasian American family the Armstrong with three sons:James, Wally and Benjamin. Keiko and James was in love and wanted to get married before the war begins. They wasn't sure how a mixed couple might affect during the war. The story takes you during the war how a Japanese who children were born in the US have to survive and making sacrifices. After 60 years Keiko's daughter Kakuto Armstrong tries to find out the family's secret. An Amazing story. One of its kind.
May 21, 2015
With the use of adept flashbacks, the mystery surrounding photographs and the integration of historical facts, this historical fiction reads like a biography of a family in an entertaining way. I have read previously about the displacement of Japanese Americans in World War II to know its historically accurate. I've mentioned this book to several male readers and they were interested in the historical topic until they saw the cover as it was "too female" with the title and catch phrase. The title becomes extremely significant, especially at the end, but not in the gooey way these male readers were assuming. ( I made a book cover for it when I passed it on to the WW II buffs.) Don't hesitate in reading it as I gave it to a 15 year old doing a report on the treatment on the Japanese in WW II and he liked it. I received a copy from Kirkus publishers for review.
January 2, 2015
I enjoy historical fiction and felt this book was well-researched. Paul Mark Tag is good at suspenseful storytelling which made this a real page-turner for me - I urgently wanted to learn the family secret that draws the reader through the story. Some of the dialogue between the characters felt rushed and inauthentic to me, but I overlooked this because I was enjoying the story. Actually, I would have liked the pace to slow down a little bit and dive into the love story even more; it felt like they got so little time together. I guess it's good to leave the reader wanting more. I would recommend this book to people who like romance, historical fiction, and stories about multi-cultural relationships.
August 24, 2014
How Much Do You Love Me? by Paul Mark Tag is an interesting Historical set in the 1940' s and 2000. A strong, tender tale which takes place during the World War II era. Two young lovers much deal with prejudice, romance,love and lost.
Do have tissues on the ready, you will need them. Dramatic, emotional and tender. WW II buffs are sure to enjoy, as well as romance readers. Well written with tender and strong feelings. The characters are enduring, and engaging. A very well written tale of romance and love. Received for an honest review from the publicist and/or publisher.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Do have tissues on the ready, you will need them. Dramatic, emotional and tender. WW II buffs are sure to enjoy, as well as romance readers. Well written with tender and strong feelings. The characters are enduring, and engaging. A very well written tale of romance and love. Received for an honest review from the publicist and/or publisher.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
November 2, 2014
I enjoyed this story a lot. Thought it was very well written balancing history, romance and cultural differences during a time in American history often over looked. WWII was a time when we as a nation imposed hardships on our own American Japanese citizens here on American soil; this is part or our nation’s history that we should never forget. Thank you Mark Tag for reminding us of our faults and writing a beautiful love story but most of all for keeping this period of history alive through your story telling.
“I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.”
“I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.”
September 11, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It was an interesting look at the Japanese internment from the Japanese perspective. Although I know about this, it is not something I was that familiar with. The back and forth between present day and WWII was a nice touch. I started this book on Saturday morning and really didn't want to put it down- finished it that evening. Loved the family secret part- but I did guess it :-). DEFINITELY worth the time- enjoyable read.
October 7, 2014
This was a beautifully written, well-written book about the Internment Camps that Japanese Americans were put in after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It's candid, informative, and genuinely heartbreaking to look at a time in our (U.S.) history that we are not proud of. It reminds me of the Red Scare or the Salem witch hunts.
If you like historical fiction especially, give this book a try. It's worth the time you'll spend.
If you like historical fiction especially, give this book a try. It's worth the time you'll spend.
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