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The Law of the Heart
Their love is against the laws of a merciless state—but the heart has its own power.
For rollercoaster designer Theo, living on the edge is just part of the job. He’s used to wandering the world perfecting thrills, his heart immune to commitment. But then a commission in repressive North Korea exposes him to emotions he’s never dared to feel.
Tour guide Min has a soul that wants to soar, but she knows it’s safer to build walls around her heart and mind. Skilled in showcasing the mesmerising beauty of capital city Pyongyang without revealing its darker secrets, she introduces Theo to a country he will never forget—and begins to question her policy of quiet compliance.
But forgetting—or pretending to—is the key to survival for Min’s formidable grandmother Cuckoo. After a devastating heartbreak years ago, she learned that passion and oppression just don’t mix.
As Min and Theo grow closer and long-held secrets come to light, all three are forced to confront emotions they’ve tried to suppress. In a country where following their hearts will put them in danger, how much are they willing to risk?
For rollercoaster designer Theo, living on the edge is just part of the job. He’s used to wandering the world perfecting thrills, his heart immune to commitment. But then a commission in repressive North Korea exposes him to emotions he’s never dared to feel.
Tour guide Min has a soul that wants to soar, but she knows it’s safer to build walls around her heart and mind. Skilled in showcasing the mesmerising beauty of capital city Pyongyang without revealing its darker secrets, she introduces Theo to a country he will never forget—and begins to question her policy of quiet compliance.
But forgetting—or pretending to—is the key to survival for Min’s formidable grandmother Cuckoo. After a devastating heartbreak years ago, she learned that passion and oppression just don’t mix.
As Min and Theo grow closer and long-held secrets come to light, all three are forced to confront emotions they’ve tried to suppress. In a country where following their hearts will put them in danger, how much are they willing to risk?
367 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2021
188 people are currently reading
2211 people want to read
About the author
Boris Starling
57 books142 followersBoris Starling's writing career began at the age of eight, when his English teacher spotted that his short story was (a) unusually good for a child his age (b) copied verbatim from Tintin's 'Prisoners Of The Sun.' (That was also the first time he learnt the word 'verbatim', not to mention the term 'copyright violation'.)
All his work since then has been strictly his own. He has written eight novels, including Sunday Times and New York Times bestsellers. Five appear under his own name (Messiah, Storm, Vodka, Visibility and, in a daring breakout from one-word titles, The Stay-Behind Cave) and three as Daniel Blake (Soul Murder (UK)/Thou Shalt Kill (US), City Of Sins (UK)/City Of The Dead (US) and White Death). Every one of these books features someone dying horribly somewhere along the way. Sometimes they even deserve it.
Boris also created the 'Messiah' franchise which ran for seven years on BBC1, and has written screenplays for productions in the UK and US.
He has inherited his grandfather's male pattern baldness, but sadly not his prodigious height. He is a keen sportsman, though he has now reached the age where enthusiasm and experience are beginning to trump sheer skill. He lives in Dorset, England, with his wife, children, greyhounds, and however many chickens manage to keep clear of marauding foxes.
All his work since then has been strictly his own. He has written eight novels, including Sunday Times and New York Times bestsellers. Five appear under his own name (Messiah, Storm, Vodka, Visibility and, in a daring breakout from one-word titles, The Stay-Behind Cave) and three as Daniel Blake (Soul Murder (UK)/Thou Shalt Kill (US), City Of Sins (UK)/City Of The Dead (US) and White Death). Every one of these books features someone dying horribly somewhere along the way. Sometimes they even deserve it.
Boris also created the 'Messiah' franchise which ran for seven years on BBC1, and has written screenplays for productions in the UK and US.
He has inherited his grandfather's male pattern baldness, but sadly not his prodigious height. He is a keen sportsman, though he has now reached the age where enthusiasm and experience are beginning to trump sheer skill. He lives in Dorset, England, with his wife, children, greyhounds, and however many chickens manage to keep clear of marauding foxes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
July 13, 2021
The Law of the heart is a book that engages the reader from the outset. On the surface it is a story of two individuals from diverse backgrounds. Theo is an introverted, American roller coaster designer who believes in only those things he can see. When he is offered a commission n North Korea, he meets Min, who is one of his two guides. Min is at the time of their meeting, a conformist, who is deeply conditioned to place state above person and yet we learn quickly that she has a dangerous streak of independence that if known about would be frowned upon by those who watch and listen.
The book is a love story, the title tells you that. However, The Law of The Heart is such more than that, it is a deep dive into the dangers of being other in a society that is built on conformity.
Starling builds his story around a number of devices that work exceptionally well, in fact it would appear that there is hardly a word, sentence or image out of place over the entire.
He took care with his characters and so we are immediately engaged by them and vested in their story. The rollercoaster is a metaphor, nay a motif for the entire story. The sense of stepping into danger is clear in the developing relationship between the star-crossed lovers, and the willingness to take a plunge into the unknown is evident in the closing sections of the novel.
But Starling gives us more than one story. He has skilfully interposed the heroic story of Min's grandmother, Cuckoo, splicing it seamlessly into the narrative. He has drilled down into the minutia of life under a regime where the person is nothing and the state is everything and served up a masterful story.
I read this book late into the night, marvelling at not only the story, but at the writers craft and will shelve it so I can read it again because it is a book worthy of rereading.
The book is a love story, the title tells you that. However, The Law of The Heart is such more than that, it is a deep dive into the dangers of being other in a society that is built on conformity.
Starling builds his story around a number of devices that work exceptionally well, in fact it would appear that there is hardly a word, sentence or image out of place over the entire.
He took care with his characters and so we are immediately engaged by them and vested in their story. The rollercoaster is a metaphor, nay a motif for the entire story. The sense of stepping into danger is clear in the developing relationship between the star-crossed lovers, and the willingness to take a plunge into the unknown is evident in the closing sections of the novel.
But Starling gives us more than one story. He has skilfully interposed the heroic story of Min's grandmother, Cuckoo, splicing it seamlessly into the narrative. He has drilled down into the minutia of life under a regime where the person is nothing and the state is everything and served up a masterful story.
I read this book late into the night, marvelling at not only the story, but at the writers craft and will shelve it so I can read it again because it is a book worthy of rereading.
July 7, 2021
Beautiful story
What a beautifully written and wonderful book. I read a lot of books and never leave reviews but felt compelled to leave one for this as it’s so well written and moving. Please read it!
What a beautifully written and wonderful book. I read a lot of books and never leave reviews but felt compelled to leave one for this as it’s so well written and moving. Please read it!
August 28, 2021
The Law of the Heart is a gripping, emotional, captivating and emotional novel – one of the best I’ve read in a long time!
Min is a tour guide in modern-day, Communist North Korea and is fully committed to representing her country in its best light. A true believer in the ideals of the regime and not one to question the status quo. Theo is an award-winning roller coaster designer looking for a change. When his boss asks him to take the job in North Korea, he is reluctant to say the least, but decides to go for it.
As a punishment for allowing some foreign tourists to behave in a “disrespectful” fashion on a tour, Min and her work partner are assigned to keep strict watch over Theo’s comings and goings from his hotel to the sight of the theme park where he is designing his coaster. Min and Theo inevitably get to know each other and, much to their surprise, each find in the other someone who understands them - their hopes, their dreams, their motivations. In a land where all foreigners are suspect, this is a love affair that is not allowed. Follow along with Min and Theo as they find each other – and find themselves – in a passion that cannot come to pass.
Filled with beautiful North Korean scenery, fascinating history, intriguing roller coaster design, and a story that you just want to sink right into. Put this one on your TBR and book club list today!
Wondering where you can get a copy of The Law of the Heart? Support your indie bookshops and get your copy on https://bookshop.org/a/13638/97815420... – the online bookstore that gives 75% the book’s profit margin back to independent bookshops, contributing over $15 million since opening in 2020.
A big thank you to Boris Starling, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for this honest review.
#TheLawOfTheHeart
#BorisStarling
#LakeUnionPublishing
#BookClubs
#NetGalley
#GeneralFiction
#WomensFiction
Min is a tour guide in modern-day, Communist North Korea and is fully committed to representing her country in its best light. A true believer in the ideals of the regime and not one to question the status quo. Theo is an award-winning roller coaster designer looking for a change. When his boss asks him to take the job in North Korea, he is reluctant to say the least, but decides to go for it.
As a punishment for allowing some foreign tourists to behave in a “disrespectful” fashion on a tour, Min and her work partner are assigned to keep strict watch over Theo’s comings and goings from his hotel to the sight of the theme park where he is designing his coaster. Min and Theo inevitably get to know each other and, much to their surprise, each find in the other someone who understands them - their hopes, their dreams, their motivations. In a land where all foreigners are suspect, this is a love affair that is not allowed. Follow along with Min and Theo as they find each other – and find themselves – in a passion that cannot come to pass.
Filled with beautiful North Korean scenery, fascinating history, intriguing roller coaster design, and a story that you just want to sink right into. Put this one on your TBR and book club list today!
Wondering where you can get a copy of The Law of the Heart? Support your indie bookshops and get your copy on https://bookshop.org/a/13638/97815420... – the online bookstore that gives 75% the book’s profit margin back to independent bookshops, contributing over $15 million since opening in 2020.
A big thank you to Boris Starling, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for this honest review.
#TheLawOfTheHeart
#BorisStarling
#LakeUnionPublishing
#BookClubs
#NetGalley
#GeneralFiction
#WomensFiction
August 11, 2021
Not an easy book to read considering the horrors of North Korea, yet a solid reminder that there are good people trapped there. Min was a lovely young woman and I rooted for her yet I suspected from the beginning that this book wouldn’t have a happy ending. Even so, the writing and the characters drew me in.
August 22, 2021
This is a love story like no other. For a start, it’s set in North Korea - a country I’ve always been fascinated by. And the hero keeps a pet octopus and designs rollercoasters. Completely unique, enthralling and unforgettable.
August 3, 2021
First and foremost, Starling is a writer to take note of and the type of scribe to write the kind of books that burrow themselves into your mind forever. The other thing I hope resonates with readers, aside from the story that tugs at the heartstrings, is the difference between actually living in or under an oppressive regime and living in a democracy whilst having the freedom to shout about being oppressed by a regime.
The claustrophobic stranglehold the state has on Min and everyone else is the first emotion that hit me. The frustration, the fact everyone just gives up and forgets any thought of resistance, because the repercussions to friends and family are disastrous – it creates this feeling of despair. Life is only ever what is allowed, condoned and acceptable. Constant surveillance, every person a potential informer. What could the consequences be for someone who by the simple act of falling in love – could potentially ruin her life and those of others?
Both Min and her grandmother Cuckoo share more than just a deep love for each other, they share the kind of risky choices and experiences that shatters hearts, changes lives and creates wounds that never heals.
This is a contemporary read and although the heart is the very core of this premise it would be a fallacy to underestimate the scathing political and social commentary the story is driven by. I think that is the beauty of Starling’s style, the way he leads his readers as they follow the bright sparkly emotional depth and turmoil, and yet cements the same path with the oppressive regime that seeps into every pore, element and corner of this read. Sublime. I can’t wait to read more.
*I received a courtesy copy*
The claustrophobic stranglehold the state has on Min and everyone else is the first emotion that hit me. The frustration, the fact everyone just gives up and forgets any thought of resistance, because the repercussions to friends and family are disastrous – it creates this feeling of despair. Life is only ever what is allowed, condoned and acceptable. Constant surveillance, every person a potential informer. What could the consequences be for someone who by the simple act of falling in love – could potentially ruin her life and those of others?
Both Min and her grandmother Cuckoo share more than just a deep love for each other, they share the kind of risky choices and experiences that shatters hearts, changes lives and creates wounds that never heals.
This is a contemporary read and although the heart is the very core of this premise it would be a fallacy to underestimate the scathing political and social commentary the story is driven by. I think that is the beauty of Starling’s style, the way he leads his readers as they follow the bright sparkly emotional depth and turmoil, and yet cements the same path with the oppressive regime that seeps into every pore, element and corner of this read. Sublime. I can’t wait to read more.
*I received a courtesy copy*
November 14, 2022
I think the author did his research and as such this book does a decent job of introducing some aspects of North Korea that the readers might not know about (songbun, bowibu, separation of families, etc) and that's good, but this is still a work of fiction and should not necessarily be taken as fact. There's a character who is basically a fictitious copy of James Joseph Dresnock, an American soldier who defected to North Korea during the Korean War. His character feels off, and I would highly recommend people watch the documentary about him (and other American defectors) called Crossing the Line. I would also recommend that anyone who is curious to know more about North Korea after reading this book watch documentaries, listen to the NK News podcast, and read defector memoirs. It's important to keep in mind that both North Korea and the US/west are cranking out propaganda against one another and that one news article or one work of fiction won't give you the big picture on North Korean issues. It's definitely not a good place to live, but it's important that we be more educated on why it has become this way and what is happening on the inside. Okay, rant over!
In general, I found the story of Min's grandmother and family to be more compelling than the romantic plot and I even got a little emotional at some parts. I did get some white saviorism vibes from the American male lead Theo. I would have liked to see the characters more complex and fleshed out.
In general, I found the story of Min's grandmother and family to be more compelling than the romantic plot and I even got a little emotional at some parts. I did get some white saviorism vibes from the American male lead Theo. I would have liked to see the characters more complex and fleshed out.
March 1, 2022
A love story been an introvert American and a North Korean girl is the basic storyline. But the story goes much deeper shows us glimpses of life under a totalitarian regime and the brain washing that is inherent in that system.
I liked the characters and the use of the rollercoaster has an image and metaphor running through the story.
I liked the characters and the use of the rollercoaster has an image and metaphor running through the story.
September 24, 2021
I enjoyed this in the sense of there was a lot of mixed metaphors and statements that I really enjoyed but I think reading this as a casual read for enjoyment is not something I would have done usually
January 27, 2023
The main reason I decided to get this book from the library was because I thought the cover was pretty LMAO and for once, I am so glad I judged a book by its cover. I normally don’t find myself drawn to romance novels but this one was just so beautifully written and told. Such a great read and highly recommend it!
May 31, 2023
such beautiful writing but could not get into the characters or maybe i just hate rollercoasters idk
June 26, 2024
This was so good. I love when you go into a book not knowing what to expect. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Makes me grateful for where I live though.
September 9, 2024
A fascinating read, beatifully written with an absolutely fascinating insight into the world that is North Korea. How grateful I am to live in a society where we are free. Without any spoilers, read this book people, you will be swept along with the emotions & storyline..
August 14, 2021
I Loved this book. Not only for the beautiful writing, so descriptive the narrative painted such wonderful imagery of the setting. The story was woven with grace and elegance. I did weep at parts of the story. Could go on but won't, just read it.
March 4, 2025
Beautifully written and thoroughly researched. I really enjoyed this 1984-like impossible love story set in North Korea.
I would never have picked it up if it hadn’t been for my bookclub secret Santa. Thank you.
I would never have picked it up if it hadn’t been for my bookclub secret Santa. Thank you.
September 26, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 Stars
To sum up: Theo, a rollercoaster designer is sent for a commission to North Korea where he will meet Min a tour guide who will show him the hidden beauty of her country but they were not prepared for their feelings to be involved.
This is kind of a mix between contemporary/ historical literary fiction because we see the story through the modern eyes of Min and Theo then we have the past through the story of Cuckoo, Min's grandma. I loved mainly Cuckoo's story and her character, I've to be honest, I didn't care at the end about the romance between Theo and Min, it felt really flat and unrealistic. The author could have written a beautiful book just with Cuckoo's story because Theo and Min's started to get in the way at some point. Of course, there were other themes treated underneath this story about the omission of the human rights with oppressive regime in NK. A real dystopia in the modern world.
It was very slow paced with all the emotional descriptions that the author wanted to put in this story, we get to be aware of the characters' deep feelings more than anything else. It got a bit boring at some point, in addition to all the things said about the rollercoaster which were really irrelevant for me as a reader, all the technical aspect of Theo's job was a nonsense for me.
After reading the author's bio, I'm so curious to know why did he choose to write such a story? It doesn't feel like his other writings and this book looks more like a Nicholas Sparks kind of stories. Also, it felt like the author wanted just to write a story about a doomed, impossible love story and the best setting to do so is in today's North korea.
It wasn't the story that I was waiting for, I don't know but it didn't feel logical. I felt that North Korea was just used here to attract the readers. Also, what is it with Min's husband, the poor guy is completely out and her colleague, Yun Seok, after reading his story at the end ,I was like WHAT? So in this country, we can found out everything about you but no one could discover Yun Seok's secret all this time?!!
For me, only Cuckoo's story was believable and touching, I cried for her. The third part of the book was the best part of the book. I don't say that I hated it but it wasn't the best book that I've ever read. There were some good quotes that I loved for the author writing style is really beautiful here.
2.5 Stars
To sum up: Theo, a rollercoaster designer is sent for a commission to North Korea where he will meet Min a tour guide who will show him the hidden beauty of her country but they were not prepared for their feelings to be involved.
This is kind of a mix between contemporary/ historical literary fiction because we see the story through the modern eyes of Min and Theo then we have the past through the story of Cuckoo, Min's grandma. I loved mainly Cuckoo's story and her character, I've to be honest, I didn't care at the end about the romance between Theo and Min, it felt really flat and unrealistic. The author could have written a beautiful book just with Cuckoo's story because Theo and Min's started to get in the way at some point. Of course, there were other themes treated underneath this story about the omission of the human rights with oppressive regime in NK. A real dystopia in the modern world.
It was very slow paced with all the emotional descriptions that the author wanted to put in this story, we get to be aware of the characters' deep feelings more than anything else. It got a bit boring at some point, in addition to all the things said about the rollercoaster which were really irrelevant for me as a reader, all the technical aspect of Theo's job was a nonsense for me.
After reading the author's bio, I'm so curious to know why did he choose to write such a story? It doesn't feel like his other writings and this book looks more like a Nicholas Sparks kind of stories. Also, it felt like the author wanted just to write a story about a doomed, impossible love story and the best setting to do so is in today's North korea.
It wasn't the story that I was waiting for, I don't know but it didn't feel logical. I felt that North Korea was just used here to attract the readers. Also, what is it with Min's husband, the poor guy is completely out and her colleague, Yun Seok, after reading his story at the end ,I was like WHAT? So in this country, we can found out everything about you but no one could discover Yun Seok's secret all this time?!!
For me, only Cuckoo's story was believable and touching, I cried for her. The third part of the book was the best part of the book. I don't say that I hated it but it wasn't the best book that I've ever read. There were some good quotes that I loved for the author writing style is really beautiful here.
June 21, 2024
Book club book no.1
DNF
I couldn’t do it. I tried but nope. DNF at 72%.
This was my first ever book club book. Now I don’t know if subconsciously my rebel inside wanted to not like this because it was my first book club book (lol) but a lot of other people at book club also were not fans, so I feel less bad about it.
I wasn’t gripped. I didn’t care about the characters or where the storyline was going, so my will to finish this book was non existent. I don’t read very much romance and when I do, I rarely enjoy it, so I’m not surprised that this one wasn’t for me.
The setting of North Korea was the only thing that kept me vaguely interested honestly. The insights into Korean life, religion and the divide between North and South was fascinating to read about. (Not sure how true any of it was but the fact that the book is largely censored when you google it speaks volumes tbh.)
Now, I didn’t finish the book, but heard from the girls at book club about the forbidden love element and the age gap 🤢 both of which just give me the ick.
Also idk if it’s because of the censoring but omg there were SO MANY TYPOS in this book! It got soooo irritating, I actually couldn’t cope.
It’s a big no from me.
DNF
I couldn’t do it. I tried but nope. DNF at 72%.
This was my first ever book club book. Now I don’t know if subconsciously my rebel inside wanted to not like this because it was my first book club book (lol) but a lot of other people at book club also were not fans, so I feel less bad about it.
I wasn’t gripped. I didn’t care about the characters or where the storyline was going, so my will to finish this book was non existent. I don’t read very much romance and when I do, I rarely enjoy it, so I’m not surprised that this one wasn’t for me.
The setting of North Korea was the only thing that kept me vaguely interested honestly. The insights into Korean life, religion and the divide between North and South was fascinating to read about. (Not sure how true any of it was but the fact that the book is largely censored when you google it speaks volumes tbh.)
Now, I didn’t finish the book, but heard from the girls at book club about the forbidden love element and the age gap 🤢 both of which just give me the ick.
Also idk if it’s because of the censoring but omg there were SO MANY TYPOS in this book! It got soooo irritating, I actually couldn’t cope.
It’s a big no from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2021
Easy to read, likeable characters, interesting subject - couldn’t ask for more.
Obviously some bits are probably a bit unrealistic by nature but that’s why we read fiction.
I found this an enjoyable read overall.
Obviously some bits are probably a bit unrealistic by nature but that’s why we read fiction.
I found this an enjoyable read overall.
March 1, 2022
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a touching story of forbidden love between US citizen, Theo, and North Korean citizen, Min. While the budding romance was very predictable, I really liked that Min’s life was the focus. The narrative unfolds in time with Min’s backstory, starting with her grandmother, who lived before the Korean War and experienced a deep and passionate love with her husband who died in the war. Cuckoo, the grandmother, then raised her son as a single mother and never remarried, always holding a torch for her lost Kwang Sik. Their son, Chul Woo, grew up fully under North Korean communist regime, resenting life without a father, putting that need for acceptance into his participation in being a proper citizen. This is reflected in his wife, Han Na, being the building inminbanjang in charge of random searches of all apartments on their block and knowing everything about everyone. Chul Woo’s and Han Na’s only child is Min, our lead protagonist. She is in her early 20’s, oblivious to her own beauty, perfectly conformed to the strict observance and teachings from her parents, and an accomplished tour guide. The gist is that the tour guides focus on tourist propaganda, taking tourists to the highlights of North Korean accomplishment for the amazing life in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) under the leadership of the Great Leader, Kim Il-sung, and Dear Leader, Kim Jong-il. The underlining message throughout being that Min has accomplished the optimal outward expression of neutrality so her emotions never give away what she’s supposed to do or say. Min is on the path for optimal accomplishment within this life until her father is assigned to design a grand theme park. To enhance this theme park, they want the tallest roller coaster in the world to be built. This is where Theo comes in. He just happens to be the best roller coaster engineer in the world. And more importantly, he grew up in a cold and loveless family who beat him down to have no emotional connections to other humans. He is not a smooth talking, highly accomplished engineer with love interests across his life. The perfect candidate to survive working in North Korea without stirring the pit through some other character flaw. He instead is the most straightforward and honest person who the DPRK leaders want specifically to aid their propaganda of North Korea being the best place in the world. Min and her guide partner, Yun Seok, are assigned to accompany and translate everything for Theo during his nine month stay in North Korea.
The rest is pretty predictable. They dislike each other at first, but slowly by physically being in each other’s presence all day every day for nine months, fall in love. The allure for Min being that Theo’s transparency and focus on his task makes him the sole person in her life who has ever been open and honest with her. As well as displaying kindness, genuine interest, and no ulterior motives to use her in some way. In reciprocation, Theo seems oblivious to Min the woman until he realizes her chameleon-like behavior, which we are led to believe all N Korean citizens would portray, is disarming enough that he feels safe revealing dark and personal details about himself because of his dismissal of her power and temporary nature of her presence in his life. This trope is not my favorite. I dislike the idea that they develop a bond so strong, worth holding onto the rest of their lives, like Min’s grandmother, when the message is that Theo never really appreciated Min until after she literally put her and her family’s lives in jeopardy to make a move on Theo. Min responding to sentiments and behaviors from Theo that mark the most basic of standards for interacting with humans. While that “connection” gets played out in other books ad nauseam, it works here due to the portrayal of life under the DPRK regime. What I appreciate is that the story is still following Min’s growth as a person. Her fondness for Theo revealing the flaws of her life and the hypocrisy of the propaganda she’s built her life around.
Ultimately I really liked this book because so much focuses on Min and her inner thoughts, needs, desires. Her spark of rebellion and understanding and ability to gain new perspectives. In essence, her humanity. Theo’s character was less well developed and lacking as much conviction for me. I also really loved Cuckoo’s character, though I’d have liked more backstory from her perspective as well as the father’s, Chul Woo. But that’s simply because I wanted to know more about how those characters worked, all to better understand Min more.
Overall I recommend this book. A bit of history, a bit of romance, and a compelling main character. Worth the read!
This was a touching story of forbidden love between US citizen, Theo, and North Korean citizen, Min. While the budding romance was very predictable, I really liked that Min’s life was the focus. The narrative unfolds in time with Min’s backstory, starting with her grandmother, who lived before the Korean War and experienced a deep and passionate love with her husband who died in the war. Cuckoo, the grandmother, then raised her son as a single mother and never remarried, always holding a torch for her lost Kwang Sik. Their son, Chul Woo, grew up fully under North Korean communist regime, resenting life without a father, putting that need for acceptance into his participation in being a proper citizen. This is reflected in his wife, Han Na, being the building inminbanjang in charge of random searches of all apartments on their block and knowing everything about everyone. Chul Woo’s and Han Na’s only child is Min, our lead protagonist. She is in her early 20’s, oblivious to her own beauty, perfectly conformed to the strict observance and teachings from her parents, and an accomplished tour guide. The gist is that the tour guides focus on tourist propaganda, taking tourists to the highlights of North Korean accomplishment for the amazing life in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) under the leadership of the Great Leader, Kim Il-sung, and Dear Leader, Kim Jong-il. The underlining message throughout being that Min has accomplished the optimal outward expression of neutrality so her emotions never give away what she’s supposed to do or say. Min is on the path for optimal accomplishment within this life until her father is assigned to design a grand theme park. To enhance this theme park, they want the tallest roller coaster in the world to be built. This is where Theo comes in. He just happens to be the best roller coaster engineer in the world. And more importantly, he grew up in a cold and loveless family who beat him down to have no emotional connections to other humans. He is not a smooth talking, highly accomplished engineer with love interests across his life. The perfect candidate to survive working in North Korea without stirring the pit through some other character flaw. He instead is the most straightforward and honest person who the DPRK leaders want specifically to aid their propaganda of North Korea being the best place in the world. Min and her guide partner, Yun Seok, are assigned to accompany and translate everything for Theo during his nine month stay in North Korea.
The rest is pretty predictable. They dislike each other at first, but slowly by physically being in each other’s presence all day every day for nine months, fall in love. The allure for Min being that Theo’s transparency and focus on his task makes him the sole person in her life who has ever been open and honest with her. As well as displaying kindness, genuine interest, and no ulterior motives to use her in some way. In reciprocation, Theo seems oblivious to Min the woman until he realizes her chameleon-like behavior, which we are led to believe all N Korean citizens would portray, is disarming enough that he feels safe revealing dark and personal details about himself because of his dismissal of her power and temporary nature of her presence in his life. This trope is not my favorite. I dislike the idea that they develop a bond so strong, worth holding onto the rest of their lives, like Min’s grandmother, when the message is that Theo never really appreciated Min until after she literally put her and her family’s lives in jeopardy to make a move on Theo. Min responding to sentiments and behaviors from Theo that mark the most basic of standards for interacting with humans. While that “connection” gets played out in other books ad nauseam, it works here due to the portrayal of life under the DPRK regime. What I appreciate is that the story is still following Min’s growth as a person. Her fondness for Theo revealing the flaws of her life and the hypocrisy of the propaganda she’s built her life around.
Ultimately I really liked this book because so much focuses on Min and her inner thoughts, needs, desires. Her spark of rebellion and understanding and ability to gain new perspectives. In essence, her humanity. Theo’s character was less well developed and lacking as much conviction for me. I also really loved Cuckoo’s character, though I’d have liked more backstory from her perspective as well as the father’s, Chul Woo. But that’s simply because I wanted to know more about how those characters worked, all to better understand Min more.
Overall I recommend this book. A bit of history, a bit of romance, and a compelling main character. Worth the read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2021
The Law of the Heart by bestselling and acclaimed author and screenwriter Boris Starling was just released with Lake Union Publishing August 1st. Clare Pooley, blogger and New York Times bestselling author is quoted as saying that The Law of the Heart is “a heartbreaking yet life-affirming story of forbidden love woven through the extraordinary backdrop of North Korea. I loved everything about it.”
What do you know about North Korea? What perception do you have of its population? What do you understand about the day-to-day life for anyone living under such a strict regime? I will admit to knowing very little indeed, only what I see on social media and the news channels. In The Law of the Heart Boris Starling takes the reader on quite a remarkable journey into the lives of one North Korean family, primarily through the eyes of the daughter, Min, and Theo Kempe, an award-winning rollercoaster designer.
There is a huge amount of research underpinning this novel, with Boris Starling saying that ‘it’s so easy to view the country simply through the narrow lens of the twin prisms of brutal dictatorship and/or Ruritanian personality cult, whereas in fact it is of course in many ways a country like any other, and its citizens all have their own hopes, fears, loves, challenges.’ Filled with vivid descriptions of Pyongyang and the surrounding areas, Boris Starling brings North Korea, in particular its people, very much to the forefront and alive to the reader.
Min is a tour guide, and her job is to ensure that all visitors experience an informed and educational trip, while also being made aware of the limitations on their freedom while travelling within North Korea. Min sits in on regular staff meeting where all transgressions are aired and each member of staff willingly offers up any slight or wrongdoing, however insignificant. Their dedication to their leader, and to the law, is incredibly depicted by Boris Starling. The compliance of all is never taken for granted. One slip up and people receive their punishment accordingly. What are considered larger infringements can result in a disappearance. Everyone knows the rules. Everyone abides by them. When Min is required to look after Theo Kempe she is appalled. Looking after a foreigner, an American/English man, is most certainly not what Min wants to do. She is deliberately chilly in Theo’s company but as the days pass, she begins to question her life and her willingness to comply and obey. Her eyes are opened and her world changes in ways she could never have imagined.
Theo comes to North Korea underwhelmed by this strange country and its obedient people. At one point he compares Pyongyang to ‘The Capitol’ in The Hunger Games series of books by Suzanne Collins. If you have read those brilliant books, you will immediately understand this comparison. His initial reaction is to run, head straight back to the airport and go back home. But where is home for Theo? And what is he running back to? He decides to embrace this time in North Korea and, along the way, discovers more about himself and about a society that is filled with individuals who do hope, who do dream and who do love….
Min’s grandmother, Cuckoo, is a gorgeous character with an extremely moving story to tell but she keeps her secrets to herself. There is an unbreakable bond between Cuckoo and Min, and, at times, she shares snippets of her past, but for Min’s ears only. Cuckoo has lived a tragic life in many ways and slowly her history is revealed to us as the chapters open out.
Don’t be fooled by thinking that The Law of the Heart is a traditional feel-good romance set against a tyrannical establishment, because it is not. This is a very realistic story that will anger, upset, and frustrate every single reader but it will also make you smile. As Min explores her own private thoughts and Theo witnesses the impact any relationship between them could have on Min, there is constant mental turmoil. Every action has a reaction but how much risk are they willing to take?
As a screenwriter himself, I am hoping that Boris Starling has set his sights on the screen for this beautiful book. The Law of the Heart is a truly exceptional reading experience. I was completely enamoured by both the people and the prose. With striking imagery, Boris Starling has captured something very unique, something very memorable. The Law of the Heart is a remarkable exploration of humanity in all its guises. It is a treat for all to read and it will leave an indelible mark on every reader.
What do you know about North Korea? What perception do you have of its population? What do you understand about the day-to-day life for anyone living under such a strict regime? I will admit to knowing very little indeed, only what I see on social media and the news channels. In The Law of the Heart Boris Starling takes the reader on quite a remarkable journey into the lives of one North Korean family, primarily through the eyes of the daughter, Min, and Theo Kempe, an award-winning rollercoaster designer.
There is a huge amount of research underpinning this novel, with Boris Starling saying that ‘it’s so easy to view the country simply through the narrow lens of the twin prisms of brutal dictatorship and/or Ruritanian personality cult, whereas in fact it is of course in many ways a country like any other, and its citizens all have their own hopes, fears, loves, challenges.’ Filled with vivid descriptions of Pyongyang and the surrounding areas, Boris Starling brings North Korea, in particular its people, very much to the forefront and alive to the reader.
Min is a tour guide, and her job is to ensure that all visitors experience an informed and educational trip, while also being made aware of the limitations on their freedom while travelling within North Korea. Min sits in on regular staff meeting where all transgressions are aired and each member of staff willingly offers up any slight or wrongdoing, however insignificant. Their dedication to their leader, and to the law, is incredibly depicted by Boris Starling. The compliance of all is never taken for granted. One slip up and people receive their punishment accordingly. What are considered larger infringements can result in a disappearance. Everyone knows the rules. Everyone abides by them. When Min is required to look after Theo Kempe she is appalled. Looking after a foreigner, an American/English man, is most certainly not what Min wants to do. She is deliberately chilly in Theo’s company but as the days pass, she begins to question her life and her willingness to comply and obey. Her eyes are opened and her world changes in ways she could never have imagined.
Theo comes to North Korea underwhelmed by this strange country and its obedient people. At one point he compares Pyongyang to ‘The Capitol’ in The Hunger Games series of books by Suzanne Collins. If you have read those brilliant books, you will immediately understand this comparison. His initial reaction is to run, head straight back to the airport and go back home. But where is home for Theo? And what is he running back to? He decides to embrace this time in North Korea and, along the way, discovers more about himself and about a society that is filled with individuals who do hope, who do dream and who do love….
Min’s grandmother, Cuckoo, is a gorgeous character with an extremely moving story to tell but she keeps her secrets to herself. There is an unbreakable bond between Cuckoo and Min, and, at times, she shares snippets of her past, but for Min’s ears only. Cuckoo has lived a tragic life in many ways and slowly her history is revealed to us as the chapters open out.
Don’t be fooled by thinking that The Law of the Heart is a traditional feel-good romance set against a tyrannical establishment, because it is not. This is a very realistic story that will anger, upset, and frustrate every single reader but it will also make you smile. As Min explores her own private thoughts and Theo witnesses the impact any relationship between them could have on Min, there is constant mental turmoil. Every action has a reaction but how much risk are they willing to take?
As a screenwriter himself, I am hoping that Boris Starling has set his sights on the screen for this beautiful book. The Law of the Heart is a truly exceptional reading experience. I was completely enamoured by both the people and the prose. With striking imagery, Boris Starling has captured something very unique, something very memorable. The Law of the Heart is a remarkable exploration of humanity in all its guises. It is a treat for all to read and it will leave an indelible mark on every reader.
January 26, 2022
The Law of the Heart was a pretty good book, 3.5 stars. A great reflection on choices, love, truths, connecting across boundaries, and opening up oneself. Some gentle tender moments, hope and sadness.
Overall a good read; hard to get into it at first and then definitely well liked at the end. I sometimes found I wanted to get through the book and just finish it, and then as I read more, I became more invested in it. The writing throughout could have been better developed. I found that some transitions, especially with the smaller characters in the book, didn't flow well. And the writing seemed to read distantly, I couldn't connect at times, it wasn't descriptive or lyrical enough for me at first.
Closer to the ending, however, the book read better, with much more imagery, emotion, and development. There were some deep reflections and really moving quotes toward the end of the story. This book had a super touching ending; I kept imagining the book and ending long afterwards, and I feel like it could make a great movie. Heartbreaking, moving, deep....
It was insightful to read about North Korea and it's different political government and culture. Sad though at times for sure. And I really enjoyed the scientific writing all about the engineering and physics of roller coasters. Well researched! Also, Cuckoo was a great side character, and the reunion with her long lost husband was beautiful.
Some quotes:
‘What you did was not what you said: what you said was not what you thought.’
‘Love is knowing that even when you are alone, you will never be lonely again. and great happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved. Loved for ourselves. And even loved in spite of ourselves.’
‘I want to see you naked, she thought. Not unclothed, but naked, properly naked: without the lies we all tell each other and ourselves, without the fear that leads to those lies, without the barriers and the shields. I want to see you naked, and vulnerable, and true: and I want you to see me just the same way. In a world of concealment, this is the only truth.’
‘Better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t.’
‘The depth of your love today is the depth of your wound tomorrow, darling girl. Be brave enough to break your own heart.’
Overall a good read; hard to get into it at first and then definitely well liked at the end. I sometimes found I wanted to get through the book and just finish it, and then as I read more, I became more invested in it. The writing throughout could have been better developed. I found that some transitions, especially with the smaller characters in the book, didn't flow well. And the writing seemed to read distantly, I couldn't connect at times, it wasn't descriptive or lyrical enough for me at first.
Closer to the ending, however, the book read better, with much more imagery, emotion, and development. There were some deep reflections and really moving quotes toward the end of the story. This book had a super touching ending; I kept imagining the book and ending long afterwards, and I feel like it could make a great movie. Heartbreaking, moving, deep....
It was insightful to read about North Korea and it's different political government and culture. Sad though at times for sure. And I really enjoyed the scientific writing all about the engineering and physics of roller coasters. Well researched! Also, Cuckoo was a great side character, and the reunion with her long lost husband was beautiful.
Some quotes:
‘What you did was not what you said: what you said was not what you thought.’
‘Love is knowing that even when you are alone, you will never be lonely again. and great happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved. Loved for ourselves. And even loved in spite of ourselves.’
‘I want to see you naked, she thought. Not unclothed, but naked, properly naked: without the lies we all tell each other and ourselves, without the fear that leads to those lies, without the barriers and the shields. I want to see you naked, and vulnerable, and true: and I want you to see me just the same way. In a world of concealment, this is the only truth.’
‘Better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t.’
‘The depth of your love today is the depth of your wound tomorrow, darling girl. Be brave enough to break your own heart.’
December 31, 2024
Boris Starling's 'The Law of the Heart' tells the story of a British-American rollercoaster designer and a North Korean tour guide falling in love. The North Korean Government commissions Theo's firm to design and deliver a rollercoaster for Jucheland - a new theme park in Pyongyang. Min, along with her colleague, is entrusted with 'minding' Theo during his stay in North Korea. And thus Starling sets up the story for forbidden love.
We observe Theo and Min slowly fall in love with each other but struggle with the knowledge that any showing of affection between each other would cause (very) serious problems. The regimented nature of North Korean society would never permit it. In parallel to this love story, we find Cuckoo, Min's grandmother, playing a critical role in the events of the novel. I don't want to spoil Cuckoo's story but I will say that the climax for Cuckoo was cause for a lump in my throat. Cuckoo's story is emotional and I give Starling a lot of credit for exploring her story to extent that he did.
I am of two minds when it comes to the setting of the novel. To start, I think it was a masterstroke on the part of Starling to set the novel in North Korea. The social and cultural dynamics of the Hermit Kingdom colliding with the sensibilities of the West and the notion of true love made for the tension throughout the novel. And therein lies the problem (albeit minor). I found the novel to be rather predictable and the world building quite cursory. It almost felt like a fictionalised take of North Korea 101. For someone who is familiar with North Korea, it felt lazy. However, for someone with little-to-no knowledge of North Korea, I think it was still set up quite well. I know I'm being harsh but I can say that this element of the book will work for many other people so it's not all bad news.
'The Law of the Heart' is an easy-to-read and gripping romance novel which is strengthened by its setting and the underlying tensions that run through the book. There are elements of the book that I found simplistic and I would have liked a deeper level of detail, however that may be a hard ask given it is North Korea we are talking about. There's a strong enough story here that I think it could be adapted for television or film. Starling has pulled together a few good ideas and crafted a wonderful and equally tragic story. Well done.
We observe Theo and Min slowly fall in love with each other but struggle with the knowledge that any showing of affection between each other would cause (very) serious problems. The regimented nature of North Korean society would never permit it. In parallel to this love story, we find Cuckoo, Min's grandmother, playing a critical role in the events of the novel. I don't want to spoil Cuckoo's story but I will say that the climax for Cuckoo was cause for a lump in my throat. Cuckoo's story is emotional and I give Starling a lot of credit for exploring her story to extent that he did.
I am of two minds when it comes to the setting of the novel. To start, I think it was a masterstroke on the part of Starling to set the novel in North Korea. The social and cultural dynamics of the Hermit Kingdom colliding with the sensibilities of the West and the notion of true love made for the tension throughout the novel. And therein lies the problem (albeit minor). I found the novel to be rather predictable and the world building quite cursory. It almost felt like a fictionalised take of North Korea 101. For someone who is familiar with North Korea, it felt lazy. However, for someone with little-to-no knowledge of North Korea, I think it was still set up quite well. I know I'm being harsh but I can say that this element of the book will work for many other people so it's not all bad news.
'The Law of the Heart' is an easy-to-read and gripping romance novel which is strengthened by its setting and the underlying tensions that run through the book. There are elements of the book that I found simplistic and I would have liked a deeper level of detail, however that may be a hard ask given it is North Korea we are talking about. There's a strong enough story here that I think it could be adapted for television or film. Starling has pulled together a few good ideas and crafted a wonderful and equally tragic story. Well done.
July 26, 2021
The Law of The Heart - Boris Starling
‘It was a long, long time before either of them said anything. They just held each other.’
In the brutal North Korean regime where their love is forbidden, Theo and Min meet. I was totally absorbed into this story from the start. It is so compelling and evocative, I just couldn’t put it down.
I really felt like I was in North Korea, it is so clearly drawn and the writing is simply beautiful.
Although they come from different worlds, I felt Theo and Min were quite similar people and I think this is what draws them to each other. It was so lovely reading their relationship developing, a growing sense of deep knowing love that becomes incandescent through the novel.
I was really drawn to both Min and Cuckoo as characters. I recognised my own granny in Cuckoo, feisty and a bit devil may care, but worldly-wise. Min has been brought up in a frankly scary regime and knows nothing of the outside world. She is naive but has a steely sense of determination.
They walk a tightrope of what can and cannot be done and said. It is mind boggling that this is how some people live in our world and I can’t quite believe it somehow. Such a balance has to be kept that it must be highly stressful. Yet they still live, work and love and die as everyone does.
‘The birds and the mice can hear you whisper.’
I connected to these people, it was honest, raw and truthful. Theo and Min’s love felt burning and searing, like standing in a blinding light. I just didn’t want to leave any of the characters at the end. This book squeezed my heart and I didn’t want to let it go, unutterably beautiful, serene and powerful. The quote at the top is where I basically bawled my eyes out, it will be in my top books of the year and I simply won’t forget this book for a long time.
‘One to the last, as she had always said. One to the last.’
✩✩✩✩✩
[AD-PR PRODUCT]
With thanks to Kealey Rigden, FMCM Associates and Lake Union for my copy of this book
‘It was a long, long time before either of them said anything. They just held each other.’
In the brutal North Korean regime where their love is forbidden, Theo and Min meet. I was totally absorbed into this story from the start. It is so compelling and evocative, I just couldn’t put it down.
I really felt like I was in North Korea, it is so clearly drawn and the writing is simply beautiful.
Although they come from different worlds, I felt Theo and Min were quite similar people and I think this is what draws them to each other. It was so lovely reading their relationship developing, a growing sense of deep knowing love that becomes incandescent through the novel.
I was really drawn to both Min and Cuckoo as characters. I recognised my own granny in Cuckoo, feisty and a bit devil may care, but worldly-wise. Min has been brought up in a frankly scary regime and knows nothing of the outside world. She is naive but has a steely sense of determination.
They walk a tightrope of what can and cannot be done and said. It is mind boggling that this is how some people live in our world and I can’t quite believe it somehow. Such a balance has to be kept that it must be highly stressful. Yet they still live, work and love and die as everyone does.
‘The birds and the mice can hear you whisper.’
I connected to these people, it was honest, raw and truthful. Theo and Min’s love felt burning and searing, like standing in a blinding light. I just didn’t want to leave any of the characters at the end. This book squeezed my heart and I didn’t want to let it go, unutterably beautiful, serene and powerful. The quote at the top is where I basically bawled my eyes out, it will be in my top books of the year and I simply won’t forget this book for a long time.
‘One to the last, as she had always said. One to the last.’
✩✩✩✩✩
[AD-PR PRODUCT]
With thanks to Kealey Rigden, FMCM Associates and Lake Union for my copy of this book
August 23, 2021
Well, what a beautiful and heartbreaking book. I've learned so much about Korean culture, particularly north Korea's history and the way society is run. I googled every landmark and food mentioned, as well as the clothing and anything else that came up that was new to me.
I have to admit, I'm not interested in roller coasters and thought I'd be bored stiff by that part, but the setting, the tension, the beautiful and horrifying family relationships...the tender moments between Min and her Grandmother, the truly horrific lives some people live and the childhood experiences that shape Theo. They all combine so well that my disinterest in roller coasters didn't detract from this gut-wrenching story. Overall, beautiful and moving and some truly lovely passages that again id wished I'd highlighted as they were so lovely to read.
*Just a word of warning.*
Things do get rather steamy between characters. There is a definite contrast being made and obviously the reason for adding it to the story - one scene is sad and mechanical and another is beautiful and loving. But, I dont tend to read books with any "steam" normally - so to some it was probably tame. It was tastefully done and just about managed to stay un-gratuitous.
I have to admit, I'm not interested in roller coasters and thought I'd be bored stiff by that part, but the setting, the tension, the beautiful and horrifying family relationships...the tender moments between Min and her Grandmother, the truly horrific lives some people live and the childhood experiences that shape Theo. They all combine so well that my disinterest in roller coasters didn't detract from this gut-wrenching story. Overall, beautiful and moving and some truly lovely passages that again id wished I'd highlighted as they were so lovely to read.
*Just a word of warning.*
Things do get rather steamy between characters. There is a definite contrast being made and obviously the reason for adding it to the story - one scene is sad and mechanical and another is beautiful and loving. But, I dont tend to read books with any "steam" normally - so to some it was probably tame. It was tastefully done and just about managed to stay un-gratuitous.
July 12, 2021
Humanity and hope against lies and tragedy
Even in the darkest of places in the world humanity and hope, love and truth exist. This is the powerful message of this book. They stand and illuminate our lives.
In the darkness of North Korea two dissimilar, yet very much the same, people find each other and help each other untherstand and make sense of the world and themselves.
I like the way the author showed the reality of life and the tragedy of life in the DPRNK without delving into it. This isn't a story about North Korea. This isn't a story about war, persecution and oppression. This is a story of two people from very different backgrounds who discover themselves and and each others. Everything is a background, props, only to help bring forward the strength of humanity and goodness, the unspoken truths, the soul hidden beneath expressionless faces and meaningless phrases.
Even in the darkest of places in the world humanity and hope, love and truth exist. This is the powerful message of this book. They stand and illuminate our lives.
In the darkness of North Korea two dissimilar, yet very much the same, people find each other and help each other untherstand and make sense of the world and themselves.
I like the way the author showed the reality of life and the tragedy of life in the DPRNK without delving into it. This isn't a story about North Korea. This isn't a story about war, persecution and oppression. This is a story of two people from very different backgrounds who discover themselves and and each others. Everything is a background, props, only to help bring forward the strength of humanity and goodness, the unspoken truths, the soul hidden beneath expressionless faces and meaningless phrases.
November 23, 2021
This book is amazing. That’s why I gave it 10 stars. Oh wait, I can’t give it 10 stars. Ok, so 5 amazing stars will have to do. It’s a beautiful love story (actually there are two love stories - and in a way there are four) set in North Korea where love stories like this are forbidden. As a foreigner, Londoner Theo, who is hired to design and build the world’s highest roller coaster in Pyongyang, is assigned “guides” who must be with him anytime he is not in his hotel room. Min, one of his guides, follows all the rules and restrictions put on citizens, but finds some laws can be followed but not embraced. The story itself is wonderful, the characters deeply drawn, and the descriptions are so perfect as to make you feel as if you’re right there. But the beautiful writing is the highlight. I can’t begin to do this book justice. Read it if you can.
November 6, 2022
The Law of the Heart is much more than a love story. It goes much deeper and gives the reader glimpses of life under a totalitarian regime and the brain washing that is present in that system. This aspect of the book reminded me slightly of another book a read a number of years ago – The Fat Years, a Chinese science fiction novel by Chan Koonchung (well worth a read!).
There is so much to this story but the pace and writing style ensure that everything flows and stories mingle together with as many twists and turns and Theo’s rollercoaster.
I really enjoyed The Law of the Heart – it was a fascinating look into the North Korean culture and way of life which seems so alien to us.
Full review here https://adventuresofadigitabulist.wor...
There is so much to this story but the pace and writing style ensure that everything flows and stories mingle together with as many twists and turns and Theo’s rollercoaster.
I really enjoyed The Law of the Heart – it was a fascinating look into the North Korean culture and way of life which seems so alien to us.
Full review here https://adventuresofadigitabulist.wor...
June 24, 2024
Romance novels are not usually my cup of tea. However a romance set in North Korea… now that’s a different thing all together. I enjoyed reading about North Korea, the country felt like a character all by itself as it is such a different place to any other. North Korea is a subject that is interesting to me and I am learning more and more about the country since I read this book. I chose this from Amazon First Reads because of its setting rather than the story due to the interest I have in this country. However I ended up pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed the story too and rooted for the main characters even if it seemed unbelievable on occasion. I didn’t enhoy the romantic storyline enough to seek out other romance novels but due to the backdrop of this particular story I would read this again.
Rating - 3.5/5
Rating - 3.5/5
July 16, 2021
Life, love and rollercoasters
This is a beautiful story of interwoven lives and the impact of choices and pain and love in a life. It's a story where the love one holds is enough to see you through the days when love is not able to be close.
Theo builds rollercoasters. Min is a guide and translator. They collide in North Korea. The story is full of interesting stories, history and tidbits of North Korean life. My only concern is that, while it is clearly well researched, it has not been written by a Korean person and there are likely to be nuances that are not fully understood here and as a Western reader I'm unlikely to fully grasp. I will be curious to read North and South Korean reviews of the book.
This is a beautiful story of interwoven lives and the impact of choices and pain and love in a life. It's a story where the love one holds is enough to see you through the days when love is not able to be close.
Theo builds rollercoasters. Min is a guide and translator. They collide in North Korea. The story is full of interesting stories, history and tidbits of North Korean life. My only concern is that, while it is clearly well researched, it has not been written by a Korean person and there are likely to be nuances that are not fully understood here and as a Western reader I'm unlikely to fully grasp. I will be curious to read North and South Korean reviews of the book.
July 25, 2021
A surprisingly refreshing, moving and fascinating novel
I rarely give 5 stars, even for books I really enjoy. I save this for something out of the ordinary, which tells you how much i enjoyed this book.
The details about North Korea were fascinating, and the storyline unusual. Having no idea about North Korea it free me in to learn about that enigmatic country, so I was immediately fascinated but that wouldn't be enough if the characters were not also beautifully fleshed out. The actually writing style was a delight and so many beautiful turns of phrase really delighted me. I couldn't anticipate how the story would move forward, so with the love of the very real characters, and the interest and lack of pre-knowledge, I was drawn into the story more and more.
It is a long time since I have read something that engaged me so much. I love books and read a lot but it was refreshing to find everything I value in a novel in this one book.
A well-deserved 5 stars.
I rarely give 5 stars, even for books I really enjoy. I save this for something out of the ordinary, which tells you how much i enjoyed this book.
The details about North Korea were fascinating, and the storyline unusual. Having no idea about North Korea it free me in to learn about that enigmatic country, so I was immediately fascinated but that wouldn't be enough if the characters were not also beautifully fleshed out. The actually writing style was a delight and so many beautiful turns of phrase really delighted me. I couldn't anticipate how the story would move forward, so with the love of the very real characters, and the interest and lack of pre-knowledge, I was drawn into the story more and more.
It is a long time since I have read something that engaged me so much. I love books and read a lot but it was refreshing to find everything I value in a novel in this one book.
A well-deserved 5 stars.
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