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Romantic Escapes #6
Der kleine Teeladen in Tokio
Herzklopfen zur Kirschblüte
Die angehende Fotografin Fiona ist überglücklich, als sie zu einer Reise nach Japan eingeladen wird. Es ist ein Stipendium, und ihre Bilder sollen anschließend in einer angesehenen Londoner Galerie gezeigt werden. Doch in Tokio stellt sich heraus, dass der Engländer Gabriel Burnett ihr Tutor sein wird. Ausgerechnet Gabe! Für ihn hat Fiona lange und unerwidert geschwärmt. Und Gabe hat sichtlich kein Interesse an einer Zusammenarbeit. Zum Glück wohnt Fiona bei einer warmherzigen Gastfamilie, die einen traditionellen Teeladen führt und ihr die japanische Kultur näherbringt. Dank Zen-Garten und Teezeremonie blüht Fiona auf. Aber kann sie auch einen Zugang zu Gabes Herzen finden?
Die angehende Fotografin Fiona ist überglücklich, als sie zu einer Reise nach Japan eingeladen wird. Es ist ein Stipendium, und ihre Bilder sollen anschließend in einer angesehenen Londoner Galerie gezeigt werden. Doch in Tokio stellt sich heraus, dass der Engländer Gabriel Burnett ihr Tutor sein wird. Ausgerechnet Gabe! Für ihn hat Fiona lange und unerwidert geschwärmt. Und Gabe hat sichtlich kein Interesse an einer Zusammenarbeit. Zum Glück wohnt Fiona bei einer warmherzigen Gastfamilie, die einen traditionellen Teeladen führt und ihr die japanische Kultur näherbringt. Dank Zen-Garten und Teezeremonie blüht Fiona auf. Aber kann sie auch einen Zugang zu Gabes Herzen finden?
400 pages, Paperback
First published June 19, 2020
827 people are currently reading
6302 people want to read
About the author
Julie Caplin
31 books1,154 followersJulie Caplin also writes contemporary romance as Jules Wake.
Julie Caplin is addicted to travel and good food. She’s on a constant hunt for the perfect gin and is obsessively picky about glasses, tonic and garnishes. Between regular gin tastings, she’s been writing her debut novel which is set in just one of the many cities she’s explored over the years.
Formerly a PR director, for many years she swanned around Europe taking top food and drink writers on press trips (junkets) sampling the gastronomic delights of various cities in Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, Copenhagen and Switzerland. It was a tough job but someone had to do it. These trips have provided the inspiration and settings for the trilogy, The Little Cafe in Copenhagen, The Little Brooklyn Bakery and the The Little Paris Patisserie.
Julie Caplin is addicted to travel and good food. She’s on a constant hunt for the perfect gin and is obsessively picky about glasses, tonic and garnishes. Between regular gin tastings, she’s been writing her debut novel which is set in just one of the many cities she’s explored over the years.
Formerly a PR director, for many years she swanned around Europe taking top food and drink writers on press trips (junkets) sampling the gastronomic delights of various cities in Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, Copenhagen and Switzerland. It was a tough job but someone had to do it. These trips have provided the inspiration and settings for the trilogy, The Little Cafe in Copenhagen, The Little Brooklyn Bakery and the The Little Paris Patisserie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 961 reviews
June 11, 2020
Tea and second chances. Julie Caplin swept me away to Tokyo with her descriptive writing. I loved all the Japanese culture packed into this sweet Second Chance Romance. Fiona is a travel blogger and is so excited when she wins a trip to Japan to take photos that will later be displayed at an exhibit in London. When she reaches Japan she finds out she will not be working with the professional photographer she thought she was. She instead will be working with her ex-boyfriend Gabe. I’m sure you know where this is going, but this book was really more about the journey than the Destiination. The story completely emerged me into the Japanese culture, the sites, the sounds, the Smells. At Times Fiona frustrated me she was incredibly insecure and I never felt like she really had caused to be. Gave was likable, even though he screwed up a decade ago. Who doesn’t make mistakes when they are young? The romance was very sweet, but I think the strength of this book was the setting of Tokyo. This story was an absolute delight, looking forward to reading another book from this author.
This book in emojis 📸 🗼 🗻 🍵 🥢 👘
*** Big thank you to Harper Collins UK for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book in emojis 📸 🗼 🗻 🍵 🥢 👘
*** Big thank you to Harper Collins UK for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
June 18, 2020
5☆ A Heart Warming, Sweet Second Chance Romance, with a dash of Wit, oodles of culture and plenty of charm!
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a heart warming Romance set in a gorgeous location. One I am very eager to visit.
This book is part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone book. I slid straight into the story without any issues whatsoever.
Fiona is on her way to Japan after winning an all expense paid trip, a photograph mentor and the chance to display her photographs at the Japan Centre in London, simply a dream come true for Fiona and the trip of a lifetime.
But what she didn't quite bank on, was that the devilishly handsome and arrogant Gabe Burnett, Times Photographer of the Year, turning up to meet her at the airport. She hadn't seen him in 10years and he still made her nervous.
Then he drops another bombshell....he is now her mentor!
Gabe doesn't want to be Fiona's mentor no more than she wants him to be.
You see she knows more about him then he dares to realise.
If only the two of them could stop butting heads, then maybe they just might be able to create some photograph magic, not only on camera but off camera too!
Fiona is staying above the gorgeous Haruka’s teashop with Haruka and her family, who has welcomed her into her home and teaching her Japanese customs. Which was an absolute joy to read and melted my heart.
What I absolutely loved about this book was how much the Authors passion for Japan shined through. All the intricate little touches, the sights, sounds, the atmosphere it felt very authentic and made we want to visit even more.
The characters are wonderfully developed,
Fiona has many insecurities which definitely holds her back and at times I found a lil frustrating, but it was lovely to see her confidence eventually grow.
Gabe was a tad annoying to start with, especially how he toyed with Fiona's feelings and got bogged down with Yumi and her manipulative ways, however I did soon warm to him and quickly willed Fiona and Gabe together.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a Heart Warming, Sweet Second Chance Romance, with a dash of Wit, oodles of culture and charm and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
As I said before the setting is superbly written and Caplin transported me into the heart of Tokyo and gave me a lil bit of escapism.
So if you are looking to be whisked away somewhere truly mesmerising, whilst falling in love with not only the setting but the characters, then I highly recommend reading The Little Teashop in Tokyo.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a heart warming Romance set in a gorgeous location. One I am very eager to visit.
This book is part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone book. I slid straight into the story without any issues whatsoever.
Fiona is on her way to Japan after winning an all expense paid trip, a photograph mentor and the chance to display her photographs at the Japan Centre in London, simply a dream come true for Fiona and the trip of a lifetime.
But what she didn't quite bank on, was that the devilishly handsome and arrogant Gabe Burnett, Times Photographer of the Year, turning up to meet her at the airport. She hadn't seen him in 10years and he still made her nervous.
Then he drops another bombshell....he is now her mentor!
Gabe doesn't want to be Fiona's mentor no more than she wants him to be.
You see she knows more about him then he dares to realise.
If only the two of them could stop butting heads, then maybe they just might be able to create some photograph magic, not only on camera but off camera too!
Fiona is staying above the gorgeous Haruka’s teashop with Haruka and her family, who has welcomed her into her home and teaching her Japanese customs. Which was an absolute joy to read and melted my heart.
What I absolutely loved about this book was how much the Authors passion for Japan shined through. All the intricate little touches, the sights, sounds, the atmosphere it felt very authentic and made we want to visit even more.
The characters are wonderfully developed,
Fiona has many insecurities which definitely holds her back and at times I found a lil frustrating, but it was lovely to see her confidence eventually grow.
Gabe was a tad annoying to start with, especially how he toyed with Fiona's feelings and got bogged down with Yumi and her manipulative ways, however I did soon warm to him and quickly willed Fiona and Gabe together.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a Heart Warming, Sweet Second Chance Romance, with a dash of Wit, oodles of culture and charm and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
As I said before the setting is superbly written and Caplin transported me into the heart of Tokyo and gave me a lil bit of escapism.
So if you are looking to be whisked away somewhere truly mesmerising, whilst falling in love with not only the setting but the characters, then I highly recommend reading The Little Teashop in Tokyo.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
April 15, 2022
Mein liebster Teil der Reihe! Gabe und Fiona sind wundervolle Charaktere und ihre Geschichte und einfach super schön!Ganz große Japan-Liebe!
April 22, 2020
I selected this book for two reasons: one, the main character is a blogger and secondly, this is set in Japan, a country that merges traditions beautifully with technology and modernism. What is more? Fiona is also a passionate photographer, something I too love. Quite understandably, I was more invested in her photography experiments and the beauty and serenity of Japan that unfolded through her eyes than on the romance part.
Usually, I don't prefer reading travel romances. The story part and the travelling rarely gel together but surprisingly, Julies Caplin has managed that feat incredibly well. There is ample tension to keep you focused and Japan with its tantalising dishes and scenic beauty fits beautifully within the storyline. The cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, Digital museum and the silent trains . . . yup, Japan is added to my ever-growing bucket list.
Fiona and Gabe have their own flaws and it took me some time to warm up to Gabe. I don't know which is worse, a man who sleeps around or the one who is under the leash of a manipulative woman. Both are despicable and Gabe belongs to the latter category. Sorry, if I didn't jump in joy on meeting him. But as a wise man once said, people are capable of change and grudgingly though it may be, I am happy that Fiona gave him a chance.
I cannot conclude this review without mentioning Haruka, the kind but firm Japanese lady who owned the teashop. She is really a fairy godmother in a kimono and her tea ceremony was one of the most interesting part in the novel. Well, we could never really know about a country through a single book, but if you are interested in getting a taste of Japan along with a cute love story, then this is the perfect pick. What more can you wish for during this lockdown period?
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the eARC which I have reviewed voluntarily. All opinions here are my own
Usually, I don't prefer reading travel romances. The story part and the travelling rarely gel together but surprisingly, Julies Caplin has managed that feat incredibly well. There is ample tension to keep you focused and Japan with its tantalising dishes and scenic beauty fits beautifully within the storyline. The cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, Digital museum and the silent trains . . . yup, Japan is added to my ever-growing bucket list.
Fiona and Gabe have their own flaws and it took me some time to warm up to Gabe. I don't know which is worse, a man who sleeps around or the one who is under the leash of a manipulative woman. Both are despicable and Gabe belongs to the latter category. Sorry, if I didn't jump in joy on meeting him. But as a wise man once said, people are capable of change and grudgingly though it may be, I am happy that Fiona gave him a chance.
I cannot conclude this review without mentioning Haruka, the kind but firm Japanese lady who owned the teashop. She is really a fairy godmother in a kimono and her tea ceremony was one of the most interesting part in the novel. Well, we could never really know about a country through a single book, but if you are interested in getting a taste of Japan along with a cute love story, then this is the perfect pick. What more can you wish for during this lockdown period?
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the eARC which I have reviewed voluntarily. All opinions here are my own
August 20, 2021
What I liked:
The setting - Japan, Tokyo, all the cultural things, the Japanese characters, that was really interesting.
The romance was nothing to write home about. Predictable and not very original. Honestly, I was a little bored.
And the tall, super gorgeous blond heroine in her late twenties - a photographer, for crying out loud - who thinks she is clumsy and unattractive?? Please. Pull the other one.
The setting - Japan, Tokyo, all the cultural things, the Japanese characters, that was really interesting.
The romance was nothing to write home about. Predictable and not very original. Honestly, I was a little bored.
And the tall, super gorgeous blond heroine in her late twenties - a photographer, for crying out loud - who thinks she is clumsy and unattractive?? Please. Pull the other one.
August 17, 2023
Whaaa wat een leuk verhaal 😍😍😍 Ik ben fan van Julie Caplin!
April 14, 2020
I sadly didn't enjoy this book as much.
Thank you to the publisher for giving me an arc of this title.
I had a rough time connecting to the story. The beginning was very all over the place that I had a hard time finding the structure and the will to read further.
Later on when the story seemed to finally progress into something I found it dull and having a lack of action and found myself very bored in the process of reading.
There were some things that I did like. I loved how they described the scenery like for instance how the cherry blossoms were blooming and I liked the romance aspect of the story however even that felt a bit dull and unconnected from the story somehow.
I really wish I could have loved this but sadly not every book is for me.
Thank you to the publisher for giving me an arc of this title.
I had a rough time connecting to the story. The beginning was very all over the place that I had a hard time finding the structure and the will to read further.
Later on when the story seemed to finally progress into something I found it dull and having a lack of action and found myself very bored in the process of reading.
There were some things that I did like. I loved how they described the scenery like for instance how the cherry blossoms were blooming and I liked the romance aspect of the story however even that felt a bit dull and unconnected from the story somehow.
I really wish I could have loved this but sadly not every book is for me.
July 17, 2020
What is it with all these heroines who spend years shamed and miserable due to something that happened at school? And how, after those years of misery, does a smile/kiss/shag from the man who caused all that, make it better? Agh.
Anyway. This was a sweet, formulaic romance and a tourist guide to Tokyo.
Anyway. This was a sweet, formulaic romance and a tourist guide to Tokyo.
June 12, 2020
I LOVED this book and had a smile on my face from beginning to the end while reading this amazingly fun and swoon worthy read. It reminded me of my time visiting Tokyo and Julie Caplin has captured all the sights and sounds of the bustling city, the food, the wonderful people. Fiona was living the dream and for a time, I was immersed in Fiona’s world as a travel blogger. A dream job for any travel enthusiast. I can not recommend this book enough!
May 19, 2020
Check out the review on my blog: sophsbookworld.wordpress.com/2020/05/...
Rating: 5 / 5
When I was requesting my Netgalley books this one caught my eye. To be honest I didn’t know anything about it and didn’t even read the description – what sparked my interest was this beautiful cover and the fact that it’s set in Japan. And that’s all I needed to be sold on it!
This book was so amazing, it made me want to pack my bags and immediately travel (to Japan if it’s possible). It captures the country beautifully, describing not only the main attractions, but also people and the culture. I loved that the main theme is tea and tea ceremonies. It gave this book such a different and unique feeling.
I loved all the characters. Fiona is not the usual petite brunette we are used to in books – she describes herself as big, lanky and clumsy and she’s shy and not overly confident, but that’s just what makes her even more likeable (and somewhat relatable). I love how she grows as a person throughout the book. The travel helps her overcome her fears and imaginary boundaries. It’s also interesting reading about a main character who is a blogger.
Although Gabe annoyed me at first, he turned out to be a lovely character and I loved his and Fiona’s romance. I love how he helps Fiona be more confident. Their romance was really cute. Not the perfect love story we’ve all seen numerous times in movies and books, but a realistic one (although that ending was just adorable).
As far as I remember, this was my first time reading a book centered around photography and I must admit it was interesting. It gave a different light to the plot and the descriptions of different places and sights. I think it would be great if there were some photographs or illustrations in the book (for example, of the boy in front of the torii or of Gabe looking at Mount Fuji). But, it’s also good this way because it let’s everyone imagine in those sights in their head.
It’s a beautiful book and it’s a perfect read if you’re longing to escape your normal surroundings or missing travelling (as we all probably do now). It definitely transported my into this beautiful and amazing country that I now want to visit more than ever!
Rating: 5 / 5
When I was requesting my Netgalley books this one caught my eye. To be honest I didn’t know anything about it and didn’t even read the description – what sparked my interest was this beautiful cover and the fact that it’s set in Japan. And that’s all I needed to be sold on it!
This book was so amazing, it made me want to pack my bags and immediately travel (to Japan if it’s possible). It captures the country beautifully, describing not only the main attractions, but also people and the culture. I loved that the main theme is tea and tea ceremonies. It gave this book such a different and unique feeling.
I loved all the characters. Fiona is not the usual petite brunette we are used to in books – she describes herself as big, lanky and clumsy and she’s shy and not overly confident, but that’s just what makes her even more likeable (and somewhat relatable). I love how she grows as a person throughout the book. The travel helps her overcome her fears and imaginary boundaries. It’s also interesting reading about a main character who is a blogger.
Although Gabe annoyed me at first, he turned out to be a lovely character and I loved his and Fiona’s romance. I love how he helps Fiona be more confident. Their romance was really cute. Not the perfect love story we’ve all seen numerous times in movies and books, but a realistic one (although that ending was just adorable).
As far as I remember, this was my first time reading a book centered around photography and I must admit it was interesting. It gave a different light to the plot and the descriptions of different places and sights. I think it would be great if there were some photographs or illustrations in the book (for example, of the boy in front of the torii or of Gabe looking at Mount Fuji). But, it’s also good this way because it let’s everyone imagine in those sights in their head.
It’s a beautiful book and it’s a perfect read if you’re longing to escape your normal surroundings or missing travelling (as we all probably do now). It definitely transported my into this beautiful and amazing country that I now want to visit more than ever!
April 24, 2020
How wonderful it was to be transported to Japan, at a time where there isn't really any international travel.
I literally felt as though I was there alongside Fiona, as she takes in the sights, traditions, culture and way of life of Tokyo for the first time. Although I've never been from what I do vaguely know of the country, this all seemed incredibly authentic, and very well researched.
There were spatterings of Japanese words and their meanings, various practices, the Japanese tea ceremony and so much variation in the food that I was practically salivating at the descriptions. I could totally identify with Fiona's issues with chopsticks to eat with!
Yet between the clear love of Japan in this book, at its heart there is what could be a romance between Fiona, and her reluctant photography mentor Gabe.
Gabe who appears to be tired of life, and only doing a half hearted job at anything, is supposed to be helping Fiona, but rather needs an initial attitude adjustment.
I could completely sympathise with Fiona, about her mother, mine isn't quite as bad, but can be similarly frustrating, so I very much empathised with her there.
And the host family Fiona stays with, three generations are fabulous, and teach us all so many wonderful things about life in Japan, and the blending of the traditional with the modern. I would have loved to have gone to the digital art museum that the grand daughter takes Fiona too - it sounded amazing.
Such a fabulous story, I was loving every single second of it, and it was a shame to then realise I was in my garden and not actually in such a different country. Another top notch book in this romantic escapes series from one of my favourite authors, Julie Caplin.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,.
I literally felt as though I was there alongside Fiona, as she takes in the sights, traditions, culture and way of life of Tokyo for the first time. Although I've never been from what I do vaguely know of the country, this all seemed incredibly authentic, and very well researched.
There were spatterings of Japanese words and their meanings, various practices, the Japanese tea ceremony and so much variation in the food that I was practically salivating at the descriptions. I could totally identify with Fiona's issues with chopsticks to eat with!
Yet between the clear love of Japan in this book, at its heart there is what could be a romance between Fiona, and her reluctant photography mentor Gabe.
Gabe who appears to be tired of life, and only doing a half hearted job at anything, is supposed to be helping Fiona, but rather needs an initial attitude adjustment.
I could completely sympathise with Fiona, about her mother, mine isn't quite as bad, but can be similarly frustrating, so I very much empathised with her there.
And the host family Fiona stays with, three generations are fabulous, and teach us all so many wonderful things about life in Japan, and the blending of the traditional with the modern. I would have loved to have gone to the digital art museum that the grand daughter takes Fiona too - it sounded amazing.
Such a fabulous story, I was loving every single second of it, and it was a shame to then realise I was in my garden and not actually in such a different country. Another top notch book in this romantic escapes series from one of my favourite authors, Julie Caplin.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,.
April 30, 2025
Za mě jedna z těch slabších knih. Bavila mě až druhá půlka příběhu.
May 16, 2020
I've always loved travel romances but they usually happen in Italy, France, Greece...so when I discovered The Little Teashop in Tokyo I jumped at the chance to read it cause Japan has been on my bucket list for so long. The other main factor in my decision to request this title was the main character's love of photography, cause that's also one of my passions.
For the most part Fiona was a likable character but her lack of self confidence got a bit tiresome (girl, you've had 28 years to make peace with the fact you're taller than other women. Stop complaining!). Gabe took me some time to warm up to because, one, his shitty attitude towards Fiona at the beginning and two, his blindness with Yumi. Seriously it took you so long to realize she was manipulating you? It must be true when they say love is blind! My favorite character hands down was Haruka and I specially loved all the moments Fiona shared with her "japanese family".
My BF is obssessed with Japan and has been there several times so I had already heard about most of the tourist attractions and japanese customs Fiona discovers, but it was all so well written that I felt as if I was right there under the cherry blossoms.
At one point Fiona says that with her photographs she intended for people to want to get on the next plane and go to Japan and that's exactly what Julie Caplin accomplished here. Now I can't wait to check some of her previous books, specially The Little Café in Copenhagen as that is one my favourite cities.
If you're in the mood for some cute romance while learning a bit about a fascinating culture be sure to grab this when it comes out.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK One More Chapter for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
For the most part Fiona was a likable character but her lack of self confidence got a bit tiresome (girl, you've had 28 years to make peace with the fact you're taller than other women. Stop complaining!). Gabe took me some time to warm up to because, one, his shitty attitude towards Fiona at the beginning and two, his blindness with Yumi. Seriously it took you so long to realize she was manipulating you? It must be true when they say love is blind! My favorite character hands down was Haruka and I specially loved all the moments Fiona shared with her "japanese family".
My BF is obssessed with Japan and has been there several times so I had already heard about most of the tourist attractions and japanese customs Fiona discovers, but it was all so well written that I felt as if I was right there under the cherry blossoms.
At one point Fiona says that with her photographs she intended for people to want to get on the next plane and go to Japan and that's exactly what Julie Caplin accomplished here. Now I can't wait to check some of her previous books, specially The Little Café in Copenhagen as that is one my favourite cities.
If you're in the mood for some cute romance while learning a bit about a fascinating culture be sure to grab this when it comes out.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK One More Chapter for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2020
Also available on the WondrousBooks blog.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a cute story about a girl, Fiona, who wins a trip to Japan with the opportunity to have her pictures from Japan in an exhibition in London after the trip. When she arrives in Tokyo, she's supposed to be mentored by a famous Japanese photographer, but instead meets Gabe, an equally famous artist, who, however, broke her heart ten years earlier.
The book is quite adorable and the part about getting familiar with Japan and Japanese culture called out to my travel-loving soul. I felt truly inspired by the descriptions of the culture, beautiful sights and tasty food. While I'm not dying to see the urban parts of Japan, such as Tokyo and the famous Shibuya crossing, I'd absolutely love to go to their mountains and the more historical cities, like Kyoto.
On the other hand, I had some problems with Fiona and her attitude towards Gabe and their relationship. For starters, I was pretty annoyed with Fiona's incredible insecurity and her going on and on and on about how unattractive she is. You've got him, hon, enjoy it! Not to mention the overload of drama about the alleged incident ten years earlier, which was so innocent I just couldn't believe it could ignite so much tragedy in Fiona's life. Gabe, I preferred. He was pretty torn up by a previous relationship, but things like that do happen.
The two of them had some nice moments (when Fiona wasn't bemoaning herself), and I quite enjoyed those, so I believe if Fiona was less of Fiona, I'd have really liked the book. Therefore, I'll definitely be checking out Julie Caplin's other books from the series. I'm particularly excited about The Little Cafe in Copenhagen, because Copenhagen has a very special place in my heart.
(Quarantine: Book 13)
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo is a cute story about a girl, Fiona, who wins a trip to Japan with the opportunity to have her pictures from Japan in an exhibition in London after the trip. When she arrives in Tokyo, she's supposed to be mentored by a famous Japanese photographer, but instead meets Gabe, an equally famous artist, who, however, broke her heart ten years earlier.
The book is quite adorable and the part about getting familiar with Japan and Japanese culture called out to my travel-loving soul. I felt truly inspired by the descriptions of the culture, beautiful sights and tasty food. While I'm not dying to see the urban parts of Japan, such as Tokyo and the famous Shibuya crossing, I'd absolutely love to go to their mountains and the more historical cities, like Kyoto.
On the other hand, I had some problems with Fiona and her attitude towards Gabe and their relationship. For starters, I was pretty annoyed with Fiona's incredible insecurity and her going on and on and on about how unattractive she is. You've got him, hon, enjoy it! Not to mention the overload of drama about the alleged incident ten years earlier, which was so innocent I just couldn't believe it could ignite so much tragedy in Fiona's life. Gabe, I preferred. He was pretty torn up by a previous relationship, but things like that do happen.
The two of them had some nice moments (when Fiona wasn't bemoaning herself), and I quite enjoyed those, so I believe if Fiona was less of Fiona, I'd have really liked the book. Therefore, I'll definitely be checking out Julie Caplin's other books from the series. I'm particularly excited about The Little Cafe in Copenhagen, because Copenhagen has a very special place in my heart.
(Quarantine: Book 13)
June 17, 2020
Grab your passport and take a novel holiday to Japan, what I love about this series as the descriptions are that good you feel you are there. Japan is a country that fascinates me and this has just added to my enticement of the country and what it has to offer.
Fiona and Gabe the leading lady and man. They know each other from years before and that adds to the background for the characters. I liked Fiona but the amount of times I wanted to shake her and tell her she's worth more than she thinks she is. I wish she had more confident for herself instead of constantly needing told what she is worth. Gabe has made mistakes in the past and that adds to the likeability for me, he seems like the most lovely on guy when the pair meet ten years later. A picture is worth more than words and that is often the case.
It's fast paced and enjoyable from start to finish.
Fiona and Gabe the leading lady and man. They know each other from years before and that adds to the background for the characters. I liked Fiona but the amount of times I wanted to shake her and tell her she's worth more than she thinks she is. I wish she had more confident for herself instead of constantly needing told what she is worth. Gabe has made mistakes in the past and that adds to the likeability for me, he seems like the most lovely on guy when the pair meet ten years later. A picture is worth more than words and that is often the case.
It's fast paced and enjoyable from start to finish.
February 16, 2023
Let me start with the good stuff: this cover is absolutely gorgeous, and it's mainly what drove me to read this book. I was hoping to find a sweet romance, a feel-good story that left me feeling light and yes, feeling good.
I was actually a bit bored throughout this reading, to be perfectly honest. During the book's first quarter, I tried to keep an open mind, even though I wasn't that engaged with the story. The rest of the book I just struggled through it and skimmed some parts. I'm not sure it it was the writing, or the characters (it's true I didn't like either protagonist), or even the romance itself, but something was definitely lacking.
I was actually a bit bored throughout this reading, to be perfectly honest. During the book's first quarter, I tried to keep an open mind, even though I wasn't that engaged with the story. The rest of the book I just struggled through it and skimmed some parts. I'm not sure it it was the writing, or the characters (it's true I didn't like either protagonist), or even the romance itself, but something was definitely lacking.
March 27, 2024
دلم میخواد همه جلداشو داشته باشم چقدر حال خوب کن و شیرینه :)
January 22, 2021
Having read several books in this series I was excited to read the most recently published book. However, for much of the book I found myself disliking both the lead female, Fiona, and the lead male, Gabe, and found their love story to be incredibly unrealistic and superficial. Both characters has some deep seeded issues (not just simple misunderstandings that can easily be overcome) that a couple days romance simply would not suddenly erase or heal and because of those issues I find it difficult to believe they could properly be in love.
January 8, 2024
Privukla me divna naslovnica nježnih pastelnim boja, koja savršeno oslikava sadržaj radnje.
U ovom romanu naći ćete i putopis i romantičnu priču i klišej i dosta motivacionih rečenica.
Od mene preporuka za lagani štivo i ocjena 4
U ovom romanu naći ćete i putopis i romantičnu priču i klišej i dosta motivacionih rečenica.
Od mene preporuka za lagani štivo i ocjena 4
September 10, 2022
Another fabulous book in this series. This time we travel with Fiona, who we met in the first book, to Japan where she finds herself being mentored in photography by Gabe, someone she hasn’t seen in 10 years. I enjoyed reading of the Japanese culture, the food and loved Fiona and Gabe’s story.
December 30, 2020
3 stelle
Molta cultura, riti e storia del Giappone che mi affascina molto ma a mio parere poca storia d’amore, un intero libro per svolgersi tutto all’ultimo capitolo.
Molta cultura, riti e storia del Giappone che mi affascina molto ma a mio parere poca storia d’amore, un intero libro per svolgersi tutto all’ultimo capitolo.
November 9, 2020
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
December 22, 2025
Niekas nėra amžina, todėl viską reikia branginti čia ir dabar.
Šįkart autorė nukelia mus į tolimąją Japoniją! Rytų šalys ir kultūra mane nuo seno žavi, o autorė išties moka lengvai ir jaukiai parašyti istoriją, tad ir ši knyga nenuvylė! 🌸 Be to, smagu buvo vėl sutikti iš pirmosios serijos dalies jau pažįstamą Fijoną.
Siužetas tikrai paprastas, jame nėra gylio ar daugiasluoksniškumo , tačiau nėra ir lėkštas. Pasirinktos problemos – labai gyvenimiškos, o autorė jas gvildena šiltai ir supratingai, be nereikalingų moralų. Didžiausias dėmesys skiriamas toksiškiems santykiams ir, kas man labiausiai patiko, tai nebuvo dažniausiai knygose (bent jau tose, kurias teko skaityti) aptinkamas scenarijus, kai aukos vietoje yra mergina, o emocinis smurtautojas yra vyras. Šįkart buvo paliesti netinkami mamos ir dukros santykiai, o taip pat – įsimylėjėlių, tačiau iš manipuliacijų tinklo ištrūkti šioje knygoje negali ne moteris, o vyriškosios lyties personažas.
Japoniškų patiekalų ragauti teko labai nedaug, daugelio jų gal net nenorėčiau ragauti... 🥢Bet paskaityti labai įdomu, visai kitas pasaulis! O arbatos ceremonijos skamba įkvepiančiai, po šios knygos užsimaniau eilinę kavos dozę iškeisti į kvapnios genmaicha (kepintų ryžių ir kukurūzų arbatos) puodelį. 🍵
Nuoširdžiai rekomenduoju visiems, ieškantiems mielo romano ir neabejingiems Tolimųjų Rytų kultūroms. 🥰
Šįkart autorė nukelia mus į tolimąją Japoniją! Rytų šalys ir kultūra mane nuo seno žavi, o autorė išties moka lengvai ir jaukiai parašyti istoriją, tad ir ši knyga nenuvylė! 🌸 Be to, smagu buvo vėl sutikti iš pirmosios serijos dalies jau pažįstamą Fijoną.
Siužetas tikrai paprastas, jame nėra gylio ar daugiasluoksniškumo , tačiau nėra ir lėkštas. Pasirinktos problemos – labai gyvenimiškos, o autorė jas gvildena šiltai ir supratingai, be nereikalingų moralų. Didžiausias dėmesys skiriamas toksiškiems santykiams ir, kas man labiausiai patiko, tai nebuvo dažniausiai knygose (bent jau tose, kurias teko skaityti) aptinkamas scenarijus, kai aukos vietoje yra mergina, o emocinis smurtautojas yra vyras. Šįkart buvo paliesti netinkami mamos ir dukros santykiai, o taip pat – įsimylėjėlių, tačiau iš manipuliacijų tinklo ištrūkti šioje knygoje negali ne moteris, o vyriškosios lyties personažas.
Japoniškų patiekalų ragauti teko labai nedaug, daugelio jų gal net nenorėčiau ragauti... 🥢Bet paskaityti labai įdomu, visai kitas pasaulis! O arbatos ceremonijos skamba įkvepiančiai, po šios knygos užsimaniau eilinę kavos dozę iškeisti į kvapnios genmaicha (kepintų ryžių ir kukurūzų arbatos) puodelį. 🍵
Nuoširdžiai rekomenduoju visiems, ieškantiems mielo romano ir neabejingiems Tolimųjų Rytų kultūroms. 🥰
June 13, 2020
Japan as always been on my list of countries I hope I can visit before I die. I want to learn more about Japanese culture and history, maybe learn Japanese, but I want to learn it from the "source". Meanwhile, I have been looking for all kinds of books to add to my list that are set or talk about Japan. When I saw this book and it's blog tour, I knew it could be a good way to travel - in my mind - to this beautiful place.
In this story we follow Fiona, and I could relate to her in many ways, and since she is a blogger and she always wanted to visit Japan, I kind of connected to that, mainly. As the story unfolds and Gabe comes into scene, I felt myself falling in love with the characters.
As we met the every character and learn more about the community, the relationships, the characters' stories... It all made me a part of the book, of that moment, of that group, and that was brilliant because I absolutely love when a story is about people and society, and everything in between: relationships, emotions, goals. Getting connected with the people in a story is very important to me, and that was what happened with this book.
The scenery was another things that I loved. The fact that it transported me to a place I have never visited, a culture that I am looking forward to learn more about, was a fantastic thing. We are seeing things from a foreigner woman, so it's a different experience, but still it may be the experience we would have if we were really there. The descriptions and the narrative helped with maintain that realism.
Overall, it was a brilliant story. Romance, friendship, culture, learning and exploring. That how I would describe the book. And I can't wait to read more novels by this author, because I loved how she took us to those places, and made the reading of this story an escape for me.
In this story we follow Fiona, and I could relate to her in many ways, and since she is a blogger and she always wanted to visit Japan, I kind of connected to that, mainly. As the story unfolds and Gabe comes into scene, I felt myself falling in love with the characters.
As we met the every character and learn more about the community, the relationships, the characters' stories... It all made me a part of the book, of that moment, of that group, and that was brilliant because I absolutely love when a story is about people and society, and everything in between: relationships, emotions, goals. Getting connected with the people in a story is very important to me, and that was what happened with this book.
The scenery was another things that I loved. The fact that it transported me to a place I have never visited, a culture that I am looking forward to learn more about, was a fantastic thing. We are seeing things from a foreigner woman, so it's a different experience, but still it may be the experience we would have if we were really there. The descriptions and the narrative helped with maintain that realism.
Overall, it was a brilliant story. Romance, friendship, culture, learning and exploring. That how I would describe the book. And I can't wait to read more novels by this author, because I loved how she took us to those places, and made the reading of this story an escape for me.
May 25, 2020
Oh my goodness I absolutely loved this story. I was swept away with Fiona as she nervously steps off her flight to Japan. Her visit is her competition win and she will spend time with a Japanese photographer, unfortunately, he is not able to mentor but instead sends Gabe. Gabe is a famous photographer and he doesn’t realise that they have met before.
The author completely immersed me in this story and I soon got to know Fiona and the family she is staying with while she is in Japan. This family, well they are fabulous and they live above their teashop. I loved the mix of traditional culture and also the modern setting.
The author, for me, made this story with the mentions of food, art, tradition, ceremony and little explanations along the way. I felt that the author has a love for Japan and also has an understanding of not only the country but also the people.
I loved the contrast between the old and the new. Another contrast is between Fiona and Gabe, she a wide-eyed, naive and no that confident compared to the swagger, arrogance and smug of Gabe. This is a romance that has tension simmering around the edges that gradually rolls to the boil.
Nothing is straightforward or predictable in this romance and I was eagerly turning the pages to discover if they would or wouldn’t get together.
I loved the setting, the characters and… well, I loved absolutely everything about this story and I would definitely recommend it.
The author completely immersed me in this story and I soon got to know Fiona and the family she is staying with while she is in Japan. This family, well they are fabulous and they live above their teashop. I loved the mix of traditional culture and also the modern setting.
The author, for me, made this story with the mentions of food, art, tradition, ceremony and little explanations along the way. I felt that the author has a love for Japan and also has an understanding of not only the country but also the people.
I loved the contrast between the old and the new. Another contrast is between Fiona and Gabe, she a wide-eyed, naive and no that confident compared to the swagger, arrogance and smug of Gabe. This is a romance that has tension simmering around the edges that gradually rolls to the boil.
Nothing is straightforward or predictable in this romance and I was eagerly turning the pages to discover if they would or wouldn’t get together.
I loved the setting, the characters and… well, I loved absolutely everything about this story and I would definitely recommend it.
June 23, 2020
I have adored this series of books. Each one transports you to a wonderful destination where you experience the sights, smells and food of the country it is set in. This one is set in Japan and you get a real feel for the customs alongside the hectic pace of the busy city.
Fiona is a blogger who wins a photography competition to be mentored on a trip to Tokyo and have an exhibition of her work. I love travel, photography and a cup of tea- so I was drawn in from page one. I could vividly picture the teashop and the tea ceremonies that take place in full Japanese dress and can imagine my fingers itching to take the perfect photo (in my dreams!).
Her mentor turns out to be someone from a troubled time in her past- but the spark of attraction is still there. He seems very brusque and aloof as he has become disillusioned with photography and life
in general.
He's different when he's with the family that she is staying with- which allows her to realise that he has a softer side.
I loved everything about this book- imagining the photos that she took hanging in the exhibition. The images of family, friendship and awe at the wonders of the world.
Fiona is a blogger who wins a photography competition to be mentored on a trip to Tokyo and have an exhibition of her work. I love travel, photography and a cup of tea- so I was drawn in from page one. I could vividly picture the teashop and the tea ceremonies that take place in full Japanese dress and can imagine my fingers itching to take the perfect photo (in my dreams!).
Her mentor turns out to be someone from a troubled time in her past- but the spark of attraction is still there. He seems very brusque and aloof as he has become disillusioned with photography and life
in general.
He's different when he's with the family that she is staying with- which allows her to realise that he has a softer side.
I loved everything about this book- imagining the photos that she took hanging in the exhibition. The images of family, friendship and awe at the wonders of the world.
October 7, 2025
Gerai, pradėkim nuo to, kad ankstesnės autorės knygos susiskaitė labai maloniai, todėl buvo iškelti dideli lūkesčiai. 🙌🏻 Tačiau gaila, nes “Arbatinė Tokijuje” labai nuvylė.
Nesuprantu, kas įvyko. Atrodo, kad istoriją parašė visiškai kitas autorius. 😭 Siužetas ne toks “kabinantis” kaip anksčiau, veikėjai plokšti ir neįdomūs, o pačios Japonijos vaizdavimas ir papročiai neįtikino.
Liūdna, kad taip laukta knyga nuvylė, tačiau tikiuosi, kad tai tik mažas suklupimas. 🫣 Bet kokiu atveju skaitysiu ir kitas autorės knygas.
Nesuprantu, kas įvyko. Atrodo, kad istoriją parašė visiškai kitas autorius. 😭 Siužetas ne toks “kabinantis” kaip anksčiau, veikėjai plokšti ir neįdomūs, o pačios Japonijos vaizdavimas ir papročiai neįtikino.
Liūdna, kad taip laukta knyga nuvylė, tačiau tikiuosi, kad tai tik mažas suklupimas. 🫣 Bet kokiu atveju skaitysiu ir kitas autorės knygas.
May 27, 2020
Fiona is a somewhat mousy human being because of past bullying situations during her high school years, but has started to break free from the bondage of the scars such behaviour leaves and enjoys a certain level of success as a social media influencer and blogger. She is also a dab hand at photography and having won an all-expenses trip to Japan to be mentored by the very best on offer, she is somewhat disappointed that the mentor has had to pull out due to a family emergency and what is even worse, is that the replacement is none other than the man (her teacher) she had inappropriate feelings and actions towards ten years ago when she was 18. At first, Gabe doesn’t recognise her, being rather self-centred and fed up with the world, having lost his creative spark due to a romantic situation gone wrong, but after a few days pieces of the puzzle fall into place and he recalls the scene where Fiona laid an unexpected kiss on him and he recalls a time in his life when he was excited by life and his work. He also recalls quite distinctly that when Fiona kissed him, he kissed her back. Now He is faced with a grown woman who is less than impressed by him, despite his huge catalogue of amazing photography in the past, and a persistent relationship with a married woman who spurned him a while ago that doesn’t seem to want to let go of her control over him and his new awakening that Fiona is truly amazing. So the question is will he be able to move on from the married woman and strike out on his own to a new and fulfilling life? Will her walls come down to let him back in? And can a holiday romance ever last?
The Little Tea Shop in Tokyo is book number six in a series of romance novels, but one doesn’t need to know any of the previous books to read this novel and find fulfilment. It is set against the stunning background of Japan, which is a marvellous mixture of tradition and modernity. Food, clothing, the sights and sounds of the city and insights into the Japanese culture are sprinkled throughout the book, but it never feels like a disguised travel guide in which the author is showing off just what she knows. The main and minor characters are wonderfully drawn, with the minor characters sometimes over shining the main characters. This book never overreaches to be anything other than a frothy romance; it isn’t going to change the world, it is not going to blow you away with hidden meanings and insights, it is just meant to make a person happy - and it is successful in that ambition.
If you’re looking for a light summer read to enjoy at the beach or poolside then look no further.
The Little Tea Shop in Tokyo is book number six in a series of romance novels, but one doesn’t need to know any of the previous books to read this novel and find fulfilment. It is set against the stunning background of Japan, which is a marvellous mixture of tradition and modernity. Food, clothing, the sights and sounds of the city and insights into the Japanese culture are sprinkled throughout the book, but it never feels like a disguised travel guide in which the author is showing off just what she knows. The main and minor characters are wonderfully drawn, with the minor characters sometimes over shining the main characters. This book never overreaches to be anything other than a frothy romance; it isn’t going to change the world, it is not going to blow you away with hidden meanings and insights, it is just meant to make a person happy - and it is successful in that ambition.
If you’re looking for a light summer read to enjoy at the beach or poolside then look no further.
August 2, 2021
3,75⭐ Ultimamente ho una leggera fissa per tutti i romanzi ambientati in Giappone e trovando questo ebook a 0.99€ non potevo farmelo sfuggire!
È sempre una boccata di aria fresca leggere di setting nuovi, un po' diversi dai nostri soliti e scoprire sempre qualcosa di nuovo sulla cultura giapponese che mi intriga sempre più.
L'inizio è stato abbastanza lento ma pian piano mi son ricreduta e mi son ritrovata totalmente immersa nella storia d'amore! La protagonista femminile ha finalmente tirato fuori il carattere ma ammettiamolo Gabe, la controparte maschile, mi ha vinto. Introverso, cinico e decisamente disilluso dalla vita. Si ho il mio tipo 😂
Avrei dato di più non fosse per il finale che secondo me decisamente richiedeva un capitolo in più perché appare troppo troncato. Ma assolutamente una lettura che consiglio nel genere romance!
È sempre una boccata di aria fresca leggere di setting nuovi, un po' diversi dai nostri soliti e scoprire sempre qualcosa di nuovo sulla cultura giapponese che mi intriga sempre più.
L'inizio è stato abbastanza lento ma pian piano mi son ricreduta e mi son ritrovata totalmente immersa nella storia d'amore! La protagonista femminile ha finalmente tirato fuori il carattere ma ammettiamolo Gabe, la controparte maschile, mi ha vinto. Introverso, cinico e decisamente disilluso dalla vita. Si ho il mio tipo 😂
Avrei dato di più non fosse per il finale che secondo me decisamente richiedeva un capitolo in più perché appare troppo troncato. Ma assolutamente una lettura che consiglio nel genere romance!
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