This book took my breath away. Fumiko Enchi describes the life of Tomo, who deals with her adulterous husband with amazing strength. In a complex marriage of love and hate, Tomo is sent to choose a concubine for her husband, find a husband for the other concubine he doesn't want, and worry about his affair with her daughter-in-law. While she may seem like a cold and unfeeling woman who is a stickler to tradition, Enchi shows the reader the gentle, compassionate side of Tomo. Tomo in the end is finally able to defeat her husband in an intelligent, almost classy manner.

What strikes me about the book is the way Enchi explains the motivations and fears of each of the characters. Even though I couldn't stand Tomo's husband, Yukitomo, at least I understood why he treated his wife so coldly. As in reality, everyone has different layers. The plot of the book is also interesting.

Do not wait to read the "The Waiting Years"!

I had to read this class for a course, and I am so glad that I did. It is a wonderful depiction of how life was for a Japanese woman during the late 19th century. It is a story of a strong woman who kept her life going no matter what got in the way. Enchi is a beautiful writer!

It was more of an intro to Japanese literature for me and i found some similiarities in african polygamous setting i empatised with Kin and was heartbroken myself.
Fumiko Enchi is extremely deep and has portrayed in the story the power of love to bear all things