In this mystical fantasy tale, Hana inherits a pawnshop where you can pawn your life choices and deepest regrets. But not everyone can find it, most will just see a cosy ramen shop. On her first day as the pawnshop’s new owner, she wakes up to find it ransacked, the shop’s most precious acquisition stolen, and her father missing. Keishin, a charming young physicist, happens to wander into the shop and together they embark on a magical journey to discover the truth 🌊✨

This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2025 and it did not disappoint 😍 The world building was just phenomenal. The descriptions were pure magic and despite all the trekking throughout the realm, I could imagine the world perfectly. How wonderful would it be to travel by jumping into puddles or by hitching a ride on a paper crane?!

Going in, I thought this would be more of a cosy fantasy, and in some ways it was, with the dreamlike world created. However, I felt it was definitely more of a high stakes adventure! The pacing was fabulous, as I could feel the sense of urgency experienced by Hana and Keishin. There were so many unexpected twists and turns, I truly didn’t see the story unfolding the way it did!

I didn’t anticipate the romance, but it was adorable 🥰 my only very minor issue is that I felt that there was too much focus on it at times, which detracted from the mystic fantasy elements and didn’t allow for Hana to become the heroine I wanted her to be. In saying that, I enjoyed it and was highly invested 🤍

This is perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli and Makoto Shinkai! Even though it’s marketed for adults, I do think this would also suit new adult and older young adult audiences.

I am so excited for this 4.5⭐️ read to be published in January 2025! I definitely need to get myself a physical copy 💙

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for my digital ARC 💌