This novel, more character study than action based, begins well. There is enough foreshadowing in the opening to grab reader attention, and the characters quickly become likeable. I enjoyed following their ups and downs and inabilities to communicate for the first two thirds. Then it got a little old. The author seemed to realize that possibility and did a lot of summary narrative in the last third, but it was still hard to finish. I had anticipated how each would end. I like to be a little bit surprised. 
 At one point Reiko narrates a situation with a piano student. On first reading, I did not see where it was necessary to the plot or the reading experience. I may be more observant if I read the novel again, which I will not be rushing to do.