BOOK REVIEW | Only Uni
Only Uni
by Camy Tang
It’s a new year and Trish Sakai is ready to leave the past behind her. There’s a slight problem though, she’s still attracted to her ex-boyfriend Kazuo. More than anything, she needs to move on, but how can she when Kazuo continues to confess his love for her.
Trish’s grandmother, the no-nonsense matriarch of the family has determined it’s time for her single granddaughter to settle down and marry a good Japanese man. While her grandmother maybe well-intentioned, Kazuo is not a Christian and definitely not the man for Trish.
Determined to prove to her "doubting" cousins she can change, Trish comes up with three simple rules from First and Second Corinthians. First, no more looking at men for possible dates, especially non-Christians. Second, tell others about Christ and third, persevere and rely on God.
The rules sound easy enough until Trish is assigned a new office mate, hunky Spenser. It doesn’t take long for sparks to fly between the two co-workers. Why does Spenser have to be so cute and make her laugh? Is he even a Christian?
While she tries to hold steadfast to rule number one, Kazuo is practically stalking her, showing up everywhere. Her grandmother seems determined to disregard Tricia’s faith, all in pursuit of getting her yoked with the wrong person. What’s a girl to do with all this pressure? Hanging on tight to her three rules, Trish finds her life continuing to dip downhill at warp speed.
Only Uni is the second book in the Sushi Series. I have not had a chance to read the first book, Sushi for One?, which introduces Trish’s cousin Lex to readers. While Lex shows up in this book, Only Uni stands alone as Trish’s story. Boy, what a tale this girl has to share?
I don’t read many chick lit novels, but this one truly rocked on the humor factor. I laughed out loud several times and sometimes read through tears as a result of one giggle after another. Trish and her rules were tripping her up left and right.
The faith factor was interwoven throughout Only Uni in a thoughtful, but not preachy manner. There are quite a few lessons wrapped up in the pages of this novel like dating non-Christians, worshipping in Spirit and Truth, forgiveness, legalism and most importantly Christian growth.
I felt really comfortable diving into Trish’s world and learning interesting nuances about the Asian culture. It wasn’t until after I read the book, I noticed the glossary in the back. Still with or without the definitions, Trish’s experiences were relatable on a lot of levels. With chick lit novels, the protagonist usually has some unique quirks, and Trish’s insecurities and lofty goals made her all the more likable.
Camy Tang has gained a new fan and I’m looking forward to reading more adventures from these Asian cousins.
