Ano Danchi no Tsuma (, lit. “That Public Housing Spouse”) – a novel that has captured the hearts of readers and writers alike. Watanabe Shin, a renowned author in Japan, penned this poignant and thought-provoking tale.

Kiyomi, the protagonist, is a tough, no-nonsense woman living in an apartment complex in Tokyo. She is married to her husband, Kenji, and together they strive to eke out a living in this increasingly crowded city. But Kiyomi’s life takes a dramatic turn when her husband falls into a drunken sleep in the early morning hours, allowing her to have thoughts she would never usually express, “Why did I marry him?”

During his absence, she ends up meeting a few different men, claiming each was an accident while still truly having the intention of meeting up with the men- giving the main character (wife), A somewhat positive feeling while still upholding Kiyomi’s integrity, creating empathy and sympathy from the readers considering the above story.

Kiyomi’s desire for excitement and escapism sets her on a path that challenges her values and sense of identity. As she grapples with these complex emotions, the narrative takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Through Kiyomi’s story, Watanabe Shin explores the intricacies of human relationships, marriage, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels suffocating.

“Nozomi no Kokoro: Ano Danchi no Tsuma” is more than just a novel; it is a reflection of the human condition. It is a exploration of the complexities of life, love and relationships, inviting readers to empathise.