Across the Nightingale Floor: Tales of the Otori Book One
Riverhead Books, September, 2002.
Hardcover, 304 pages.
ISBN: 1573222259
Newcomer Lian Hearn sets the fantasy world
buzzing with this first book in a projected
trilogy series. Set in a mythical time and place that
recalls feudal Japan, Across the Nightingale Floor
follows the amazing life of the boy, Takeo.
Orphaned when his entire clan is murdered by the
evil Lord Iida, Takeo is rescued by the talented
and beloved Lord Otori
and eventually adopted as his son. As Takeo grows up,
it become clear that he
has special gifts and talents -- he is really a member of
The Tribe, a group of highly skilled assassins.
In this medieval Japanese society, politics, intrigue
shifting alliances and honor all play important roles.
And the talented Takeo is going to be a major player
in the upcoming power struggle between Ieda and
the forces that oppose him. As Takeo grows up,
he will face the pains of first love and the depths of
anguish, as he is forced to make a terrible choice that
will have major repercussions for his family and his
country.
Across the Nightingale Floor is an absorbing story which takes ahold of the reader's imagination from the very first page. With grand themes, a rich cultural background, vivid characters and enough intrigue, magic and violence for three books, this is one story that is sure to be popular with fantasy and historical novel enthusiasts. Highly recommended.
Across the Nightingale Floor: Tales of the Otori Book One is available for purchase on Amazon.com
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This review was published in the October - November, 2002 of The Internet Writing Journal.
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