When I first bought these series, I had expected it to be a “japanese” novel – and while it was not set in actual Japan, its fictitious setting resembles it enough to satisfy my needs. I originally read it to fuel an rpg campaign I was preparing (L5R) and it really did help me out big time.
This book series by Lian Hearn is an epic journey through prophecy, forbidden love, politics, and betrayal. Oh, and did I mention there were ninjas?
The series is basically about Takeo, an adopted son of the Lord Shigeru – a highly respected and honorable lord of the Otori. In addition to this Takeo realizes his hidden talents (ninja talents mostly, but Hearn makes it sound more epic than I) However, due to tragedy, Shigeru was betrayed and killed by an evil man named Iida Sadamu. What follows is his journey, alongside his love Kaede, to avenge his adoptive father and escape his dark destiny.
