Across the Nightingale Floor: Tales of the Otori Book One

by Lian Hearn

Riverhead Books, September, 2002.
Hardcover, 304 pages.
ISBN: 1573222259

Across the Nightingale Floor: Tales of the Otori Book One by Lian Hearn 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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