Brilliance of the Moon: Tales of the Otori, Book 3
This exciting conclusion to Hearn’s trilogy of an alternate feudal Japan wraps up the action but leaves plenty of room for a sequel. Star-crossed lovers Takeo and Kaede have married, against nearly everyone’s wishes, but they face a long road to happiness. Takeo is cognizant of the prophecy that he will have “four battles to win and one to lose” before the Otori lands rest securely in his possession. He also knows that he will eventually face death at the hands of his illegitimate son, who was born to his former paramour. Kaede’s former betrothed, Lord Fujiwara, doesn’t accept her marriage and stops at nothing to avenge this insult to his honor. Throughout it all, the elegant landscape of feudal Japan takes center stage, with formal rituals and class distinctions guiding everyone’s behavior. Historical fantasy readers will relish the latest volume in a fascinating saga.
