Major news from the world of young adult historical fiction! The prestigious IBPA Awards just named the audiobook of Bright Eyes: A Kunoichi Tale as a finalist for 2025!

The Story That’s Captivating Listeners

Two armies converge on the Full Moon, the secret school for kunoichi.

Spies. Bodyguards. Assassins.

A Takeda lieutenant is found dead—staged as suicide.

Now it’s up to Risuko—whose nickname “Squirrel” comes from her love of climbing—to solve this dangerous mystery before it’s too late. She’ll face warlords, samurai, a monster lurking in the hills, and a hidden spy among those she trusts.

The stakes? Just the future of all Japan. No pressure, right?

As this thrilling sequel to Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale unfolds, listeners are left wondering: Will Risuko’s investigation bring peace… or trigger even more bloodshed?

Award-Worthy Narration

Multiple-award-winning SAG-AFTRA performer Allison Hiroto crafted the incredible narration that caught the IBPA judges’ attention. Hiroto brings each character to vivid life, from determined Risuko to samurai, warlords, cooks, and shrine maidens.

She has also recorded the audiobook for Kano, book 3 of Seasons of the Sword.

Bright Eyes Narrator Allison Hiroto

Hiroto’s masterful storytelling will transport you to war-torn sixteenth-century Japan from the safety of your own room, car, or bus.

What’s the IBPA Award?

For those who don’t know, the Independent Book Publishers Association Awards are among the most respected honors in independent publishing.

The IBPA Book Awards (formerly the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards) have been recognizing excellence in publishing since 1985.

Being named a finalist puts Bright Eyes in an elite category of outstanding titles from across the country.

Gold and silver medal winners for this year’s awards will be announced at the 37th annual IBPA Award Ceremony and Dinner on May 16, 2025.

Perfect for Fans of…

Bright Eyes is the second in David Kudler’s Seasons of the Sword series of YA historical adventure novels.

This series hits all the right notes if you enjoy:

Strong female protagonists who use brains over brawnHistorical settings that feel authentic and immersiveMurder mysteries with high-stakes consequencesJapanese culture and martial artsComing-of-age stories where characters discover their true strengthSeasons of the Sword The seasons turn, but the battles never stop…

Though Japan has been devastated by a century of civil war, Risuko just wants to climb trees. Growing up far from the battlefields and court intrigues, the fatherless girl finds herself pulled into a plot that may reunite Japan — or may destroy it. Torn from her home and what is left of her family, Risuko finds new friends at a school that may not be what it seems.

Magical but historical, Seasons of the Sword follows Risuko along the dangerous path to discovering who she truly is.

Teen historical adventure fictionThis award-winning series will include four books — one for each of the seasons: Risuko  (Winter) Bright Eyes  (Spring)Kano (Summer) Murasaki  (Autumn — coming soon!)

David Kudler is an author, editor, publisher, and performer who lives just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. He is working to finish Murasaki, the finale of his Seasons of the Sword series of teen historical adventure novels.

Listen Now!

Ready to hear what all the excitement is about? You can download Bright Eyes: A Kunoichi Tale on:

Seasons of the Sword websiteAudibleApple BooksHave you listened to Bright Eyes already? Share your thoughts in the comments!Note:While the series includes themes of war and mystery, the content remains age-appropriate for teens while exploring important concepts like courage, identity, and critical thinking. The audiobook format makes historical fiction accessible even for reluctant readers!