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Sword and Silk Trilogy #1
Flying Fish
In eighteenth century Japan, during the golden age of samurai and of the Kabuki theater, young actors known as “flying fish” traveled the countryside, performing for audiences by day and giving their bodies to their samurai patrons at night.
Genji Sakura is one such flying fish, yet he dreams of the day he’ll find the man he can give his heart to and leave the loneliness of his itinerant life behind. Though he loves theater, he doesn’t love every part of his profession, especially some of the patrons. So when a handsome ronin, or masterless samurai, comes upon him stealing some solitude for a bath in a hot spring and their encounter turns passionate and profoundly erotic, Genji’s surprised and delighted.
Daisuke Minamoto’s past fills his life with a bitterness that grips his soul and makes him dangerous. Yet his passion takes him when he spies on a graceful young man bathing naked in a hot spring. He has always loved women but he can’t deny the call of his heart or his baser interests.
After an afternoon of sexual bliss, his heart and soul are tormented and torn. Keeping this miraculous lover will require giving up the one thing that has kept him alive for his hatred for the lord who murdered his wife. If he loves another, how will he go on and who will he become?
Genji Sakura is one such flying fish, yet he dreams of the day he’ll find the man he can give his heart to and leave the loneliness of his itinerant life behind. Though he loves theater, he doesn’t love every part of his profession, especially some of the patrons. So when a handsome ronin, or masterless samurai, comes upon him stealing some solitude for a bath in a hot spring and their encounter turns passionate and profoundly erotic, Genji’s surprised and delighted.
Daisuke Minamoto’s past fills his life with a bitterness that grips his soul and makes him dangerous. Yet his passion takes him when he spies on a graceful young man bathing naked in a hot spring. He has always loved women but he can’t deny the call of his heart or his baser interests.
After an afternoon of sexual bliss, his heart and soul are tormented and torn. Keeping this miraculous lover will require giving up the one thing that has kept him alive for his hatred for the lord who murdered his wife. If he loves another, how will he go on and who will he become?
82 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
9 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
Sedonia Guillone
69 books162 followersSedonia Guillone wanted to be an author since the age of six when she first volunteered in the school library and the librarian had to put a limit on how many times she checked out her favorite books. Then at sixteen, a short story she wrote won honorable mention in a contest by the League of American Pen Women and there was no stopping her. Since then, her first M/M mystery/suspense, His Beautiful Samurai, was nominated for a Gaylactic Spectrum Award and has been required reading in a college gay and lesbian literature course. Her M/M romance, Men of Tokyo: Sudden Bliss won a Rainbow Awards honorable mention in the Conteporary category and her historical romance, Lady of Two Lairds was a finalist for The Romance Studio's Cupid and Psyche Awards and A Passionate Plume Ink Chapter of Romance Writers of America. When she's not writing, she's baking something, talking baby talk to her two cats, Iroh and Zuko and hiking in the woods of Maine with her partner.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 12, 2017
At only 81 pages, Flying Fish is a fascinating vignette into the world of 18th century Japan. With its soft unassuming style, it tells the story of Daisuke, a ronin (master-less samurai) bent on revenging his wife's death, and Genji, a kabuki actor whose backstage duties include giving his body to samurai patrons, and gives them a beautifully written HEA without feeling rushed or too short. Their relationship is oh so very sensual, as gentle as cherry blossom petals blowing in the wind, yet ultimately life changing for both men.
It fascinated me to learn that the author's portrayal of same-sex relationships during the time period is historically accurate and I would recommend this historical novella to anyone interested in the world of samurai or ronin warriors. I give it 4.25 stars. I look forward to the next book in the series Blind Love, about two boyhood friends, Sho and Hirata, separated at age 10 who vow to one day find each other again.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, Dreamspinner Press, in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
August 14, 2016
“Flying Fish” is a very unique story and features a very beautiful romance. And that cover will draw anyone in with its sensual elegance*sigh* I don’t know much about Samurais more than the few references in the movies and I was very excited to read about a setting which was so very new to me. I loved this novella. It was beautiful, passionate and sensual.
Daisuke is a broken man who is fueled by his lust for revenge. Genji gives him a new purpose in life. He is taken by Genji from the moment he sets eyes on him. Daisuke had never been with a man, though it was quite normal at that time but he never questions his feelings and affections for Genji. His love and passion for Genji was no different than what he felt for his deceased wife. I loved how gently and thoughtfully he handles Genji. He is a samurai and a warrior and seeing such a masculine man showing such gentleness and affection to the sweet and beautiful Genji was HOT.
Genji has been living a miserable existence as he is pimped out to drunk samurais every night. His love for his profession was his only saving grace in avoiding the ugly part of his life. His meeting with Daisuke changes his life drastically. There was a very gentle quality in their romance. Genji has been used his entire life but there was innocence left in him and though physically he was no lilting flower, emotionally he needed the love and support of a man like Daisuke.
Genji and Daisuke’s characters were very well developed and the romance was wrapped up with a very beautiful HEA at the end, which in itself is an awesome feat considering it being a novella. The story flows beautifully and every aspect of it is addressed within its very short amount of pages. It was not rushed and the HEA was very satisfying.
Bottom line, this is a very lovely romance with nice pacing. The setting lends a very unique and authentic cultural atmosphere to the read. An emotionally broken hero and his love for a beautiful man in eighteenth century Japan makes up for a unique and powerful read showcasing love’s magical healing powers. I for one am now a fan of Ms. Sedonia’s work. Looking forward to the next book.
Recommended!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
Daisuke is a broken man who is fueled by his lust for revenge. Genji gives him a new purpose in life. He is taken by Genji from the moment he sets eyes on him. Daisuke had never been with a man, though it was quite normal at that time but he never questions his feelings and affections for Genji. His love and passion for Genji was no different than what he felt for his deceased wife. I loved how gently and thoughtfully he handles Genji. He is a samurai and a warrior and seeing such a masculine man showing such gentleness and affection to the sweet and beautiful Genji was HOT.
Genji has been living a miserable existence as he is pimped out to drunk samurais every night. His love for his profession was his only saving grace in avoiding the ugly part of his life. His meeting with Daisuke changes his life drastically. There was a very gentle quality in their romance. Genji has been used his entire life but there was innocence left in him and though physically he was no lilting flower, emotionally he needed the love and support of a man like Daisuke.
Genji and Daisuke’s characters were very well developed and the romance was wrapped up with a very beautiful HEA at the end, which in itself is an awesome feat considering it being a novella. The story flows beautifully and every aspect of it is addressed within its very short amount of pages. It was not rushed and the HEA was very satisfying.
Bottom line, this is a very lovely romance with nice pacing. The setting lends a very unique and authentic cultural atmosphere to the read. An emotionally broken hero and his love for a beautiful man in eighteenth century Japan makes up for a unique and powerful read showcasing love’s magical healing powers. I for one am now a fan of Ms. Sedonia’s work. Looking forward to the next book.
Recommended!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
June 9, 2010
It’s always nice to find a more unusual setting, and I know next to nothing about the Samurai tradition other than the fact that I knew that male relationships were pretty much accepted at one point, so I dived into this very happily.
The author’s note at the top of the novel states that she has taken small liberties with some of the time-line but that was all right with me as 1. she’d stated it and 2. I know nothing of the time-line anyway.
I liked the way that unfamiliar words were explained in context–I’ve read many books which try and impress with the non-English words used, but I end with being baffled. Guillone is careful to explain, but not in a way that you ever feel you are being preached at.
The characters of Daisuke and Genji are well done, and different enough from each other without resorting to the rigid yaoi tradition. There is an element of it, because although being as beautiful as a woman and with long hair, tied back like a woman, and even though Genji is quite feminine, he is no weeping uke, he’s able to stand up for himself when it comes to it.
I found some of the prose a little jumpy, truncated sentences, sentences beginning with “And” which annoy me–but they weren’t too common in this book to really jolt me out of the story.
Although only about 80 pages long this little story delivers, both on romantic prose, likeable characters and a sweet and satisfying love story.
The author’s note at the top of the novel states that she has taken small liberties with some of the time-line but that was all right with me as 1. she’d stated it and 2. I know nothing of the time-line anyway.
I liked the way that unfamiliar words were explained in context–I’ve read many books which try and impress with the non-English words used, but I end with being baffled. Guillone is careful to explain, but not in a way that you ever feel you are being preached at.
The characters of Daisuke and Genji are well done, and different enough from each other without resorting to the rigid yaoi tradition. There is an element of it, because although being as beautiful as a woman and with long hair, tied back like a woman, and even though Genji is quite feminine, he is no weeping uke, he’s able to stand up for himself when it comes to it.
I found some of the prose a little jumpy, truncated sentences, sentences beginning with “And” which annoy me–but they weren’t too common in this book to really jolt me out of the story.
Although only about 80 pages long this little story delivers, both on romantic prose, likeable characters and a sweet and satisfying love story.
August 18, 2016
I’m not typically at a loss for words in my reviews. If anything, my thoughts on books tend to be more long-winded than not. This review, on the other hand, is definitely going more the way of brevity; but it shouldn’t necessarily be taken as a negative reflection on the book that I don’t have a ton to say about it. Flying Fish is simply a quiet little novella that left me feeling like there wasn’t a lot I needed to analyze or critique. In fact, it sort of snuck up on me.
I do have to be honest and say that I wasn’t wowed in the first half of the book. I was excited about reading this one; I loved that it was a historical, set in Japan. But, unfortunately, I didn’t feel like the author did enough within the story to really root the reader in the time period. There was a very brief author’s note in the beginning of the book that spoke a bit about samurai, and how she had taken some artistic license, but otherwise it wasn’t as informative as it maybe could have been. Also, even though it is obviously a common occurrence in novella length books, I wasn’t quite prepared for the insta-love factor. Sometimes insta-love works for me, and sometimes it doesn’t. In this case it was a tougher sell. I wasn’t really fully on board with these guys until near the end.
That being said, I did very much enjoy the descriptions of both Genji and Daisuke. Genji’s beauty and grace, and Daisuke’s more rough-hewn, rugged appearance come through so well; I could picture them perfectly. I also enjoyed how the story started to play out in the second half. We got to see Genji on stage—Daisuke’s reaction to him was great—and we got a sense of what Daisuke’s life had been like before his wife was killed, and more of an understanding of everything he had lost. It was also in this second half that I finally started to connect to both MCs. They were so good for each other—(I know I know…I was just complaining about the insta-love. Hush) and the home they created together was so sweet.
There is a nice little twist at the end, involving the son of the lord who killed Daisuke’s wife, which was a nice tribute to Genji and the fact that he made Daisuke want to be a better man, one without vengeance in his heart. Again, I loved the little home they built, and how they brought joy to each other. The second half of the story really was lovely. I just wish it would have grabbed me from the get-go.
Interesting aside: I couldn’t help but notice that Flying Fish is labeled under Sword and Silk Trilogy, yet only two books were ever published, the second being Blind Love. Well, for those of you with inquiring minds like myself, I did a little digging and there will be a third book published by Dreamspinner in the series, and it will be called Blossom of the Samurai.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach Reviews
I do have to be honest and say that I wasn’t wowed in the first half of the book. I was excited about reading this one; I loved that it was a historical, set in Japan. But, unfortunately, I didn’t feel like the author did enough within the story to really root the reader in the time period. There was a very brief author’s note in the beginning of the book that spoke a bit about samurai, and how she had taken some artistic license, but otherwise it wasn’t as informative as it maybe could have been. Also, even though it is obviously a common occurrence in novella length books, I wasn’t quite prepared for the insta-love factor. Sometimes insta-love works for me, and sometimes it doesn’t. In this case it was a tougher sell. I wasn’t really fully on board with these guys until near the end.
That being said, I did very much enjoy the descriptions of both Genji and Daisuke. Genji’s beauty and grace, and Daisuke’s more rough-hewn, rugged appearance come through so well; I could picture them perfectly. I also enjoyed how the story started to play out in the second half. We got to see Genji on stage—Daisuke’s reaction to him was great—and we got a sense of what Daisuke’s life had been like before his wife was killed, and more of an understanding of everything he had lost. It was also in this second half that I finally started to connect to both MCs. They were so good for each other—(I know I know…I was just complaining about the insta-love. Hush) and the home they created together was so sweet.
There is a nice little twist at the end, involving the son of the lord who killed Daisuke’s wife, which was a nice tribute to Genji and the fact that he made Daisuke want to be a better man, one without vengeance in his heart. Again, I loved the little home they built, and how they brought joy to each other. The second half of the story really was lovely. I just wish it would have grabbed me from the get-go.
Interesting aside: I couldn’t help but notice that Flying Fish is labeled under Sword and Silk Trilogy, yet only two books were ever published, the second being Blind Love. Well, for those of you with inquiring minds like myself, I did a little digging and there will be a third book published by Dreamspinner in the series, and it will be called Blossom of the Samurai.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach Reviews
December 9, 2015
Wow, another delightful short story by Sedonia! This one just might be my favorite so far. I absolutely love the way she portrays softer, effeminate gay male characters. And Genji, the main character of this story, really touched my heart.
Want to read
November 28, 2016Thank you for the gift, mystery elf!!
February 24, 2020
Eighteenth-century Japan is not a setting I am very familiar with – but after reading this novella, with its glorious descriptions, detailed understanding of cultural traditions, and lifelike characters, I feel as if I have taken a trip into the past to see it for myself. Samurai and their belief in honor have been the subject of more than one book, but Daisuke is more than the “standard” warrior. Genji is also not just the “flying fish” – an actor and prostitute for his patron – he appears to be. When these two men meet and are tempted to break with the traditions of their positions in life, all kinds of new opportunities - and more than one threat - could quite possibly destroy their dreams.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 24, 2020
Eighteenth-century Japan is not a setting I am very familiar with – but after reading this novella, with its glorious descriptions, detailed understanding of cultural traditions, and lifelike characters, I feel as if I have taken a trip into the past to see it for myself. Samurai and their belief in honor have been the subject of more than one book, but Daisuke is more than the “standard” warrior. Genji is also not just the “flying fish” – an actor and prostitute for his patron – he appears to be. When these two men meet and are tempted to break with the traditions of their positions in life, all kinds of new opportunities - and more than one threat - could quite possibly destroy their dreams.
Please find my full review of the fourth edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the fourth edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 17, 2010
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! The descriptions of the characters and the background was very rich in detail, you could almost smell the rage of the samurai, feel the sensuality & sweetness of the Flower Maiden, taste the tangibility of self-disgust, and be forever changed by the power that true love has over those who open their minds & hearts to it. BRAVA, Ms. Sedonia :D 5 stars!!!!!
April 23, 2014
Gorgeous read :) simply beautiful!
August 25, 2009
A sweet and gentle love story set in a unique historical culture and setting. There are a few minor qualms with the story, but the wonderful characters and real flavor given to the setting elevate this tale into something different and quite enjoyable. Here a young man, Genji, has been raised in the theatre after sold as a slave. The bargain he has made with the manager of the traveling theatre group is that in exchange for performing on stage, Genji will act as a prostitute for lusty samurai after the show. One day Genji stumbles upon a bitter, angry samurai and both their lives change.
The characters are well drawn and developed from the beginning and although there is a lot of sex between the two, the gentle nature and emotion involved always deepens the relationship. Genji is a sweet and loving young man even as he struggles with the emotional toll his life has taken. He is jaded and lost, still very young in many ways as he looks to Daisuke for guidance and support. Genji is not a typical weak character even though he is described in almost feminine terms. His beauty, demeanor, and dress are often described as that of a woman. Whether this is to help explain Daisuke’s feelings or to reinforce the traditional dynamic is unclear, but for all the feminine descriptions Genji is a man with courage and strength of will.
Just as Genji is more of the nurturer in the relationship, Daisuke is the masculine provider in the relationship. His change from embittered, angry man to loving, loyal subject is somewhat fast – the story happens over the course of weeks. Considering Daisuke has been carrying his hatred and need for revenge for over five years, the short time to letting that go does create a small problem. However, the development of an emotional connection between Daisuke and Genji given the constraints of the novella does help. Daisuke’s gentle and tender care of Genji is wonderful to watch unfolding as his desire and feelings for the young man are never tainted by concern over Genji’s gender.
The atmosphere of the culture and time is wonderfully done. The use of terminology and descriptions create a beautiful setting and gives descriptions for the words used through context so the reader isn’t lost in unfamiliar terms. This helps maintain the feeling of the historical time even as the issues raised are timeless. There are a few writing problems in that the point of view switches between Genji and Daisuke almost arbitrarily and not always at the best points. Genji’s negative reactions to Daisuke’s protection towards the end of the story are only shown through Daisuke’s point of view, which isolates Genji and cuts the reader off from understanding his choices and actions. It would have been nice to see from Genji’s perspective his thoughts and feelings over the sudden changes. There are a few other examples where the point of view changes are awkward and clumsy instead of seamless, but these are minor qualms.
Overall, this is a lovely story with a very historical and culture atmosphere, lending beautifully to the theme and characters. Although the author claims to have taken some leeway with the time period and other aspects, since I’m not familiar with that culture, it didn’t detract any enjoyment. This novella is an easy and luxurious read with good pacing and very romantic overtones. Fans of the genre will want to experience this unique offering.
The characters are well drawn and developed from the beginning and although there is a lot of sex between the two, the gentle nature and emotion involved always deepens the relationship. Genji is a sweet and loving young man even as he struggles with the emotional toll his life has taken. He is jaded and lost, still very young in many ways as he looks to Daisuke for guidance and support. Genji is not a typical weak character even though he is described in almost feminine terms. His beauty, demeanor, and dress are often described as that of a woman. Whether this is to help explain Daisuke’s feelings or to reinforce the traditional dynamic is unclear, but for all the feminine descriptions Genji is a man with courage and strength of will.
Just as Genji is more of the nurturer in the relationship, Daisuke is the masculine provider in the relationship. His change from embittered, angry man to loving, loyal subject is somewhat fast – the story happens over the course of weeks. Considering Daisuke has been carrying his hatred and need for revenge for over five years, the short time to letting that go does create a small problem. However, the development of an emotional connection between Daisuke and Genji given the constraints of the novella does help. Daisuke’s gentle and tender care of Genji is wonderful to watch unfolding as his desire and feelings for the young man are never tainted by concern over Genji’s gender.
The atmosphere of the culture and time is wonderfully done. The use of terminology and descriptions create a beautiful setting and gives descriptions for the words used through context so the reader isn’t lost in unfamiliar terms. This helps maintain the feeling of the historical time even as the issues raised are timeless. There are a few writing problems in that the point of view switches between Genji and Daisuke almost arbitrarily and not always at the best points. Genji’s negative reactions to Daisuke’s protection towards the end of the story are only shown through Daisuke’s point of view, which isolates Genji and cuts the reader off from understanding his choices and actions. It would have been nice to see from Genji’s perspective his thoughts and feelings over the sudden changes. There are a few other examples where the point of view changes are awkward and clumsy instead of seamless, but these are minor qualms.
Overall, this is a lovely story with a very historical and culture atmosphere, lending beautifully to the theme and characters. Although the author claims to have taken some leeway with the time period and other aspects, since I’m not familiar with that culture, it didn’t detract any enjoyment. This novella is an easy and luxurious read with good pacing and very romantic overtones. Fans of the genre will want to experience this unique offering.
August 19, 2016
*** Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***
I loved Genji and Daisuke. They were amazing together and their lovemaking was sensual, sweet and passionate. I just adored seeing them overcome the different issues they encountered and emerge stronger and more in love, despite all that was going against them. Daisuke, especially, had such a turnaround, and it was nice to see how love managed to heal the deepest of wounds and that the fact that Genji was a man wasn't really a problem for him.
This was such a lovely read. Sedonia Guillone did an outstanding job recreating the feudal Japan era in which the Samurai lived. It was realistic and written in an elegant, almost poetic prose, with vivid imagery that you could nearly see, taste and feel. It's difficult to find a historical story that not only feels real, but that captures that ineffable quality that transports you in time and this one is one of them.
Definitely a must-read and a book that's going on my To-Be-Read-Again pile.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
I loved Genji and Daisuke. They were amazing together and their lovemaking was sensual, sweet and passionate. I just adored seeing them overcome the different issues they encountered and emerge stronger and more in love, despite all that was going against them. Daisuke, especially, had such a turnaround, and it was nice to see how love managed to heal the deepest of wounds and that the fact that Genji was a man wasn't really a problem for him.
This was such a lovely read. Sedonia Guillone did an outstanding job recreating the feudal Japan era in which the Samurai lived. It was realistic and written in an elegant, almost poetic prose, with vivid imagery that you could nearly see, taste and feel. It's difficult to find a historical story that not only feels real, but that captures that ineffable quality that transports you in time and this one is one of them.
Definitely a must-read and a book that's going on my To-Be-Read-Again pile.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
January 8, 2012
4.5 Stars
This is not my type of book. By any means. There are samurai's. It is historical. Both of which I never (or rarely in the case of historicals) have any desire to read about. So far from anything I've ever desired to read. I'm really not even sure what made me decide to read it, much less download it considering the subject matter. Stepping outside of the box perhaps? Who knows. All I can say is that I am SO glad I took the time to read this. What an amazing story! Seriously one of the sweetest love stories I have read in a very long time. It was totally not what I expected. I fell in love with both of the main characters and I enjoyed watching their relationship play out, not knowing what was going to happen next.
Will I read another story of this type any time soon? Probably not. I feel that I may have just gotten lucky with this one. But I am certainly glad that I didn't ignore this when I saw it was free for the Kindle.
Truly an amazing story.
This is not my type of book. By any means. There are samurai's. It is historical. Both of which I never (or rarely in the case of historicals) have any desire to read about. So far from anything I've ever desired to read. I'm really not even sure what made me decide to read it, much less download it considering the subject matter. Stepping outside of the box perhaps? Who knows. All I can say is that I am SO glad I took the time to read this. What an amazing story! Seriously one of the sweetest love stories I have read in a very long time. It was totally not what I expected. I fell in love with both of the main characters and I enjoyed watching their relationship play out, not knowing what was going to happen next.
Will I read another story of this type any time soon? Probably not. I feel that I may have just gotten lucky with this one. But I am certainly glad that I didn't ignore this when I saw it was free for the Kindle.
Truly an amazing story.
June 30, 2013
Short and sweet, a pretty straightforward love story between a ronin (a samurai without a master) and a kabuki actor-slash-prostitute. I especially liked how the author played with gender roles - while there's the strict separation between seme and uke (top and bottom), it seems as if Genji (the actor/uke) is explicitly gender-fluid, and expresses this without any censure from Daisuke (the ronin/seme).
August 8, 2014
A very sweet yaoi novel.
April 9, 2018
3.5
Above average, very pleasant and sweet (at times too sweet) read. Still, because of insta-love and too much sex, I cannot round my rating up.
Above average, very pleasant and sweet (at times too sweet) read. Still, because of insta-love and too much sex, I cannot round my rating up.
September 10, 2019
DNF at 40%. Something about the wiring style sounded jarred to me. The story was a bit m/m banal and could have happened anywhere, despite the promise of the unusual setting. Felt a bit of a miss.
March 28, 2024
Short story but a great sense of historical place
August 2, 2011
My TBR pile is big enough that I still have books on it from before I started my review blog. Though this one isn’t quite that old, I was more than a little relieved to clear it off the list, if only because it was such a sweet story to read.
Set in Japan in 1684, it tells the story of Daisuke, a ronin (a masterless samurai), who has returned to the Kai province to seek revenge for the murder of his wife five years earlier. He happens upon Genji bathing in a hot stream, who is the most beautiful man he’s ever seen. They indulge in an afternoon of passion, but because of Daisuke’s mission and Genji’s lack of freedom (he’s owned by the theater owner and is forced to service samurais after each performance), know that it can’t be repeated. Daisuke learns that the man who killed his wife is now dead, replaced by his son, but is warned off on taking his vengeance now. The son is a good man, he is told, and the province is peaceful and prosperous again. Frustrated and not knowing what to do, Daisuke blames part of it on Genji and the fact that he can’t get Genji out of his head. He decides to go see Genji perform, in hopes that will sate the desires that are currently controlling him.
I know very little about Japanese culture, nor do I really care for yaoi, but I was drawn into buying this for its stunning cover and the romantic blurb. I can’t compare it to what seem to be its inspirations, so I have to judge it on its own merits. For all its eroticism, there’s a sweetness that pervades the story almost from the start. Genji, especially, seems delicate but displays stunning strength at the most unexpected times, while Daisuke is the opposite, seemingly invincible but possessing such a soft, broken core I sometimes wonder how he managed to survive long enough to even meet Genji. There’s an almost instant connection between the two, one that translates into the romanticism of their first encounter and makes their inevitable separation a little painful. All of this is wrapped up in highly stylized, overtly romantic prose. There is never any doubt this is meant to be seen through rose-colored glasses. If a reader is willing to give oneself over to that, it can be a quite satisfying read. I was certainly able to do so for a good part of the story, even as I recognized the strings being pulled to manipulate me into feeling the way I did.
That’s a side effect of the stylization for me. It probably wouldn’t bother a lot of readers who are more eager for this kind of storytelling. Not to say I didn’t enjoy it, because I did, but I never forgot I was reading, and I never felt immersed in the passion of what they were feeling. I went through the bulk of the story in a constant state of “Awwwww,” very much like I was watching a performance rather than engaging in it.
Because of this pervasive romanticism to the story, solutions seem easily come by. I can’t say that I bought the ending, even if I was glad for the men’s sake that it happened that way. I just needed something more to push what was an enjoyable read into a wonderful one, a depth rather than the skim over the surface that it felt like I got.
Set in Japan in 1684, it tells the story of Daisuke, a ronin (a masterless samurai), who has returned to the Kai province to seek revenge for the murder of his wife five years earlier. He happens upon Genji bathing in a hot stream, who is the most beautiful man he’s ever seen. They indulge in an afternoon of passion, but because of Daisuke’s mission and Genji’s lack of freedom (he’s owned by the theater owner and is forced to service samurais after each performance), know that it can’t be repeated. Daisuke learns that the man who killed his wife is now dead, replaced by his son, but is warned off on taking his vengeance now. The son is a good man, he is told, and the province is peaceful and prosperous again. Frustrated and not knowing what to do, Daisuke blames part of it on Genji and the fact that he can’t get Genji out of his head. He decides to go see Genji perform, in hopes that will sate the desires that are currently controlling him.
I know very little about Japanese culture, nor do I really care for yaoi, but I was drawn into buying this for its stunning cover and the romantic blurb. I can’t compare it to what seem to be its inspirations, so I have to judge it on its own merits. For all its eroticism, there’s a sweetness that pervades the story almost from the start. Genji, especially, seems delicate but displays stunning strength at the most unexpected times, while Daisuke is the opposite, seemingly invincible but possessing such a soft, broken core I sometimes wonder how he managed to survive long enough to even meet Genji. There’s an almost instant connection between the two, one that translates into the romanticism of their first encounter and makes their inevitable separation a little painful. All of this is wrapped up in highly stylized, overtly romantic prose. There is never any doubt this is meant to be seen through rose-colored glasses. If a reader is willing to give oneself over to that, it can be a quite satisfying read. I was certainly able to do so for a good part of the story, even as I recognized the strings being pulled to manipulate me into feeling the way I did.
That’s a side effect of the stylization for me. It probably wouldn’t bother a lot of readers who are more eager for this kind of storytelling. Not to say I didn’t enjoy it, because I did, but I never forgot I was reading, and I never felt immersed in the passion of what they were feeling. I went through the bulk of the story in a constant state of “Awwwww,” very much like I was watching a performance rather than engaging in it.
Because of this pervasive romanticism to the story, solutions seem easily come by. I can’t say that I bought the ending, even if I was glad for the men’s sake that it happened that way. I just needed something more to push what was an enjoyable read into a wonderful one, a depth rather than the skim over the surface that it felt like I got.
August 31, 2016
Reviewed for Just Love
4.5 stars rounded up
Books like this one are what I would consider instant gratification. Things move at a very quick pace, but since this little novella is only around 80 pages, I think that’s to be expected if you’re looking for a HEA. I really enjoy shorter books such as this because they serve as a palette cleanser in between longer novels and I can usually get everything I’m looking for in one sitting.
Before I get into the story I’d just like to point out that while the second edition cover through Dreamspinner is very nice, I was disappointed to see the original go away.
Originally created by illustrator and comic artist Yuramei, it may not have screamed “romance novel” by today’s standards but it beautifully depicted the story within. The art set this book apart in a sea of ‘shopped cover models and was partly the reason why I picked it up in the first place.
The other reason is because of the unique story. Flying Fish is a wonderful tale with a message that true happiness can change your entire outlook on life and your perspective on what is most important. Seeing Daisuke go through these changes made me take note to the way I react to people and situations in my own life. It’s also a good example of how giving up an opportunity in a less than ideal environment can open doors to something better. The grass isn’t always greener, but sometimes it is, and taking a chance on someone can have its rewards.
Genji and Daisuke have stolen my heart with their strong personalities and willingness to jump in with both feet. I love when characters recognize attraction right away and can’t stop thinking about one another. Maybe a little part of me wants to live the romantic fantasy when you’re irresistible to someone and there’s not much they won’t do so you can be together. *Sigh*
Gorgeously written with attention to detail, I found this book to be delightful and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
4.5 stars rounded up
Books like this one are what I would consider instant gratification. Things move at a very quick pace, but since this little novella is only around 80 pages, I think that’s to be expected if you’re looking for a HEA. I really enjoy shorter books such as this because they serve as a palette cleanser in between longer novels and I can usually get everything I’m looking for in one sitting.
Before I get into the story I’d just like to point out that while the second edition cover through Dreamspinner is very nice, I was disappointed to see the original go away.
Originally created by illustrator and comic artist Yuramei, it may not have screamed “romance novel” by today’s standards but it beautifully depicted the story within. The art set this book apart in a sea of ‘shopped cover models and was partly the reason why I picked it up in the first place.
The other reason is because of the unique story. Flying Fish is a wonderful tale with a message that true happiness can change your entire outlook on life and your perspective on what is most important. Seeing Daisuke go through these changes made me take note to the way I react to people and situations in my own life. It’s also a good example of how giving up an opportunity in a less than ideal environment can open doors to something better. The grass isn’t always greener, but sometimes it is, and taking a chance on someone can have its rewards.
Genji and Daisuke have stolen my heart with their strong personalities and willingness to jump in with both feet. I love when characters recognize attraction right away and can’t stop thinking about one another. Maybe a little part of me wants to live the romantic fantasy when you’re irresistible to someone and there’s not much they won’t do so you can be together. *Sigh*
Gorgeously written with attention to detail, I found this book to be delightful and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 20, 2011
More and more often the yaoi literary culture seems to be seeping into GLBT erotica. Not only in writing style, plot and main characters, but in cover art as well. I am not as familiar with the terms and main character roles that are required in this style. I was able to understand this book without any problems or stopping to try and find definitions as I have had to for a few past books in this style. I do struggle with bringing the MC into focus via their physical descriptions since it is not my normal reading culture.
This is a well-written book with a timeless story that touched my heart. The pervasive passion but utter gentleness despite various threats that permeate Daisuke and Genji’s relationship was fulfilling and heartfelt. Sex scenes were erotic, if a bit generic, but poignant as well. The descriptive paragraphs were well done and allowed me to create the scenes in my head without bringing me out of the story or re-reading to try and understand the landscape and scope of the scene. I expected this book to be hard to read but it wasn’t.
This was a sweet story of redemption and the healing power of love. Romance at its core best with little that’s unique but everything that’s unique. Every individual love story is different even when it runs the same course as countless other couples. Whether in regency England, feudal Japan, or contemporary America each couple is essentially the same and fundamentally different. It’s nice to be reminded of that again.
This is a well-written book with a timeless story that touched my heart. The pervasive passion but utter gentleness despite various threats that permeate Daisuke and Genji’s relationship was fulfilling and heartfelt. Sex scenes were erotic, if a bit generic, but poignant as well. The descriptive paragraphs were well done and allowed me to create the scenes in my head without bringing me out of the story or re-reading to try and understand the landscape and scope of the scene. I expected this book to be hard to read but it wasn’t.
This was a sweet story of redemption and the healing power of love. Romance at its core best with little that’s unique but everything that’s unique. Every individual love story is different even when it runs the same course as countless other couples. Whether in regency England, feudal Japan, or contemporary America each couple is essentially the same and fundamentally different. It’s nice to be reminded of that again.
August 18, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
The set up is trite as hell and the overall book is pretty saccharine sweet in its own way. The sheer melodramatic-ness of the piece didn’t strike me until about halfway through, but at that point, we are pretty much into full blown “bodice ripper” mode. Daisuke is the strong manly man with a secret gentle side that only Genji has been able to coax out. Genji is a relentlessly independent type, willing to pay any cost to remain “free.” Over the course of the book, both men undergo changes. I don’t mind the shift in Daisuke as much as I did mind the shift in Genji—only because it seemed to me that Genji was relegated to a weak, secondary position (ugh, I hate to say it, but he turns into a “little woman” while Daisuke goes off and Takes Care of Business). This aspect isn’t super duper pronounced, but I definitely picked up on it and was disappointed by it.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
The set up is trite as hell and the overall book is pretty saccharine sweet in its own way. The sheer melodramatic-ness of the piece didn’t strike me until about halfway through, but at that point, we are pretty much into full blown “bodice ripper” mode. Daisuke is the strong manly man with a secret gentle side that only Genji has been able to coax out. Genji is a relentlessly independent type, willing to pay any cost to remain “free.” Over the course of the book, both men undergo changes. I don’t mind the shift in Daisuke as much as I did mind the shift in Genji—only because it seemed to me that Genji was relegated to a weak, secondary position (ugh, I hate to say it, but he turns into a “little woman” while Daisuke goes off and Takes Care of Business). This aspect isn’t super duper pronounced, but I definitely picked up on it and was disappointed by it.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
August 17, 2016
For fans of historical, and culturally unique m/m romance – this will hit all your buttons.
The author really made me “feel” the era/locale/history of the story. Poor Genji is essentially a slave to his place in society with no hope but he finds freedom in his dancing. When the previously “straight” Daisuke finds him bathing one day, he is caught in an unexpected desire.
Culturally, it’s not that they are two men, but who they are in their class creates the tension for this short story.
This was very beautifully written and (as far as I know) felt accurate.
Though the new cover is gorgeous, I think the older cover did a better job of setting the reader up – as far as what to expect from the story. There is nothing modern about this and the new cover feels a bit too modern for the story.
4 of 5 stars
The author really made me “feel” the era/locale/history of the story. Poor Genji is essentially a slave to his place in society with no hope but he finds freedom in his dancing. When the previously “straight” Daisuke finds him bathing one day, he is caught in an unexpected desire.
Culturally, it’s not that they are two men, but who they are in their class creates the tension for this short story.
This was very beautifully written and (as far as I know) felt accurate.
Though the new cover is gorgeous, I think the older cover did a better job of setting the reader up – as far as what to expect from the story. There is nothing modern about this and the new cover feels a bit too modern for the story.
4 of 5 stars
August 19, 2011
Another Sedonia Guillone book that should have been a longer work. Just when I was really getting into the sweet and sexy tale of a ronin and his beautiful actor, it was over. However, Guillone does a marvelous job of bringing seventeenth century Japan to glorious life.
February 9, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words review
For the full review, visit here https://scatteredthoughtsandrogueword...
For the full review, visit here https://scatteredthoughtsandrogueword...
March 31, 2010
An excellent story by Sedonia. I got a taste and now I want more. Looking forward to the others.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews