Sign of the Qin

Outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh #1

by L.G. Bass

A volcanic eruption releases a vanguard of demons, sealed away for centuries beneath the earth. Soon after, the Emperor's first son is born, marked with the sign of the Qin-the brand of the outlaw! Could the child be the new Starlord, destined to restore justice to the land? The emperor plots to kill his only heir before the boy can usurp his throne. But the assassin is foiled by a mysterious monk whose magical tattoos foretell the future, and a trickster monkey who longs for immortality. A host of warring guardians must ultimately unite to help the Starlord unlock the kung fu secrets of the Twelve Scrolls and save the earth from destruction. But first, the Prince must fulfill his destiny, and join the twin leaders of the legendary outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh in a war against the Lord of the Dead. The first in a trilogy, Sign of the Qin draws upon Chinese myth and legend in a tour de force of classic storytelling. L.G. Bass is a student of martial arts, a former teacher and journalist, and a fan of kung fu films. The author lives with her husband and two sons in New York City.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Fiction, Historical, Teen, Young Adult Fantasy, Asian Literature

383 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2004

Reviews

[Alok Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when I was 9 and I'm still pissed off that the sequel was never written. So pissed that I look up news of it every few years and 11 years later, write this comment.

[Owen Sinderman · Rating 3 out of 5]

THIS BOOK NEEDS A SEQUEL!

All that beside, this was a decently good book. I read it earlier this year, before I had an account, but here goes.

This was an interesting read that had to do a lot with various aspects of Chinese Mythology. There is a prince, his guardian is a monkey, the monkey is a celestial thief, and there is a usurper evil wizard king trying to kill the prince, but that is all I remember. However, it leaves off on a huge cliffhanger, and does not have a sequel (yet)

[Janeen-san · Rating 2 out of 5]

I never finished this book, it was a disappointing read and I didn't get past page 75. Most of the story was telling and not showing. It sounded like a fun book; a cross between Avatar the Last Airbender (one of the most amazing Tv shows!) and Dreamwork's Kung Fu Panda, a funny movie. Because this book sounded like a cross between the two, I bought it at my library's book sale. Now I see why the previous book's owner decided to leave it; it was defiantly NOT a book I'd want in my permanent collection, the characters were weird and the plot lagged. Wasn't as good as I'd thought it would be.

[Alec · Rating 3 out of 5]

For my independent reading, I chose the book Sign of The Qin by L.G. Bass. This book is a fantasy and is jam-packed with mystical characters and events based on Chinese myths and real events. The book begins with an emperor, Emperor Han, who has a child by the name of Prince Zong. Prince Zong is known as the starlord and is meant to save the world from an evil Lord of Death, Yamu, who had his demons and other creatures released when a volcanic eruption occurred. One of the first conflicts in the book and one that reoccurs throughout the entirety of the book is that the emperor's son was born with the sign of the qin or the sign of an outlaw. One of the parts of the book that is based on a true story is the story of outlaws. These aren't actually bad people, they are just people who oppose the government. The backstory to this is that in the 1500s, the Chinese government falsely imprisoned people, but the brave ones escaped and hid, then banded together and went against the government. Since the outlaws opposed the government but were good people, the emperor did not want his outlaw/son to rule his kingdom, thus, he plotted to kill him and banished his mother from the land. In addition to being wanted dead by the emperor, Prince Zong was also wanted dead by the Lord of Death. In his quest for power, Lord of Death knew that Zong was rumoured to be the one who could save the world, The Starlord, and he wanted him defeated. The title Starlord had some benefits with it though, to the common folk, Prince Zong was a symbol of hope, and for that reason they would protect him at all costs, which made it hard for the king to get to him. On the Lord of Death side of things, the gods were on the side of the Starlord, so they gave him a teacher who was also a monkey. In Chinese mythology, a monkey was a foolish character and is one of the main comedic releases throughout the book. The gods also made Prince Zong grow quickly since the world needed him as soon as possible to end the Lord of Death. The Starlord grew up and had his fair share of adventures, but then one day, his mother was captured by the spotted leopards, who worked for Yamu. Prince Zong then decided to go after them in an attempt to get his mother back and that only resulted in him getting captured too. Zong was marked with the sign of an outlaw on his cheek and for that reason was he recognized by other outlaws who helped him, after all, they were nice people and they knew that the prince was a sign of hope. After that, the outlaws have their own miniature happily ever after as they ride to Moonshadow Marsh, the place where all the outlaws hide, and go and eat with Starlord’s mother. The Sign of The Qin did not really end, since it seems like the writer has abandoned the series (the first book was written in 2004 and was supposed to be a trilogy and there has yet to be a second book). The first book ended with Yamu in one of the gardens in an abandoned palace where he is talking to one of his servants about paying the emperor a visit and releasing the rest of the demons from the Tomb of The Turtle (the place where these creatures have been locked away). So, the book ended on a cliffhanger that left many questions unanswered. After reading the book, I came to some conclusions about what was good about it and what I did not like. In the book, the author was very good at giving details to create an intricate backstory that made sense and really added to every character from Starlord to Yamu to Emperor Han and even the less relevant characters. This was both good and bad though--I felt as if it really added to every character, but at the same time it took a while to explain, and for that reason, it felt as if the book which was already pretty slow was even slower. Another thing that Bass did to make the book better was describe inanimate objects in great detail to really draw a picture in your mind. An example of this can be found at the end of the book: the monsters seemed to all be crawling out toward the lord of the dead as he stood in the garden, “Slowly, the dark water rose toward the eyes of the statue of Chac. Slime clung like a cloak of moss to its shoulders. In the eerie light cast by the crackling storm, the Dragon King of the North Sea appeared to be drowning.” (373 Bass). That was only a portion of Bass’s description of all that was going on and I felt as if I could see the statue thrashing around, in this book tattoos, statues and other objects that are not supposed to move also occasionally move. Another good thing about the book was some scenes just worked very well. For example, Bass’s fight scenes were very fast-paced, clever and funny. One thing that Bass did that really helped me as the reader understand what was going on, is she would switch perspectives often, but this also occasionally made me very confused. Overall, I personally thought this book was ok because it had an equal amount of pros and cons with a mediocre storyline. This book was pretty crazy because of all the elements of the Chinese myths that were included which can get pretty weird at times, so if I were to recommend this book to anyone, it would probably be people who really enjoyed the Percy Jackson series. I have read the series before and I could see the similarities between the two authors. My favourite parts of the Percy Jackson series were resonated in this book, The Sign of The Qin by L.G. Bass.

[Lucas Gomez · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Remember that I love you,” she whispered. “One day, you will rule and truth and justice will reign supreme. Good-bye my little Starlord.” The Sing of the Qin was a very adventurous story with many exciting characters and plot lines. The things I liked most about this novel is how detailed the characters were. The author provided strong backstories for each character bringing them to life in the story by showcasing their many character traits and character growth. In addition to the detailed characters, the story was filled with strong imagery. With the strong imagery in the story and setting I was able to understand and picture each event and decisions made by the characters vividly. Lastly I appreciated the bringing together of the many side stories to create a final story presenting the main character and life. The side stories all had details and story lines to connect to the main characters story line. However there were some things I didn’t like. One of those things being the difficulty of transitioning form story line to story line. Being there so many stories happening at once it was hard to follow at times. Lastly I didn’t much like the lack of detail behind the characters who weren’t main characters. The main characters were very detailed but the other characters lacked some detail making it hard to understand them or understand their decisions. In conclusion the book was well written and had many strong points which provided a very enjoyable adventure book.

[Carter · Rating 3 out of 5]

It starts out with a kid being born. Then the king just goes in there to see the new infant. Then he started to leave then he notice the kid had the sign of the Qin. He went to the kings government like people who said that it was the sign of the Qin. So he had his knights go drag this women that just had a baby boy and was going to banish her.
First imagery like I could see the little boy with the sign of the Qin on his cheek. Imagery once again when he gets all of his tattoos on his body I could just see them all in my head and how they looked. Sensory language when the king sent his knights to get the women I could see them just dragging her out of her bed into the court yard where all of the people where gathering up and protecting her.
My opinion about it is that the king is dumb just let it go nothing bad will happen. Then that the boy gets all of these tattoos that is cool. But I don't like how the king just dragged the women out of bed after she just gave birth to a baby boy.

[Rebecca M · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring. Jumbled. Lackluster. I can see why even the Author gave up on this series, it was just a wreck. I usually do well with character view jumping, but these chapters were so short and stoic, I couldn't keep my attention on these characters. I would turn the page and forget what character was in POV or what was happening, or what the end goal was.

I gave up halfway through, it couldn't hold my interest.

[Scott Geddes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book full of colorful characters and scenes. Classic story of Good versus Evil, Royalty versus peasants and warring spirits with mankind caught in the middle. This book is a good beginning to a series, but I can’t find any follow on books. I enjoyed the story but I did get lost once or twice trying to keep all the players straight. Written for young adults but suitable for grownups as well.

[Bob Thunder · Rating 2 out of 5]

I give this book a solid “aight.” It’s probably because I’m a senior in high school and not the intended junior high demographic, but I didn’t really jive with it as a standalone light reading novel. Definitely needs a sequel, and for the series to continue to get any worthwhile return on investment. The worldbuilding was delightful, though.

[Katt · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was interesting and I liked it for the most part. It was sometimes annoying to keep rewinding because of the jumping around and trying to figure out who was were and having their names change occasionally. It was ok to finish, but I don't think I'll continue with the series.

[Florence Nicosia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fascinating read. I, as well as lots of other people are still waiting for part two of the book. It's a shame it may never be written. The writing and storyline were captivating.

[Fada Goossen · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was confusing.

[Marsha Valance · Rating 3 out of 5]

When a vanguard of imprisoned demons are released, only Prince Zong, the starlord, may be able to save his people.

[Megan]

DNS 7/14/2021

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in elementary school. I am now 26. I just spent several hours trying to remember the name of this book. I am satisfied.

[Barbara Cryer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very confusing with all the viewpoints.

[Halimah]

Been waiting for book two for like twenty years...

[Heather Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

L.G. Bass makes a stunning debut in "Sign of the Qin," the first book of a series drawing on Chinese myth and legend. Taut, lushly written and wonderfully characterized, "Sign" is an enthralling fantasy with plenty of action, mythic monsters, and a dash of romance and destiny.

The emperor is horrified when he sees his newborn son, because the child has the mark of the Qin, a rebel sign, on his cheek. He throws out the child's mother, Silver Lotus, and secretly plots to kill the baby -- especially since the commoners adore him, since they believe he is the new Starlord, who will renounce his noble birth and be their savior. But the Starlord has a nursemaid and rebel allies who will do whatever it takes to keep him safe.

A recent volcanic eruption has let all sorts of demons loose on the land, and the evil Lord of the Dead Yamu is also plotting against the Starlord's life, calling out vile shapeshifters and evil harpies. To combat him, the lords of heaven send the incorrigible trickster Monkey to take care of the innocent little boy as he comes closer to his rebel allies.

Like a flower, "Sign" has to unfold slowly and carefully. But Bass makes it worth the while, infusing the story with lots of character development and background information. Chinese legends aren't used very often in fantasy, allowing Bass's story to seem entirely fresh and original, complete with sea dragons and conveniently-placed goddesses.

Bass's writing is suitably detailed and solemn, with lots of details on swords, filthy streets and jewelry. The descriptions of things like moving tattoos or statues coming to life are astounding. But there's humor as well; the immortality-hungry Monkey provides most of it, but there is also the putrid demon kappa being defeated with good manners, or the elaborate funeral held for a woman who had only fainted. And most stunning of all are the action scenes, usually quite bloody, gritty and very fast-paced.

At first glance, Prince Zong (or "little Starlord") seems like a pretty typical Child of Destiny -- he walks and talks within days of being born, and has immense wisdom. But Bass makes him a little naive and very sweet. The twin rebels (who are also sons of a sea-dragon) White Streak and Black Whirlwind are also well-drawn. Even the villains like Yamu and the snivelling Emperor are well-written.

Bass provides a slow-moving but rich fantasy in "Sign of the Qin," and the finale promises more adventures to come. Fantastical, funny and grim, this is a definite must-read.

[Yu-chi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was drawn to this book because of the ancient Chinese mythology. However, there was not much explanation or detail, the creatures and characters of legends just appeared and did what they came to do. I would have appreciated a bit more depth to Chinese lore.

Also, this book was confusing in places, especially concerning the opening of certain chapters. Those chapters usually opened in a situation almost completely unconnected to where the characters were seen last. After a page or two, the story would backtrack, revealing how the character had gotten to that situation in the first place. The abruptness of it all threw me off, and I often had to re-read the first five pages or so and flip back to the character's last chapter for some sort of a reference point.

Lastly, I believe it was implied what the twelve animals of the zodiac were. It could be that I interpreted the story wrong, but that's the impression I got. However, the animals that were mentioned are not zodiac animals. There are no cranes, foxes, or bears. This ambiguity or incorrectness made me wonder just how rooted this story was in Chinese mythology.

I will not be reading the next book in the series.

[Truly Truong · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like reading about folk tales and such, then I recommend this book. It is very enjoyable and fun to read. The characters are all amusing and interesting. You may get confused by the plot at first because it tells the different stories that all take place at simultaneously.

[Lindsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bass creates a wonderful tapestry of myth and legend coupled into a new story. The characters and what they represent in Chinese mythology is engaging, but the story moves along too quickly. The writing is often educational, providing a backdrop for the myth Bass is using in order to tell the story, but everything is almost a complete blur. The book should have been split into two stories relatively around the same length so that the great battle scenes and other key elements to the story could get more description and be fleshed out more. As it is, the only glaring issue with the story is that the pacing is just too fast. It would be amazing if Bass could have taken more time to expand the vast world he created through the story.

-Lindsey Miller, www.lindseyslibrary.com

[Ariana Deralte · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you've never read Journey to the West or the Water Margin, you might be forgiven in thinking that most of the plot in this book was original. Unfortunately, if you had read those books, then you were probably as bored with the story as I was. Those plots that weren't cribbed from various ancient Chinese novels were not very good, and the character development... well, there wasn't much development. I didn't even like Monkey much and that's just depressing.

I've been stalling for well over a year now on dropping this book, but every time I think of finishing it, I think of much better books I could be reading. Like the unabridged Journey to the West... So, I am officially declaring my reading of this book over.

If you want amazing original tales steeped in Chinese legend, go read the Bridge of Bird series by Barry Hughart.

[Charlottem · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book took me at least five tries to get into. I would check it out and say to myself "ok, I am really going to read this,". But I never did. I would read a few chapters and then see a book that was the next in my favorite series, and I had had had to read it right then or I would absolutely die. So I would put down the book and read the other book but by the time I finished that book I had already gone to the library again and then I had another must-read-or-I-wil-die book and so the Sign of the Qin would go back onto the library shelf and stay there until my dad asked where it was because it was way overdue. But I did read it, eventually.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun and exciting independent reader loosely based upon the classic Chinese mythology (many of the characters come straight out of Journey to the West). I only wish that the series would be finished. This book, the first book, was published back in 2004 or some such and there is no sign of the rest of the series. It's very frustrating, especially since it end on a cliffhanger. It NEEDS to be finished. The story requires at least one more book, perhaps even two. I hope L.G. Bass didn't die or something.

[Talon Smith · Rating 1 out of 5]

So far I haven't given any book a rating this bad but I just don't know what to feel about it. The story is so slow and all over the place that it is hard to grasp. Characters can be within 10 feet of each other apparently and not even know but they are all searching for the star lord. He is right in front of them, so let's go to this other remote place talk to a couple of monsters, fight and then find him again. This book just wasn't comprehensive enough for me and I didn't feel attached or connected with any of the characters. I just felt like a specter watching everything happen.

[Aelvana · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the first of a trilogy, and that's really my only complaint about it. It sets up a great story and leaves you hanging for the next book. Apart from that, it's got a great style that incorporates a lot of traditional mythology (mostly Chinese). The fight scenes were well played. The gods worked themselves in very well without feeling overpowered. I especially enjoyed the large variety of mythological creatures (mostly serving as demons for the book) that showed up. I can't wait for the sequel. Recommended.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not going to read the other books in this series because it's not quite my thing but it's a definite Buy This for school. Why? The blend of adventure, Chinese history, Chinese mythology (great way to get boys into the whole Monkey story!) is prefect for middle school boys.

Sometimes the plot got a little confusing, but I think readers can work through that. Bass has got a good series on his hands!

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yamu, Lord of the Dead, is planning on releasing all the demons sealed away in the Turtle Cave. The only thing stopping him is the Starlord, firstborn son of the evil emperor, who is born with a birthmark shaped like a Qin, the outlaw brand. The emperor tries to kill his son, but a Tattooed Monk, a Monkey, and the outlaws of the Moonshadow Marsh foil him time after time to save the world's last hope of salvation from the demon hordes.

[J L's Bibliomania · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book started disjointedly and a bit slowly. While I enjoy a good YA fantasy, I will admit that I started the book to try to draw the interest of my voracious, but picky son, who likes martial arts and fantasy. It worked. He saw me reading it and then I couldn't get it back out of his hands.

I had to give the book back to the library, since we ran out of renewals. I've got enough else on my TBR shelf, that I don't know when this will come around again on the guitar.

[Lisa J · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite books of all time. I think I first read it when I was around 12 years old, and I remember it was just wonderfully different from everything else I had ever read. It's written from a couple of different perspectives and unfolds almost like folk lore. It feels like a classic tale or an old myth. The story is kind of removed, with lots of suspended disbelief and Chinese mythology thrown in. It's just so sad there have never been any sequels. It makes it so hard to suggest.