Akashi and Kanto are twin brothers, born to a role as samurai in the proud and ancient Kusunoki family. Strange events, however, reveal that Akashi can manipulate the forbidden magic of the tama. He will be branded shinobi, one of the hidden ones the samurai are sworn to destroy, if his secret is ever revealed. Both young men will have to resolve the conflict of their duty as samurai and their love for each other.
Great book to read, The book is not only telling the story of the twin brothers, but also it's explaining the way of life making you wish to live in the era. It putting the light on some terms and their meanings (honor, what to serve, ...) and how it differs between when it comes to human from different environment, I was also totally captivated by the way the author is writing and how he is careful when it comes to explain the traditions and the culture (Tea ceremony, honoring the dead, ...).
Pride of the Samurai throws Norse mythology, Japanese Mythology, Japanese culture and the human condition together in a large cauldron, adds water and salt and produces a most delicious dish. A most enjoyable read.
I would have given this a 5 except for the science fiction twist. I didn’t enjoy that. Will probably still read book 2 though. A nice insight into lives of samurai