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The Book of Fallen Leaves
Not yet published
Expected 17 Mar 26
Shogun
meets Game of Thrones in the blockbuster epic fantasy event of the year. A. S. Tamaki weaves a powerful tale of ambition, vengeance and sacrifice in this masterful fantasy retelling of an ancient Samurai saga, packed with memorable characters, stunning worldbuilding and epic adventure.
Sen Hoshiakari is an exiled prince of a clan that lost everything in his father's failed rebellion. Deprived of his birthright, Sen is determined to restore his family's lands and honor at any cost. Rui is a peasant girl who saved Sen's life on the night his family were put to the sword. But now, she is adrift and unsure of her place in the world, not knowing that the gods themselves have plans for her …
As civil war throws the empire into chaos, and demons seek vengeance on the living, Sen and Rui must fight for both their clan and their shared future … But vengeance demands a bloody price.
Sen Hoshiakari is an exiled prince of a clan that lost everything in his father's failed rebellion. Deprived of his birthright, Sen is determined to restore his family's lands and honor at any cost. Rui is a peasant girl who saved Sen's life on the night his family were put to the sword. But now, she is adrift and unsure of her place in the world, not knowing that the gods themselves have plans for her …
As civil war throws the empire into chaos, and demons seek vengeance on the living, Sen and Rui must fight for both their clan and their shared future … But vengeance demands a bloody price.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 17, 2026
4262 people want to read
About the author
A.S. Tamaki
1 book53 followersA. S. Tamaki grew up in Los Angeles, where he spent his childhood climbing trees and making short films in his backyard. After working in Hollywood for several years, he now lives in the Pacific Northwest, and when he’s not writing, spends his time routesetting at local climbing gyms. The Book of Fallen Leaves is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 13, 2025
This is the first book in a long while that has literally kept me up all night so I could finish it...
This is a mashup of Shogun, Game of Thrones and, most importantly, Princess Mononoke. A fantasy set in a feudal-Japanese inspired world, with warrior monks, forest-spirits, loyal retainers and assassinations aplenty. Tamaki grips you immediately with one of the strongest opening chapters I've ever read... and it doesn't let up.
There is a large cast of POVs, side-characters, factions to get to grips with. The rich history adds a lot to your experience as you're finding your feet. Each character pulls you in, with their various conflicts written incredibly well. This book does 'escalation' masterfully. Every chapter gets bigger, either in scope or intensity, and the final 40% of The Book of Fallen Leaves is some of my favourite writing of the year. The factions could have been a lot more unique imo, and I'd have loved to have experienced more world-building in terms of customs and rituals and language, but at the core of this book is the incredible story of characters seeking to avenge their family, people committing deeds 'for the greater good', POVs from demon-warriors, found family and friendship.
Tamaki has forged a masterpiece of a Book#1 here. This is the book that NEEDS to be on everyone's lips...
This is a mashup of Shogun, Game of Thrones and, most importantly, Princess Mononoke. A fantasy set in a feudal-Japanese inspired world, with warrior monks, forest-spirits, loyal retainers and assassinations aplenty. Tamaki grips you immediately with one of the strongest opening chapters I've ever read... and it doesn't let up.
There is a large cast of POVs, side-characters, factions to get to grips with. The rich history adds a lot to your experience as you're finding your feet. Each character pulls you in, with their various conflicts written incredibly well. This book does 'escalation' masterfully. Every chapter gets bigger, either in scope or intensity, and the final 40% of The Book of Fallen Leaves is some of my favourite writing of the year. The factions could have been a lot more unique imo, and I'd have loved to have experienced more world-building in terms of customs and rituals and language, but at the core of this book is the incredible story of characters seeking to avenge their family, people committing deeds 'for the greater good', POVs from demon-warriors, found family and friendship.
Tamaki has forged a masterpiece of a Book#1 here. This is the book that NEEDS to be on everyone's lips...
January 10, 2026
4.0 Stars
This was a solid piece of epic fantasy centered around historical samurai. I found the characters and plots to be wonderfully complex and morally gray.
As someone interested in Japanese history, this re-imagining was right up my alley. I liked that this one didn't shy away from the brutality realities of this time.
I would recommend this book to readers who have enjoyed other fantasy stories inspired by historical Asia, such as the Poppy War. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This was a solid piece of epic fantasy centered around historical samurai. I found the characters and plots to be wonderfully complex and morally gray.
As someone interested in Japanese history, this re-imagining was right up my alley. I liked that this one didn't shy away from the brutality realities of this time.
I would recommend this book to readers who have enjoyed other fantasy stories inspired by historical Asia, such as the Poppy War. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
December 3, 2025
“Death, it was said, was unholy in the eyes of the enlightened.
To kill was to be unclean, and courtiers would never so besmirch their souls. They had outlawed executions for two hundred years in their search for purity. They would not kill. But now, where are we? A court, surrounded by killers. Hunters. Men who knew the scent of blood.”
An Empire on the cusp of civil war. Gods and demons breaking free. Two people fated to go to war in a world that won’t allow for peace.
Sen Hoshiakari is the son of a traitor. His father, leader of the Gensei clan, attempted a rebellion against the Emperor and was slaughtered when Sen was just a child. Sen was rescued on that fateful night and taken to live in hiding, in Kitano, away from the Empire’s rule. Rui, a no’in (lowborn) was also there during the slaughter, and her family was also killed, but along with Sen she too was rescued. Now their destinies intertwine once more as a coup by the Keishi clan throws the Empire into civil war and further bloodshed is on the horizon. With Gods and Demons at their heels Sen and Rui must fight for family, for freedom but also for love.
The Book of Fallen Leaves by A. S. Tamaki is a sublime epic fantasy debut. There’s so much depth and scope to this novel—an empire in turmoil, warring monks, samurai, demons and gods, and a deep philosophical reflection on the realities of warfare, of taking life.
I immediately loved this book right from the opening chapters as we enter this dark world where the barrier that holds back the spirit realm is thinning, monks have broken into factions against each other, and a politically tension filled Empire is present. Tamaki’s prose is almost lyrical, it’s atmospheric, you can really feel the emotion seeping through which is always my favourite kind of writing as it never fails to draw me in. Throughout Tamaki injects much Japanese mythology and also highlights the Japanese concept of two souls within us, the calm and the chaos. This was something that I felt was cleverly explored as this motif is illustrated not only in our characters but in the narrative structure as well, which you’ll see later on. This is a book with an expensive cast of characters and I do advise readers to refer to the characters list at the beginning because it really does help to clarify which characters belong to which clan. Despite this large cast I found each main PoV to be distinct, I found each key player memorable and further found that they did share a common theme; of finding their place in this world.
Sen has never known his real family, has never seen what their glory once was, has never known their true history. Growing up in hiding, away from the Empire’s clutches, he has very little experience of politics or war. Yet he is an heir nonetheless, he is a central figure to his remaining family and Gensei clan, a prince and a key to uniting them. With this he struggles, how can Sen fight for a family he has never known? When his teachers are shaping him to strive for peace, when he too believes in peace, how can he then ride proudly into a war? Then there is Rui, a peasant woman who was always kept on the outside, always looked down upon by nobles, never fitted in, wanting love yet never truly experiencing it. Rui only wanted to protect and care for nature, for life, but instead was thrown into a violent world. Let me tell you these two characters broke my heart, Tamaki portrays their inner turmoil so well and Rui and Sen’s relationship, their longing for each other, is so achingly beautifully written.
“Will we never move on, Yora thought, or will it color the rest of
our lives?
The old ones said the past was never gone; perhaps they were right. It lives within us still, he thought: each day brings its own ghosts. Each day the wounds reopen.”
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a Samurai saga retelling, and though I’m not familiar with the original tale, I’d love to discover more. The world is set in feudal-Japan and therefore the remaining POVs serve to illustrate the Empire’s political conflicts. My beloved Yora, once Captain of the Imperial Guard and now turned a poet and adviser, was a character who was filled with deep regret and sorrow. He had seen too much bloodshed, he knew the true meaning of loss, of betrayal, but he also knew that a fight was coming and was desperately trying to keep the peace. Kai, also a Gensei heir (being Yora’s niece and Sen’s older sister) remembers her father and is determined to restore her family’s place, to take back their lands and their rights. She however, is no warrior, she’s never had experience leading her people, but when she runs out of political negotiation options, a choice to fight or kneel is all that’s left to her. Yaeko on the other hand, being close to the Keishi clan, gives insight into how the coup is being played out. Yaeko goes through much conflict as she’s forced to fight against those she once stood beside, as she leaves behind her family’s beliefs and carves her own path. This is a very political heavy book, one that explores the history of the lands and the clans which have shaped the way the world is at present. Tamaki fantastically portrays the intricacies of an Empire facing political strife because of this history.
A true highlight of the book for me was the philosophy that Tamaki injects into this narrative—it amazed and awed me with its depth. The philosophy is oh so stunningly written with lines and imagery that really makes a reader think. For example, through the monk Jobo, who teaches Sen a lot, we are shown that Sen won’t kill a sacred serow, he does not wish to take life, but Jobo reflects that to be a warrior innocents will be killed by your hand. Tamaki begs the reader to consider what it really is to be a warrior, a samurai, even an emperor. What is the true horrific reality of war? What is it to take a life? The entire story explores the balance between peace and war and when is the right time to fight. Is there a right time? Whereas the first half of the book saw our characters pushing for peace, the second half turned into an all out battle as the clans collided. The action here was incredible, vividly detailed and the fear, the guilt, the primal urge to survive was perfectly portrayed. Tamaki is a clever writer indeed as again, he represents two sides, within the novel there is the calm and the chaos.
This was a book that very much embodied everything I love: characters with emotional complexity, a dark war torn world with myth and monsters, a story grand in scope. Tamaki has delivered a masterfully written debut, one that every fantasy reader needs to devour.
“If you gain power on the merit of defeating a tyrant, who will you be when you take the tyrant's place? You want to be a better ruler: good. But you’ll still be sitting in the exact same chair. That’s what I fear.”
ARC provided by Nazia at Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review—a huge thank you for the copy! All quotes used are taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
The Book of Fallen Leaves is out 17th March 2026
To kill was to be unclean, and courtiers would never so besmirch their souls. They had outlawed executions for two hundred years in their search for purity. They would not kill. But now, where are we? A court, surrounded by killers. Hunters. Men who knew the scent of blood.”
An Empire on the cusp of civil war. Gods and demons breaking free. Two people fated to go to war in a world that won’t allow for peace.
Sen Hoshiakari is the son of a traitor. His father, leader of the Gensei clan, attempted a rebellion against the Emperor and was slaughtered when Sen was just a child. Sen was rescued on that fateful night and taken to live in hiding, in Kitano, away from the Empire’s rule. Rui, a no’in (lowborn) was also there during the slaughter, and her family was also killed, but along with Sen she too was rescued. Now their destinies intertwine once more as a coup by the Keishi clan throws the Empire into civil war and further bloodshed is on the horizon. With Gods and Demons at their heels Sen and Rui must fight for family, for freedom but also for love.
The Book of Fallen Leaves by A. S. Tamaki is a sublime epic fantasy debut. There’s so much depth and scope to this novel—an empire in turmoil, warring monks, samurai, demons and gods, and a deep philosophical reflection on the realities of warfare, of taking life.
I immediately loved this book right from the opening chapters as we enter this dark world where the barrier that holds back the spirit realm is thinning, monks have broken into factions against each other, and a politically tension filled Empire is present. Tamaki’s prose is almost lyrical, it’s atmospheric, you can really feel the emotion seeping through which is always my favourite kind of writing as it never fails to draw me in. Throughout Tamaki injects much Japanese mythology and also highlights the Japanese concept of two souls within us, the calm and the chaos. This was something that I felt was cleverly explored as this motif is illustrated not only in our characters but in the narrative structure as well, which you’ll see later on. This is a book with an expensive cast of characters and I do advise readers to refer to the characters list at the beginning because it really does help to clarify which characters belong to which clan. Despite this large cast I found each main PoV to be distinct, I found each key player memorable and further found that they did share a common theme; of finding their place in this world.
Sen has never known his real family, has never seen what their glory once was, has never known their true history. Growing up in hiding, away from the Empire’s clutches, he has very little experience of politics or war. Yet he is an heir nonetheless, he is a central figure to his remaining family and Gensei clan, a prince and a key to uniting them. With this he struggles, how can Sen fight for a family he has never known? When his teachers are shaping him to strive for peace, when he too believes in peace, how can he then ride proudly into a war? Then there is Rui, a peasant woman who was always kept on the outside, always looked down upon by nobles, never fitted in, wanting love yet never truly experiencing it. Rui only wanted to protect and care for nature, for life, but instead was thrown into a violent world. Let me tell you these two characters broke my heart, Tamaki portrays their inner turmoil so well and Rui and Sen’s relationship, their longing for each other, is so achingly beautifully written.
“Will we never move on, Yora thought, or will it color the rest of
our lives?
The old ones said the past was never gone; perhaps they were right. It lives within us still, he thought: each day brings its own ghosts. Each day the wounds reopen.”
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a Samurai saga retelling, and though I’m not familiar with the original tale, I’d love to discover more. The world is set in feudal-Japan and therefore the remaining POVs serve to illustrate the Empire’s political conflicts. My beloved Yora, once Captain of the Imperial Guard and now turned a poet and adviser, was a character who was filled with deep regret and sorrow. He had seen too much bloodshed, he knew the true meaning of loss, of betrayal, but he also knew that a fight was coming and was desperately trying to keep the peace. Kai, also a Gensei heir (being Yora’s niece and Sen’s older sister) remembers her father and is determined to restore her family’s place, to take back their lands and their rights. She however, is no warrior, she’s never had experience leading her people, but when she runs out of political negotiation options, a choice to fight or kneel is all that’s left to her. Yaeko on the other hand, being close to the Keishi clan, gives insight into how the coup is being played out. Yaeko goes through much conflict as she’s forced to fight against those she once stood beside, as she leaves behind her family’s beliefs and carves her own path. This is a very political heavy book, one that explores the history of the lands and the clans which have shaped the way the world is at present. Tamaki fantastically portrays the intricacies of an Empire facing political strife because of this history.
A true highlight of the book for me was the philosophy that Tamaki injects into this narrative—it amazed and awed me with its depth. The philosophy is oh so stunningly written with lines and imagery that really makes a reader think. For example, through the monk Jobo, who teaches Sen a lot, we are shown that Sen won’t kill a sacred serow, he does not wish to take life, but Jobo reflects that to be a warrior innocents will be killed by your hand. Tamaki begs the reader to consider what it really is to be a warrior, a samurai, even an emperor. What is the true horrific reality of war? What is it to take a life? The entire story explores the balance between peace and war and when is the right time to fight. Is there a right time? Whereas the first half of the book saw our characters pushing for peace, the second half turned into an all out battle as the clans collided. The action here was incredible, vividly detailed and the fear, the guilt, the primal urge to survive was perfectly portrayed. Tamaki is a clever writer indeed as again, he represents two sides, within the novel there is the calm and the chaos.
This was a book that very much embodied everything I love: characters with emotional complexity, a dark war torn world with myth and monsters, a story grand in scope. Tamaki has delivered a masterfully written debut, one that every fantasy reader needs to devour.
“If you gain power on the merit of defeating a tyrant, who will you be when you take the tyrant's place? You want to be a better ruler: good. But you’ll still be sitting in the exact same chair. That’s what I fear.”
ARC provided by Nazia at Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review—a huge thank you for the copy! All quotes used are taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
The Book of Fallen Leaves is out 17th March 2026
December 4, 2025
Shogun meets epic fantasy.
Set in a feudal-Japanese-inspired world on the brink of civil war, violence and civil unrest allows ancient demons to break free and seek vengeance.
Sen Hoshiakari is an exiled prince of a disgraced clan, determined to reclaim his family's lost lands and honor. Rui is peasant girl who saved Sen's life and is now seeking purpose for her life.
…our futures are not a river flowing in time, rushing directly to one destination. They are like pages in a book, among a vast uncountable library of books. Your futures are there: you may choose one. Or not. You may end up in a different book altogether.
Where this failed me was the overload of names and events with a feeling that it was too slow. This was slow-paced with the plot only getting moving at around 50%.
I liked both our main characters even if they felt like slightly more fleshed out caricatures. I loved being immersed in the historic Japanese world even if I wished there was more culture.
I love political intrigue, however this lacked nuance and was more blunt violence.
I appreciated that the characters were working within a corrupt, broken system. Furthermore, by getting 5+ POVs, you can see the situation from different angles. Then again, they didn’t feel distinct enough.
Spring will come, and with it, flowers, the bloom of fleeting life, but none will be there to see them. Instead of music, you’ll hear the thrumming of horses on hard dirt. Instead of painting, you’ll see the vibrancy of blood. The bells would ring not for the coming of another year, but in mourning, for the dead.
As you can tell from my review, this had so much potential to be a new favourite. However, it just missed the mark each time.
This is an impressive debut effort though.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Set in a feudal-Japanese-inspired world on the brink of civil war, violence and civil unrest allows ancient demons to break free and seek vengeance.
Sen Hoshiakari is an exiled prince of a disgraced clan, determined to reclaim his family's lost lands and honor. Rui is peasant girl who saved Sen's life and is now seeking purpose for her life.
…our futures are not a river flowing in time, rushing directly to one destination. They are like pages in a book, among a vast uncountable library of books. Your futures are there: you may choose one. Or not. You may end up in a different book altogether.
Where this failed me was the overload of names and events with a feeling that it was too slow. This was slow-paced with the plot only getting moving at around 50%.
I liked both our main characters even if they felt like slightly more fleshed out caricatures. I loved being immersed in the historic Japanese world even if I wished there was more culture.
I love political intrigue, however this lacked nuance and was more blunt violence.
I appreciated that the characters were working within a corrupt, broken system. Furthermore, by getting 5+ POVs, you can see the situation from different angles. Then again, they didn’t feel distinct enough.
Spring will come, and with it, flowers, the bloom of fleeting life, but none will be there to see them. Instead of music, you’ll hear the thrumming of horses on hard dirt. Instead of painting, you’ll see the vibrancy of blood. The bells would ring not for the coming of another year, but in mourning, for the dead.
As you can tell from my review, this had so much potential to be a new favourite. However, it just missed the mark each time.
This is an impressive debut effort though.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
November 23, 2025
Firstly, thank you to Orbit Books and the author, Alex Tamaki for trusting me with an ARC of The Book of Fallen Leaves, in exchange for an honest, un-biased review.
The Book of Fallen Leaves is an epic, east-Asian fantasy, filled to the brim with adventure, excitement, political rivalries, rival clans, Gods and Demons.
Somewhere between Game of Thrones and Shogun, this is not for the faint-hearted. It is a complex, and layered story, with a multi-narrative perspective that provides thorough insight into all sides of the warring factions that you can understand the reasons for all sides of the conflict.
At it's heart, The Book of Fallen Leaves is a story of dualities. From Sen and Rui, two young children cast off together, and their journeys into becoming more than each of them ever thought they could be - one high-born, one low-born, each destined to walk a different path. To two rival clans, each vying for the right and power to lead their people to victory. To the Gods and Demons that reside in the shadows, watching and waiting.
I want to reiterate that this is a complex story. There is a very heavy focus on the politics that have both preceded this story, and the ongoing tumult of both class, birth right, and duty, and it really needs to be savoured. This isn't a story you can speed your way through, it should be digested slowly and steadily.
In addition to the complex political landscape, there are a lot of characters, and thanks to the handy character summaries included at the start of the book, that does make it much easier on the brain when perspective shifts. But at times it be confusing, especially when these characters cross paths.
That said, I adored it.
It was everything I wanted from an epic samurai fantasy. It's visceral, it's real, and it's dark.
I genuinely think this book is going to blow up on release and everyone will be talking about it.
The Book of Fallen Leaves releases March 2026, I'd highly recommend giving it a look and adding to your TBR.
It is not perfect, but I think that is mainly due to the complexity. That could entirely be me, and that it took me a good 4-5 weeks to get through this because of life, and a desire not to rush.
4.5/5.0
The Book of Fallen Leaves is an epic, east-Asian fantasy, filled to the brim with adventure, excitement, political rivalries, rival clans, Gods and Demons.
Somewhere between Game of Thrones and Shogun, this is not for the faint-hearted. It is a complex, and layered story, with a multi-narrative perspective that provides thorough insight into all sides of the warring factions that you can understand the reasons for all sides of the conflict.
At it's heart, The Book of Fallen Leaves is a story of dualities. From Sen and Rui, two young children cast off together, and their journeys into becoming more than each of them ever thought they could be - one high-born, one low-born, each destined to walk a different path. To two rival clans, each vying for the right and power to lead their people to victory. To the Gods and Demons that reside in the shadows, watching and waiting.
I want to reiterate that this is a complex story. There is a very heavy focus on the politics that have both preceded this story, and the ongoing tumult of both class, birth right, and duty, and it really needs to be savoured. This isn't a story you can speed your way through, it should be digested slowly and steadily.
In addition to the complex political landscape, there are a lot of characters, and thanks to the handy character summaries included at the start of the book, that does make it much easier on the brain when perspective shifts. But at times it be confusing, especially when these characters cross paths.
That said, I adored it.
It was everything I wanted from an epic samurai fantasy. It's visceral, it's real, and it's dark.
I genuinely think this book is going to blow up on release and everyone will be talking about it.
The Book of Fallen Leaves releases March 2026, I'd highly recommend giving it a look and adding to your TBR.
It is not perfect, but I think that is mainly due to the complexity. That could entirely be me, and that it took me a good 4-5 weeks to get through this because of life, and a desire not to rush.
4.5/5.0
November 2, 2025
What a fantastic book! This was absolutely 100% in my wheelhouse. I adore anything samurai or Asian inspired, and since The Last Samurai is one of my all time favourite films, this one immediately grabbed my attention.
For me, The Book of Fallen Leaves felt like the lovechild of an adult version of Across the Nightingale Floor and a battle sequence straight out of Shogun. The pacing is relentless and once it starts, it does not let up. The entire story revolves around a single, sprawling battle, but what makes it so compelling is how A.S. Tamaki tells it through multiple POVs. Each perspective adds a new layer , showing the politics, the personal motives, the spiritual undercurrents, and the eerie presence of magic and spirits that weave through the chaos.
Sen Hoshiakari is a standout and his arc is powerful and satisfying but I have to say my favourite POV was Rui. Her internal conflict amidst the external carnage was just chef’s kiss writing.
My only small gripe, I really wish my copy had a character list and allegiance chart at the start. With all the Japanese names and house affiliations, it took a bit to get my bearings in the early chapters.
But honestly, that’s a tiny quibble in what was otherwise a brilliant read. It ticked every single one of my personal boxes. Pacy, emotional, brutal, beautiful. I was hooked start to finish.
For me, The Book of Fallen Leaves felt like the lovechild of an adult version of Across the Nightingale Floor and a battle sequence straight out of Shogun. The pacing is relentless and once it starts, it does not let up. The entire story revolves around a single, sprawling battle, but what makes it so compelling is how A.S. Tamaki tells it through multiple POVs. Each perspective adds a new layer , showing the politics, the personal motives, the spiritual undercurrents, and the eerie presence of magic and spirits that weave through the chaos.
Sen Hoshiakari is a standout and his arc is powerful and satisfying but I have to say my favourite POV was Rui. Her internal conflict amidst the external carnage was just chef’s kiss writing.
My only small gripe, I really wish my copy had a character list and allegiance chart at the start. With all the Japanese names and house affiliations, it took a bit to get my bearings in the early chapters.
But honestly, that’s a tiny quibble in what was otherwise a brilliant read. It ticked every single one of my personal boxes. Pacy, emotional, brutal, beautiful. I was hooked start to finish.
December 31, 2025
Finally comps that are accurate and that help to describe the book while also falling short of exactly what the book is.
Yes this is a political and military fantasy akin to game of thrones, relying on mystical and unexplained (as yet) fantastical forces. Yes it incorporates samurai culture and will certainly recall the sharp dialogue and breathtaking scenes of Shogun.
And yet…it’s also more than simply a mashup of these two things. It’s truly an epic historical fantasy with an insanely good cast of characters.
Yes the beginning is somewhat slow moving, and the character development is not instant but the payoff is so worth it.
I am really excited to see where this series goes! Thanks to Orbit and Netgalley for a galley in exchange for an honest review.
Yes this is a political and military fantasy akin to game of thrones, relying on mystical and unexplained (as yet) fantastical forces. Yes it incorporates samurai culture and will certainly recall the sharp dialogue and breathtaking scenes of Shogun.
And yet…it’s also more than simply a mashup of these two things. It’s truly an epic historical fantasy with an insanely good cast of characters.
Yes the beginning is somewhat slow moving, and the character development is not instant but the payoff is so worth it.
I am really excited to see where this series goes! Thanks to Orbit and Netgalley for a galley in exchange for an honest review.
hard-dnf
December 21, 2025This is a book that will really appeal only to a certain type of fantasy reader. And I'm really glad that the author decided to tell this story.
However, I personally could not recommend this book to others as political drama is not something I typically enjoy as a fantasy reader. This did not really have a ton of fantasy elements or world-building.
I really struggled to understand the characters and their motivations, it felt like all of them were pawns with no agency, and while I do understand that that is maybe the point, It didn't hook me. I didn't truly care for their cause and root for them as I felt that I should. The story was very slow and the jumping around to different characters was difficult and I felt myself constantly referring back to the family tree, also, I believed for a large portion of this book that Sen and Rui were siblings, as the family tree places them together in such a way.
Unfortunately this one was a miss for me, but the comp titles seem to be very apt.
However, I personally could not recommend this book to others as political drama is not something I typically enjoy as a fantasy reader. This did not really have a ton of fantasy elements or world-building.
I really struggled to understand the characters and their motivations, it felt like all of them were pawns with no agency, and while I do understand that that is maybe the point, It didn't hook me. I didn't truly care for their cause and root for them as I felt that I should. The story was very slow and the jumping around to different characters was difficult and I felt myself constantly referring back to the family tree, also, I believed for a large portion of this book that Sen and Rui were siblings, as the family tree places them together in such a way.
Unfortunately this one was a miss for me, but the comp titles seem to be very apt.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is well written but it's not for me. I'm not a fan of political intrigue on fantasy books. the character development is good. If you like political intrigue then you might like this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this book early on return for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this book early on return for my honest review.
January 15, 2026
This is an intricately plotted beginning to what is sure to be a very epic series. The major downside is that it takes 60% before we really get into the action. The first half is full of political maneuvering and character introductions as pieces move around the board.
It feels like a Japanese version of Northern Wrath: interrelated characters waging war that reflects something greater (and supernatural), interacting with gods and moving towards and away from each other throughout.
Another thing that I think was missing was the foundation for Sen and Rui’s ride or die friendship. We only see them together a handful of times before skipping through months of training and proximity and trust building. It’s such a central part of the story that it felt weird not to really see that develop.
But what I did love was seeing women as Lords and warriors. We did have a bit of sexism in there but it’s obviously portrayed as wrong and kind of silly for anyone to be looked down upon because of their gender. Especially as the women commanders are consistently kicking ass and taking names.
I think I would consider reading the next book in the series, since the pacing really picked up once we got to the actual war, but I would prefer the audiobook version to help move things along quicker.
{Thank you Orbit for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review}
It feels like a Japanese version of Northern Wrath: interrelated characters waging war that reflects something greater (and supernatural), interacting with gods and moving towards and away from each other throughout.
Another thing that I think was missing was the foundation for Sen and Rui’s ride or die friendship. We only see them together a handful of times before skipping through months of training and proximity and trust building. It’s such a central part of the story that it felt weird not to really see that develop.
But what I did love was seeing women as Lords and warriors. We did have a bit of sexism in there but it’s obviously portrayed as wrong and kind of silly for anyone to be looked down upon because of their gender. Especially as the women commanders are consistently kicking ass and taking names.
I think I would consider reading the next book in the series, since the pacing really picked up once we got to the actual war, but I would prefer the audiobook version to help move things along quicker.
{Thank you Orbit for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review}
December 26, 2025
The Book Of Fallen Leaves is such a page turner! And a debut no less? I can already tell this will be a heavy hitter once it releases next year.
It’s been a while since a book has made me stay awake until 3AM just to know what happens next. What’s intriguing is that the pace isn’t exactly fast in the first half. There’s a lot of character development woven into complex worldbuilding, yet each chapter still managed to pull me deeper into the story and leave me eager for more. I truly couldn’t put it down.
We’re given a world rich in history, political intrigue, layered characters and a stunning, almost tangible atmosphere. Everything feels intentional and carefully executed, which only adds to the immersion.
This book follows an extensive cast. Emphasis on the “extensive” part, because there are quite a few POVs. That said, they’re handled so smoothly that it never felt confusing or overwhelming. I almost immediately connected with the characters and found myself equally invested in each of their paths, which is no small feat.
The writing is honestly stunning. For me, it strikes the perfect balance between dialogue and narration. It’s atmospheric, addictive and beautifully crafted.
Having said that, I can’t bring myself to rate it any higher merely because it honestly lost me in the last third. I believe this book would’ve benefited from being a tad shorter, based on the story it tells. It started to drag and unfortunately lost momentum, failing to keep me engaged.
Another piece of feedback is that it would’ve been helpful to have a map and a house affiliation chart at the beginning. I did read this as an eARC though, so I’m not sure if that will be included in print.
Thank you SO much to NetGalley, A.S. Tamaki and Orbit for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s been a while since a book has made me stay awake until 3AM just to know what happens next. What’s intriguing is that the pace isn’t exactly fast in the first half. There’s a lot of character development woven into complex worldbuilding, yet each chapter still managed to pull me deeper into the story and leave me eager for more. I truly couldn’t put it down.
We’re given a world rich in history, political intrigue, layered characters and a stunning, almost tangible atmosphere. Everything feels intentional and carefully executed, which only adds to the immersion.
This book follows an extensive cast. Emphasis on the “extensive” part, because there are quite a few POVs. That said, they’re handled so smoothly that it never felt confusing or overwhelming. I almost immediately connected with the characters and found myself equally invested in each of their paths, which is no small feat.
The writing is honestly stunning. For me, it strikes the perfect balance between dialogue and narration. It’s atmospheric, addictive and beautifully crafted.
Having said that, I can’t bring myself to rate it any higher merely because it honestly lost me in the last third. I believe this book would’ve benefited from being a tad shorter, based on the story it tells. It started to drag and unfortunately lost momentum, failing to keep me engaged.
Another piece of feedback is that it would’ve been helpful to have a map and a house affiliation chart at the beginning. I did read this as an eARC though, so I’m not sure if that will be included in print.
Thank you SO much to NetGalley, A.S. Tamaki and Orbit for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2025
3⭐️
The moment I saw the comparison of this book to Shōgun meets Game of Thrones, I was instantly intrigued. Unfortunately, my reading experience fell short of those expectations.
Where the book truly shines is in its battle scenes—bloody, intense, and suspenseful. Combined with the political intrigue, it made for an engaging plot. I also enjoyed the folklore surrounding the forest spirits, which carried a dark, haunting Studio Ghibli–like quality.
My main criticism is the lack of world-building. The Japanese-inspired setting was one of the key factors that drew me in, yet I never felt fully immersed in it. I would have loved more thorough descriptions of the culture, language, beliefs, and setting. As an avid epic fantasy reader, I enjoy large casts, but the way the cast expanded made it difficult to keep track of who was who. The time jumps and rapid shifts between character backstories added to the confusion. While the character list at the beginning was helpful, a one-page visual aid or genogram would have been even more effective.
In the end, the book didn’t completely land for me, but I still recommend it to epic fantasy fans who enjoy heavy political elements and intense battle scenes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
The moment I saw the comparison of this book to Shōgun meets Game of Thrones, I was instantly intrigued. Unfortunately, my reading experience fell short of those expectations.
Where the book truly shines is in its battle scenes—bloody, intense, and suspenseful. Combined with the political intrigue, it made for an engaging plot. I also enjoyed the folklore surrounding the forest spirits, which carried a dark, haunting Studio Ghibli–like quality.
My main criticism is the lack of world-building. The Japanese-inspired setting was one of the key factors that drew me in, yet I never felt fully immersed in it. I would have loved more thorough descriptions of the culture, language, beliefs, and setting. As an avid epic fantasy reader, I enjoy large casts, but the way the cast expanded made it difficult to keep track of who was who. The time jumps and rapid shifts between character backstories added to the confusion. While the character list at the beginning was helpful, a one-page visual aid or genogram would have been even more effective.
In the end, the book didn’t completely land for me, but I still recommend it to epic fantasy fans who enjoy heavy political elements and intense battle scenes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
December 3, 2025
I enjoyed this overall, however this was not an easy read.
Great world building and epic battles, just too many characters for me to care too much about any of them.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Great world building and epic battles, just too many characters for me to care too much about any of them.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 8, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline overall, despite struggling to remember the different characters and their backstory. The way the author writes from different points of view, was well done. The book could do with a page or two showing the different clan lines, something to give the reader a visual to picture and internalise.
I have given this book three stars, which for me means it is a good book. A great book is four stars and those rare, exceptional books are five stars.
I had to keep asking myself “who are they again?” - which is why this is only three stars.
I would recommend this book, especially if you like Japanese culture and have a love of the Samurai!
I have given this book three stars, which for me means it is a good book. A great book is four stars and those rare, exceptional books are five stars.
I had to keep asking myself “who are they again?” - which is why this is only three stars.
I would recommend this book, especially if you like Japanese culture and have a love of the Samurai!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review – The Book of Fallen Leaves by A.S. Tamaki
Reading The Book of Fallen Leaves felt like stepping into a world on the brink of collapse — a land holding its breath before everything breaks.
This first installment in a new epic fantasy series is set in a world inspired by feudal Japan, where the land teeters on the edge of civil war. An old emperor’s curse continues to ripple through time, and as the barrier between worlds begins to thin, gods and demons once more walk among mortals.
Told through multiple points of view, the story primarily follows:
• Sen Hoshiakari, whose father was a traitor, head Gensei clan and leader of a failed rebellion;
• Rui, a peasant girl who once saved Sen’s life as a child;
• Kai, Sen’s older sister and heir to the Gensei clan, raised apart by a steward family;
• Yora, their uncle — a formidable warrior renowned for both his sword and his poetry;
• Yaeko, taken in by the Keishi clan after her family aided the rebellion.
•
Every character is deeply conflicted, torn between personal convictions, family expectations, and the weight of past sins. Fate looms heavily over them all. As political factions prepare a coup and tensions rise, the sense of unrest is constant and palpable throughout the novel.
With warrior monks, forest spirits, gods, and demons, A.S. Tamaki builds a vivid and immersive world. His prose is beautiful and lyrical — often poetic — and he has a true gift for conveying the emotional complexity of his characters. This is a highly quotable book; many passages made me pause and reflect, particularly those exploring the idea that each of us contains two souls — a notion that immediately brought to mind concepts of yin and yang, of good and evil coexisting.
The story takes its time to align all its moving parts: character arcs, political intrigue, and spiritual lore unfold at a deliberate pace. While the novel remains slow for a significant portion, that pacing ultimately felt appropriate. It allowed me to fully absorb the wisdom, atmosphere, and quiet beauty woven into the narrative.
My only real gripe lies in the sheer number of characters and side plots. As is often the case in expansive epic fantasy, I found myself more invested in certain storylines than others, eagerly waiting to return to Sen and Rui, whose relationship is both tender and heartbreaking. At times, the abundance of side characters and clans left me momentarily confused, struggling to remember who was aligned with whom and for what purpose.
That said, this remained my sole frustration.
Between revenge, political conspiracies, love, personal reckonings, and rich folklore inspired by feudal Japan, The Book of Fallen Leaves is a compelling and thoughtful epic fantasy that will undoubtedly captivate many readers.
Many thanks to Orbit Books for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
Reading The Book of Fallen Leaves felt like stepping into a world on the brink of collapse — a land holding its breath before everything breaks.
This first installment in a new epic fantasy series is set in a world inspired by feudal Japan, where the land teeters on the edge of civil war. An old emperor’s curse continues to ripple through time, and as the barrier between worlds begins to thin, gods and demons once more walk among mortals.
Told through multiple points of view, the story primarily follows:
• Sen Hoshiakari, whose father was a traitor, head Gensei clan and leader of a failed rebellion;
• Rui, a peasant girl who once saved Sen’s life as a child;
• Kai, Sen’s older sister and heir to the Gensei clan, raised apart by a steward family;
• Yora, their uncle — a formidable warrior renowned for both his sword and his poetry;
• Yaeko, taken in by the Keishi clan after her family aided the rebellion.
•
Every character is deeply conflicted, torn between personal convictions, family expectations, and the weight of past sins. Fate looms heavily over them all. As political factions prepare a coup and tensions rise, the sense of unrest is constant and palpable throughout the novel.
With warrior monks, forest spirits, gods, and demons, A.S. Tamaki builds a vivid and immersive world. His prose is beautiful and lyrical — often poetic — and he has a true gift for conveying the emotional complexity of his characters. This is a highly quotable book; many passages made me pause and reflect, particularly those exploring the idea that each of us contains two souls — a notion that immediately brought to mind concepts of yin and yang, of good and evil coexisting.
The story takes its time to align all its moving parts: character arcs, political intrigue, and spiritual lore unfold at a deliberate pace. While the novel remains slow for a significant portion, that pacing ultimately felt appropriate. It allowed me to fully absorb the wisdom, atmosphere, and quiet beauty woven into the narrative.
My only real gripe lies in the sheer number of characters and side plots. As is often the case in expansive epic fantasy, I found myself more invested in certain storylines than others, eagerly waiting to return to Sen and Rui, whose relationship is both tender and heartbreaking. At times, the abundance of side characters and clans left me momentarily confused, struggling to remember who was aligned with whom and for what purpose.
That said, this remained my sole frustration.
Between revenge, political conspiracies, love, personal reckonings, and rich folklore inspired by feudal Japan, The Book of Fallen Leaves is a compelling and thoughtful epic fantasy that will undoubtedly captivate many readers.
Many thanks to Orbit Books for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Orbit and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a debut novel that follows a brother and sister of the fallen Gensei clan. Their father rebelled against the empire when Sen, the brother, was just a child and their family was ripped a part. He, along with a commoner named Rui, was hidden with a different family and his sister, Kai, was taken to the capital and watched closely by the emperor. The book mainly follows the three of them as political tensions rise and rebellion is once again in the air.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. The world was incredibly rich and well built out. The first 40% of the book was a lot of world building and politics, so if you don't like that you may find the beginning a little slow. I personally really liked it because it set up the second half of the book so well. Although, it took me a hot minute to figure out who was who. A lot of names were just thrown at me, and I'm awful with remembering names. Once I figured out who was who and who was a part of what clan and which clans were aligned with what politics everything fit together great.
The second half of the book in particular was great. The plot was incredibly fast paced, and I could hardly put the book down! I LOVE a big fantasy battle and this did not disappoint. The author was not shy with killing off important characters which, while painful, had a big emotional impact and really made it feel like the stakes were actually incredibly high.
The only things I didn't totally love were the ridiculous amount of names dropped at the beginning, a few instances of slang that just didn't fit, and I think the character work could have been a bit better. There were a few instances of "gotta" and "gonna" and slang of that nature that really pulled me out of the story. It didn't feel like it fit with the rest of the narrative. As for the characters, for the most part they were great, I just think they could've been a bit better fleshed out, Kai in particular. I felt like she didn't have enough of a distinct personality or journey. I think Rui was the most well done character and I absolutely loved her.
I'm giving this a solid 4 starts. I really enjoyed it, even though there were a few things I wasn't totally in love with. The plot carried, and the writing was great as well. I would definitely recommend this to epic fantasy fans!
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a debut novel that follows a brother and sister of the fallen Gensei clan. Their father rebelled against the empire when Sen, the brother, was just a child and their family was ripped a part. He, along with a commoner named Rui, was hidden with a different family and his sister, Kai, was taken to the capital and watched closely by the emperor. The book mainly follows the three of them as political tensions rise and rebellion is once again in the air.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. The world was incredibly rich and well built out. The first 40% of the book was a lot of world building and politics, so if you don't like that you may find the beginning a little slow. I personally really liked it because it set up the second half of the book so well. Although, it took me a hot minute to figure out who was who. A lot of names were just thrown at me, and I'm awful with remembering names. Once I figured out who was who and who was a part of what clan and which clans were aligned with what politics everything fit together great.
The second half of the book in particular was great. The plot was incredibly fast paced, and I could hardly put the book down! I LOVE a big fantasy battle and this did not disappoint. The author was not shy with killing off important characters which, while painful, had a big emotional impact and really made it feel like the stakes were actually incredibly high.
The only things I didn't totally love were the ridiculous amount of names dropped at the beginning, a few instances of slang that just didn't fit, and I think the character work could have been a bit better. There were a few instances of "gotta" and "gonna" and slang of that nature that really pulled me out of the story. It didn't feel like it fit with the rest of the narrative. As for the characters, for the most part they were great, I just think they could've been a bit better fleshed out, Kai in particular. I felt like she didn't have enough of a distinct personality or journey. I think Rui was the most well done character and I absolutely loved her.
I'm giving this a solid 4 starts. I really enjoyed it, even though there were a few things I wasn't totally in love with. The plot carried, and the writing was great as well. I would definitely recommend this to epic fantasy fans!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a book that sits with the consequences of war longer than it celebrates its battles.
The Book of Fallen Leaves treats violence as something that lingers rather than something to be admired. From the start, warriors are not framed as heroes, but as people burdened by what they have done. Every act of killing, whether done out of duty or desperation, leaves a mark that follows the characters long after the fight ends.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its atmosphere. There is a constant sense that nothing lasts. Lives, clans, and even brief moments of peace all feel fragile and temporary. The world is filled with rain, mud, snow, rusted iron, and quiet forests where spirits watch from the shadows. It feels old and worn in the best way, more like a tragic historical epic than a fast-moving fantasy adventure.
The magic in this world adds to that unease. Power is not something people control. It is something they ask for, often at a terrible cost. The gods are distant and dangerous, and every bargain feels like a risk to the body or the soul. The idea of balancing a calm soul against a violent one runs through the story, reinforcing the question at its core: how do you survive in a world shaped by endless cycles of bloodshed?
The emotional heart of the story is Sen Hoshiakari and Rui Misosazai. Sen resists the warrior’s path he was born into, while Rui struggles with the loss of innocence forced on her by violence and circumstance. Their connection is quiet and restrained, shaped by shared trauma, rigid class divides, and long stretches of separation. Side characters, especially Yora Shijin, deepen the tragedy and show how even well-intended choices can lead to lasting harm.
This is not a fast or easy read. The pacing is slow and deliberate, with lengthy sections devoted to travel, politics, and introspection. The terminology can also be dense at times, especially in the early stages. Combined with the consistently somber tone, this kept me at a slight distance, even when I appreciated what the book was doing.
As a debut novel, The Book of Fallen Leaves demonstrates considerable confidence in its voice and themes. While it did not fully win me over as a favorite, it left a strong impression. Readers who enjoy character-driven tragedies and reflective, atmospheric fantasy will likely find a lot to admire here.
The Book of Fallen Leaves treats violence as something that lingers rather than something to be admired. From the start, warriors are not framed as heroes, but as people burdened by what they have done. Every act of killing, whether done out of duty or desperation, leaves a mark that follows the characters long after the fight ends.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its atmosphere. There is a constant sense that nothing lasts. Lives, clans, and even brief moments of peace all feel fragile and temporary. The world is filled with rain, mud, snow, rusted iron, and quiet forests where spirits watch from the shadows. It feels old and worn in the best way, more like a tragic historical epic than a fast-moving fantasy adventure.
The magic in this world adds to that unease. Power is not something people control. It is something they ask for, often at a terrible cost. The gods are distant and dangerous, and every bargain feels like a risk to the body or the soul. The idea of balancing a calm soul against a violent one runs through the story, reinforcing the question at its core: how do you survive in a world shaped by endless cycles of bloodshed?
The emotional heart of the story is Sen Hoshiakari and Rui Misosazai. Sen resists the warrior’s path he was born into, while Rui struggles with the loss of innocence forced on her by violence and circumstance. Their connection is quiet and restrained, shaped by shared trauma, rigid class divides, and long stretches of separation. Side characters, especially Yora Shijin, deepen the tragedy and show how even well-intended choices can lead to lasting harm.
This is not a fast or easy read. The pacing is slow and deliberate, with lengthy sections devoted to travel, politics, and introspection. The terminology can also be dense at times, especially in the early stages. Combined with the consistently somber tone, this kept me at a slight distance, even when I appreciated what the book was doing.
As a debut novel, The Book of Fallen Leaves demonstrates considerable confidence in its voice and themes. While it did not fully win me over as a favorite, it left a strong impression. Readers who enjoy character-driven tragedies and reflective, atmospheric fantasy will likely find a lot to admire here.
Read
November 21, 2025DNF at 42% :(
I really really wanted to like this one. Sadly, I could not grab the characters and was confused by alot of things.
The premise is SO promising and I loved the raw material, the vibes and the vision I were abel to sense. This will be different type of review compared to my normal ones.
My problems:
My biggest problem was the many many POVs and time jumps used to portray the different characters and their backstories. This made it very difficult for me to figure out who the character was and what made them tick. As a result, I could hardly connect with anyone. Normally, I really love Multi-POV-stories, even if they are many of them.
Then, in the backstories, many secondary characters appeared that I couldn't place at all. Which clan was that? Where does this character belong? What is the connection? Do I need to remember them?
I would have liked to have had an overview of this, perhaps it is included in the finished printed book.
Another point was the many unique terms. In a Japanese story, I see the point of using the addresses and unique terms, simply for more authenticity. Unfortunately, I don't know a single one of these words and often didn't know how the person was addressing the other person. As a friend? Belittling? Respectfully? Derogatorily? I would have liked the term to be explained shortly afterwards so that I could store it in my memory and understand it next time. Something like "thank you Thomas-kun", she said and used the informal but lovely suffix, which made Thomas feel like x". Or just put them in the glosarry if thats bad for the flow!
Positive side:
I definitely got Shogun vibes and also a bit of Princess Mononoke, as some ARC reviews had mentioned already. If you like lots of POVs, complex characters and very extensive political world building (sadly not in the clans tho), you'll definitely find what you're looking for here. It's a little bit like Ken Liu's Grace of Kings, which I personally also really liked. but with samurai and feudal Japan, obviously.
Overall:
I'm very sad that the book wasn't for me after all. Maybe I'll give the published book another chance, but for now I'm left feeling confused and a little frustrated.
I really really wanted to like this one. Sadly, I could not grab the characters and was confused by alot of things.
The premise is SO promising and I loved the raw material, the vibes and the vision I were abel to sense. This will be different type of review compared to my normal ones.
My problems:
My biggest problem was the many many POVs and time jumps used to portray the different characters and their backstories. This made it very difficult for me to figure out who the character was and what made them tick. As a result, I could hardly connect with anyone. Normally, I really love Multi-POV-stories, even if they are many of them.
Then, in the backstories, many secondary characters appeared that I couldn't place at all. Which clan was that? Where does this character belong? What is the connection? Do I need to remember them?
I would have liked to have had an overview of this, perhaps it is included in the finished printed book.
Another point was the many unique terms. In a Japanese story, I see the point of using the addresses and unique terms, simply for more authenticity. Unfortunately, I don't know a single one of these words and often didn't know how the person was addressing the other person. As a friend? Belittling? Respectfully? Derogatorily? I would have liked the term to be explained shortly afterwards so that I could store it in my memory and understand it next time. Something like "thank you Thomas-kun", she said and used the informal but lovely suffix, which made Thomas feel like x". Or just put them in the glosarry if thats bad for the flow!
Positive side:
I definitely got Shogun vibes and also a bit of Princess Mononoke, as some ARC reviews had mentioned already. If you like lots of POVs, complex characters and very extensive political world building (sadly not in the clans tho), you'll definitely find what you're looking for here. It's a little bit like Ken Liu's Grace of Kings, which I personally also really liked. but with samurai and feudal Japan, obviously.
Overall:
I'm very sad that the book wasn't for me after all. Maybe I'll give the published book another chance, but for now I'm left feeling confused and a little frustrated.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
**My thanks to Orbit Books for providing me with an advanced review copy via NetGalley**
2.5 stars
I was hoping to love this new epic fantasy beginning to a series, but I struggled to invest in either the characters or the overarching plot. The story is set in a Japanese warring-states-era-inspired empire. The previous generation featured one successful rebellion against the ‘Demon Emperor’ and one failed rebellion against the new emperor; this generation must now confront whether life is serviceable under the current regime or if a new rebellion is in order.
A big issue I personally had with the book was the fact that I went into it expecting more fantasy. I had expected that there would be some magical or supernatural elements, but (excepting the prologue, which could have been metaphorical) nothing fantastical happens until 45% of the way through the book.
The book is also much too long for the story it’s telling. The characters spend a lot of time waffling in their own heads, and I feel that the book as a whole would benefit from a great number of cuts and edits to tighten the prose. While I enjoy fantasy books that take the time to appreciate the natural world, the references to nature were (though frequent) so vague as to be meaningless; I was left not with a feeling of connection with the natural world but of waiting for the characters to finish performing that connection.
The characters were memorable, but not particularly interesting to me. I was disappointed that Sen and Rui, two of the main characters, enter into a romantic relationship, as I didn’t really feel any chemistry between them. Rui was also an especially frustrating point-of-view character to follow because her chapters felt repetitive to me; she frequently retreads old ground and seems to lose the insights she had made in previous chapters. I was more interested in the characters who started or remained allies of the corrupt chancellor, such as Yora and Yaeko, who become genuinely conflicted about their own choices and actions.
I will not be continuing with the series, but I’d recommend you try this book if you’re a fan of slow-burn low-magic fantasy settings, Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, or Shogun by James Clavell.
2.5 stars
I was hoping to love this new epic fantasy beginning to a series, but I struggled to invest in either the characters or the overarching plot. The story is set in a Japanese warring-states-era-inspired empire. The previous generation featured one successful rebellion against the ‘Demon Emperor’ and one failed rebellion against the new emperor; this generation must now confront whether life is serviceable under the current regime or if a new rebellion is in order.
A big issue I personally had with the book was the fact that I went into it expecting more fantasy. I had expected that there would be some magical or supernatural elements, but (excepting the prologue, which could have been metaphorical) nothing fantastical happens until 45% of the way through the book.
The book is also much too long for the story it’s telling. The characters spend a lot of time waffling in their own heads, and I feel that the book as a whole would benefit from a great number of cuts and edits to tighten the prose. While I enjoy fantasy books that take the time to appreciate the natural world, the references to nature were (though frequent) so vague as to be meaningless; I was left not with a feeling of connection with the natural world but of waiting for the characters to finish performing that connection.
The characters were memorable, but not particularly interesting to me. I was disappointed that Sen and Rui, two of the main characters, enter into a romantic relationship, as I didn’t really feel any chemistry between them. Rui was also an especially frustrating point-of-view character to follow because her chapters felt repetitive to me; she frequently retreads old ground and seems to lose the insights she had made in previous chapters. I was more interested in the characters who started or remained allies of the corrupt chancellor, such as Yora and Yaeko, who become genuinely conflicted about their own choices and actions.
I will not be continuing with the series, but I’d recommend you try this book if you’re a fan of slow-burn low-magic fantasy settings, Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, or Shogun by James Clavell.
did-not-finish
January 10, 2026Thank you to Orbit Books and NetGalley for the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review
DNFed @ 12%. I really wanted to like this one, just as I always want to like any new epic fantasy, especially if it's written by an author of color. I was getting Studio Ghibli vibes--not the quirky and magical ones from Spirited Away, but the grittier and more expansive atmosphere of Princess Mononoke.
There's really solid world-building, but unfortunately, less emotional investment in the characters. I think multiple-POV epic fantasies are always challenging to set up, and I lost track of the number of characters whose POV we got in one chapter, only to flip to the POV of someone new in the next chapter. That also dragged the pacing way down.
The writing, at times, was also so pleased with its own prettiness that it forgot to serve anything other than ornamental purposes and ends up contradicting itself. If I remember correctly, the lost prince makes a startling discovery of a presumed-lost connection when he spots a familiar jade stone dangling from a local girl's neck. Several chapters later, the girl takes the stone out of a pouch in which she stores it? Huh?? So then why was she conveniently wearing the stone on the day she crosses paths with the lost prince, when it is otherwise stored away? She then idly presses the stone to her lips and looks at it. COME ON. Lips don't have eyes. Is she sitting there cross-eyed and straining her eye muscles to get a glimpse of the stone which she's pressed to her mouth?
In another scene, a character (maybe the same girl, I don't remember anymore) goes to a random large hidden spring in the middle of the woods to brood. I don't know why this bothers me, except that the scene serves no purpose, and the woods just happen to offer up a large spring that no one else knows about. I'm picturing Twilight in my head as I recall it.
So yeah. Came for the premise, stayed (a bit) for the world-building, and ultimately left because of the over-the-top writing.
DNFed @ 12%. I really wanted to like this one, just as I always want to like any new epic fantasy, especially if it's written by an author of color. I was getting Studio Ghibli vibes--not the quirky and magical ones from Spirited Away, but the grittier and more expansive atmosphere of Princess Mononoke.
There's really solid world-building, but unfortunately, less emotional investment in the characters. I think multiple-POV epic fantasies are always challenging to set up, and I lost track of the number of characters whose POV we got in one chapter, only to flip to the POV of someone new in the next chapter. That also dragged the pacing way down.
The writing, at times, was also so pleased with its own prettiness that it forgot to serve anything other than ornamental purposes and ends up contradicting itself. If I remember correctly, the lost prince makes a startling discovery of a presumed-lost connection when he spots a familiar jade stone dangling from a local girl's neck. Several chapters later, the girl takes the stone out of a pouch in which she stores it? Huh?? So then why was she conveniently wearing the stone on the day she crosses paths with the lost prince, when it is otherwise stored away? She then idly presses the stone to her lips and looks at it. COME ON. Lips don't have eyes. Is she sitting there cross-eyed and straining her eye muscles to get a glimpse of the stone which she's pressed to her mouth?
In another scene, a character (maybe the same girl, I don't remember anymore) goes to a random large hidden spring in the middle of the woods to brood. I don't know why this bothers me, except that the scene serves no purpose, and the woods just happen to offer up a large spring that no one else knows about. I'm picturing Twilight in my head as I recall it.
So yeah. Came for the premise, stayed (a bit) for the world-building, and ultimately left because of the over-the-top writing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating 4.5 Rounded up
The Book of Fallen Leaves is described by the publisher as, “Shogun meets Game of Thrones.” Those are some high expectations and enormous shoes to fill. That along with the premise made this a must read for me. Speaking of premise- A prince whose family is betrayed and destroyed is stripped of his title and cast into exile along with a peasant girl who saved his life. Together they set out on a dangerous path of vengeance and survival navigating a fractured empire.
The best part of this novel in my opinion is the character development. They are complex with unique personality’s including distinct strengths, weaknesses, quirks, and flaws making them relatable, human. This makes it easy to emotionally connect and feel invested. Our MC Sen is layered and struggles with vengeance, honor and morality. Even Rui feels like so much more then just a side character. She goes from tragic to an active participant where her choices deeply affect the course of events.
The world building is not for the weak. Its heavy and detailed making it feel dense at times. Then there is so much political tension and clan rivalries that lead to battles on an epic level, and that is where Tamaki’s writing shines. Tamaki’s descriptions of battles are cinematic, vivid, and immersive. Then we have the supernatural aspects, Gods, demons, and mystical entities that influence the mortal realm. This adds another level of depth. I will be honest, it will take a bit to set up and get started but it is well worth the wait.
The Book of Fallen Leaves is described by the publisher as, “Shogun meets Game of Thrones.” Those are some high expectations and enormous shoes to fill. That along with the premise made this a must read for me. Speaking of premise- A prince whose family is betrayed and destroyed is stripped of his title and cast into exile along with a peasant girl who saved his life. Together they set out on a dangerous path of vengeance and survival navigating a fractured empire.
The best part of this novel in my opinion is the character development. They are complex with unique personality’s including distinct strengths, weaknesses, quirks, and flaws making them relatable, human. This makes it easy to emotionally connect and feel invested. Our MC Sen is layered and struggles with vengeance, honor and morality. Even Rui feels like so much more then just a side character. She goes from tragic to an active participant where her choices deeply affect the course of events.
The world building is not for the weak. Its heavy and detailed making it feel dense at times. Then there is so much political tension and clan rivalries that lead to battles on an epic level, and that is where Tamaki’s writing shines. Tamaki’s descriptions of battles are cinematic, vivid, and immersive. Then we have the supernatural aspects, Gods, demons, and mystical entities that influence the mortal realm. This adds another level of depth. I will be honest, it will take a bit to set up and get started but it is well worth the wait.
December 17, 2025
Unfortunately, The Book of Fallen Leaves was a huge miss for me.
I'd like to start by saying, I can see why this book will appeal to a wide audience of people. It involves an intricate world of politics with a treacherous history; there are complex bonds between the clans and individuals vying for power on all sides. The action scenes are vivid and graphic, the demons dread-inducing.
However, it took way too long to get started, and by the time it felt like we were moving along in the plot, I think I had already lost interest. Sen and Rui were definitely my favourite POVs, especially early on when Sen joins the monks. But overall, I didn't feel attachment to any of the characters; there definitely wasn't enough for me to be invested in how the power plays affected them.
The description implies that there would be a lot more focus on the supernatural, and the opening scene with the demons is instantly gripping, and then they're gone for the majority of the first half of the book. When they returned, there was no real context or explanation for them other than a brief mention of the curse. I felt lost with a lot of the fantasy elements, both the demons and the gods, and though I understand this may be due to a lack of cultural knowledge on my part, it still lessened my experience.
I'd like to start by saying, I can see why this book will appeal to a wide audience of people. It involves an intricate world of politics with a treacherous history; there are complex bonds between the clans and individuals vying for power on all sides. The action scenes are vivid and graphic, the demons dread-inducing.
However, it took way too long to get started, and by the time it felt like we were moving along in the plot, I think I had already lost interest. Sen and Rui were definitely my favourite POVs, especially early on when Sen joins the monks. But overall, I didn't feel attachment to any of the characters; there definitely wasn't enough for me to be invested in how the power plays affected them.
The description implies that there would be a lot more focus on the supernatural, and the opening scene with the demons is instantly gripping, and then they're gone for the majority of the first half of the book. When they returned, there was no real context or explanation for them other than a brief mention of the curse. I felt lost with a lot of the fantasy elements, both the demons and the gods, and though I understand this may be due to a lack of cultural knowledge on my part, it still lessened my experience.
December 21, 2025
I received this as an ARC from Netgalley, but unfortunately, I am putting it down at 25%.
I love political intrigue in fantasy novels, and this sounded like it would be along those lines. But there's something very off about it. I think it needs a better edit job. The political world isn't explained that well - yes, there was this traitorous event in the past which set the stage for most of the characters, but there are (I think) 2 factions of monks and you aren't really told much about them, there is a retired emperor hanging around with some of the monks, and then a chancellor who seems to rule while the new emperor does???
Long sections where the main characters just think about things. And then huge jumps in time with nothing to show for it - one character is training with one group of monks, and clearly is meant to be learning patience, but just when he seems to grow a bit, we are told "months passed" and then suddenly he's whining because no one has given him a weapon to train with yet. I thought there was far too much telling instead of showing.
Usually I can manage numerous characters but sometimes they are called by their title, their family name, or given name and it took time to sort that out.
I like the premise and concept, but the execution fell flat.
I love political intrigue in fantasy novels, and this sounded like it would be along those lines. But there's something very off about it. I think it needs a better edit job. The political world isn't explained that well - yes, there was this traitorous event in the past which set the stage for most of the characters, but there are (I think) 2 factions of monks and you aren't really told much about them, there is a retired emperor hanging around with some of the monks, and then a chancellor who seems to rule while the new emperor does???
Long sections where the main characters just think about things. And then huge jumps in time with nothing to show for it - one character is training with one group of monks, and clearly is meant to be learning patience, but just when he seems to grow a bit, we are told "months passed" and then suddenly he's whining because no one has given him a weapon to train with yet. I thought there was far too much telling instead of showing.
Usually I can manage numerous characters but sometimes they are called by their title, their family name, or given name and it took time to sort that out.
I like the premise and concept, but the execution fell flat.
November 30, 2025
I think this one had a lot of potential, but sadly missed its mark. I was so confused by all of the characters most of the time. If it wasn't enough that this is written in a multiple POV, we were constantly introduced to endless side characters that weren't even relevant. For me, it got to the point that I didn't even know who I was reading about until I read a few paragraphs of the chapter. The book could use some information about the clans and who was a part of which one to allow us to get situated from time to time. I really enjoyed the main plot and could (with some difficulty) follow the overall story, but the writing left so much to be desired. The prose was not consistent throughout the book, sometimes it was as if we were reading coherent phrases and others it was as if we were watching the characters have an unclear train of thought. I also found the book to be unnecessary long and that the author was trying to reach a lot of places at the same time, ending up leading nowhere. There was a lot of unnecessary description of violence, and instead of delivering us an epic battle, all I could think when I was reading about it was ending the book. Also very confused by the ending, and not in a way that has me wanting to read the next one if it comes out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I can't tell if this book isn't for me or is just bad. Maybe a bit of both.
The premise sounds really interesting, but it failed in execution. I think the issue is I'm under the guise of a different kind of story than the one it gave.
The pacing is rather slow. Every time I thought something was going to happen action-wise, I was met with more talking/dialogue. I just kept waiting for something to happen and every morsel was just so minute that it left me tilted. Halfway through the book and I still have no clue what the real plot is, or where we're even really headed with the story. Sen, exiled but of blood. Rui, an orphan girl? Everyone else? Big question marks. Like why are we here? At the same time, I think the author was caught up in the plot itself, because I had zero sense of space because the environment isn't detailed enough and I have no idea what the world is like. The worldbuilding feels nonexistent and like the author just pulled from this magical place in their head and failed to somehow explain it to the reader.
I also just didn't care for any of the characters because there's very little or no emotional connection made with them.
Thank you to netgalley and orbit for the eARC!
The premise sounds really interesting, but it failed in execution. I think the issue is I'm under the guise of a different kind of story than the one it gave.
The pacing is rather slow. Every time I thought something was going to happen action-wise, I was met with more talking/dialogue. I just kept waiting for something to happen and every morsel was just so minute that it left me tilted. Halfway through the book and I still have no clue what the real plot is, or where we're even really headed with the story. Sen, exiled but of blood. Rui, an orphan girl? Everyone else? Big question marks. Like why are we here? At the same time, I think the author was caught up in the plot itself, because I had zero sense of space because the environment isn't detailed enough and I have no idea what the world is like. The worldbuilding feels nonexistent and like the author just pulled from this magical place in their head and failed to somehow explain it to the reader.
I also just didn't care for any of the characters because there's very little or no emotional connection made with them.
Thank you to netgalley and orbit for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thought this was an excellent opening to a series that reminded me a lot of the famous movie director Kurosawa’s more politically based works like Ran and Throne of Blood. The setting in this book is clearly inspired by feudal Japan and it can be a little bewildering getting used to character names that might sound unfamiliar to western ears and the many factions involved in this world but luckily there is a handy character list and most of the small handful rotating points of view are limited to one clan. I found it pretty straightforward quickly.
I found the characters to be interesting but I wasn't as completely invested in them as I would be in a five star novel ranking for me but that is merely my personal preference. My favorite part of this book is the setting because I am starting to be a huge fan of fantasy set in non European based settings like Liu’s Grace of Kings and Lee’s Green Bone Saga. If you enjoyed the mentioned books you will probably enjoy this. The story is a familiar one of a prominent family betrayed and their power diminished while the survivors grow up and want to right past wrongs done to their family; so it is a story that can feel both familiar and very different. Looking forward to more books like this!
I found the characters to be interesting but I wasn't as completely invested in them as I would be in a five star novel ranking for me but that is merely my personal preference. My favorite part of this book is the setting because I am starting to be a huge fan of fantasy set in non European based settings like Liu’s Grace of Kings and Lee’s Green Bone Saga. If you enjoyed the mentioned books you will probably enjoy this. The story is a familiar one of a prominent family betrayed and their power diminished while the survivors grow up and want to right past wrongs done to their family; so it is a story that can feel both familiar and very different. Looking forward to more books like this!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: The Book of Fallen Leaves by A.S. Tamaki
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Epic Fantasy
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: March 17, 2026
464 pages
Shogun x GOT
Political Intrigue
Exiled Prince
Quest for Vengeance
Vengeful Spirits
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a meticulously crafted story, though readers should go in expecting an epic historical drama rather than a traditional high fantasy. The book leans heavily into political intrigue, the brutal realities of war, and a deep exploration of Samurai culture and honor. While the cultural world-building is stunning, the narrative's complexity requires a high level of focus.
The first half moves at a measured pace, and with a wide cast of characters introduced early on, I highly recommend utilizing the character guide at the front of the book! I struggled a bit with character distinction—at one point even confusing the connection between the leads, Sen and Rui—and would have loved more distinct internal voices to help navigate the frequent POV shifts. However, once the momentum builds in the second half, the payoff is rewarding.
If you enjoy dense political maneuvers and gritty historical settings, this is a journey worth taking.
Thank you so much Orbit Books and NetGalley for the digital review copy.
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Epic Fantasy
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: March 17, 2026
464 pages
Shogun x GOT
Political Intrigue
Exiled Prince
Quest for Vengeance
Vengeful Spirits
The Book of Fallen Leaves is a meticulously crafted story, though readers should go in expecting an epic historical drama rather than a traditional high fantasy. The book leans heavily into political intrigue, the brutal realities of war, and a deep exploration of Samurai culture and honor. While the cultural world-building is stunning, the narrative's complexity requires a high level of focus.
The first half moves at a measured pace, and with a wide cast of characters introduced early on, I highly recommend utilizing the character guide at the front of the book! I struggled a bit with character distinction—at one point even confusing the connection between the leads, Sen and Rui—and would have loved more distinct internal voices to help navigate the frequent POV shifts. However, once the momentum builds in the second half, the payoff is rewarding.
If you enjoy dense political maneuvers and gritty historical settings, this is a journey worth taking.
Thank you so much Orbit Books and NetGalley for the digital review copy.
December 10, 2025
This debut has me instantly excited for the rest of the planned trilogy! I was hooked right away with the layered characters, sharp political tension, and raw battles. You’re dropped into a world of shifting loyalties and tangled families, where every choice and conversation hides something deeper. This isn’t a casual read - you have to pay attention - but the payoff is absolutely worth it.
The book thrives on contradictions: warriors vs scholars, gods vs demons, the violent vs tranquil soul. There’s never a “right” decision for the characters, and watching how the leaves fall is the story itself. When the violence hits, it hits hard - one of the best battle scenes I’ve ever read, brutal and impactful. Tamaki even shifts the narrative style in moments of tension to be sharper and more fragmented, heightening the emotion. I tore through the final stretch in one sitting. This is not one to miss and I hope it finds its audience!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher - Orbit, and the author - A. S. Tamaki for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book thrives on contradictions: warriors vs scholars, gods vs demons, the violent vs tranquil soul. There’s never a “right” decision for the characters, and watching how the leaves fall is the story itself. When the violence hits, it hits hard - one of the best battle scenes I’ve ever read, brutal and impactful. Tamaki even shifts the narrative style in moments of tension to be sharper and more fragmented, heightening the emotion. I tore through the final stretch in one sitting. This is not one to miss and I hope it finds its audience!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher - Orbit, and the author - A. S. Tamaki for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Book of Fallen Leaves offers a refreshing twist on epic fantasy, blending political intrigue and samurai‑inspired conflict in a richly imagined world. The story of Sen, an exiled prince trying to reclaim his honor, and Rui, the peasant girl whose fate becomes intertwined with his, is compelling and grounded in emotional stakes that kept me turning pages. The novel’s battle scenes are vivid and intense, and its exploration of vengeance, duty, and sacrifice gives depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward revenge tale.
That said, the pacing isn’t perfect. The large cast and frequent point‑of‑view shifts can make it difficult to keep track of who’s who, and the worldbuilding occasionally feels more hinted at than fully developed, which may leave some readers wanting more context. Still, the blend of political drama and character growth, along with the novel’s lyrical moments of reflection, make this a solid read for fans of layered fantasy even if it doesn’t completely hit every high note it aims for.
That said, the pacing isn’t perfect. The large cast and frequent point‑of‑view shifts can make it difficult to keep track of who’s who, and the worldbuilding occasionally feels more hinted at than fully developed, which may leave some readers wanting more context. Still, the blend of political drama and character growth, along with the novel’s lyrical moments of reflection, make this a solid read for fans of layered fantasy even if it doesn’t completely hit every high note it aims for.
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