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Initiate Brother #2
Gatherer of Clouds
As the plum blossom winds herald spring in the Empire of Wa, Brother Shuyun, spiritual advisor to Lord Shonto, military governor of the province of Seh, receives a shocking message from the barbarian lands. The massive army of the Golden Khan is poised at their border. Forced to retreat south, Lord Shonto is caught between the pursuing barbarian hordes and his own hostile emperors Imperial Army. Even as this trap closes on Shonto and his allies, Lady Nishima is involved in court intrigue and a dangerous romantic liaison while Brother Shuyun faces a crisis of his own, for in the same scroll that warned of the invasion was a sacred udumbara blossom, a sign his order has awaited for a thousand years, a sign that the Great Teacher has finally been reborn. And now it may fall to one young monk with extraordinary powers to save his empire.
608 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 1992
6 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Sean Russell
42 books143 followersAka Sean Thomas Russell
Sean Russel has co-written, with Ian Dennis, a mystery series called "Memoirs of a Bow Street Runner". The first volume of the series was published by Bantam under their joint pen name, T.F. Banks.
Sean Russell was born 1952 in Toronto. At the age of three his family moved to the outskirts of the city, where they lived in a cottage at the beach of Lake Ontario. At the age of ten he decided to become an author, and the fantasy genre caught him years later, while reading J. R. R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. After university, he moved to Vancouver, and two years later to Vancouver Island, where he still lives with his family. He published his first novel in 1991.His first historical naval novel Under Enemy Colours, published in 2007, introduced a new Royal Navy hero, Charles Hayden, and HMS Themis, a fictitious frigate.
Mr. Russell cites history as one of his passions, collects old yachting and sailing books, skis, sails and travels. Past interests include caving, rock climbing, hiking, and racing sailboats.
Sean Russel has co-written, with Ian Dennis, a mystery series called "Memoirs of a Bow Street Runner". The first volume of the series was published by Bantam under their joint pen name, T.F. Banks.
Sean Russell was born 1952 in Toronto. At the age of three his family moved to the outskirts of the city, where they lived in a cottage at the beach of Lake Ontario. At the age of ten he decided to become an author, and the fantasy genre caught him years later, while reading J. R. R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. After university, he moved to Vancouver, and two years later to Vancouver Island, where he still lives with his family. He published his first novel in 1991.His first historical naval novel Under Enemy Colours, published in 2007, introduced a new Royal Navy hero, Charles Hayden, and HMS Themis, a fictitious frigate.
Mr. Russell cites history as one of his passions, collects old yachting and sailing books, skis, sails and travels. Past interests include caving, rock climbing, hiking, and racing sailboats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 22, 2017
It is a good read. Book to be recommended ...
early part was not as exciting as even book-I but later part sometimes crosses to novel -" Shōgun".
ohh, I am happy that found and read the book.
this book has so many deep characters gives you joy even long time after.
“I believe, as you have said, that Jaku Tadamoto was an honorable man torn between honor and loyalty and love. In a lifetime of service to the Shonto I have never once felt so torn.”
"we will never know if you fell into their hands without intending to or whether you chose to take your terrible weapon out among our enemies so that others might live. When I think of your fate, Shimeko-sum, I am gripped by its horror. Among all the brave, all the heroes of this pointless war, you alone went into battle without armor, without protection. Only you risked the destruction of your spirit. May Botahara rest you and protect your soul."
"Art, true art is a force for compassion and tranquillity."
Let us have an Empire ruled by compassion rather than greed and warfare. Let us have art in the fabric of our lives.
"It is the terrible thing about war; it sends the most innocent into the field and strips their souls bare of this innocence."
“You do not understand loyalty, Katta-sum. You think it is something one owes to another, but it is not so. Loyalty to principles is the essence of all honor.”
early part was not as exciting as even book-I but later part sometimes crosses to novel -" Shōgun".
ohh, I am happy that found and read the book.
this book has so many deep characters gives you joy even long time after.
“I believe, as you have said, that Jaku Tadamoto was an honorable man torn between honor and loyalty and love. In a lifetime of service to the Shonto I have never once felt so torn.”
"we will never know if you fell into their hands without intending to or whether you chose to take your terrible weapon out among our enemies so that others might live. When I think of your fate, Shimeko-sum, I am gripped by its horror. Among all the brave, all the heroes of this pointless war, you alone went into battle without armor, without protection. Only you risked the destruction of your spirit. May Botahara rest you and protect your soul."
"Art, true art is a force for compassion and tranquillity."
Let us have an Empire ruled by compassion rather than greed and warfare. Let us have art in the fabric of our lives.
"It is the terrible thing about war; it sends the most innocent into the field and strips their souls bare of this innocence."
“You do not understand loyalty, Katta-sum. You think it is something one owes to another, but it is not so. Loyalty to principles is the essence of all honor.”
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November 2, 2024Politics and philosophy discussed a lot. For that matter, lots of discussion all together as much happens off-screen. Manners and etiquette strongly adhered to which gives a feel of authenticity, though I couldn't say. Honor and tradition. Cha and plum blossoms. Battles and poetry; I can't remember if those occurred at the same time, but it was a close thing. I'll leave you with this:
By the time dusk arrived, Nishima was pleased with the poem she had composed. But after making many drafts she chose to send one that showed less skill than the final version. She did not want to intimidate him entirely. And then she laughed at her own vanity. A few moments later, however, she convinced herself that she was simply being considerate of Komawara's present state. In the future, when the lord had begun to heal, this would not be required of her.
All the best, Komawara, all the best.
By the time dusk arrived, Nishima was pleased with the poem she had composed. But after making many drafts she chose to send one that showed less skill than the final version. She did not want to intimidate him entirely. And then she laughed at her own vanity. A few moments later, however, she convinced herself that she was simply being considerate of Komawara's present state. In the future, when the lord had begun to heal, this would not be required of her.
All the best, Komawara, all the best.
February 23, 2017
Gatherer of clouds is the sequel to The Initiate Brother a court-intrigue Fantasy set in an unspecified ancient Asian setting. A story of mystic monks, ambitions failed and realised, military strategy and political manouvering, Russell presents a fully realised world and a large cast of characters.
I enjoyed The Initiate Brother quite a bit, but it somehow took me 6 months to get around to Gatherer of Clouds . Given the complex plot machinations and the number of characters involved I expected to be a little lost upon starting the sequel but I quickly settled back into Russell's world.
I think the best attribute of these books is the world itself. It is never narrowed down to ancient China or Japan, it takes place in it's own unique setting. The interactions between the empire and its provinces and the various religious sects make for a non-typical setting and cast of characters for this game of thrones.
Overall I enjoyed this series and would recommend it while noting that the 2nd volume wasn't quite as riveting as the first. There is a certain formula that becomes more apparent in "Gatherer of Clouds" as we see the themes of loyalty no matter the cost, duty to family and faith, maintenance of propriety repeated again and again.
The pacing of The Initiate Brother was well plotted, with the first book ending in a giant crescendo. Gatherer of Clouds starts much more deliberately and seemingly started with a "reset" to the pace. I found the ending to be effective and satisfying but some of the start and middle was a little tedious before the pace picked up considerably.
The only major problem I had with the plot was that the ladies of the story are all propriety and exquisite manners, it would cast shame upon the house to show even a glimpse of the female form under their many layered kimonos. However when the plot required we basically had the equivalent of them doing the bump and grind on the dance floor and a "come hither" stare to the lucky men in question.
I went into narrator Elijah Alxander's performance at length in my review of The Initiate Brother so I will just reiterate: this was a difficult assignment and I enjoyed his voice acting 99% of the time.
I enjoyed The Initiate Brother quite a bit, but it somehow took me 6 months to get around to Gatherer of Clouds . Given the complex plot machinations and the number of characters involved I expected to be a little lost upon starting the sequel but I quickly settled back into Russell's world.
I think the best attribute of these books is the world itself. It is never narrowed down to ancient China or Japan, it takes place in it's own unique setting. The interactions between the empire and its provinces and the various religious sects make for a non-typical setting and cast of characters for this game of thrones.
Overall I enjoyed this series and would recommend it while noting that the 2nd volume wasn't quite as riveting as the first. There is a certain formula that becomes more apparent in "Gatherer of Clouds" as we see the themes of loyalty no matter the cost, duty to family and faith, maintenance of propriety repeated again and again.
The pacing of The Initiate Brother was well plotted, with the first book ending in a giant crescendo. Gatherer of Clouds starts much more deliberately and seemingly started with a "reset" to the pace. I found the ending to be effective and satisfying but some of the start and middle was a little tedious before the pace picked up considerably.
The only major problem I had with the plot was that the ladies of the story are all propriety and exquisite manners, it would cast shame upon the house to show even a glimpse of the female form under their many layered kimonos. However when the plot required we basically had the equivalent of them doing the bump and grind on the dance floor and a "come hither" stare to the lucky men in question.
I went into narrator Elijah Alxander's performance at length in my review of The Initiate Brother so I will just reiterate: this was a difficult assignment and I enjoyed his voice acting 99% of the time.
August 4, 2011
ORIGINALLY POSTED AT Fantasy Literature.
Gatherer of Clouds is the sequel to Sean Russell’s The Initiate Brother, a story which is not so much about the Initiate Brother Shuyun, spiritual advisor to Lord Shonto, as it is about the entire Shonto household — a household that is seen as a threat by an insecure emperor. And with good reason, for Lord Shonto is an honorable, intelligent, and insightful man who has raised his children to be his equals and who has surrounded himself with a competent and loyal staff and several clever allies.
As the story opens, Shonto, governor of the northern province of She, is preparing for a massive barbarian invasion that the emperor refuses to believe in (since he only paid for a small invasion in order to get rid of Shonto). Should Shonto stay in the north, as ordered, and be wiped out by the barbarian horde? Or should he let his province fall and retreat toward the capital to raise an army that may have a chance to defeat the invaders? This latter option seems the only way to save the empire of Wa, but the emperor will certainly declare treason if Shonto starts recruiting soldiers. There are hard choices and harder sacrifices to make, not just for Shonto, but for everyone involved.
While reading Gatherer of Clouds, I was completely immersed in the lives of Lord Shonto, Brother Shuyun, Lady Nishima, Lord Komawara, and the Jaku brothers, as well as the beauty and elegance of their lifestyles. Each of Sean Russell’s diverse set of characters is vivid, unique, and realistic, and they all learn much about themselves and each other as the stress ramps up. Because we spend so much time with them, and because they feel so real, their inner struggles become our inner struggles. Would we be willing to sacrifice love for duty? When is it right to disobey (or murder!) a sovereign ruler? Are there times when it is better to kill than to heal? What is true religion and how do we recognize when it has become corrupt? When does loyalty become dishonorable? When principles conflict, how do we know which principle is highest? I found myself considering each of these questions as I read Gatherer of Clouds.
In addition to making us think about some tough ideas, Russell also shows us how legends are made. Every one of his characters has the potential to become either a hero or a villain, and Russell shows us that it’s our daily choices that add up to determine our destiny and how we’ll be perceived by history.
If you enjoy character-centered epic fantasy with lots of political intrigue, Sean Russell’s The Initiate Brother is a great choice. I listened to Blackstone Audio’s version and can recommend this format. This was my first experience with Sean Russell’s writing, but I’ll definitely be exploring more of his work in the future.
Gatherer of Clouds is the sequel to Sean Russell’s The Initiate Brother, a story which is not so much about the Initiate Brother Shuyun, spiritual advisor to Lord Shonto, as it is about the entire Shonto household — a household that is seen as a threat by an insecure emperor. And with good reason, for Lord Shonto is an honorable, intelligent, and insightful man who has raised his children to be his equals and who has surrounded himself with a competent and loyal staff and several clever allies.
As the story opens, Shonto, governor of the northern province of She, is preparing for a massive barbarian invasion that the emperor refuses to believe in (since he only paid for a small invasion in order to get rid of Shonto). Should Shonto stay in the north, as ordered, and be wiped out by the barbarian horde? Or should he let his province fall and retreat toward the capital to raise an army that may have a chance to defeat the invaders? This latter option seems the only way to save the empire of Wa, but the emperor will certainly declare treason if Shonto starts recruiting soldiers. There are hard choices and harder sacrifices to make, not just for Shonto, but for everyone involved.
While reading Gatherer of Clouds, I was completely immersed in the lives of Lord Shonto, Brother Shuyun, Lady Nishima, Lord Komawara, and the Jaku brothers, as well as the beauty and elegance of their lifestyles. Each of Sean Russell’s diverse set of characters is vivid, unique, and realistic, and they all learn much about themselves and each other as the stress ramps up. Because we spend so much time with them, and because they feel so real, their inner struggles become our inner struggles. Would we be willing to sacrifice love for duty? When is it right to disobey (or murder!) a sovereign ruler? Are there times when it is better to kill than to heal? What is true religion and how do we recognize when it has become corrupt? When does loyalty become dishonorable? When principles conflict, how do we know which principle is highest? I found myself considering each of these questions as I read Gatherer of Clouds.
In addition to making us think about some tough ideas, Russell also shows us how legends are made. Every one of his characters has the potential to become either a hero or a villain, and Russell shows us that it’s our daily choices that add up to determine our destiny and how we’ll be perceived by history.
If you enjoy character-centered epic fantasy with lots of political intrigue, Sean Russell’s The Initiate Brother is a great choice. I listened to Blackstone Audio’s version and can recommend this format. This was my first experience with Sean Russell’s writing, but I’ll definitely be exploring more of his work in the future.
August 7, 2020
Mini-Review:
Review covers both books in the Initiate Brother Duology
3.5 Stars for Narration by Elijah Alexander
4 Stars for Clever Prose (Fits within Asian Culture)
4 Stars for Brother Shuyun
3.5 Stars for Plot & Other Characters
The duology is a quiet story. There's political entanglements, fighting, betrayals, romance and spirituality but they are all posed in a composed manner with multiple layers.
I loved the elegant and visceral turns of phrases that gave several meaning and yet posed a singular visual. The story is like poetry in some ways and a historical recording in others. There's a lot of details provided to give you an idea of the world setting, the characters involved and the mental & emotional state of each.
Alexander has a great narration voice but the "character accents" detracted from the story. I laughed at one of them in this book because it was basically the normal speaking voice of Yoda. While his character voices threw me off a bit, I enjoyed the cadence of his regular narration and how it fit the story well there.
I think it missed the mark a bit on one of the main points but it was close enough to work for me. Religion and the paths of enlightenment are not simple ideas. It was more well done than not.
I enjoyed the handful of fighting & sex scenes that were in the books. They had great atmosphere and a clear emotion or image. Good examples of how you don't have to have pages to describe a moment or event.
The books are a thoughtful journey with great characters. I'm glad I took a chance and read these books.
Review covers both books in the Initiate Brother Duology
3.5 Stars for Narration by Elijah Alexander
4 Stars for Clever Prose (Fits within Asian Culture)
4 Stars for Brother Shuyun
3.5 Stars for Plot & Other Characters
The duology is a quiet story. There's political entanglements, fighting, betrayals, romance and spirituality but they are all posed in a composed manner with multiple layers.
I loved the elegant and visceral turns of phrases that gave several meaning and yet posed a singular visual. The story is like poetry in some ways and a historical recording in others. There's a lot of details provided to give you an idea of the world setting, the characters involved and the mental & emotional state of each.
Alexander has a great narration voice but the "character accents" detracted from the story. I laughed at one of them in this book because it was basically the normal speaking voice of Yoda. While his character voices threw me off a bit, I enjoyed the cadence of his regular narration and how it fit the story well there.
I think it missed the mark a bit on one of the main points but it was close enough to work for me. Religion and the paths of enlightenment are not simple ideas. It was more well done than not.
I enjoyed the handful of fighting & sex scenes that were in the books. They had great atmosphere and a clear emotion or image. Good examples of how you don't have to have pages to describe a moment or event.
The books are a thoughtful journey with great characters. I'm glad I took a chance and read these books.
October 24, 2020
2018 reread: A lengthy read but very enjoyable.
February 8, 2015
reviews.metaphorosis.com
3.5 stars
Sent away from the capital in a nominal propmtion, Shonto Motoru finds the threat from barbarian tribes to be a very real danger to the Empire of Wa. The barbarians have support from unexpected places, and Shonto must decide how to respond, when any course looks like treachery to the suspicious Emperor. Shonto's Spiritual Advisor, the talented monk Shuyun, faces his own dilemmas as he questions aspects of his faith just as others look to him for guidance.
The prequel to this book, The Initiate Brother, was a vast, highly political book that succeeded through expert worldbuilding and a narrow focus on people. This book takes the relationships further, but with less success.
Russell has a lot to work with here - all those interesting characters he established in the first book, growing gradually more closely knit - and he does a lot with it. The individuals and their relationships remain a big draw, and Russell does an excellent job of showing larger events without ever losing his focus on the people affected by them. But the political side of the story simply went on too long for my taste. There's movement is more of troops than of spirits, and the logistical machinations take their toll. While Russell's choices are credible, after a while they cease to be interesting. This may be because he shifts his focus away from some of the action heroes of the first book, and more toward other, more social actors. Shuyun plays in both realms.
Disappointingly, Russell wraps things up fairly quickly (for a book this size), as if he recognized that he'd gone on too long. I'd have much preferred much less lead up, and a much longer winding down. That said, the books' central mystery is credibly explained, and Russell credits his readers with reasonable intelligence; there's a lot implied but unspoken, in line with the understated nature of the prose.
All in all, a good book and a good series. It's probably best read and purchased as a single volume. If you've read Russell's other (very good) books, you'll like this earlier work. If you haven't this is a good place to start. Recommended for anyone who enjoys subtlety in their fantasy.
October 8, 2025
While the narration for the audiobooks is good, I feel like ultimately this series is far too dense for me to have gotten the full enjoyment out of it.
It does court politics far above the level that modern fantasy is used to, and which is typically one of my very favorite things. Same with the characterization and relationships, and really excellent prose. But ultimately I was left feeling glad I read it but unfulfilled. I do appreciate the couple twists I didn't expect, one close to the end and one at the very end.
It does court politics far above the level that modern fantasy is used to, and which is typically one of my very favorite things. Same with the characterization and relationships, and really excellent prose. But ultimately I was left feeling glad I read it but unfulfilled. I do appreciate the couple twists I didn't expect, one close to the end and one at the very end.
June 7, 2024
I have many (mostly negative) thoughts but I'm not done writing them yet so I'll leave a thorough review later.
November 11, 2013
This story is profound. And the writing is masterfully done. So why 3 stars? Because while the themes were moving and the paragraphs beautiful, this book spends WAY too much time on non-essential elements, such as side characters (we really didn't need scene after scene with the consort of the Emperor) and poetry (the few tasteful poems of the first book became frequent and long).
The ending leaves me not sure if I'm happy or not. That's not bad in and of itself--it's a complex tale. But it's wasn't strong enough to make the slow journey there worth it for me.
I'm sorry to review it like this. I came to love the central characters deeply. But I can't recommend this book without noting it's flaws. If you don't mind a leisurely read, this book is great. But it won't grip your attention. You'll have to earn this ending.
The ending leaves me not sure if I'm happy or not. That's not bad in and of itself--it's a complex tale. But it's wasn't strong enough to make the slow journey there worth it for me.
I'm sorry to review it like this. I came to love the central characters deeply. But I can't recommend this book without noting it's flaws. If you don't mind a leisurely read, this book is great. But it won't grip your attention. You'll have to earn this ending.
June 7, 2008
In many ways, part two of this book is far superior to the first, but I have tried to review them as one story. Because, unlike a serial series, a sequential series hangs on each other. You cannot have the Return of the King without the Fellowship of the Rings.
Here we find resolution, and the answers to all the question Russell has raised, and the happy ending we all secretly have been waiting for.
Here we find resolution, and the answers to all the question Russell has raised, and the happy ending we all secretly have been waiting for.
January 14, 2018
No book has ever struck me emotionally like this. It's a great book. It's a magnificent work of art. But the deaths cut deep. One death very specifically. I did not expect the great man, the father, the son, the teacher, to sacrifice even his life.
I have no closure and that's what pains the most. I have no closure. It was unexpected and happened off screen. Why?
I recommend this book to all those who delight in fantasy.
I have no closure and that's what pains the most. I have no closure. It was unexpected and happened off screen. Why?
I recommend this book to all those who delight in fantasy.
March 4, 2019
It was good writing, but the characters were not written. They had so much potential, but it was never realized. We kept hearing what a great general Shonto was but we barely see him in action. He suffered the most anticlimactic death off the stage. I think this book would have been much better if we were shown greatness of the characters rather than told of the aforementioned greatness over and over and over again.
September 28, 2022
It’s a feat to take a one page storyline and explode it into so much dreck. Chapter 450- two people meet for tea and make small talk. Repeat of info the reader learned earlier. Plum wind reference. Ambiguous koan-esque non-wisdom. Clunky poem. Maybe a boob grab. Repeat ad nauseam.
August 24, 2017
The story is complete now in part two of the duology: The Cloud Gatherer. I read both books back to back and would recommend them to readers who don't mind a slightly slow pace, some philosophy, and a little poetry.
I read and listened. Narration is fine, but not brilliant.
A medieval Asian tale (Japanese-Chinese mix) with the slightest fantastical bent, set in a mythical land (see maps) with lords and ladies, peasants and emperors, warriors and monks, politics, lies, and conspiracies, murder, greed, and ambition.
The darkness is offset by hot cha with several likable and honorable characters who feature across both books. Characterization and character development is a strength, esp for Jaku Tadamoto. Relationships among the allies are heartwarming, and the romance doesn't overwhelm. The plot is unpredictable and twisty, if slow at times. Most events and actions are seen thru the teachings of the Enlightened One, Lord Botahara, The Perfect Master, and a religion similar to Buddhism (but the book is not preachy).
The duology rings almost of speculative history with names and places changed, but not quite.
Told in third-person -- the only way to travel, preferably by sail, as one poem portrays:
“Grand Canal” by Lady Nishima Fanisan Shonto
Our boat of gumwood and dark locust
Her paint scaling like serpent’s skin,
Sets forth into the throng of craft
On the Grand Canal.
Uncounted travelers,
Uncounted desires
Borne over blue water.
Only the funeral barge
Covered in white petals
Appears to know its destination.
-----
Main Characters:
(Last names go before first names in this culture, and the honorific suffix "sum" may be attached to show friendship or endearment, sometimes replacing the final syllable, so Nishima becomes Nishi-sum)
House Shonto:
Lord Shonto Motoru /Motoro-sum/ Mito-sum
Shonto's adult son Shonto Shokan
Shinto's adult step-daughter Lady Nishima (her friends Lady Kitsura and artist Lady Okara)
Shonto's steward Kamu (one-armed, a famous swordsman in earlier days, meticulous with details)
Shonto's merchant-vassal Tanaka
Shonto's security: Rohku Saicha, Captain of the Guard, 47 years old. (His son Corporal Rohku is a member of Lord Shonto's personal guard.)
Shonto's ally General Hojo Masakado
House Yamaku (displaced the Hanama Dynasty):
Emperor Akantsu II, Son of Heaven
Emperor's consort Sonsa (dancer) Osha-sum
Emperor's men from House Jaku:
General Jaku Katta, advisor to Emperor and Captain of the Imperial Guard, aka "The Black Tiger"
"The youngest of the three Jaku brothers, Yasata had neither the martial skill of Katta nor the intellectual brilliance of Tadamoto."
Jinjoh Monastery / Botahist Brothers:
Supreme Master Brother Nodaku (island monastery)
Brother Shuyun, young neophyte/ initiate
Brother Sotura, Chi Quan instructor
Brother Hutto, Primate of the Floating City of Yankura
Brother Satake, former spiritual advisor to Shonto
etc.
Priory Sisters:
Prioress, Sister Saeja (old nun, head of the Order)
Sister Sutso, Saeja's secretary
Senior Sister Morima
Junior Acolyte Tesseko
Senior Sister Gatsa
Lord Komawara from Seh province:
He bowed. “I am Komawara Samyamu.” Ah, yes, Lord Shonto thought, the same slim build and the long thin nose. If this youth is anything like his father, his apparent lack of muscle is deceptive. The old Komawara had been a strong swordsman and lightning fast.
I read and listened. Narration is fine, but not brilliant.
A medieval Asian tale (Japanese-Chinese mix) with the slightest fantastical bent, set in a mythical land (see maps) with lords and ladies, peasants and emperors, warriors and monks, politics, lies, and conspiracies, murder, greed, and ambition.
The darkness is offset by hot cha with several likable and honorable characters who feature across both books. Characterization and character development is a strength, esp for Jaku Tadamoto. Relationships among the allies are heartwarming, and the romance doesn't overwhelm. The plot is unpredictable and twisty, if slow at times. Most events and actions are seen thru the teachings of the Enlightened One, Lord Botahara, The Perfect Master, and a religion similar to Buddhism (but the book is not preachy).
The duology rings almost of speculative history with names and places changed, but not quite.
Told in third-person -- the only way to travel, preferably by sail, as one poem portrays:
“Grand Canal” by Lady Nishima Fanisan Shonto
Our boat of gumwood and dark locust
Her paint scaling like serpent’s skin,
Sets forth into the throng of craft
On the Grand Canal.
Uncounted travelers,
Uncounted desires
Borne over blue water.
Only the funeral barge
Covered in white petals
Appears to know its destination.
-----
Main Characters:
(Last names go before first names in this culture, and the honorific suffix "sum" may be attached to show friendship or endearment, sometimes replacing the final syllable, so Nishima becomes Nishi-sum)
House Shonto:
Lord Shonto Motoru /Motoro-sum/ Mito-sum
Shonto's adult son Shonto Shokan
Shinto's adult step-daughter Lady Nishima (her friends Lady Kitsura and artist Lady Okara)
Shonto's steward Kamu (one-armed, a famous swordsman in earlier days, meticulous with details)
Shonto's merchant-vassal Tanaka
Shonto's security: Rohku Saicha, Captain of the Guard, 47 years old. (His son Corporal Rohku is a member of Lord Shonto's personal guard.)
Shonto's ally General Hojo Masakado
House Yamaku (displaced the Hanama Dynasty):
Emperor Akantsu II, Son of Heaven
Emperor's consort Sonsa (dancer) Osha-sum
Emperor's men from House Jaku:
General Jaku Katta, advisor to Emperor and Captain of the Imperial Guard, aka "The Black Tiger"
"The youngest of the three Jaku brothers, Yasata had neither the martial skill of Katta nor the intellectual brilliance of Tadamoto."
Jinjoh Monastery / Botahist Brothers:
Supreme Master Brother Nodaku (island monastery)
Brother Shuyun, young neophyte/ initiate
Brother Sotura, Chi Quan instructor
Brother Hutto, Primate of the Floating City of Yankura
Brother Satake, former spiritual advisor to Shonto
etc.
Priory Sisters:
Prioress, Sister Saeja (old nun, head of the Order)
Sister Sutso, Saeja's secretary
Senior Sister Morima
Junior Acolyte Tesseko
Senior Sister Gatsa
Lord Komawara from Seh province:
He bowed. “I am Komawara Samyamu.” Ah, yes, Lord Shonto thought, the same slim build and the long thin nose. If this youth is anything like his father, his apparent lack of muscle is deceptive. The old Komawara had been a strong swordsman and lightning fast.
July 2, 2023
Continuing the story begun in The Initiate Brother, this book maintains a long, slow burn with the emphases on character and motivations and it builds to a very satisfying fruition. Readers in search of plentiful action and Star Wars-like intrigue will be disappointed, however; focus is constrained mostly to small stages within the greater conflict to tell the story. The complex denouement went in unexpected directions as well, making the steps that follow the military climax as significant and dicey as the war itself. How does one win the peace within and without an Empire, and how salvage a religion that has spent a millennium undermining its own principles?
The character developments of the many central cast are a fractal dance, as they affect one another's orbits and deflect into new patterns. The female characters are constrained to behave in ways available to them in their culture but still play dynamic roles with their own agendas: nice. Best of all for me was that individual choice, decisions made and followed, supersedes notions of fate and destiny throughout. It was easy to become invested in several of the characters (i.e., Komawara, for the win!) and therefore engaged through all the little stops and starts of the overall flow.
Taken together as a whole, this duology is a winner.
The character developments of the many central cast are a fractal dance, as they affect one another's orbits and deflect into new patterns. The female characters are constrained to behave in ways available to them in their culture but still play dynamic roles with their own agendas: nice. Best of all for me was that individual choice, decisions made and followed, supersedes notions of fate and destiny throughout. It was easy to become invested in several of the characters (i.e., Komawara, for the win!) and therefore engaged through all the little stops and starts of the overall flow.
Taken together as a whole, this duology is a winner.
June 3, 2022
The first 500 pages is all pre-fight hype, all preparation for a massive showdown between the characters you have come to love and an enormous enemy. For 500 pages I'm wondering how these undermatched but ingenious protagonists will deal with this impossible situation. So what does the author do in the last 100 pages? Whoosh! The enemy army is quickly whipped off the table and the big fight never happens. Because of a plague. (Nobody liked that ending in War of the Worlds so why repeat the mistake here?)
Same thing with Shuyun. I spent 1000 pages (including Book 1) waiting for him to do something awesome with his chi abilities, and then suddenly he moves into action for half a page, a couple midlevel bosses hit the ground, and it's all over. "Wait, that was it??"
The stuff with Shuyun and Nishima (my favorite character) was also annoying. Sure, their relationship was always awkward, but I figured (hoped) that the author would somehow pull things together in a satisfying way to make all their chapters coalesce retrospectively. Instead, Shuyun hits the road and the book is over. Except for an eye-rolling end credits scene where the author, as a sort of appeasement, suddenly gives Nishima some other guy.
I agree with another reviewer who felt that this book is probably an example of discovery writing gone wrong. An outline might have helped.
I was really enjoying the first 1000 pages of this 1100-page duology so, despite my annoyances with the ending, I give it 3.5 stars.
Same thing with Shuyun. I spent 1000 pages (including Book 1) waiting for him to do something awesome with his chi abilities, and then suddenly he moves into action for half a page, a couple midlevel bosses hit the ground, and it's all over. "Wait, that was it??"
The stuff with Shuyun and Nishima (my favorite character) was also annoying. Sure, their relationship was always awkward, but I figured (hoped) that the author would somehow pull things together in a satisfying way to make all their chapters coalesce retrospectively. Instead, Shuyun hits the road and the book is over. Except for an eye-rolling end credits scene where the author, as a sort of appeasement, suddenly gives Nishima some other guy.
I agree with another reviewer who felt that this book is probably an example of discovery writing gone wrong. An outline might have helped.
I was really enjoying the first 1000 pages of this 1100-page duology so, despite my annoyances with the ending, I give it 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
I ran out of patience and started skimming halfway through. Once again nothing much seems to happen – we start off the book with things seeming to go a certain way, and things just go that way, with far too many pages in between. The characterization of the female characters is contradictory, and it feels like their main plot purpose is to be an object of desire. The romance felt extraneous, and there were no great revelations about Brother Shuyun's purpose or identity despite all the build-up that makes it seem like he is the lynchpin to some great universal truth. Honestly the most emotionally compelling part of this whole thing might have been Jaku Tadomoto and Osha's plot line.
August 13, 2019
This is the finally to this duology and while it had a lot of change and upheval especially in regards to the characters. It was very middle of the road because of the very opened ending. Almost every string of this story is left untied and it wasn't enough conclusion and info for an ending for me.
April 29, 2024
This isn’t a fast paced thriller. Not a lot of action either. But there is a lot of intrigue. The characters are interesting and the setting is quite unique.
Some parts of this duology drag a bit. But mostly it’s a pleasant read with enough to enjoy. Especially as there are quite a few unforeseen plot twists.
Some parts of this duology drag a bit. But mostly it’s a pleasant read with enough to enjoy. Especially as there are quite a few unforeseen plot twists.
May 14, 2018
The sequel to The Intiate Brother. I enjoyed this conclusion to the story of Shuyun and the Shonto and their allies and enemies. I found it got a little muddled in the middle but ended well. I have only read a few fantasies with Asian settings and I think this is my favorite.
May 14, 2025
I felt as if the author has given all the characters a free reign. They could do whatever they wanted. This gave the story an unexpected character. All the while it became difficult to guess what would happen. I liked that it was not rushed, not edited so much even though it felt quite long.
May 31, 2017
I don't know how i am both happy and sad by the ending.
March 31, 2021
Dense and deft.
June 30, 2021
[audiobook review]. an immersive story, and felt like a japanese samurai/monk storyline (which i enjoy). Characterization had some depth, not a lot, but enough to feel empathy. Worth a good read!
December 31, 2022
I pick this up about once a year - I find the characters inspiring and the philosophy healing.
did-not-finish-or-start
June 19, 2023DNS 6/19/23
July 23, 2023
Well written but a slow pace for me
June 16, 2025
The conclusion to Russell's duology is faster-paced than the first volume, The Initiate Brother, but does take a bit of time to get going. The barbarian invasion of Wa, which Shonto and his household realize is fast approaching, finally starts--but not before the majority of the lords of Seh mock Komawara for his insistence that the Great Khan has amassed an army of 100,000 warriors. Ultimately, Shonto and his allies--some newly awakened to the danger--retreat down the canal, back toward the Imperial Capital, where Emperor Akantsu II waits, convinced that Shonto is lying about--or at least grossly exaggerating--the barbarian threat in order to lead a rebellion against him.
Russell continues to pursue two major plots: (1) the barbarian invasion, Shonto's defense of Wa, and the Emperor's plan to destroy Shonto and (2) Brother Shuyun's spiritual journey, as he comes to full understanding of the corruption of his Order and the presence of the Teacher--someone who has achieved enlightenment and is prophesied to be a second Botahara (possibly his reincarnation). The two major developments--the war and the coming of the Teacher--are independent of each other; either could happen without the other, and neither is dependent on the existence of the other. But Shuyun is the bridge between them. It is his experience as Lord Shonto's Spiritual Advisor that brings him into contact with two teachers who prepare him for the Teacher--Shonto and his adopted daughter, Nishima. Shuyun's journey leads him to demonstrate even greater compassion than he shows in the first novel (though he's a good guy there, too), and it provides the means to resolve the invasion plotline.
For those who crave strategy and action, there is far more of it in this novel. For a time, Shonto pursues a strategy designed to delay the Khan's army and deprive it of food. But there are some battles, starting with the doomed defense of Rhojo-Ma, Seh's capital, and then a daring raid led by Komawara that is part of a larger strategic maneuver. But it all leads to the final confrontations between Akantsu and Shonto, and the barbarians and armies of Wa.
Russell has a lot of strengths. Most notably, his world-building is superb--detailed, rich with possibility, and internally consistent. His characters are, for the most part, well-drawn, with complex motives. Each has an interesting arc. There are a handful (Nishima, in particular) for whom some developments are relatively easy to predict, but others, such as Komawara and Sister Tesseko/Shimeko, are surprising. For Komowara, he achieves feats and recognition beyond that which he ever expected, but the cost is bitter. It is Sister Tesseko/Shimeko's decisions and fate that resonate with me. It is only late in the novel that we understand what she did, and, although it's never spelled out, it's clear that her decision came at great personal cost. It is also strongly implied that she imperiled her soul. And, yet, she could be considered the true savior of Wa.
In some ways, the two chief antagonists--Shonto and Akantsu--are the least complex characters. Both are engaging--I was never bored when they were on the page--and they are not single-dimensional. But both are, in essentials, the same men at the end of the novel that they were at the beginning. Akantsu, in particular, becomes a bit of a caricature of himself. Although the reader knows Akantsu is wrong about the relative threats posed by Shonto and the Khan, there are in-text reasons that provide some justification for him to persist in his error. But he never grows beyond it. It's not so much that I wanted to see him transform in character--he is fundamentally selfish and destructive in that selfishness. But he's not stupid, yet he never seems to intellectually grasp his error.
Nonetheless, Gatherer of Clouds brings the stories to powerful and frequently moving conclusions. This was only Russell's second published novel (The Initiate Brother was first), but it is so detailed, complex, and accomplished in execution that it feels as if it is the work of a more experienced author.
Russell continues to pursue two major plots: (1) the barbarian invasion, Shonto's defense of Wa, and the Emperor's plan to destroy Shonto and (2) Brother Shuyun's spiritual journey, as he comes to full understanding of the corruption of his Order and the presence of the Teacher--someone who has achieved enlightenment and is prophesied to be a second Botahara (possibly his reincarnation). The two major developments--the war and the coming of the Teacher--are independent of each other; either could happen without the other, and neither is dependent on the existence of the other. But Shuyun is the bridge between them. It is his experience as Lord Shonto's Spiritual Advisor that brings him into contact with two teachers who prepare him for the Teacher--Shonto and his adopted daughter, Nishima. Shuyun's journey leads him to demonstrate even greater compassion than he shows in the first novel (though he's a good guy there, too), and it provides the means to resolve the invasion plotline.
For those who crave strategy and action, there is far more of it in this novel. For a time, Shonto pursues a strategy designed to delay the Khan's army and deprive it of food. But there are some battles, starting with the doomed defense of Rhojo-Ma, Seh's capital, and then a daring raid led by Komawara that is part of a larger strategic maneuver. But it all leads to the final confrontations between Akantsu and Shonto, and the barbarians and armies of Wa.
Russell has a lot of strengths. Most notably, his world-building is superb--detailed, rich with possibility, and internally consistent. His characters are, for the most part, well-drawn, with complex motives. Each has an interesting arc. There are a handful (Nishima, in particular) for whom some developments are relatively easy to predict, but others, such as Komawara and Sister Tesseko/Shimeko, are surprising. For Komowara, he achieves feats and recognition beyond that which he ever expected, but the cost is bitter. It is Sister Tesseko/Shimeko's decisions and fate that resonate with me. It is only late in the novel that we understand what she did, and, although it's never spelled out, it's clear that her decision came at great personal cost. It is also strongly implied that she imperiled her soul. And, yet, she could be considered the true savior of Wa.
In some ways, the two chief antagonists--Shonto and Akantsu--are the least complex characters. Both are engaging--I was never bored when they were on the page--and they are not single-dimensional. But both are, in essentials, the same men at the end of the novel that they were at the beginning. Akantsu, in particular, becomes a bit of a caricature of himself. Although the reader knows Akantsu is wrong about the relative threats posed by Shonto and the Khan, there are in-text reasons that provide some justification for him to persist in his error. But he never grows beyond it. It's not so much that I wanted to see him transform in character--he is fundamentally selfish and destructive in that selfishness. But he's not stupid, yet he never seems to intellectually grasp his error.
Nonetheless, Gatherer of Clouds brings the stories to powerful and frequently moving conclusions. This was only Russell's second published novel (The Initiate Brother was first), but it is so detailed, complex, and accomplished in execution that it feels as if it is the work of a more experienced author.
September 10, 2012
A flawed but beloved old favorite from college, one I worry will pass from the collective memory sooner than it ought. That said, I must confess that I'm giving it stars based, I suppose, on a separate scale from that I might apply to Beowulf, say, or Dubliners. Perhaps--and I am realizing this as I consider the question of how many stars to award here--I use a five-star scale not so much as an absolute range of value applicable across all books, but as a measure of the extent to which a book met the expectations with which I came to it. Making it all doubly subjective, but I think that really is a more honest assessment of how I've been thinking of it. Nice to realize that.
And in that light, having approached Initiate Brother as a fantasy novel (I regard it and its nominal sequel, Gatherer of Clouds, as one novel broken into parts for publisher's purposes), it acquitted itself very well indeed. Russell seems to be finding his way as he writes the chapters in order, so that the first is the wobbliest. The plot, baroque enough to require real care in following it, has some points that don't quite add up. But there is also a subtlety there that is probably the book's greatest strength: you really do need to pay attention to the action as the pieces move around the broad board of imperial intrigue, or you won't notice when this or that agent reports to his superior with small lies and omissions that are our only warning of that agent's secret agenda, which may matter down the road. After one misstep in that first chapter, Russell has the authorial assurance necessary to lie to the reader--rather than try and tiptoe around a narrative lie, and thereby betray his plans for what will follow.
It's a large ensemble cast, with significant characters still being introduced well over halfway through the action, and the main characters are pretty good. Shonto, almost as much the main character as titular Brother Shuyun, is an interesting compromise--he is presented as a master strategist, but never in the book will he execute any masterful strategies. Mostly he shows himself to be resolute, coolheaded, principled, blessed with superlative staff, and skilled at divining the truth among rumors. Which will do for a hero, surely. But in battle the credit always goes to his retainers, or to his good fortune in having Shuyun at his service. Small matter. The nature of his repute going into the story isn't as important as his lordly mien, and his position as lightning rod for the wrath of a vindictive emperor.
And so on. Our Lady Nishima is compelling, if something of a feminist anachronism (if it makes any sense to cry anachronism in a backdrop that's a curious blend of Japanese language, dress and culture on a Chinese geographic and political map). Lord Komawara is fine as a spirited young romantic lead. The emperor brings a lively menace to everything. The brothers Jaku, his servants, are vivid, perhaps at the cost of watching the author enjoy himself too much in describing them. The many supporting characters are deftly and carefully drawn.
I'm rereading this just lately, in an intermittent way. We'll see if it stands up. I am noticing right away, though, the the book slows for a few chapters after the second, and before Shuyun reappears I am impatient for his arrival. He is the life of the story, his predicament as he ventures from his cloister into a world that seems like more than illusion. Half Zen master and half Shaolin monk, he is the only one on the trail of the big wheel that's turning, virtually forgotten behind all the machinations of warfare. And his character, despite being wrapped in something of a martial arts caricature, is probably the most nuanced of the lot.
Immensely enjoyable, warts and all. I'll update if reading through it again should change my view of it.
And in that light, having approached Initiate Brother as a fantasy novel (I regard it and its nominal sequel, Gatherer of Clouds, as one novel broken into parts for publisher's purposes), it acquitted itself very well indeed. Russell seems to be finding his way as he writes the chapters in order, so that the first is the wobbliest. The plot, baroque enough to require real care in following it, has some points that don't quite add up. But there is also a subtlety there that is probably the book's greatest strength: you really do need to pay attention to the action as the pieces move around the broad board of imperial intrigue, or you won't notice when this or that agent reports to his superior with small lies and omissions that are our only warning of that agent's secret agenda, which may matter down the road. After one misstep in that first chapter, Russell has the authorial assurance necessary to lie to the reader--rather than try and tiptoe around a narrative lie, and thereby betray his plans for what will follow.
It's a large ensemble cast, with significant characters still being introduced well over halfway through the action, and the main characters are pretty good. Shonto, almost as much the main character as titular Brother Shuyun, is an interesting compromise--he is presented as a master strategist, but never in the book will he execute any masterful strategies. Mostly he shows himself to be resolute, coolheaded, principled, blessed with superlative staff, and skilled at divining the truth among rumors. Which will do for a hero, surely. But in battle the credit always goes to his retainers, or to his good fortune in having Shuyun at his service. Small matter. The nature of his repute going into the story isn't as important as his lordly mien, and his position as lightning rod for the wrath of a vindictive emperor.
And so on. Our Lady Nishima is compelling, if something of a feminist anachronism (if it makes any sense to cry anachronism in a backdrop that's a curious blend of Japanese language, dress and culture on a Chinese geographic and political map). Lord Komawara is fine as a spirited young romantic lead. The emperor brings a lively menace to everything. The brothers Jaku, his servants, are vivid, perhaps at the cost of watching the author enjoy himself too much in describing them. The many supporting characters are deftly and carefully drawn.
I'm rereading this just lately, in an intermittent way. We'll see if it stands up. I am noticing right away, though, the the book slows for a few chapters after the second, and before Shuyun reappears I am impatient for his arrival. He is the life of the story, his predicament as he ventures from his cloister into a world that seems like more than illusion. Half Zen master and half Shaolin monk, he is the only one on the trail of the big wheel that's turning, virtually forgotten behind all the machinations of warfare. And his character, despite being wrapped in something of a martial arts caricature, is probably the most nuanced of the lot.
Immensely enjoyable, warts and all. I'll update if reading through it again should change my view of it.
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