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Takamagahara Monogatari #1
Kogitsune
A coming of age story set in medieval Japan. A friendship between a young fox god and his human childhood friend is built on deception, but grows stronger and purer as it's driven by common purpose. However, the vast differences of the worlds they live in can't be ignored, as their relationship is frowned upon by both humans and spirits.
As Kogitsune's feelings for his human friend turn from friendship to something deeper, he will learn that love can be all consuming and heartbreaking.
‘Kogitsune’ is a retelling of the famous Noh theater play ‘Kokaji’, a story about a swordsmith who requests the help of the Inari god to build a sword for emperor Ichijo (980-1011).
As Kogitsune's feelings for his human friend turn from friendship to something deeper, he will learn that love can be all consuming and heartbreaking.
‘Kogitsune’ is a retelling of the famous Noh theater play ‘Kokaji’, a story about a swordsmith who requests the help of the Inari god to build a sword for emperor Ichijo (980-1011).
40 pages, ebook
First published November 27, 2018
9 people are currently reading
840 people want to read
About the author
Xia Xia Lake
5 books195 followersXia Xia Lake decided a couple of years ago that she wanted to spend her free time writing stories about mythologies. She was a student at the Bucharest University of Foreign Languages, Japanese Major - English Minor, where she fell in love with Japanese History and Ancient Literature. At twenty years old, she got hired in an IT corporation, where she spent the next decade forgetting everything she ever learned in school, including the Japanese language. In 2017, she took two months vacation from work and with the help of Kogitsune, she dusted off her school books and began writing as a method of stress relief.
This is how the Takamagahara Monogatari was born.
Xia currently lives in Bucharest with her husband and two giant Bucovina Shepherd Dogs.
Xia is a pen name coming from the Greek "Xenia", meaning “welcoming,” “stranger,” or “guest,” and is pronounced Zia or Csia (like in Alexia), however everybody calls her Zaya. "Xia Xia Lake" is coming from Xia's wattpad account: "xiaxiala" which after 2 beers on a late Friday night Xia had the brilliant idea to transform it in an unpronounceable pen name.
Stay up to date with the latest releases by visiting the author’s website:
xiaxiastorylake.com
"Shinigami" was the winner of both Best Gay Fantasy and Best Gay Debut in the 2018-2019 Rainbow awards.
2021 Reading Challenge
Also this:
Xia currently lives in Bucharest with her husband and two giant Bucovina Shepherd Dogs.
Xia is a pen name coming from the Greek "Xenia", meaning “welcoming,” “stranger,” or “guest,” and is pronounced Zia or Csia (like in Alexia), however everybody calls her Zaya. "Xia Xia Lake" is coming from Xia's wattpad account: "xiaxiala" which after 2 beers on a late Friday night Xia had the brilliant idea to transform it in an unpronounceable pen name.
Stay up to date with the latest releases by visiting the author’s website:
xiaxiastorylake.com
"Shinigami" was the winner of both Best Gay Fantasy and Best Gay Debut in the 2018-2019 Rainbow awards.
2021 Reading Challenge
Also this:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
May 15, 2024
Reread - May 2024
*****************************************************
5+++++++ Little Swordsmith. And Little Fox, stars
What a cute little story. It really did warm my heart. I went to bed smiling and woke up wanting to start my day on a positive note, so I read it again.
After reading Horoku’s story, I felt exhausted and kinda empty and in need of fluff. Then a sweet little birdie suggested I try this one. I was not disappointed.
This was me, throughout the book.
My first glimpse of the world was of a wide open sky covered in white clouds, on a spring morning when the seams of winter’s cloak still lingered on the threshold between seasons. I squinted at the fuzzy shapes blending within themselves, dancing in and out of my sight. It was all new and confusing.
I sneezed and jumped, startled when a puff of white smoke lifted from my snout. Cocking my head, I blew air out of my nose again. Steam rose from my nostrils to disappear in the shadows of our shelter. I giggled.
I giggled too. And bam! I was hooked.
The story is a retelling of a theatre play from Japan and Xia did a great job making the reader understand and enjoy the story. Told in the POV of Kogitsune, a cute little fox god who has the ability to shift into human form, this is his journey as he navigates the Gods world and Human world and form a very special friendship with a Swordsmith Kokaji.
“Well… Um…I’ve been wondering since I first met you.” His gaze was so intense it threatened to melt the mask off my face. “You haven’t told me your name yet.”
Butterflies fluttered in my stomach. “Kogitsune,” I said. Little Fox.
“Kokaji,” he said. “Yoroshiku.” Please treat me kindly.
“Yoroshiku.”
The story is short but heavy and has a deeper meaning. It left me wanting more and satisfied at the same time. I just wanted to curl up on the sofa, coffee in hand, Kindle and read it over and over again.
The cover is amazing!!
If you are feeling down and need a warm fluffy story to brighten up your day, download it for free from smashwords:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
To get a better understanding of the story and the characters, check the cheat sheet on Xia’s website:
https://xiaxiastorylake.com/2018/11/2...
Thank you for this precious little gem Xia.
*****************************************************
5+++++++ Little Swordsmith. And Little Fox, stars
What a cute little story. It really did warm my heart. I went to bed smiling and woke up wanting to start my day on a positive note, so I read it again.
After reading Horoku’s story, I felt exhausted and kinda empty and in need of fluff. Then a sweet little birdie suggested I try this one. I was not disappointed.
This was me, throughout the book.
My first glimpse of the world was of a wide open sky covered in white clouds, on a spring morning when the seams of winter’s cloak still lingered on the threshold between seasons. I squinted at the fuzzy shapes blending within themselves, dancing in and out of my sight. It was all new and confusing.
I sneezed and jumped, startled when a puff of white smoke lifted from my snout. Cocking my head, I blew air out of my nose again. Steam rose from my nostrils to disappear in the shadows of our shelter. I giggled.
I giggled too. And bam! I was hooked.
The story is a retelling of a theatre play from Japan and Xia did a great job making the reader understand and enjoy the story. Told in the POV of Kogitsune, a cute little fox god who has the ability to shift into human form, this is his journey as he navigates the Gods world and Human world and form a very special friendship with a Swordsmith Kokaji.
“Well… Um…I’ve been wondering since I first met you.” His gaze was so intense it threatened to melt the mask off my face. “You haven’t told me your name yet.”
Butterflies fluttered in my stomach. “Kogitsune,” I said. Little Fox.
“Kokaji,” he said. “Yoroshiku.” Please treat me kindly.
“Yoroshiku.”
The story is short but heavy and has a deeper meaning. It left me wanting more and satisfied at the same time. I just wanted to curl up on the sofa, coffee in hand, Kindle and read it over and over again.
The cover is amazing!!
If you are feeling down and need a warm fluffy story to brighten up your day, download it for free from smashwords:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
To get a better understanding of the story and the characters, check the cheat sheet on Xia’s website:
https://xiaxiastorylake.com/2018/11/2...
Thank you for this precious little gem Xia.
December 2, 2019
A nice short story...
For book reviews and related concerns just don't check my blog, I don't have one 😃😅😂🤣
For book reviews and related concerns just don't check my blog, I don't have one 😃😅😂🤣
December 20, 2018
40 pages and 80 buckets of tear! 😂😭 I don’t know what’s wrong with me but lately, every single book I read is making me cry .. well, in a good way but still, making me ugly cry. 😭 As someone who’s familiar with Japanese folklore and mythologies, I found this book extra special and beautiful. Kitsune aka foxes are magical creatures in Japanese culture and they have always held these wonderful creatures close at heart. So to read a coming-of-age love story about a minor fox god and a human was just like a dream come true for me. Poignant, magical, breathtaking and beautiful. All the raw emotions for mere amount of 40 pages. I’m lucky that the author is a personal friend because now I don’t need to feel guilty about hounding her arse for a sequel! Xia, you brought it upon yourself. Well, Shile’s the one so you can blame her for my obsession! 😂 And the best part? It IS free! You can get this amazing little gem at smashwords so what are you waiting for? Run and download it now! 😍
Favorite excerpt from the story:
There are many kinds of love. There is the love one feels for his sire for breathing life into his bones. There is the love for brothers, and there is the love for friends. And then is the love that brings the heaviest of heartaches.
5 love will cross the realms for its soulmate stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favorite excerpt from the story:
There are many kinds of love. There is the love one feels for his sire for breathing life into his bones. There is the love for brothers, and there is the love for friends. And then is the love that brings the heaviest of heartaches.
5 love will cross the realms for its soulmate stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 19, 2019
4 Stars
A really sweet Japanese fable depicting how the fox god Kogitsune, earns his tails.
Tender, poignant - a fulfilling romance despite life’s disappointment and heartache and navigating tough decisions.
However, there’s still hope, there’s still fulfillment, and a renewal of what’s lost, leaving the reader with a very satisfying ending.
A really sweet Japanese fable depicting how the fox god Kogitsune, earns his tails.
Tender, poignant - a fulfilling romance despite life’s disappointment and heartache and navigating tough decisions.
However, there’s still hope, there’s still fulfillment, and a renewal of what’s lost, leaving the reader with a very satisfying ending.
February 12, 2021
This one is full of bubbling emotions and so much of love, love and love. And forgiveness and guilt and softness despite the fantastical elements. I got to learn a bit about Japanese deities and culture. But it is the sizzling chemistry between the main characters that got me so happy!
And for the love of books, I cried more than once while reading this short book! There's too much cuteness overload...and love.
*Feeling so single all over again*
And for the love of books, I cried more than once while reading this short book! There's too much cuteness overload...and love.
*Feeling so single all over again*
February 24, 2020
This is such a sweet, magical, little story of the birth, and early years, of a kitsune; a fox god. As he discovers the world around him, he also meets a human boy, and they develop a sweet friendship that, over time and after reuniting after a separation where they each grow into their own, becomes a romance.
Despite how short this story is, Lake nonetheless manages to perfectly set the scene, delving into Japanese folklore and myth, all through the eyes of a curious and adorable protagonist, who is both naive and wise and, like mortals, just as susceptible to heartbreak, remorse, and love.
This is the first in a series and I can’t wait to read on.
3.5 stars
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This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Despite how short this story is, Lake nonetheless manages to perfectly set the scene, delving into Japanese folklore and myth, all through the eyes of a curious and adorable protagonist, who is both naive and wise and, like mortals, just as susceptible to heartbreak, remorse, and love.
This is the first in a series and I can’t wait to read on.
3.5 stars
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
January 31, 2019
Kogitsune is at the same time adorable and solemn and, with its weird mix, it brought me right back to the days I spent reading manga, immersed in the fascinating contradictions of Japanese culture. It was like coming home.
4 stars because I need more. :P
4 stars because I need more. :P
February 28, 2023
4 'I want more' stars
This story is so beautiful. I have no other words, just simply beautiful. Not much happens in this book but it's full of emotions and I had a feeling like I was there in the story.
Japanese mythology and culture was pretty new to me and I enjoyed exploring this new world (list of names and words at the end is very helpful!). Also, Kogitsune is a great main character. The writing really makes you feel everything he's going through.
His relationship with Kokaji is just the sweetest and so pure 🥰 I adore these two!! 🫰
They were so cute when they were kids. I can't believe I got so mushy just from this short novella but my emotions are all over the place 🫶
There is a miracle in every curse as there is beauty in what is broken.
This story is so beautiful. I have no other words, just simply beautiful. Not much happens in this book but it's full of emotions and I had a feeling like I was there in the story.
I could not appear and disappear at will like my father. He had told me the power would come once I received my fifth tail. It took a hundred years for a kitsune to grow a new tail. It would take half a millenium for five tails, so, till then, I ran like the wind.
Japanese mythology and culture was pretty new to me and I enjoyed exploring this new world (list of names and words at the end is very helpful!). Also, Kogitsune is a great main character. The writing really makes you feel everything he's going through.
I gained a tail that day, faster than any kitsune before me, but lost everything else that was important to me.
His relationship with Kokaji is just the sweetest and so pure 🥰 I adore these two!! 🫰
“What a coincidence. I am thirteen as well,” I lied.
“Soon we will be men,” he said, his face shining.
“Men. Sure.”
“When I am a man I will have arms as thick as branches, as any swordsmith should.”
Adorable. In a thousand years I will be a god, but I didn’t say that out loud.
They were so cute when they were kids. I can't believe I got so mushy just from this short novella but my emotions are all over the place 🫶
“I missed you too,” I sobbed for the last time in my life.
Kokaji was gentle when he lifted me in his powerful arms and took me to his bed. My pulse galloped in my veins when he undressed me.
“Godly,” he said staring down at me. “So beautiful. Always beautiful.” I opened my arms, accepting him.
There are many kinds of love. There is the love one feels for his sire for breathing life into his bones. There is the love for brothers, and there is the love for friends. And then is the love that brings the heaviest of heartaches.
Read
May 28, 2019It would not be fair for me to rate this because I helped with beta reading and feedback, but I do want to give my friends a heads up about it. I only offer to beta read Xia Xia's work because her writing is so good, and this story captivated me. Hope you enjoy it too! xx
January 13, 2020
Now, if I could only have my own fox god! 🦊
Sweet.....Tender....💕
I loved this pared-down retelling of a classical, Japanese play! It’s simplicity reminded me of the style I so often expect when reading myths and legends. Yet, the simplicity of these tales belie the importance and meaning they contain. They have been used to teach and entertain, but also to explain the world to generations. It is this aspect of the tale that drew me in—that it was so old, but yet dealt with love, loss, heartbreak, sorrow, and regret. Universal truths.
Now, I’m ready to tackle Xia Xia’s novel in this series!
My rec? Definitely worth the $.99 and is a great tasty treat alongside your afternoon coffee or tea!
Sweet.....Tender....💕
I loved this pared-down retelling of a classical, Japanese play! It’s simplicity reminded me of the style I so often expect when reading myths and legends. Yet, the simplicity of these tales belie the importance and meaning they contain. They have been used to teach and entertain, but also to explain the world to generations. It is this aspect of the tale that drew me in—that it was so old, but yet dealt with love, loss, heartbreak, sorrow, and regret. Universal truths.
Now, I’m ready to tackle Xia Xia’s novel in this series!
My rec? Definitely worth the $.99 and is a great tasty treat alongside your afternoon coffee or tea!
October 9, 2019
I know I don’t rate many books on here but this was lovely^^ Beautiful compelling writing. Also foxes (kitsune) <3
November 30, 2018
I'm impressed! I loved this story completely, combined with the wonderful writing, it is truly remarkable and captivating.
Obviously I know nothing about the original story. And obviously this isn't something I usually read. Did I feel lost among all those unfamiliar names? A bit, yes. But there is a cheat sheet. Use it! :) And I also knew some of them, since I have read some Japanese manga in the past. And let me just say they're very big on their Gods and Spirits. :)
[Kitsune]
There is some not so hidden meaning in this story, something you can take for yourself and learn from it. Wisdom. Advice. Whatever you want to call it. It teaches you about loss, about friendship and forgiveness.
It was sweet and heartwarming. And I can't believe that ending, I let loose a few tears. I want more!!!
And the artwork is beautiful on the cover. Absolutely worthy of this story.
Obviously I know nothing about the original story. And obviously this isn't something I usually read. Did I feel lost among all those unfamiliar names? A bit, yes. But there is a cheat sheet. Use it! :) And I also knew some of them, since I have read some Japanese manga in the past. And let me just say they're very big on their Gods and Spirits. :)
[Kitsune]
There is some not so hidden meaning in this story, something you can take for yourself and learn from it. Wisdom. Advice. Whatever you want to call it. It teaches you about loss, about friendship and forgiveness.
It was sweet and heartwarming. And I can't believe that ending, I let loose a few tears. I want more!!!
And the artwork is beautiful on the cover. Absolutely worthy of this story.
May 6, 2020
Re-read May 2020
Reading this after finishing Shinigami, knowing what I know, made this story very bitter-sweet . It's definitely worth reading it both before and after Shinigami.
Original review - Feb 2020
A sweet short (too short! I need more!) story about a kitsune and his human friend.
The writing evokes an ambient that is reminiscent of Ghibli movies and my favorite anime ever - Natsume Yuujinchou.
Reading this after finishing Shinigami, knowing what I know, made this story very bitter-sweet . It's definitely worth reading it both before and after Shinigami.
Original review - Feb 2020
A sweet short (too short! I need more!) story about a kitsune and his human friend.
The writing evokes an ambient that is reminiscent of Ghibli movies and my favorite anime ever - Natsume Yuujinchou.
January 4, 2023
A beautiful, enchanted little narrative from Japanese lore about a kitsune, the fox deity, and a young human kid who aspires to become the greatest swordsmith ever. Despite the short length of the story, Lake manages to perfectly set the scene.
April 16, 2019
THIS WAS SO KAWAII and everything I was hoping for when picking up a story about kitsune and Japanese folklore.
To me, there is a difference between a fairytale/folklore story and fantasy. I can't quite put my finger on what it is, but they just read and feel different. This story, though it's short, completely captured that whimsical and magical feeling that so many authors struggle with.
The world is interesting and complex and the way the world was explained, through baby Kogitsune as he learns of the word, allowed me to easily gather information without feeling like I was being buried under it. Both characters were charming and fun and Kogitsune had this subtle feel of "otherness" which I loved.
It was all just so well-written, and magical, and heartwarming and I really loved it.
To me, there is a difference between a fairytale/folklore story and fantasy. I can't quite put my finger on what it is, but they just read and feel different. This story, though it's short, completely captured that whimsical and magical feeling that so many authors struggle with.
The world is interesting and complex and the way the world was explained, through baby Kogitsune as he learns of the word, allowed me to easily gather information without feeling like I was being buried under it. Both characters were charming and fun and Kogitsune had this subtle feel of "otherness" which I loved.
It was all just so well-written, and magical, and heartwarming and I really loved it.
December 26, 2018
What a beautiful and tender story, soaked in Japanese legends and folklore.
I really loved it. The characters are well rounded and characterised in a deeply human way. Even Kogitsune, the Little Fox god, is insecure and astounded by the world and its mysteries.
A very short read (unfortunately!) but so full of charm and so well written, I'll definitely go back to it over and over again to put a smile on my face.
I really loved it. The characters are well rounded and characterised in a deeply human way. Even Kogitsune, the Little Fox god, is insecure and astounded by the world and its mysteries.
A very short read (unfortunately!) but so full of charm and so well written, I'll definitely go back to it over and over again to put a smile on my face.
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July 7, 2019
Wow, I wish I had the skills to write something as beautiful as Kogitsune!
It's a story with grace and a flow that's is perfect to conjure the atmosphere of the time and place. Not that I'm an expert on Japan and on its history, quite the contrary, but the story doesn't require the reader to be read in on the matter. We're taken on the journey and get explanations about the world it's set in woven into the story as it evolves.
Did I say beautiful already?! 🦊🖤
It's a story with grace and a flow that's is perfect to conjure the atmosphere of the time and place. Not that I'm an expert on Japan and on its history, quite the contrary, but the story doesn't require the reader to be read in on the matter. We're taken on the journey and get explanations about the world it's set in woven into the story as it evolves.
Did I say beautiful already?! 🦊🖤
May 3, 2019
5 Sensational Stars
What a fantastic story. Per the author: "This is a retelling of Kokaji, a Noh Theatre play from Japan, about a famous swordsmith helped by the Inari God to forge a special sword for Emperor Ichijo (980-1011) which will be called “Kogitsune-maru”."
It is lyrical, mystical, romantic, and heartwarming. I was absolutely charmed. There is so much heart and beauty packed into this short tale; I would love to read more about this young fox god and his human childhood friend.
There are brief moments of sadness and grief intertwined with bright and shining moments of joy and happiness. With glittering poignancy and sparkling beauty, this story is a treasure.
Highly recommend!
FREE via Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
What a fantastic story. Per the author: "This is a retelling of Kokaji, a Noh Theatre play from Japan, about a famous swordsmith helped by the Inari God to forge a special sword for Emperor Ichijo (980-1011) which will be called “Kogitsune-maru”."
It is lyrical, mystical, romantic, and heartwarming. I was absolutely charmed. There is so much heart and beauty packed into this short tale; I would love to read more about this young fox god and his human childhood friend.
There are brief moments of sadness and grief intertwined with bright and shining moments of joy and happiness. With glittering poignancy and sparkling beauty, this story is a treasure.
Highly recommend!
FREE via Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
October 7, 2020
Japanese folklore and mythology combine in an ethereal retelling of a Japanese theatre play. Kogitsune the story of young love at first, then lasting love between a kitsune deity and a human who forge their names together in more than a shrine.
Tolerance and understanding are cornerstones of this particular tale.
Don't know how to rate it just yet, and I'd like to blog review it once I process my feelings some more.
Little Swordsmith.
And Little Fox.
Tolerance and understanding are cornerstones of this particular tale.
Don't know how to rate it just yet, and I'd like to blog review it once I process my feelings some more.
Little Swordsmith.
And Little Fox.
December 7, 2018
Fantastic! I loved this short story. I wish this would have been a long novel though. The ambiance, the descriptions and the characters are just perfect.
After my last two failures I needed this. I picked this up because Japan and its folckore never fail for me. This tale about a Kokaji and Kogitsune is just perfect. I'm not sure if the Noh play which inpires this tale is so sweet. Knowing a bit about Japanese literature I'd said no, but still I loved this.
Reading this was more special after my travel around Japan last summer. Reading about how Kokaji builts an altar for Inari Ôkami was awesome, more after being at Fusimi Inari myself.
The only thing that took me out of the story for a while was the term "otôsan". Being set around s. XI, I thought it would be more accurate the term "chichiue", but I'm not sure. I've searched about it and while being a term used before Meiji era for father in the formal language, it seemed more common among samurai familys, so I'll keep searching. I need to satisfy my curiosity over that.
I highly recommend this short story, and even more, if like me you love Japan, its culture and its language.
After my last two failures I needed this. I picked this up because Japan and its folckore never fail for me. This tale about a Kokaji and Kogitsune is just perfect. I'm not sure if the Noh play which inpires this tale is so sweet. Knowing a bit about Japanese literature I'd said no, but still I loved this.
Reading this was more special after my travel around Japan last summer. Reading about how Kokaji builts an altar for Inari Ôkami was awesome, more after being at Fusimi Inari myself.
The only thing that took me out of the story for a while was the term "otôsan". Being set around s. XI, I thought it would be more accurate the term "chichiue", but I'm not sure. I've searched about it and while being a term used before Meiji era for father in the formal language, it seemed more common among samurai familys, so I'll keep searching. I need to satisfy my curiosity over that.
I highly recommend this short story, and even more, if like me you love Japan, its culture and its language.
January 27, 2025
This enchanting tale about a little fox spirit and his swordsmith friend is pure magic. The vibe of the world—full of fox gods, yokai, and other mythical beings—feels so alive and atmospheric. It’s a simple story about growing up, discovering friendship, and feeling love for the first time, but wow, it hit me right in the feels. It’s one of those books that sticks with you, leaving you all warm and emotional in the best way.
4.5⭐
4.5⭐
October 13, 2019
Kogitsune is a young fox god who's trying to get to know himself and learn the world he lives in. When one day he crosses paths with a human child, their fates intertwine inseparably. Thanks to young Kokaji, Kogitsune not only experiences friendship and love, but also learns the pain of a broken heart and feeling of betrayal. However, sometimes unpleasant experience is not enough for two beings to go their separate ways.
"Kogitsune" is the first part of "Takamagahara Monogatari" series by Xia Xia Lake. The huge advantage of this very short short story is undoubtedly the great "chatty" style in which this little story was written. The reader is delighted with it from the very first sentence and with each subsequent page they see that the author really knows how to write a very interesting story in a perfect way. What's more, "Kogitsune" draws us into its colorful world in the blink of an eye and we are not able to put this short story down until we finish reading it. I think this is really important, because not every author can make the reader interested in their writing, having only several dozen pages to use. As I've mentioned, Xia Xia Lake does it without any difficulty, as she enchants us with her style from the very beginning.
In my opinion, another huge advantage of "Kogitsune" is the fact that to a great extent the story refers to Japanese culture. First of all, the author retells the well-known Noh theater play, which is simply amazing. While watching Noh theater performances is impossible to some readers or it's simply not interesting enough, the story written by Xia Xia Lake makes one of its plays available and accessible to everyone. Secondly, the story itself refers to Japanese folklore, mythology, demonology, history, so to almost everything that is unique and magical in Japan. Thus, "Kogitsune" is linked to the Land of the Rising Sun on many levels, which makes this story a real deal for all the fans of this amazing country, as well as a curiosity for people who have not been interested in Japan so far.
To sum up, "Kogitsune" is a short but really wonderful story that engrosses and delights the reader from the very first sentence. In these several dozen pages, Xia Xia Lake managed to lock up so much of The Land of the Rising Sun's magic that we are really captivated and want more. In short, I really recommend you "Kogitsune" with all my heart.
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Kogitsune jest młodym lisim bogiem, który dopiero uczy się siebie oraz świata, w którym przyszło mu żyć. Kiedy na jego drodze nieoczekiwanie staje ludzie dziecko, ich losy splatają się ze sobą nierozerwalnie. Dzięki młodemu Kokaji, Kogitsune uczy się nie tylko przyjaźni i miłości, ale także poznaje ból złamanego serca i uczucia zdrady. Przykre doświadczenia to jednak czasami za mało, aby ścieżki dwóch istot miały się rozejść.
„Kogitsune” jest pierwszą częścią serii „Takamagahara Monogatari” autorstwa Xia Xia Lake. Ogromną zaletą tego bardzo krótkiego opowiadania jest niewątpliwie wspaniały, gawędziarski styl, w jakim to maleństwo zostało napisane. Czytelnik jest nim zachwycony już od pierwszego zdania i z każdą kolejną stroną upewnia się w przekonaniu o tym, że autorka naprawdę potrafi doskonale i bardzo ciekawie pisać. „Kogitsune” wciąga nas bowiem w swój barwny świat w mgnieniu oka i nie powala nam odłożyć tego opowiadania póki nie dotrzemy do końca. Uważam, że to naprawdę istotne, ponieważ nie każdy autor potrafi naprawdę zainteresować czytelnika mając do dyspozycji tylko kilkadziesiąt stron. Xia Xia Lake robi to jednak bez najmniejszego trudu, ponieważ jak wspomniałam oczaruje nas swoim stylem od samego początku.
To, co dla mnie jest ogromną zaletą „Kogitsune” jest fakt, iż opowiadanie w ogromnym stopniu nawiązuje do kultury japońskiej. Po pierwsze, jest próbą opowiedzenia na nowo znanej sztuki teatru Noh, co już samo w sobie jest rzeczą prawdziwie czarującą. O ile jednak teatr Noh jest dla niektórych czytelników niedostępny lub po prostu niewystarczająco interesujący, o tyle opowiadanie Xia Xia Lake czyni jedną z jego sztuk dostępną i przystępną dla każdego. Po drugie, już sama opowieść nawiązuje do japońskiego folkloru, do mitologii, demonologii, historii, a więc do tego, co w Japonii wyjątkowe i magiczne. Tym samym, „Kogitsune” jest połączone z Krajem Kwitnącej Wiśni na wielu płaszczyznach, co czyni z tego opowiadania prawdziwą gratkę dla fanów tego kraju, jak również ciekawostkę dla osób, które dotąd nie interesowały się Japonią pod tym kątem.
Podsumowując, „Kogitsune” to króciutkie, ale naprawdę cudowne opowiadanie, które wciąga i zachwyca czytelnika już od pierwszego zdania. Na tych kilkudziesięciu stronach Xia Xia Lake zamyka tak wielką ilość magii Kraju Kwitnącej Wiśni, że czujemy się naprawdę oczarowani i chcemy więcej. Naprawdę mogę polecić Wam „Kogitsune” z całego serca.
"Kogitsune" is the first part of "Takamagahara Monogatari" series by Xia Xia Lake. The huge advantage of this very short short story is undoubtedly the great "chatty" style in which this little story was written. The reader is delighted with it from the very first sentence and with each subsequent page they see that the author really knows how to write a very interesting story in a perfect way. What's more, "Kogitsune" draws us into its colorful world in the blink of an eye and we are not able to put this short story down until we finish reading it. I think this is really important, because not every author can make the reader interested in their writing, having only several dozen pages to use. As I've mentioned, Xia Xia Lake does it without any difficulty, as she enchants us with her style from the very beginning.
In my opinion, another huge advantage of "Kogitsune" is the fact that to a great extent the story refers to Japanese culture. First of all, the author retells the well-known Noh theater play, which is simply amazing. While watching Noh theater performances is impossible to some readers or it's simply not interesting enough, the story written by Xia Xia Lake makes one of its plays available and accessible to everyone. Secondly, the story itself refers to Japanese folklore, mythology, demonology, history, so to almost everything that is unique and magical in Japan. Thus, "Kogitsune" is linked to the Land of the Rising Sun on many levels, which makes this story a real deal for all the fans of this amazing country, as well as a curiosity for people who have not been interested in Japan so far.
To sum up, "Kogitsune" is a short but really wonderful story that engrosses and delights the reader from the very first sentence. In these several dozen pages, Xia Xia Lake managed to lock up so much of The Land of the Rising Sun's magic that we are really captivated and want more. In short, I really recommend you "Kogitsune" with all my heart.
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Kogitsune jest młodym lisim bogiem, który dopiero uczy się siebie oraz świata, w którym przyszło mu żyć. Kiedy na jego drodze nieoczekiwanie staje ludzie dziecko, ich losy splatają się ze sobą nierozerwalnie. Dzięki młodemu Kokaji, Kogitsune uczy się nie tylko przyjaźni i miłości, ale także poznaje ból złamanego serca i uczucia zdrady. Przykre doświadczenia to jednak czasami za mało, aby ścieżki dwóch istot miały się rozejść.
„Kogitsune” jest pierwszą częścią serii „Takamagahara Monogatari” autorstwa Xia Xia Lake. Ogromną zaletą tego bardzo krótkiego opowiadania jest niewątpliwie wspaniały, gawędziarski styl, w jakim to maleństwo zostało napisane. Czytelnik jest nim zachwycony już od pierwszego zdania i z każdą kolejną stroną upewnia się w przekonaniu o tym, że autorka naprawdę potrafi doskonale i bardzo ciekawie pisać. „Kogitsune” wciąga nas bowiem w swój barwny świat w mgnieniu oka i nie powala nam odłożyć tego opowiadania póki nie dotrzemy do końca. Uważam, że to naprawdę istotne, ponieważ nie każdy autor potrafi naprawdę zainteresować czytelnika mając do dyspozycji tylko kilkadziesiąt stron. Xia Xia Lake robi to jednak bez najmniejszego trudu, ponieważ jak wspomniałam oczaruje nas swoim stylem od samego początku.
To, co dla mnie jest ogromną zaletą „Kogitsune” jest fakt, iż opowiadanie w ogromnym stopniu nawiązuje do kultury japońskiej. Po pierwsze, jest próbą opowiedzenia na nowo znanej sztuki teatru Noh, co już samo w sobie jest rzeczą prawdziwie czarującą. O ile jednak teatr Noh jest dla niektórych czytelników niedostępny lub po prostu niewystarczająco interesujący, o tyle opowiadanie Xia Xia Lake czyni jedną z jego sztuk dostępną i przystępną dla każdego. Po drugie, już sama opowieść nawiązuje do japońskiego folkloru, do mitologii, demonologii, historii, a więc do tego, co w Japonii wyjątkowe i magiczne. Tym samym, „Kogitsune” jest połączone z Krajem Kwitnącej Wiśni na wielu płaszczyznach, co czyni z tego opowiadania prawdziwą gratkę dla fanów tego kraju, jak również ciekawostkę dla osób, które dotąd nie interesowały się Japonią pod tym kątem.
Podsumowując, „Kogitsune” to króciutkie, ale naprawdę cudowne opowiadanie, które wciąga i zachwyca czytelnika już od pierwszego zdania. Na tych kilkudziesięciu stronach Xia Xia Lake zamyka tak wielką ilość magii Kraju Kwitnącej Wiśni, że czujemy się naprawdę oczarowani i chcemy więcej. Naprawdę mogę polecić Wam „Kogitsune” z całego serca.
June 12, 2020
3.5 stars
Adorbs. And super informative. Kitsunes have popped up a little here and there in my reading, but never with much detail. This was really nice.
Adorbs. And super informative. Kitsunes have popped up a little here and there in my reading, but never with much detail. This was really nice.
September 16, 2019
This was so cute! I really liked both Kogitsune and Kokaji. And I really liked the writing style, too. It flowed smoothly and clearly and I could see the scenes and I got into the story easily. And I have no background with Japanese mythology (not to mention the language or names!) but I was able to follow the story and get really into it.
Despite the short length, I thought the world was interesting and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series!
Despite the short length, I thought the world was interesting and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series!
February 1, 2019
This is my fourth book about Japanese Myths and I loved it. My only issue was that it was too short. I wanted more.
January 17, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Kogitsune is the first in a series of supernatural, historical love stories set in medieval Japan. This is a remarkable piece of historical fiction, blending Japanese folklore, myth and the supernatural into a quiet and touching romance. Kogitsune and Kokaji connected in a way that was not usual or expected, and is opposed by both the god and human realms. I wished that we had longer to observe their love, to see how Inari would handle his foxling falling in love with the human. Unfortunately, we only have a brief glimpse into their future.
I appreciated the embedded descriptions of the Japanese words and concepts as I read this story. I had the barest knowledge of a kitsune before—my boys are fans of Japanese manga and anime, and the kitsune is a prominent character there. The rest of the Shinto pantheon was unknown to me, and I got the gist of some of that folklore through this book.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Kogitsune is the first in a series of supernatural, historical love stories set in medieval Japan. This is a remarkable piece of historical fiction, blending Japanese folklore, myth and the supernatural into a quiet and touching romance. Kogitsune and Kokaji connected in a way that was not usual or expected, and is opposed by both the god and human realms. I wished that we had longer to observe their love, to see how Inari would handle his foxling falling in love with the human. Unfortunately, we only have a brief glimpse into their future.
I appreciated the embedded descriptions of the Japanese words and concepts as I read this story. I had the barest knowledge of a kitsune before—my boys are fans of Japanese manga and anime, and the kitsune is a prominent character there. The rest of the Shinto pantheon was unknown to me, and I got the gist of some of that folklore through this book.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
October 24, 2020
Kogitsune was a really lovely, gentle, magical short story. In the past I’ve said that I hesitate to give short stories 5 stars simply because I wonder how much depth and plot development you can fit into a short story. I think I need to rethink and revise my stance. Though Kogitsune is a short story, it packed depth, beauty and the warmest, most poignant feels into the perfect little package. I am REALLY looking forward to Shinigami, the next book in the series.
January 6, 2019
It's the stuff legends are made of before they become those legends rooted deep into a country's mythology, where legendary swords are forged and gods influence the fate of dynasties, where heros and the forces of nature have to bridge their differences, where heartbreak is inevitable and love nevertheless is meant to be ... but all of that (except the heartbreak) is in the future of this past.
Here only boy saves the life of another and an unlikely friendship blossoms into something more that is only acknowledged when the heart breaks and the bridge is burned and can't be crossed for a decade but it's a legendary fairytale and what's meant to be is meant to be, the sword is forged and the legend can start - in another story, at another time.
If this short tale doesn't make curious about Japanese mythology I don't know what does.
Here only boy saves the life of another and an unlikely friendship blossoms into something more that is only acknowledged when the heart breaks and the bridge is burned and can't be crossed for a decade but it's a legendary fairytale and what's meant to be is meant to be, the sword is forged and the legend can start - in another story, at another time.
If this short tale doesn't make curious about Japanese mythology I don't know what does.
June 5, 2020
The only sin is that this book should have been longer. It was beautiful, warm and so sweet.
September 8, 2020
Wonderful 💓
Very well written for such a short read. I can’t imagine if giving this story was to expand, what this author could develop.
Very well written for such a short read. I can’t imagine if giving this story was to expand, what this author could develop.
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