Even the strongest woman has her breaking point, and Keiko has reached hers.
Sick at heart and wanting only to leave her past behind her, Keiko is drawn to the sea. Seeking refuge from the world that has nearly torn her spirit apart, she boards the first ship she finds and sails away gladly from her former life.
Although Keiko thinks she is done with her past life, fate has much more in store. Her ship is taken by a band of wokou–desperate pirates who will kill to gain the treasure they seek. But just like Keiko, the wokou captain hides a secret. He is a man who, like her, has walked away from his past life, and Keiko comes to believe that she has truly found a kindred spirit in this man who is not what he appears.
Yet still, the gods are not ready to give Keiko the peace she craves. Once more, the way of the samurai calls to her and she has to face her greatest challenge.
Only this time, love and honor are two sides of the same coin.
With a literary journey spanning more than a dozen captivating novels set in historical Japan and a collection of evocative haikus, India Millar has embarked on a diverse career. Her professional odyssey commenced amidst the machinery of British Gas's heavy industry, eventually culminating within the hallowed halls of the British Library, where the tapestry of knowledge and storytelling merged seamlessly. Now, India finds herself in the idyllic embrace of early retirement on the enchanting Costa Blanca. As she continues to explore the realms of history and poetry, India remains deeply grateful for the winding path that has led her to this peaceful and creative haven. Each word written, each page turned, is a testament to the enduring passion for storytelling that continues to shape her life's narrative.
I started this series in media res. At book five, Dragonfly. I read it as a stand-alone but I definitely think the previous books are worth a read. Told first person, this book really focuses on the sea and Keillo. It reminded me of Tamora Pierce’s Alanna series but set in Japan. This is not a bad thing, quite the opposite.
In this story we follow Keiko’s journey as she boards the first ship she can to leave her past behind. The ship is attacked and taken over by pirates. When Keiko gets to know the pirate captain, she feels he is hiding from his past like her. She will again have to fight for what is right. I enjoyed this action packed story. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For all who had watched The Last Samurai and think romanticed that period of time will realize that life, regardless of the time period, is never smooth sailing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wonderful story that will transfer you to life in Far East. Life that is wonderful, it’s dangerous and definitely deceiving. Could be magical but could be cruel,too. I enjoy reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve read all thru number 5, this one. 1 & 2 were good but the others are very shallow of story. Little has happened in 3,4&5. Mostly the heroine remembering and supposing. Don’t think I will read the others as the author has run out of story.