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Legend of the Five Rings
To Chart the Clouds: A Legend of the Five Rings Novel
Border tensions between rival samurai clans escalate into war over a hidden valley, in this fantasy epic from the breathtaking world of Legend of the Five Rings
When diligent yet unappreciated clerk, Miya Isami, develops a new triangulation technique for map- making, her traditionalist superiors at the Imperial Cartographic Bureau heap scorn upon her. But when her novel approach exposes a swathe of missing land on the border between Scorpion and Lion Clan territories, Isami stumbles onto something far more significant than a mere mapping error. Her discovery offers the prospect of resolution to the seemingly endless territorial squabbling between the proud, warlike Lion and the secretive Scorpion. In a bid to contain the conflict, an Imperial Treasurer dispatches Isami with her fresh insights to the Spine of the World. Yet she is far from welcome in the mountains. She must negotiate between the clans, uncover the truth, and discover the location of a hidden valley before the fragile peace is shattered by war.
When diligent yet unappreciated clerk, Miya Isami, develops a new triangulation technique for map- making, her traditionalist superiors at the Imperial Cartographic Bureau heap scorn upon her. But when her novel approach exposes a swathe of missing land on the border between Scorpion and Lion Clan territories, Isami stumbles onto something far more significant than a mere mapping error. Her discovery offers the prospect of resolution to the seemingly endless territorial squabbling between the proud, warlike Lion and the secretive Scorpion. In a bid to contain the conflict, an Imperial Treasurer dispatches Isami with her fresh insights to the Spine of the World. Yet she is far from welcome in the mountains. She must negotiate between the clans, uncover the truth, and discover the location of a hidden valley before the fragile peace is shattered by war.
- GenresFantasy
352 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2022
2 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 11, 2023
The story was good and the writing was enjoyable. Unfortunately, I have to dock points and it’s going to sound like nitpicking but when you’re invested in the lore and setting, the devil is in the details. At one point, a passing reference is made to Fu Leng with the description “elemental spirit.” This smacks of an editor going through and replacing “Kami” with a “find and replace” search. That’s not the sense of the word that applies for Fu Leng.
Much later, there’s a discussion of a spear-wielding ashigaru. Across more than one page, the main character mentally refers to the guard as a samurai. This demonstrates a lack of familiarity with both the setting and the real world it draws from; in real life and L5R, ashigaru were NOT samurai, they were peasants. And in a setting like Rokugan, this is an important distinction because it has implications for how such people interact. Never mind the social gap that exists between the main character and the average samurai, the gap between a peasant and the protagonist is an order of magnitude greater. A peasant foot soldier isn’t going to balk at the orders of a samurai as highly-placed as Isami.
Again, I enjoyed the story. It just feels like this book was the first step on the watering down of the setting that would eventually occur in Adventures in Rokugan, which resulted in a setting that can best be described as “cosplaying Rokugan.” It’s difficult to rate it higher knowing that it was in service to a reworking of Rokugan that is becoming unrecognisable.
Much later, there’s a discussion of a spear-wielding ashigaru. Across more than one page, the main character mentally refers to the guard as a samurai. This demonstrates a lack of familiarity with both the setting and the real world it draws from; in real life and L5R, ashigaru were NOT samurai, they were peasants. And in a setting like Rokugan, this is an important distinction because it has implications for how such people interact. Never mind the social gap that exists between the main character and the average samurai, the gap between a peasant and the protagonist is an order of magnitude greater. A peasant foot soldier isn’t going to balk at the orders of a samurai as highly-placed as Isami.
Again, I enjoyed the story. It just feels like this book was the first step on the watering down of the setting that would eventually occur in Adventures in Rokugan, which resulted in a setting that can best be described as “cosplaying Rokugan.” It’s difficult to rate it higher knowing that it was in service to a reworking of Rokugan that is becoming unrecognisable.
November 5, 2021
4.5*
First of all, I would like to say thank you to NetGalley, the Author, and the Publisher for allowing me to read the ARC copy of the book.
Finally, here is my written review. Apologies for the delay.
I would like to start by saying I really enjoyed the experience of reading this book. As you can probably see by my read list, I am big fan of anything to do with Japan, especially historical Japan and the Sengoku period so this was always going to get off to a good start with me - simply due to the setting.
So, the main character is a minor, somewhat overlooked, noble who aspires to become an Imperial Cartographer. This aspiration and desperation leads her on a mission, given to her by a higher-up, to discover a hidden valley in a region which is currently in the middle of a territorial conflict between two warring clans - the Lions and the Scorpions.
The best thing about this story, in my opinion, is the treachery and politics between both of the clans and also, as we discover, between those closer to Miya - unknowingly. The interestingly developed political feud was helped extremely by how good Evan's world building is. They made it feel as if you were in the centre of this feud which is something that is not easily done. The treacherous culmination is something which I did not see coming whatsoever, although it is not completely random and out of place - fitting in line with the story and ultimately, Japanese history, values and tradition (if that makes sense - it does to me). I felt when reading this that it seemed to be more of a historical, although completely fictional, fiction novel as opposed to the prescribed fantasy epic which is highlighted by the blurb and within other reviews I have since read. I would not say this diminishes the story in any way, though.
I finished this book with one or two criticisms. Firstly, for some reason (I know this is silly), I did not like the name of some landmarks that were described in the book, such as the Enchanted Wall. I just feel as if there could be a more interesting name to be made here in order to promote the mystique of the object, although this was not a major issue because it does not really play a huge part in the story. Secondly, I found the conflict and constant bickering between Keisuke (Scorpion) and Shinzō (Lion) become slightly unvarying and monotonous. I am aware both of their clans owe deep hatred for each other but I found the persistent arguing between them both to become slightly tedious.
Overall, I found this book a highly enjoyable experience. The story is an intriguing one, especially due to the setting and how that has been portrayed by Evan, and it turned out to be a real page turner. The ending certainly leaves an opening for a sequel and I would say on record now that I would read that, too.
Once again, thank you to NetGalley, the Author, and Aconyte books for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this ARC. I hope my honest review is not too jumbled, as this is my first written review on Goodreads.
First of all, I would like to say thank you to NetGalley, the Author, and the Publisher for allowing me to read the ARC copy of the book.
Finally, here is my written review. Apologies for the delay.
I would like to start by saying I really enjoyed the experience of reading this book. As you can probably see by my read list, I am big fan of anything to do with Japan, especially historical Japan and the Sengoku period so this was always going to get off to a good start with me - simply due to the setting.
So, the main character is a minor, somewhat overlooked, noble who aspires to become an Imperial Cartographer. This aspiration and desperation leads her on a mission, given to her by a higher-up, to discover a hidden valley in a region which is currently in the middle of a territorial conflict between two warring clans - the Lions and the Scorpions.
The best thing about this story, in my opinion, is the treachery and politics between both of the clans and also, as we discover, between those closer to Miya - unknowingly. The interestingly developed political feud was helped extremely by how good Evan's world building is. They made it feel as if you were in the centre of this feud which is something that is not easily done. The treacherous culmination is something which I did not see coming whatsoever, although it is not completely random and out of place - fitting in line with the story and ultimately, Japanese history, values and tradition (if that makes sense - it does to me). I felt when reading this that it seemed to be more of a historical, although completely fictional, fiction novel as opposed to the prescribed fantasy epic which is highlighted by the blurb and within other reviews I have since read. I would not say this diminishes the story in any way, though.
I finished this book with one or two criticisms. Firstly, for some reason (I know this is silly), I did not like the name of some landmarks that were described in the book, such as the Enchanted Wall. I just feel as if there could be a more interesting name to be made here in order to promote the mystique of the object, although this was not a major issue because it does not really play a huge part in the story. Secondly, I found the conflict and constant bickering between Keisuke (Scorpion) and Shinzō (Lion) become slightly unvarying and monotonous. I am aware both of their clans owe deep hatred for each other but I found the persistent arguing between them both to become slightly tedious.
Overall, I found this book a highly enjoyable experience. The story is an intriguing one, especially due to the setting and how that has been portrayed by Evan, and it turned out to be a real page turner. The ending certainly leaves an opening for a sequel and I would say on record now that I would read that, too.
Once again, thank you to NetGalley, the Author, and Aconyte books for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this ARC. I hope my honest review is not too jumbled, as this is my first written review on Goodreads.
September 23, 2022
To Chart the Clouds by Evan Dicken is a novel from the Legend of the Five Rings world. The main character is Miya Isami, a young cartography clerk. I was immediately intrigued by that theme because I find cartography fascinating, and it’s not often we can see it as a profession described at length in novels. The author studied the development of cartography in non-western societies (specifically Japan), and his vast knowledge of the topic shows in the story right from the first pages. It was so different from, for example, Shadow and Bone, where the protagonist’s (Alina) job was a cartographer, but we don’t see her do anything that would show how she does that job. Isami, on the other hand, takes us right into the depths of cartography technicalities from the first chapter, and we can tell right away she lives and breathes that job. Kudos to the author because I adored this aspect of the story.
I also liked Isami immediately because she has all the traits I love in characters - she’s confident, passionate about her job, resourceful, brave, and not afraid to stand for what she believes is right.
Miya Isami is a brilliant cartographer who not only honours the tradition of her art but also wants to improve it. Unfortunately, her superiors in Imperial Cartography Bureau are very fond of their traditions. They are outraged by her boldness which results in her failing her exam to become an official Imperial Cartographer. That makes Isami a shamed outcast among her peers, making her life unbearable. Luckily for her, her wild speculations catch the attention of the Imperial Treasurer, who dispatches her on a mission that can restore her reputation and get her the dream title. All she needs to do is mediate between two clans squabbling over land ownership.
Or so she thought.
The story is full of court intrigues, wild twists and turns, and wonderful characters. I tried to predict what would happen next, and I failed every time, which was a great surprise. What I also like is how authentic the characters are. Due to unavoidable circumstances, Isami must team up with two scholars from the antagonistic clans of Lion and Scorpion. None of them is what you would call a good man─they are a perfect representation of their families, with their own agenda and aspirations. And even so, they need to rise above their differences if they want to succeed. Or survive.
If you are familiar with the universe, it’s a must-read. If not, you can still read it as it’s a fantasy inspired by feudal Japan with influences from other East Asian cultures. It was one of my favourite books from the Legend of the Five Rings universe, and it kept me on edge almost the whole time.
I also liked Isami immediately because she has all the traits I love in characters - she’s confident, passionate about her job, resourceful, brave, and not afraid to stand for what she believes is right.
Miya Isami is a brilliant cartographer who not only honours the tradition of her art but also wants to improve it. Unfortunately, her superiors in Imperial Cartography Bureau are very fond of their traditions. They are outraged by her boldness which results in her failing her exam to become an official Imperial Cartographer. That makes Isami a shamed outcast among her peers, making her life unbearable. Luckily for her, her wild speculations catch the attention of the Imperial Treasurer, who dispatches her on a mission that can restore her reputation and get her the dream title. All she needs to do is mediate between two clans squabbling over land ownership.
Or so she thought.
The story is full of court intrigues, wild twists and turns, and wonderful characters. I tried to predict what would happen next, and I failed every time, which was a great surprise. What I also like is how authentic the characters are. Due to unavoidable circumstances, Isami must team up with two scholars from the antagonistic clans of Lion and Scorpion. None of them is what you would call a good man─they are a perfect representation of their families, with their own agenda and aspirations. And even so, they need to rise above their differences if they want to succeed. Or survive.
If you are familiar with the universe, it’s a must-read. If not, you can still read it as it’s a fantasy inspired by feudal Japan with influences from other East Asian cultures. It was one of my favourite books from the Legend of the Five Rings universe, and it kept me on edge almost the whole time.
December 29, 2021
As always I want to thank Aconyte Books, Netgalley and Evan Dicken for granting me access to an ARC of this book to review.
Aconyte’s growing line is seeing a lot of wonderful prose books being created that are based on RPGs, LCGRPGs or TTRPGs. While Legends of the Five Rings LCG might be being cancelled, at lease by Fantasy Flight Games I am so happy to see that Aconyte continue to come out with wonderful stories within that world. Sometimes it is difficult to create a novel based on a game, particularly one with a rich lore and a plethora of characters not to mention that normally sees people taking on roles but to date Aconyte’s Authors are smashing it.
To Chart the Clouds focuses on the border tensions between rival samurai clans slowly escalating into possible war over a hidden valley. The diligent yet underappreciated clerk, Miya Isami, develops a new triangulation technique for map-making, her traditionalist superiors at the Imperial Cartographic Bureau Heap scorn upon her. Until her novel approach exposes a swathe of missing land on the border between Scorpion and Lion Clan territories and Isami discovers more than just a simple mapping error. This discovery could finally find the resolution to the endless territorial squabbling between the secretive Scorpions and proud, warlike Lions. An Imperial Treasure dispatches Isami with her fresh insights and relevant neutral standing in the families of the kingdom to the Spine of the World in a bid to contain the conflict. But Isami is far from welcome to the mountains. It now falls to a simple clerk to negotiate between the clans, uncover the truth and discover the location of the hidden valley before the fragile peace is finally shattered by war.
From the first few sentences I felt like I was transported to the world of the Five Rings. Like any good GM Dicken weaves the tale around you and while we are following Isami we still feel very much invested. The tension is present from the very first chapter! With very limited spoilers - I thought our heroine was going to be gone before we even got to know her! If that doesn’t make incredible world building and terrible roleplaying flashbacks I don’t know what does! A few chapters down and we have the first ‘backstab’ and honestly I knew this was going to be good. The intrigue and tension is always just below the surface and I loved it. You are always on the edge of your seat wondering just who Isami and you can trust, what is going to happen next. As a Shakespeare fan I also adored Isami’s initial meeting with the Lion and Scorpion clan representatives, Shinzõ and Keisuke certainly had the infamous ‘Do you bite your thumb at me’ scene from Romeo and Juliet feel to it. In fact they became favourites because of it. I am also slightly biased to the Scorpions in general but don’t judge me too much for that!
Despite being set in an established world, Dicken builds on this and makes it his own. From the description to the people and landscape everything vividly comes to life while you are reading, and it is a joy to read. Particularly the description and information on the cartography itself – the detail is mind-blowing. I won’t lie at first I was worried – would I get bored reading about maps? Well firstly this is not just about maps and secondly I might have never had more fun reading about cartography. It was actually refreshing, of course you have the Samurai and the ronin and superb action but to have a lead character who is ‘just’ a cartography clerk was is something I didn’t know I needed. The fact that Isami is often overlooked is the key to allowing her to solve, or at least try to solve the mystery of the missing land. It also gives her freer reign since no one expects any trouble from Miya Isami.
I honestly loved this one – the build up and the execution, the twists and turns, the characters and Keisuke! A wonderful and perfect representation of how to take a game setting and turn it into a gripping high fantasy novel that is extremely hard to put down and will definitely be re-read.
Aconyte’s growing line is seeing a lot of wonderful prose books being created that are based on RPGs, LCGRPGs or TTRPGs. While Legends of the Five Rings LCG might be being cancelled, at lease by Fantasy Flight Games I am so happy to see that Aconyte continue to come out with wonderful stories within that world. Sometimes it is difficult to create a novel based on a game, particularly one with a rich lore and a plethora of characters not to mention that normally sees people taking on roles but to date Aconyte’s Authors are smashing it.
To Chart the Clouds focuses on the border tensions between rival samurai clans slowly escalating into possible war over a hidden valley. The diligent yet underappreciated clerk, Miya Isami, develops a new triangulation technique for map-making, her traditionalist superiors at the Imperial Cartographic Bureau Heap scorn upon her. Until her novel approach exposes a swathe of missing land on the border between Scorpion and Lion Clan territories and Isami discovers more than just a simple mapping error. This discovery could finally find the resolution to the endless territorial squabbling between the secretive Scorpions and proud, warlike Lions. An Imperial Treasure dispatches Isami with her fresh insights and relevant neutral standing in the families of the kingdom to the Spine of the World in a bid to contain the conflict. But Isami is far from welcome to the mountains. It now falls to a simple clerk to negotiate between the clans, uncover the truth and discover the location of the hidden valley before the fragile peace is finally shattered by war.
From the first few sentences I felt like I was transported to the world of the Five Rings. Like any good GM Dicken weaves the tale around you and while we are following Isami we still feel very much invested. The tension is present from the very first chapter! With very limited spoilers - I thought our heroine was going to be gone before we even got to know her! If that doesn’t make incredible world building and terrible roleplaying flashbacks I don’t know what does! A few chapters down and we have the first ‘backstab’ and honestly I knew this was going to be good. The intrigue and tension is always just below the surface and I loved it. You are always on the edge of your seat wondering just who Isami and you can trust, what is going to happen next. As a Shakespeare fan I also adored Isami’s initial meeting with the Lion and Scorpion clan representatives, Shinzõ and Keisuke certainly had the infamous ‘Do you bite your thumb at me’ scene from Romeo and Juliet feel to it. In fact they became favourites because of it. I am also slightly biased to the Scorpions in general but don’t judge me too much for that!
Despite being set in an established world, Dicken builds on this and makes it his own. From the description to the people and landscape everything vividly comes to life while you are reading, and it is a joy to read. Particularly the description and information on the cartography itself – the detail is mind-blowing. I won’t lie at first I was worried – would I get bored reading about maps? Well firstly this is not just about maps and secondly I might have never had more fun reading about cartography. It was actually refreshing, of course you have the Samurai and the ronin and superb action but to have a lead character who is ‘just’ a cartography clerk was is something I didn’t know I needed. The fact that Isami is often overlooked is the key to allowing her to solve, or at least try to solve the mystery of the missing land. It also gives her freer reign since no one expects any trouble from Miya Isami.
I honestly loved this one – the build up and the execution, the twists and turns, the characters and Keisuke! A wonderful and perfect representation of how to take a game setting and turn it into a gripping high fantasy novel that is extremely hard to put down and will definitely be re-read.
February 10, 2024
With her research stolen and years of dedication and effort turned to nothing in the face of a better-connected apprentice’s betrayal, Isami finds herself shamed and denied the place as an imperial cartographer she has worked for her whole life. But her work might present a solution to a burgeoning territory conflict between two of the Great Clans. The Lion, proud and dangerous warriors, have discovered historical documentation showing they have historical claim to land long held by the Scorpion. Land that the ancient maps Isami had been studying suggest might have yet more usable land hidden by time and mapping errors. To prevent the coming conflict from becoming a full on war, an Imperial Treasurer sends Isami to the Spine of the World and the center of danger.
With To Chart the Clouds Evan Dicken gives us a protagonist well out of her depth but determined to see the job through to the end and, if she can manage it without being caught, find and chart the blank spot found on a set of ancient maps. Then sticks her with two other scholars and sends the lot of them off on a quest for the truth that will settle things without more bloodshed, despite betrayal dogging their steps all the way.
I really do enjoy the character work here. Isami is desperately trying to do her job despite it seeming more and more impossible. Trying to use the skills she has learned as an apprentice cartographer to chart various political machinations as well as a literal map. Ikoma Shinzō is a Lion’s Lion, a proud and dedicated, ready to deal with being embarrassed if it serves his mission, but also ready to leap into a fight as soon as he feels justified. As a contrast, Bayushi Keisuke is a Scorpion through and through, taking joy in needling the other characters, readily lying to ensure his ambitions, but also ready to work with whomever it takes to see things through. Add in Isami’s bodyguard, Gorobei, who is loyal and ready to protect his master regardless of circumstances, and the reader is left with a solid party of characters who each have their own skills and specialties.
To Chart the Clouds moves quite quickly once Isami is in place as Lord Otomo’s retainer and on her way to Stone Willow Valley. The initial agreements regarding the land and the argued history of it moving surprisingly smoothly until disaster strikes and all characters involved get thrown into a mystery of betrayal and cover-ups. There is very much this feeling of it being a race to stop the Lion and Scorpion clans from breaking the Emperor’s decree and full on going to war. Like personal ambitions and shames must be put aside to keep worse from happening, all while a mysterious saboteur sows distrust among the party.
It plays into that nice back and forth between Shinzō and Keisuke, they do not trust each other and do not want to trust each other, but have to if they want any chance of preventing an absolute bloodbath and restoring their personal honor. Likewise, there is a nice sort of back and forth between political acumen, charting the clouds, and determined scholarship as to what will bring the party that next step along. What serves the Empire and what serves personal ambition, and how far can a common goal take people who are so very different and already on edge? It all blends quite nicely together.
I have nothing bad to say about this book. Dicken does a fantastic job keeping things moving, keeping that sense of looming danger going. That sense that the odds are extremely stacked against these characters. Plus, the action scenes are well written too. I am left delighted by this book as a stand-alone work, while also wanting more of the characters and the greater conflict. To Chart the Clouds more than earns a five out of five.
This book was provided to me through netGalley for honest review. Review was previously posted at https://tympestbooks.wordpress.com/20...
With To Chart the Clouds Evan Dicken gives us a protagonist well out of her depth but determined to see the job through to the end and, if she can manage it without being caught, find and chart the blank spot found on a set of ancient maps. Then sticks her with two other scholars and sends the lot of them off on a quest for the truth that will settle things without more bloodshed, despite betrayal dogging their steps all the way.
I really do enjoy the character work here. Isami is desperately trying to do her job despite it seeming more and more impossible. Trying to use the skills she has learned as an apprentice cartographer to chart various political machinations as well as a literal map. Ikoma Shinzō is a Lion’s Lion, a proud and dedicated, ready to deal with being embarrassed if it serves his mission, but also ready to leap into a fight as soon as he feels justified. As a contrast, Bayushi Keisuke is a Scorpion through and through, taking joy in needling the other characters, readily lying to ensure his ambitions, but also ready to work with whomever it takes to see things through. Add in Isami’s bodyguard, Gorobei, who is loyal and ready to protect his master regardless of circumstances, and the reader is left with a solid party of characters who each have their own skills and specialties.
To Chart the Clouds moves quite quickly once Isami is in place as Lord Otomo’s retainer and on her way to Stone Willow Valley. The initial agreements regarding the land and the argued history of it moving surprisingly smoothly until disaster strikes and all characters involved get thrown into a mystery of betrayal and cover-ups. There is very much this feeling of it being a race to stop the Lion and Scorpion clans from breaking the Emperor’s decree and full on going to war. Like personal ambitions and shames must be put aside to keep worse from happening, all while a mysterious saboteur sows distrust among the party.
It plays into that nice back and forth between Shinzō and Keisuke, they do not trust each other and do not want to trust each other, but have to if they want any chance of preventing an absolute bloodbath and restoring their personal honor. Likewise, there is a nice sort of back and forth between political acumen, charting the clouds, and determined scholarship as to what will bring the party that next step along. What serves the Empire and what serves personal ambition, and how far can a common goal take people who are so very different and already on edge? It all blends quite nicely together.
I have nothing bad to say about this book. Dicken does a fantastic job keeping things moving, keeping that sense of looming danger going. That sense that the odds are extremely stacked against these characters. Plus, the action scenes are well written too. I am left delighted by this book as a stand-alone work, while also wanting more of the characters and the greater conflict. To Chart the Clouds more than earns a five out of five.
This book was provided to me through netGalley for honest review. Review was previously posted at https://tympestbooks.wordpress.com/20...
November 2, 2021
***Received an ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Contains minor spoilers***
Some background: I'm a huge fan of the Legend of the Five Rings (L5R) universe, which can be described as a Japan and other East Asian countries-inspired Game of Thrones with a lot of conspiracy, politics and honorable battle, and where honor is stronger than steel itself. I can wholeheartedly recommend L5R to anyone who has an interest in Asian fantasy settings and/or liked Game of Thrones-style political maneuvering and mysticism. Even more fascinating to know that the L5R was established in the early 90s as a unique competitive card game where the players' decision could formulate the story of the world! I'm also an active player of the tabletop RPG version and the FFG published Living Card Game, and read all the fiction materials from the 5th edition reboot of the RPG timeline, and also read two other novels published by Aconyte. Compared to the old L5R novels in the AEG era, the stories created by the new author team are a huge step-up in quality, thus I had high expectations of To Chart The Clouds as well, and it did not disappoint.
The main character is an aspiring and ambitious cartographer student, Miya Isami, who is very well-versed in her own profession but somewhat naive about the the world around her. She is also not a typical L5R heroine, as she is not from one of the Seven Great Clans of Rokugan, but rather from one of the Imperial Family bloodlines who are supposed to be independent of the power struggles happening in the empire. Despite her hardworking attitude and her knowledge in her field, her naivity becomes a great obstacle in the way of achieving her dreams, but gets a second chance when she is asked to be an emissary to resolve a land related conflict between the Lion clan and the Scorpion clan, which seems an easy task to carry out, but after a disastrous turn of events, the stakes are increased.
The novel feels a coming of age story, and during the story we can see how Isami's personality develops over time. It was good to read that she is not a flawless typical heroine, she sometimes repeats the same mistakes, her idealistic approach backfires just as many times as it helps her in the mission. The main theme of L5R is usually the tension between one's giri (duty to the family, to the Empire, to his/her lord) and one's ninjo (personal desires), and it is present in the novel in a very subtle and elegant way in Isami's story, as her personal ambition of charting a hidden valley and demonstrating that her previous failure was not deserved causes her mission to go on a bad track, and this conflict serves as a key driver of the story. I also liked that not just her, but her Lion and Scorpion companions also struggles with their life: some of them would like to break out of the stereotypes concerning their respective clans, while some of them would like show their value to their lord and for this they are willing to put their honor on stake as well. These conflicts made character interactions interesting and I personally enjoyed these interactions the best in the whole book. Being a supporter of different clans in the L5R games, I had my concerns whether the Lion and Scorpion setting can keep my interest up, but to my own surprise I was really fascinated by the lore bits about them in the book.
And yes, lore bits: I just adore that all the new authors in the L5R reboot (Marie Brennan, Josh Reynolds, David Annandale, Evan Dicken) not just make their compulsory homework but also take the extra mile - the novel is so well-researched, not just with respect to the L5R lore, but also in terms of cartography as a field of profession with all the items described, methods applied and terms used over the novel. It helps a lot with the immersion. The old L5R lacked in this particular area and I believe this was one of the reasons why even the player based did not bother with the novelized fiction after the first book series.
The minor faults of the novel are certain "plot armors" moments, especially towards the end of the book, but I also understand that the story shall be concluded somehow. I liked, though, that the ending of the story is open and hints toward a sequel, and I really hope that it will be the case, and it can be developed to a Miya Isami series, similar to the Daidoji Shin series by Josh Reynolds.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel quite a lot and feel honored that I could read the advance reader copy. Hope it will be enjoyed by not just us L5R fans but also by a wider audience.
Some background: I'm a huge fan of the Legend of the Five Rings (L5R) universe, which can be described as a Japan and other East Asian countries-inspired Game of Thrones with a lot of conspiracy, politics and honorable battle, and where honor is stronger than steel itself. I can wholeheartedly recommend L5R to anyone who has an interest in Asian fantasy settings and/or liked Game of Thrones-style political maneuvering and mysticism. Even more fascinating to know that the L5R was established in the early 90s as a unique competitive card game where the players' decision could formulate the story of the world! I'm also an active player of the tabletop RPG version and the FFG published Living Card Game, and read all the fiction materials from the 5th edition reboot of the RPG timeline, and also read two other novels published by Aconyte. Compared to the old L5R novels in the AEG era, the stories created by the new author team are a huge step-up in quality, thus I had high expectations of To Chart The Clouds as well, and it did not disappoint.
The main character is an aspiring and ambitious cartographer student, Miya Isami, who is very well-versed in her own profession but somewhat naive about the the world around her. She is also not a typical L5R heroine, as she is not from one of the Seven Great Clans of Rokugan, but rather from one of the Imperial Family bloodlines who are supposed to be independent of the power struggles happening in the empire. Despite her hardworking attitude and her knowledge in her field, her naivity becomes a great obstacle in the way of achieving her dreams, but gets a second chance when she is asked to be an emissary to resolve a land related conflict between the Lion clan and the Scorpion clan, which seems an easy task to carry out, but after a disastrous turn of events, the stakes are increased.
The novel feels a coming of age story, and during the story we can see how Isami's personality develops over time. It was good to read that she is not a flawless typical heroine, she sometimes repeats the same mistakes, her idealistic approach backfires just as many times as it helps her in the mission. The main theme of L5R is usually the tension between one's giri (duty to the family, to the Empire, to his/her lord) and one's ninjo (personal desires), and it is present in the novel in a very subtle and elegant way in Isami's story, as her personal ambition of charting a hidden valley and demonstrating that her previous failure was not deserved causes her mission to go on a bad track, and this conflict serves as a key driver of the story. I also liked that not just her, but her Lion and Scorpion companions also struggles with their life: some of them would like to break out of the stereotypes concerning their respective clans, while some of them would like show their value to their lord and for this they are willing to put their honor on stake as well. These conflicts made character interactions interesting and I personally enjoyed these interactions the best in the whole book. Being a supporter of different clans in the L5R games, I had my concerns whether the Lion and Scorpion setting can keep my interest up, but to my own surprise I was really fascinated by the lore bits about them in the book.
And yes, lore bits: I just adore that all the new authors in the L5R reboot (Marie Brennan, Josh Reynolds, David Annandale, Evan Dicken) not just make their compulsory homework but also take the extra mile - the novel is so well-researched, not just with respect to the L5R lore, but also in terms of cartography as a field of profession with all the items described, methods applied and terms used over the novel. It helps a lot with the immersion. The old L5R lacked in this particular area and I believe this was one of the reasons why even the player based did not bother with the novelized fiction after the first book series.
The minor faults of the novel are certain "plot armors" moments, especially towards the end of the book, but I also understand that the story shall be concluded somehow. I liked, though, that the ending of the story is open and hints toward a sequel, and I really hope that it will be the case, and it can be developed to a Miya Isami series, similar to the Daidoji Shin series by Josh Reynolds.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel quite a lot and feel honored that I could read the advance reader copy. Hope it will be enjoyed by not just us L5R fans but also by a wider audience.
March 21, 2022
I have been provided with an advance copy of the new Legend of the Five Rings book To Chart the Clouds by Evan Dicken, published by Aconyte Books, so here is the honest review I promised in exchange for the book.
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first. I have a casual work contact with Asmodee to demonstrate board games for them in stores and at conventions. Asmodee being the parent company of Aconyte the publisher.
I am going to try my best to not let that cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
So let’s crack on with a review then!
What is Legend of the Five Rings
L5R as it’s often known is a fantasy setting for a series of card games and RPGs originally published by AEG, but now taken care of by Fantasy Flight.
It’s set in the empire of Rokugan which is heavily feudal Japan influenced, with a bit of other East Asian influences, like China and Korea thrown in as well.
It’s a fantasy setting with the usual fantasy tropes of goblins and rat men, but also oni and kitsune too.
The Story
Miya Isami is a clerk in the Cartography Ministry in the capital city of Rokugan who has been developing techniques of triangulation to make more accurate maps, maps based on actual measurements, rather than the artistry of the current maps.
But this isn’t welcomed by her traditionalist superiors who deny her the right to become an Imperial Cartographer.
Following this setback she throws herself into her work and comes across some ancient maps of the border of the Lion and Scorpion Clan lands, and sees the glimmer of something not yet discovered. But when another clerk steals her work, she is crestfallen.
Alas her rival meets a sticky end and when an Imperial Treasurer needs someone to contain a brewing conflict in that same region, he turns to her, sending her on a mission to barter peace between the traditional rivals.
So off she sets with a bodyguard in tow, to try and hammer out a compromise between the two clans, and potential get a chance to prove her theories about an undiscovered valley.
Conclusion
I literally consumed this book in three hours, which is normally very difficult for me with my brain damage, I simply could not put this book down.
The concept sounds dull, but its packed full of action, intrigue and mystery, its a fantastically written story and the way Evan has written his characters gives them real meat and deep personalities.
There is also a trans character in the book and the way he is written about is perfect, an acknowledgement that hey this guy is trans, its rare, but perfectly normal, then the next time it comes up is when he is changing clothes and Miya notices his bindings.
That’s exactly what I want to see in these novels, real representation of LGBTQ characters that is genuinely not their entire personality, but instead a normal accepted part of society, its uplifting to read.
The last act does have a bit of deus ex machina about it, but it still works.
But the best part, its left open for a sequel, which is fantastic!
5 out of 5 stars from me!
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first. I have a casual work contact with Asmodee to demonstrate board games for them in stores and at conventions. Asmodee being the parent company of Aconyte the publisher.
I am going to try my best to not let that cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
So let’s crack on with a review then!
What is Legend of the Five Rings
L5R as it’s often known is a fantasy setting for a series of card games and RPGs originally published by AEG, but now taken care of by Fantasy Flight.
It’s set in the empire of Rokugan which is heavily feudal Japan influenced, with a bit of other East Asian influences, like China and Korea thrown in as well.
It’s a fantasy setting with the usual fantasy tropes of goblins and rat men, but also oni and kitsune too.
The Story
Miya Isami is a clerk in the Cartography Ministry in the capital city of Rokugan who has been developing techniques of triangulation to make more accurate maps, maps based on actual measurements, rather than the artistry of the current maps.
But this isn’t welcomed by her traditionalist superiors who deny her the right to become an Imperial Cartographer.
Following this setback she throws herself into her work and comes across some ancient maps of the border of the Lion and Scorpion Clan lands, and sees the glimmer of something not yet discovered. But when another clerk steals her work, she is crestfallen.
Alas her rival meets a sticky end and when an Imperial Treasurer needs someone to contain a brewing conflict in that same region, he turns to her, sending her on a mission to barter peace between the traditional rivals.
So off she sets with a bodyguard in tow, to try and hammer out a compromise between the two clans, and potential get a chance to prove her theories about an undiscovered valley.
Conclusion
I literally consumed this book in three hours, which is normally very difficult for me with my brain damage, I simply could not put this book down.
The concept sounds dull, but its packed full of action, intrigue and mystery, its a fantastically written story and the way Evan has written his characters gives them real meat and deep personalities.
There is also a trans character in the book and the way he is written about is perfect, an acknowledgement that hey this guy is trans, its rare, but perfectly normal, then the next time it comes up is when he is changing clothes and Miya notices his bindings.
That’s exactly what I want to see in these novels, real representation of LGBTQ characters that is genuinely not their entire personality, but instead a normal accepted part of society, its uplifting to read.
The last act does have a bit of deus ex machina about it, but it still works.
But the best part, its left open for a sequel, which is fantastic!
5 out of 5 stars from me!
December 1, 2021
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Aconyte Books for an advanced copy of this new fantasy and gaming book.
Writing a novelization about a game system can be difficult. How do you write a story that can speak to both those familiar with in the game, in this case Legend of the Far Rings gaming system, and those unfamiliar with the same game but want to know more or win a few ARC like I did. Evan Dicken in his book To Chart the Clouds: A Legend of the Five Rings Novel has a very simple solution to this problem. Write a great story, with interesting characters and a plot that never bogs down. And so he has.
The book's setting is familiar and yet different, a cliche I know, but it works. A medieval Japan, but controlled more by clans who combat each other on the battlefield, among the shadows and in the imperial court, scheming, warring and plotting to gain power wherever and whenever they can. There is no info dumping of life in this new land, it unfolds as the story is told, and a reader is never lost, or confused.
The characters are well developed and make the reader want to know more about them, the clans they are a part of and the world they inhabit. For this reason I hope there are more books planned for this series. Especially featuring the main character Miya Isami, a woman whose attempt to become a member of the Imperial Cartographic Bureau is blocked first by her offending those in power, and by a supposed friend whose theft of her work, leads to his promotion, and accidental death. Miya finds herself a piece in a game to stop two rival clans from fighting over a piece of valuable territory, by a benefactor who might have secrets of his own. High jinks ensue. I don't want to ruin anything for the reader.
The story is fast paced, and very smart, with Miya using her brain far more than brawn which is refreshing. There is plenty of action, but also lots of discussions of archives and the key to the story is cartography which can be pretty suspenseful when done right, and Mr Dicken does so. I enjoyed this book, and want to read more in this series, and maybe even play a game or two. And also track down more works by Mr. Dicken, as I can't wait to read more by him.
Writing a novelization about a game system can be difficult. How do you write a story that can speak to both those familiar with in the game, in this case Legend of the Far Rings gaming system, and those unfamiliar with the same game but want to know more or win a few ARC like I did. Evan Dicken in his book To Chart the Clouds: A Legend of the Five Rings Novel has a very simple solution to this problem. Write a great story, with interesting characters and a plot that never bogs down. And so he has.
The book's setting is familiar and yet different, a cliche I know, but it works. A medieval Japan, but controlled more by clans who combat each other on the battlefield, among the shadows and in the imperial court, scheming, warring and plotting to gain power wherever and whenever they can. There is no info dumping of life in this new land, it unfolds as the story is told, and a reader is never lost, or confused.
The characters are well developed and make the reader want to know more about them, the clans they are a part of and the world they inhabit. For this reason I hope there are more books planned for this series. Especially featuring the main character Miya Isami, a woman whose attempt to become a member of the Imperial Cartographic Bureau is blocked first by her offending those in power, and by a supposed friend whose theft of her work, leads to his promotion, and accidental death. Miya finds herself a piece in a game to stop two rival clans from fighting over a piece of valuable territory, by a benefactor who might have secrets of his own. High jinks ensue. I don't want to ruin anything for the reader.
The story is fast paced, and very smart, with Miya using her brain far more than brawn which is refreshing. There is plenty of action, but also lots of discussions of archives and the key to the story is cartography which can be pretty suspenseful when done right, and Mr Dicken does so. I enjoyed this book, and want to read more in this series, and maybe even play a game or two. And also track down more works by Mr. Dicken, as I can't wait to read more by him.
November 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It’s set in the world of Legend of the Five Rings which is a gaming universe that I had never heard of. That didn’t detract at all from my enjoyment of the book. The main character is Miya Isami, a minor noble who desperately wants to be a cartographer. Her evaluation goes disastrously wrong and she is then betrayed by a fellow student who steals her work. Her desperation leads her to accept a mission from a high ranking noble. The mission might also prove her theories about a missing valley so she accepts it despite being advised not to by her mentor.
The story that follows is one of exploration both of the physical world but also of Miya’s character as she works out who she can trust and who is working against her. I loved the world building and the characters, all of whom were totally believable. The story is set in a fantasy Japanese based culture and I really enjoyed the political intrigue in the story as the clans each fight for their own interests. There is plenty of action but the story is quite gently paced which gives plenty of room for character development which I loved. Miya is a really likeable protagonist and I hope that we see more of her in future books.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Aconyte books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story that follows is one of exploration both of the physical world but also of Miya’s character as she works out who she can trust and who is working against her. I loved the world building and the characters, all of whom were totally believable. The story is set in a fantasy Japanese based culture and I really enjoyed the political intrigue in the story as the clans each fight for their own interests. There is plenty of action but the story is quite gently paced which gives plenty of room for character development which I loved. Miya is a really likeable protagonist and I hope that we see more of her in future books.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Aconyte books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2024
Normally, this would have been a 3/5, because this is a competently written novel (bar some of the author's ignorance of the source material), with a likable protagonist, and an intriguing plot, but it's just a bit too by the numbers, with predictable twists, and it takes too long to get to the interesting bits. Characters lack nuance that would flesh them out more. The resolution and the ending are quite sudden and abrupt, and things are wrapped up too quickly, not allowing the reader to bask in the protagonist's success.
I am docking that one point to 2/5 for token gay/trans characters whose sexual orientation/gender identity contribute absolutely nothing to the novel. It's actually laughable how forced and jarring it is when the author decides to suddenly dedicate a paragraph (twice) to pointing out how a character is transgender and then just moves on with the plot. I actually had to stop and reread that passage a few times - it clashed that badly with surrounding text and took me out of immersion. Remove that paragraph and absolutely nothing changes. Completely unnecessary. This is a fantasy world, keep real-world hot-topic issues out of it.
I am docking that one point to 2/5 for token gay/trans characters whose sexual orientation/gender identity contribute absolutely nothing to the novel. It's actually laughable how forced and jarring it is when the author decides to suddenly dedicate a paragraph (twice) to pointing out how a character is transgender and then just moves on with the plot. I actually had to stop and reread that passage a few times - it clashed that badly with surrounding text and took me out of immersion. Remove that paragraph and absolutely nothing changes. Completely unnecessary. This is a fantasy world, keep real-world hot-topic issues out of it.
January 11, 2022
For fans of Japanese medieval fiction, this book is for you. It takes place in the empire of Dicken’s “Legend of the Five Rings” series. The story follows an unlikely heroine and her cobbled-together band of adventurers as she seeks to solve a mystery in a novel way.
I liked the character development Dicken gave us, as I came to like them…even the villains. He used ancient Japanese societal norms to twist the plot and simultaneously educate the reader. I feel a little more educated after having read this book.
Four stars for this one, and a desire to read the other tales in the series. My gratitude to #Aconyte via #Netgalley.
I liked the character development Dicken gave us, as I came to like them…even the villains. He used ancient Japanese societal norms to twist the plot and simultaneously educate the reader. I feel a little more educated after having read this book.
Four stars for this one, and a desire to read the other tales in the series. My gratitude to #Aconyte via #Netgalley.
February 27, 2025
I really loved following Isami on this journey and seeing her fight to keep her principles afloat in an often cold and unforgiving world. The prism of cartography and historical records adds a lot to this book - it's always fun when typical 'pen-pushers' get thrown into wild adventures along with the warriors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2021
Somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars.
Great thanks to NetGalley and Mr. Evan Dicken and his publishing team for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Adventure. A grueling journey. New found friends along the way.We follow Miya Isami through her journey to chart unknown lands.
I enjoyed this! The story had a few twists that threw me off. I loved the watching the dynamic shift between Isami and her new friends. I read this with no previous knowledge of the Legend of the Five Rings and at times had some difficulty keeping up with the lore. Over all this was a really solid read!
Great thanks to NetGalley and Mr. Evan Dicken and his publishing team for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Adventure. A grueling journey. New found friends along the way.We follow Miya Isami through her journey to chart unknown lands.
I enjoyed this! The story had a few twists that threw me off. I loved the watching the dynamic shift between Isami and her new friends. I read this with no previous knowledge of the Legend of the Five Rings and at times had some difficulty keeping up with the lore. Over all this was a really solid read!
December 8, 2021
Having no knowledge of the game or prior books, and not reading much Fantasy, this was a risky title for me. But I liked it overall, and I'm confident it will find an audience of fans. Dicken is an experience author and writes well.
Thanks very much for the free review copy!!
Thanks very much for the free review copy!!
April 11, 2022
Solid read
Book is well written and spotlights a clan we don't often see represented. Moved a little fast for my tastes and could have used more character development in certain places, but hopefully this isn't the last time we read about the imperial cartographer!
Book is well written and spotlights a clan we don't often see represented. Moved a little fast for my tastes and could have used more character development in certain places, but hopefully this isn't the last time we read about the imperial cartographer!
May 28, 2024
Good story with an Agenda
Fun and novel take on a humble main character trying to keep the peace between two warring clans. As with other recent L5R novels this has a modern take on gender some readers won’t enjoy.
Fun and novel take on a humble main character trying to keep the peace between two warring clans. As with other recent L5R novels this has a modern take on gender some readers won’t enjoy.
October 23, 2025
ARC Copy...for someone who only has a slight knowledge of the Five Rings world (but enough to know Lion is the proud-warrior clan and Scorpion are the "untrustworthy" + spy clan), I didn't feel lost in the narrative's world and following a non-aligned map-maker (not a warrior) surveying the whole area and ensuing conflict seems like an appropriate approach to exploring the world.
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