Three Oaths

The Daidoji Shin Mysteries #4

by Joshua Reynolds

Legend of the Five Rings' debonair samurai detective Daidoji Shin returns to solve the fresh mystery of a surprise resurrection

When a long-lost member of the Lion Clan, Itagawa Mosu, seemingly returns from the dead to claim the hand of his betrothed, it’s up to Daidoji Shin to determine the truth of this miraculous reappearance. The Lion reluctantly permit Shin’s involvement, even if they have to let him plan the wedding as part of his investigation... Shin must navigate dangerous political waters to discover if Mosu really is the man he claims to be, or is he a cleverly disguised imposter? It will take all of Shin’s charm, wit, and flair to find out before the wedding begins. And the guests are already starting to arrive.

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery

352 pages, ebook

Published July 4, 2023

About the author

Josh Reynolds’ work has previously appeared in such anthologies as Historical Lovecraft from Innsmouth Free Press and Horror for the Holidays from Miskatonic River Press, and his novel, Knight of the Blazing Sun, is currently available from Black Library. He can be found at: http://joshuamreynolds.wordpress.com

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

Reviews

[Elena Linville-Abdo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stars: 4.5 out of 5.

About a quarter of the book in, I realized that this wasn't the first book in this series, because the characters referred to events that had happened in previous books. This however didn't diminish my enjoyment of the story. I also must note that I didn't know that the Legend of the Five Rings was a table top RPG. Needless to say, I never played it, nor was I familiar with the lore and world. This, however, didn't hinder my enjoyment of this story. So I can affirm that this book can be read as a standalone.

The world depicted in this book has some strong similarities with medieval Japan (which I am all in for, since I love Japanese culture and history). It is, however, slightly more tolerant on some issues than its historical counterpart. For example, women can hold positions of power in the government (one of the characters is a general in her household), and it seems like same sex relationships aren't frowned upon. 

I loved Shin and his sidekicks that he seems to accumulate with ease by turning criminals into allies and by knowing exactly how to get the best use of someone by allowing them the dignity of being themselves. Shin is smart, very curious, and with a mind honed to solve complex puzzles. He is definitely wasted as a mere representative of the Merchant Guild. He is also pretty fearless, which gets him in trouble more often than not, to the consternation of his bodyguard. I loved her too. She is Shin's exact opposite - impatient, a stickler for rules, and straightforward and unbending. Where Shin can be deceitful with words and actions to get results, she prefers to have her katana speak for her. Amazingly enough, they work pretty well together. 

The main intrigue is also pretty interesting. Is Mosu an imposter or not? And if he is, why is everyone happy to pretend that he is not and proceed with the wedding like nothing happened? The more Shin digs into this sordid affair, the bigger a conspiracy he discovers. From what I can see, it even ties to some of the events that happened in previous books. Somebody is working to bring the demise of the Lyon Clan. Surreptitiously and from the shadows, using others to weaken their enemy. And that particular storyline isn't resolved by the end of the book either.

I will definitely pick up the next book in the series, because now I am invested. I want to know who the mastermind behind all this is. I will also definitely pick up the previous three books about Daidoji Shin, because he is such a likeable character, and I want to know what other mysteries he solved and how he came to have some of the servants he has at his service, like the smuggler Lun. And now I am also interested in checking out other novels set in the Legend of the Five Rings universe, because that world is fascinating. 

PS: I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

If you liked this review, check out my blog.

[eyes.2c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strange requests!

Ah! My favorite sleuth from the world of the Five Rings, in the realm of Rokugan—Daidoji Shin, nobleman from the House of Cranes, sent by his house to the City of the Rich Frog to oversee the Daidoji Trading Council merchants. He’s a witty, languid courtier given to all sorts of ne’er do well pursuits; theatre, music, and deplorably ready to embroil himself in various investigative pursuits.
That his personae hides a laser sharpe mind and keen intelligence that’s bored easily has him moving from one challenge to another, accompanied by a varied group of individuals, from his much put upon samurai, Kasami, a rather seedy character Kitano, to river pirates. Each time he moves himself to undertake an action he somehow comes out on top. That’s not by accident.
Amusing and yet driven, this time Shin’s asked by Lady Akodo Minami, commander of the Lion Garrison, to investigate the legitimacy of a groom, Itagawa Mosu, before an important dynastic wedding between clans. (Politics and empire rules are involved!) The groom had disappeared feared dead, but miraculously returned. A matter of pirates apparently. The problem is the groom’s behavior has changed, for the better. Another mystery! Shin accepts Minami’s request.
Putting together some of his past investigations Shin is left wondering aloud to Minami if there’s, “An unseen hand, moving unknowing pieces on a board.” Mmm!
Complex and fascinating I was once more drawn into the exploits of the exceptional Shin, who just might be being set up to have his wings clipped.
Another intriguing read!

An Aconyte ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

[Maijie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three Oaths was a delightful read.

This being my introduction to Daidoji Shin, the writer did a wonderful job in endearing me to the character. Far from being the perfect character, Daidoji Shin was fleshed out and though reading the previous book from would definitely help, the writer did a wonderful job of actually being able to provide enough information and backstory to keep the reader up to speed.

I enjoyed the portrayal of each clan and the power dynamics between them. The story was nicely paced and the mystery was definitely interesting. It was wonderful to be swept away instantly by the plot and the characters.

This story reminded me of my old love for Legend Of The Five Rings. It has enough depth and complexity to keep ones interest but not be overly convoluted that it confuses the reader needlessly.

I recommend giving this book a read.

4.5 stars out of 5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Aconyte Books and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.

[Kara Dennison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good tie-in enables a reader to immerse themselves in the story without any foreknowledge of the original setting or property. A great tie-in is so engaging that it draws new readers to said setting or property before the story has run its course. There's a reason Josh Reynolds has so many tie-in books to his name: he has mastered this art.

To become absolutely enamored of Daidoji Shin—the upper-class detective who has become the star of his own Legend of the Five Rings mystery series—one need not know anything about Rokugan, its major and minor clans, or its class system. One will learn what it means to be of the Crane or Lion or Crab, who their high-ranking families are, and what they think of each other. In its way, Daidoji Shin's stories are as much Rokugan primers as they are rollicking detective stories.


Over the course of his adventures, Shin has gone from irresponsible gambler to gentleman detective to theater owner. In Three Oaths, the latest in the series, he takes on another role: wedding planner. Well, wedding planner and detective. Because this wedding is especially unique... in that the groom is dead.

Itagawa Mosu, by all accounts, should be dead. And yet he has returned to the Lion Clan to claim his betrothed. This is, of course, assuming that the man who has returned actually is Itagawa Mosu. Those around him have their doubts. To get close to the couple, Shin takes it upon himself to plan their wedding. Cranes are the courtliest of the classes, of course; so he'll make sure everything is done in style.

Between hiring performers and picking the right decorative banners, Shin delves into a deep, dark conspiracy: pirates, matchmakers, and secrets abound. And the wedding is just around the corner. Who will really be walking up to the altar, and what will it mean for the clan?

Fans of the works of P.G. Wodehouse will feel right at home in the pages of any Daidoji Shin book. His escapades are unabashedly Jeeves & Wooster-inspired, and that's even truer in the closing pages of There Oaths. This book, more so than the previous, is fraught with prying relatives, country homes, and unexpected engagements. That said, Shin is no intellectual slouch. Behind his fluttering fan hides a keen mind. The reader is privy to his greatest secret: that he's quite, quite dangerous to the wrong people.

By now, it goes without saying that a Daidoji Shin story will be a fantastic time for any reader—equal parts drawing room comedy and tense murder mystery. But Three Oaths is especially strong. As Shin's fictional reputation grows, so do the merits of the books that house him. Here's hoping this dashing detective won't be hanging up his fan anytime soon.

[Kamila Komisarek · Rating 4 out of 5]

„Three Oath” is the fourth instalment of A Daidoji Shin Mystery series. I adore the protagonist in this series, and I always looking forward to getting back and see new adventures of a clever Crane.
This time, Shin’s new hobby of solving complicated cases brings him literally into the Lions’ den. He is approached by his acquaintance Akodo Minami (who you might know from previous books) and asked to investigate a long-lost member of the Lion Clan, Itagawa Mosu, who miraculously came back from the dead just in time to marry Minami’s cousin. Or did he? Is it the matchmaker's chosen man or an opportunistic impostor? To find the truth, Shin takes the role of the wedding planner.
For those unfamiliar with Legend of the Five Rings lore, Lions and Cranes are like fire and water. They hold centuries of grudges and hostilities and would rather commit seppuku than admit that their counterpart brings any value to the Rokugan. Alas, knowing all that does not stop Shin from waltzing boldly into Lion’s district, where everyone is just one step from killing him to keep traditional clan relations.
On the topic of the world, what I like about this series the most is that even though it’s based on medieval Japan, using a lot of historical traditions based on the culture, it also embraces equality and diversity. So, we have a lot of women holding positions of power, like generals and clan leaders, and same-sex marriages are something normal. It’s not historically accurate, but since we are in a fantasy genre, it’s good to see authors painting the world as it should be, disregarding social issues with unfairness and discrimination we face every day in the real world.
Getting back to the story itself, it’s very entertaining. Shin is, as usual, his most charming and clever self, trying to carefully navigate the hostile territory and find the truth. It is also good to see that even though most Lions are highly suspicious of him, some people have met him before, and those few held enough social sway to ensure no one murders him right away. That shows that even the most stubborn can be persuaded and overcome years of prejudices.
What I also like about Shin as a character, and what particularly shines in this book, is that with all the flippant attitude he shows to the world, he cares for people and their lives, even if they are strangers to him. While slowly putting the whole story together, he was cautious presenting it so it didn’t harm those involved more than necessary.
“Three Oaths” is also the first book in the series where the most significant mystery starts to show. We get more and more clues that all the small cases that Shin was working on in the past books are connected, and there is someone out there who is orchestrating everything. And quite possibly, they might finally get fed up with Shin’s constant involvement in interrupting their grand schemes. That promises a lot more excitement for future books. Also, the ending brings one more development in Shin’s personal life that hugely impacts how the story goes.
I’m very excited to continue the series and see how Shin gets out of the newest conundrum he landed himself in at the end of this book.

[Siobhain · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review Three Oaths by Josh Reynolds

Introduction
I was given an ARC to review for by Aconyte Books & Netgalley. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #LegendoftheFiveRingsThreeOaths #LegendoftheFiveRings #JoshReynolds #NetGalley #ThreeOaths #ARCBookReview #ARCReview #AconyteBooks #BookReview #gifted #ad

Review
I was so excited when I saw that another Daidoji Shin mystery was coming out! I have adored each one to date and have to say I cannot get enough of the debonair Crane clan detective. Josh Reynolds way of writing Shin is honestly a delight. It almost feels like you are along side Shin on his escapades much like the long suffering Kasami. While the mystery of Three Oaths is perhaps not has in-depth as previous entries it is still entertaining and gives us more of Shin’s wit and charm. I feel that this one is more about the journey than the destination and honestly I adored it.

Shin is tasked with trying to determine the truth behind the apparent miraculous reappearance of Lion Clan member, Itagawa Mosu, who has seemingly returned from the dead to claim the hand of his betrothed. Under the guise of the wedding planner the Lion clan reluctantly allow Shin’s involvement to solve the case. The crane detective has to navigate dangerous political waters to try and discover is Mosu really is the man he claims to be or merely a cleverly disguised imposter. Shin will have to utilise all his wit, charm and flair to find out the truth before the wedding begins and as guests begin to arrive.

Before I go further into the review I feel I need to stress that Reynolds once again showcases not only his understanding of the Rokugan world but also his skills at being able to take that basis and make it his own. While this is indeed a tie-in it could easily be picked up and enjoyed by someone with no prior knowledge of Legend of the Five Rings. Reynolds packs the narrative with enough information without it feeling forced or clunky that you get a good understanding of what it means to be a Crane, a Lion, a crab or any of the other numerous clans that inhabit this world. In short if someone enjoys crime mysterious with a dash of historical fantasy or has a interest in feudal Japan then they can and I assure you will enjoy this. On the other hand those who are seasoned with the game or media tied to Legend of the Five Rings will not get a flat world or just characters and places they know. Reynolds uses, of course, the vast world and knowledge that makes up the franchise but he then takes it and makes it his own. A vast and imaginative landscape that may be known by some but becomes populated with fleshed out characters you will come to love.

As I already said the mystery in this one was not so much addicting as the journey itself. I adored seeing how the Lion clan reacted to Shin not only as a Crane but as someone whose renown as a oftentimes nosy detective preceded him. I also adored that Kasami got her own mission, although I love her dearly and the banter she and Shin have it was lovely to see her helping in such a direct way this time. I also was impressed with how much we got to know and learn of the rather large cast of characters all of whom Reynolds fleshes out and gives their own voice.

Tied to the characters is the writing itself. Reynolds is wonderful at telling a story and depositing enough information that you understand the wider picture without dumping a lot of information and breaking immersion. We learn as we go, alongside Shin, and for me I prefer this to us knowing more than the characters themselves. The style of writing is also engaging mixing the genres of comedy and charm with mystery and political intrigue in a balanced and enjoyable way. What else could you expect from Shin?

In short I adored this installment in the Shin Mysteries and do hope we have more in the future. Like I have said previously this one is sure to be a hit with fans of the game and those who have never heard of it alike.

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[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mystery plagues Lion clan samurai Akodo Minami. Her cousin’s husband to be has returned, seemingly from the dead and seemingly as a completely changed man. One who fits everything a Lion should be. And yet, one who may be a danger to her cousin and the family as a whole. Regrettably, the only one she knows who might be able to reveal if this Itagawa Mosu is the real one, the only person she knows with a habit of digging into mysteries where they might not be wanted, is a Crane. Daidoji Shin, hardly one to let a friend down and curious about Lion weddings besides, readily agrees to look into the matter. Throwing himself into political riptides and wedding planning with equal flare. Time is short for our peerless detective though, he needs to solve this mystery before the wedding begins and guests are already arriving.

Coming back for a fourth Daidoji Shin novel, Josh Reynolds once again knocks it out of the park with Three Oaths. This one has a mystery that feels much more obvious than previous entries while still remaining quite fun and, perhaps more importantly, providing a vehicle for what feels like quite a lot of build for future turns in the greater plot. Plus, it feels like it dug into some nifty things with the various characters, which I am always a fan of.

And that is really a thing that fascinates me with this one. I would have missed the importance of Minami referring to Shin by his given name only, that being a sign that Minami is acknowledging that she considers them friends. Better yet, despite this, she is just as acerbic and sharp with him as she has been for the rest of the series despite being willing to ask Shin for serious help. And further, that Shin is himself not only willing to trust her with his safety in the Lion fortress, but that he trusts her to the point of being comfortable sending Kasami, his extremely loyal bodyguard, away on a mission of her own related to the mystery of Mosu’s resurrection. And then the bits that spin out from that. Kasami being conflicted by being sent away by not just the Crane Lord she is supposed to protect, but Shin who should know how duty bound she is. The Crane Clan auditor finally gets some character beats beyond annoying and possibly antagonistic family bureaucrat. It is a lot of fun.

As to the mystery, this is one where the answer to the original question is less important than the reasons behind everything. The questions of why and who benefits and how many gambits are really going here are deftly woven together. Reynolds tends to be good with that sort of interplay of motives and character intrigues, Three Oaths is no exception to that. So, while the mystery itself is fairly straightforward, the slow breakdown of Shin poking about for answers while setting up the wedding in a completely unfamiliar family culture is an absolute delight.

And I will absolutely say that this one makes me want to see more of the other major Clans from Shin’s perspective. Seeing how the various Lion nobles and servants reacted to him, both as a detective known for sticking his nose in things as well as as a Crane, was fantastic.

That is sort of where I find myself with Three Oaths. The mystery is not really one I found myself chewing on, but it was not the main source of intrigue to begin with. Reynolds did a fantastic job with that and with juggling a fairly large cast of new and returning characters, multiple threads of motives and desires, and the need to weave in the threads for future Daidoji Shin stories. And, as usual, I absolutely do not want to wait for the next one and will be reading it as soon as possible. This one gets a five out of five from me. The play of honor and responsibility and the willingness to do something dishonorable to accomplish a goal, it was all delicious.

Book was provided to me through netGalley for honest review. Review was previously posted at https://tympestbooks.wordpress.com/20...

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher Aconyte Books for an advance copy of the latest mystery featuring the samurai detective Daidoji Shin set in the A Legend of Five Rings universe.

Most books that are written for fans of intellectual properties, movies, roleplaying, computer games tend not to deviate from the source material. Fans usually don't want anything different, they want dungeons, dragons, TIE Fighters, violence and the familiar, hence reading books set in universes of intellectual properties. Characters might have difficulties, but none of them ever grow, ancillary characters are shed to build tension, never really given a chance to grow or change. And the whole book basically resets at the end. Josh Reynolds writer of the Daidoji Shin mysteries set in the universe of the game A Legend of the Five Rings, ignores all this and makes a series that stands on its own as one of the best fantasy series out there. Reynolds mixes good mysteries, strong characters, politics, humor, and action creating a series that really stands out. Three Oaths: A Legend of the Five Rings Novel is the fourth book featuring Shin a courier in a town controlled by strong clans, who is constantly finding mysteries, mysteries that all seem to point to one powerful force behind the scenes manipulating everything.

Shin is watching a sumo match when a friend approaches him with a conundrum. Her cousin is to be married to a man who was declared dead, slain by pirates, but somehow has returned to the clan. Shin's friend thinks there is something different about the man, whose facial injuries make him wear a mask at all times. Shin is interested, and wanting to help a friend, and to see into the powerful Lion Clan where the wedding is to take place is also a draw. Shin goes undercover as a wedding planner, his Clan being Crane is known for their design, party planning, gossip and how to handle the powerful. Shin also sends his trusted bodyguard to investigate these pirates, and how the groom-to-be might have escaped. The more Shin questions the more Shin is sure that something is going on, something bigger than an arranged wedding. And as a lone Crane among lions, Shin might be in danger, and not just for his wedding planning.

Another great story from Reynolds about a character who is growing in more ways than one. Shin started as a wastrel in the first book, with potential, and he is slowly finding it. Buying a theater, having friends, helping others. Shin is a fantastic character and even if there wasn't a mystery I would still enjoy reading this series. Reynolds understands that a good mystery series needs a good supporting cast, and Reynolds supplies this. Contacts, spies, bodyguards, merchants, new friends, old comrades. All balance well, all are used, and help support the main character. The writing is very good, the mystery revels slowly, and foreshadows future events to bring readers back. A set in a game world that is recognizable, and fits with the universe.

One of my favortire series, and one of my favorite authors. Arkham, zombies, Warhammering, Josh Reynolds really can do it all. The stories are well written, funny and full of easter eggs for close readers. They don't have to be read in order, but one would be missing out.

[Susanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three Oaths is the fourth Daidoji Shin mystery set in the Legend of Five Rings game world. It’s an Asia inspired historical world where same sex marriages are allowed and women can become army generals, samurais, and sumo wrestlers. Like with the earlier books, knowledge of the game isn’t at all necessary, as the game doesn’t play any role in the series. There is some continuity between the books, and the characters and settings will be more interesting if one has read the earlier books, but it’s not entirely necessary.

The powerful Lion clan in the City of the Rich Frog is preparing for a wedding. But Lady Minami (whom we met in the first book) believes the groom isn’t who he claims to be, and she asks Shin, the no-good trade envoy of the Crane clan turned theatre owner to investigate. He agrees, on a condition that he’s allowed to plan the wedding too. She’s more than happy to let him.

The mystery reminded me of The Return of Martin Guerre by Natalie Zemon Davies, a true 16th century account of a man convincing the entire family and village of his presumed wife that he was the husband who had abandoned her ten years earlier, only to be thwarted by the return of the real husband. Here, Itagawa Mosu has been taken captive by the pirates, only to return as a broken and altered man to claim his role as the groom to the powerful Akodo family. Some people are happy to believe he is who he claims to be, others are less so.

Shin soon discovers that there is more to the mystery than the true identity of the groom. There is a conspiracy afoot, but by whom and to what end. This and the wedding preparations keep him, his bodyguard Kasami, and manservant Kitano busy. Like before, the solution isn’t so much about justice as it is about compassion and avoiding a clan war.

This was again a slow and meandering mystery where the people Shin encounters are at front. Most of the book is from Shin’s point of view, with some chapters by Kasami and Kitano, but we don’t get the other players’ points of view this time round, which was for the better. Shin and Kasami spent most of the book in different locations, so we were robbed of their banter, but a bodyguard borrowed by Lady Minami proved to be a suitable replacement.

The wedding preparations are easily as diverting as the mystery itself, and on top of it, there’s personal trouble brewing for Shin in the form of the accountant sent by his powerful grandfather. It may be that Shin’s carefree days as a bachelor are over. I’m looking forward to finding out how he wiggles himself out of it this time, or if he is saddled with a wife or a husband. I’m hoping for a handsome Dragon lord myself.

I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Doug Sundseth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A year ago, a Lion ally was promised in marriage to a daughter of the Akodo. Shortly before the wedding was scheduled, he was captured by pirates. Now, the captured man has shown up and the marriage is back on -- and his face was so disfigured during his captivity that he always wears a mask. The Lion general in the City of the Rich Frog has suspicions and calls Daidoji Shin in to investigate.

The investigation, which must be complete before the imminent wedding, discovers a web of intrigue and betrayal. And navigating that web makes for a strong story. And the presence of the Daidoji council's auditor does not make things less complex.

The main characters continue to be compelling. Shin has some facility with weapons, but his primary skill is with politics and intrigue. His devoted bodyguard is a formidable warrior, but can't be present for every situation that Shin puts into. And his disreputable sidekick, who can get into nearly any place, is neither a fighter nor a noble, so can only solve certain problems.

The supporting cast here is quite good, giving us a view of Lion society and mores. And since the Crane are ancient enemies of the Lion, there is extra complication in this case.

The plot and its resolution are both satisfying, and the future challenges implied by this story are interesting.

No book in this series is a great book, but the series is rapidly becoming a great series for me. Recommended.

[Fae k · Rating 4 out of 5]

Josh Reynolds' Legend of the Five Rings book Three Oaths is an intriguing mystery. Reynolds brilliantly combines samurai culture, political manoeuvring, and otherworldly happenings into a gripping story. Daidoji Shin, a charming and brilliant investigator, uncovers the reason behind Itagawa Mosu's homecoming. The author's brilliant descriptions transport readers to Rokugan's rich traditions and complicated social dynamics. Reynolds develops tension on every page, making the story hard to put down. Three Oaths is a must-read.

Josh Reynolds' Three Oaths adds to the Legend of the Five Rings series and showcases his narrative skills and knowledge of Rokugan. This work will please longtime fans and newbies with its fascinating characters, complicated narrative, and flawless cultural fusion. Three Oaths is a riveting read because to Reynolds' storytelling skills.

***A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.***

[Darren K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gota returns, so the book is automatically more enjoyable. For real though, at this point in the series it seems as if the books have definitely found their stride. Shin has developed into a strong character, and his supporting cast are memorable and meaningful to the story.

The plot this time around is one straight out of classic mystery stories. A lost lover returns, horribly scarred, but alive, just in time to see his wedding through. Problem is that not everyone is certain if this man is really the lost fiance, or if a greater conspiracy is at work. The mystery is simpler this time, but in return we get to see the characters develop and the overall story progress, as Shin's responsibilities catch up to him and the puppet masters in the background are hinted at once more.

At some point Shin's story will have to end, but hopefully not too soon, as I'm hoping the story continues on for a few books more yet

[Viking Jam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review: For me, this was one of the best in this series which isn't saying a lot as I liked them all. A kind of reverse Count of Monte Cristo mystery. There is an assumption of identity sans revenge. Again, there are a multitude of suspects to confuse the issue yet there is an artful rendering of linkages between them.

The continued sexual flexibility of everyone runs a little flat for me, as when marriage is discussed there are casual and considered choices between both sexes. Shin is equally flippant with regards to his bisexuality in that he flutters about when a good looking man is around. Ho-hum. This is a consistent theme with all the novels in the series which makes one wonder if the author is not professing his own inclinations or hitching his novel to the current woke post. At least you are not bludgeoned with it.

Rating: 4.6/5

[Joel Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author excels at many things and writing conversations/dialogue is definitely high on the list. The protagonist, Daijoji Shin, engages in a series of verbal duels with a variety of factions in attempting to find out the conspiracy at the heart of an impending marriage--and to find out just who has murdered and is posing as the masked groom.

This is the fourth Shin novel that Reynolds has written and I'm hoping for more. And, just in case, you might be concerned that there are only verbal duels, rest assured that there are some actual duels as well.

On another note, this novel series is based around a game setting. I've never played the game and never read the game materials and I had no trouble understanding the setting and enjoying the book.

[Siu Lum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not realize that this book was a part of a series until after I finished the book. Events in previous books are mentioned in this book but doesn't impact my enjoyment of this volume.

I loved reading about a story taking place in medieval Japan. The intrigue surrounding the identity of the groom, Mosu, was a lot more complex than expected. I picked up the book to continue reading whenever I have a spare moment. I loved Shin and his sidekicks. I love the dynamics between them. It was interesting how everyone knew what part they played and the trust Shin had in his compatriots.

I will find a way to read the first three volumes of the series and will read the next book in this series whenever it comes out.

Thank you NetGalley for the eArc and this is my honest review.

[Ines · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked "Three Oaths" and admit I went in completely blind, very unfamiliar to the world of the Legends of the Five Rings, having not even read the first couple of books from the series at all. I didn't even know it was a proper RPG... And it was still a great read anyway! There were times where I could tell this wasn't exactly a stand alone but there was enough context given for me not to feel like I was missing important pieces of information and I still enjoyed myself tremendously. The characters were well fleshed out and the plot was really fun to follow. I'm going to read the rest of the series for sure, although I'm hopeful there might be more books in the future anyway.

[Lia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks, Netgalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
Amazing novel with so many different and colorful characters. I loved the ancient Asian setting and the perfect mixture of well-developed characters, mystery, suspense, political drama, action and humor makes this book one truly amazing read!

[Oz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a Daidoji Shin book, and I was honestly very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the writing as well as by the charm of the main character - Shin won my heart in, I believe, only a few paragraphs. If more detective characters were sarcastic bisexual courtiers, I would probably read more detective stories.
A surprisingly delightful read.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm liking the setting, the writing, and the overall flow of the series. To those who wish to read the series, books 2-4 do not spoil book 1. They do mention things that happen in book 1 or how Shin know someone. In fact, book 4 refers to a character in book 3 and the latest news regarding that person. The world building is going along nicely.

[En · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good popcorn novel. Generic but fun. The relationships/banters between the characters were my favorite parts. The setting wasn't as fantasy as I thought it would be. It felt more of a historical fiction (in an alternative universe sense).

I enjoyed it enough to finish it in one day. At the same time, nothing stands out as amazing or original. Hence the three stars.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this mix of fantasy and mystery set in the feudal Japan. Well plotted, gripping, and entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

[Victor Sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book of Daidoji Shin and one of the best novels from the original line.

[Maleesha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. I need another one asap, because I need to know how Shin is going to get out the predicament he’s in lol. I hope this continues.

[Krisztian Zajacz · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Received an ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Contains minor spoilers.***

Being a fan of the Daidoji Shin series, any piece of news about an additional book makes me extremely happy and excited. Josh Reynolds never disappointed the readers with this series so far, and he also did not do so with Three Oaths.

Compared to the previous book, The Flower Path, the story this time takes place in a wedding setting, and with a tad bit longer time frame (couple of days). I liked the whole "single bird among the Lion's Den" atmosphere, it was interesting to see how the investigation can evolve in a semi-hostile setting. At some points I felt a bit of a plot armor / RPG Game Master making things right approach for stepping over some hurdles, but it did not push me out of immersion. Actually, it was one of the few recent books I binge-read, because it was so entertaining that I could not put it down.

The identity on the mystery's main character was telegraphed early, but it is true that it is the road what is more important in a mystery novel - and the small twists on the road of uncovering the big question were very enjoyable and surprising.

Overall, this was a read I can recommend to everyone who likes mystery setting in feudal Japan. I do not need to recommend it to fans of The Legend of the Five Rings, because they will read it anyhow :) These novels by Aconyte are the best thing that happened with the L5R IP, and I hope for more in the future.