Every now and then a novel appears, completely unlike anything that has appeared before. Across the Nightingale Floor is such a work-a magical creation of a world beyond time. Set in an imaginary, ancient Japanese society dominated by warring clans, Across the Nightingale Floor is a story of a boy who is suddenly plucked from his life in a remote and peaceful village to find himself a pawn in a political scheme, filled with treacherous warlords, rivalry-and the intensity of first love. In a culture ruled by codes of honor and formal rituals, Takeo must look inside himself to discover the powers that will enable him to fulfill his destiny. A work of transcendent storytelling with an appeal that crosses genres, genders, and generations, Across the Nightingale Floor is a rich and brilliantly constructed tale, mythic in its themes and epic in its vision. It is poised to become the most captivating novel of the year.
This is the first in a 5-book series that is set in a fantasy version of ancient Japan. The main character is from a ninjaish tribe, and he's adopted by a lord for political intriguey reasons.
It doesn't really break any new ground (especially after all the RPGs I've played where orphaned boys grow up to have important destinies), but it was a quick and fun read. It feels like a stand-alone book (no cliffhanger), but I'm looking forward to seeing where the next few books take the characters.
Reading updates
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Started reading
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10 May, 2008:
Finished reading
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10 May, 2008:
Reviewed