Book Review – Emperor Of The Eight Islands

by Lian Hearn (Picador) ISBN: 978509812479

Lian Hearn, successful author of the Tales of the Otori series, that sold more than four million copies, has produced a new book. It’s the first of a new series, The Tale of Shikanoko.

Set in medieval Japan, demons, beasts, sorcerers rule the kingdom alongside warriors, priests and warlords. They cast chanting spells and roam in the world of spirits, battlefields and forests.

The story is about a boy who lost his father, his land and his position as a future lord and his quest to get it all back. It has a Game of Thrones feel to it. Filled with suspense, adventure, love and betrayal, it has all the elements of an action-packed story, but I found it hard to relate to the characters. I’m sure fans of this genre will love it.

My concern is that there are too many characters. I had to go back several times to consult the list in front, because the names were confusing and too similar, for example, Lady Tora, Tama and Taro.

Lian Hearn is a pseudonym for best-selling author, Gillian Rubinstein. 

Pauline Vijverberg
3/5

Buy the book here

Posted on: 5th June 2016
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