I Read The Sword of Kaigen as part of an online fantasy book club. It’s a book that I wouldn’t have picked up on my own, but I’m grateful I was encouraged to read it.
It’s also a book that when I finished it, my first thought were how do I even write a review for what I just experienced and what can I share without spoiling the experience for other readers.
This is a Japanese-inspired Fantasy book with elemental magic (air, water, & earth). The magic was unique and entertaining, especially when used in battle. There’s a warrior class of people that includes regular hand-to-hand combat training and fighting.
I originally thought I would listen to the story on audio, but I struggled to keep track of the characters with Japanese names and some of the fantasy terms in the beginning so I ordered a paperback copy and referenced it for the first 15 chapters. The book includes a glossary that was so valuable and I think should be mandatory for all fantasy books! It enhanced the story.
The culture is built on tradition and obedience and one I wasn’t super familiar with, nor at times did I agree with, but I learned a lot more about it.
It was a story of loyalty, courage, love, and loss. Misaki (the mother) was a woman with a warrior heart struggling to fit her role as mother and caregiver in her home. I loved how fearless she became when it came time to protect her family. The duel (chapter 27) was my favorite!
This is a story I’ve thought about long after finishing it and would definitely recommend!
You will find war, violence, and mention of rape.
Audio narrator did a fantastic job!