Customer Reviews

Shike: Time of the Dragons

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The story takes place before, under and after Kublai Khan's attempt to invade Japan, the time when the samurais' importance grew at the expense of the nobility. In focus we find the warrior monk Jebu, who serves the Muramoto samurais and who loves lady Taniko of the Takashi, Muratomos' enemies. Forced into exile the Muratomo get involved in the mongolian army's invasion of China. After their return to Japan Jebu later on plays a crucial part in the defence against Kublai's fleet. But this is of lesser importance; what is most important is his relation with lady Taniko, who is married away with an old nobility. The story takes many turns and there is a lot of tragedy in it, as the different characters are often forced to endure great ordeals and miseries -but also victories. The book also describes the old Ninja order (not the black-clad assassins you see on TV) that was dissolved in the 13th century; their monestaries, training and philosophy. A diversed book indeed, and one that I recommend with warmth.

Jebu, warrior monk, fated to fall in love at 17. In between the brief encounters he has with his love. He serves one branch of opposing samurai clans, the Takashi. As it serves his his master he is told to then serve the Muratomo. The enmity heats up. He and Muratomo No Yukio must flee the sacred islands of Japan. The story then takes you to china. First they fight mongols then they serve them. This book is great, it takes you on an adventure. It weave's it's story with various characters and just sucks you in.