Across the Nightingale Floor

At 16, Tomasu's tranquil existence in a remote Japanese mountain village comes to a violent end as his family and friends are slaughtered by ferocious clan warriors. Tomasu escapes, in the process earning the bitter enmity of the clan's lord and losing the power of speech. His existence is totally transformed as he becomes the apprentice of his mysterious rescuer. Labyrinthine clan intrigues, dazzling martial arts, rigid codes of honour and high romance form the backdrop of the rest of this fantastic narrative, which will be enjoyed equally by teenagers and adults. The complex social structure is compellingly portrayed, as is the beautiful country itself. Tomasu's story is interwoven with that of Kaede, a young noblewoman held hostage by the same warlike clan that destroyed his village. At their first meeting, they become fascinated with each other, and their love grows despite serious obstacles in its path. Both youngsters and their protectors are caught up in the struggles for clan supremacy as they strive to reconcile their own desires with their obligations in this mythical feudal society. At the end of the story some mysteries remain tantalizingly confusing while others are resolved in unexpected ways. Readers will be clamouring for a sequel as soon as they have turned the last page. Ages 12+ (Kirkus UK)