Lord of the Darkwood

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What to expect

Against a background of wild forest, elegant castles, hidden temples and savage battlefields, the adventure that began with Emperor of the Eight Islands draws to its thrilling conclusion in Lord of the Darkwood, the second instalment of Lian Hearn's the Tale of Shikanoko.

The rightful emperor is lost. Shikanoko is condemned to live, half-man and half-deer, an outlaw in the Darkwood. Yet the mighty lords who now rule the Eight Islands are prey to suspicion and illness, and drought and famine choke the realm. Only Shikanoko can bring healing, by restoring the preordained ruler to the Lotus Throne. And only one person can bring him back from the Darkwood . . .

Critics Review

  • A thrilling tale of love, violence, loyalty and betrayal

    Guardian on 'Tales of the Otori'
  • The plot is gripping and the writing is beautiful, packed with authentic, atmospheric detail

    Daily Mail on 'Tales of the Otori'
  • The writing is extraordinary . . . Virtually pitch perfect

    Evening Standard on 'Tales of the Otori'
  • An enthralling and original work of fantasy

    The Times on 'Tales of the Otori'
  • Across the Nightingale Floor remains quite simply the best story of magic, love, sex, revenge and suspense to have come this way since Philip Pullman

    Independent on Sunday on 'Tales of Otori'
  • An original and exquisitely wrought adventure story

    Observer on 'Tales of the Otori'

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