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notturna's review against another edition
5.0
This was a beautiful story. As with Noriko Ogiwara's other work, the Moribito Series, I fell totally in love with the world she created and the story she told. There is something wonderfully distinct about her stories compared to those of Western authors and I will always seek out her books where possible.
I only lament more of her work has not been translated, especially when just a handful in a series have been translated.
I only lament more of her work has not been translated, especially when just a handful in a series have been translated.
melitaylor's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
fightmeimsmall's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.5
It’s sweet and simple, somewhat due to being a translation. A nice book but could have delved further into each character, their motives. The main character could have had more development, by the end it felt more that she was just present for the events that unfolded than her actually partaking in them.
rnkessler1's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
jkfugitt's review against another edition
4.0
I love when books are loosely based on myths or legends that come from the author's country. This is a book aimed mainly for young adults, but I found that even as an adult you could enjoy it.
amyleannefg's review
4.0
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I felt that it was very reminiscent of classic Western fantasy, but with unique cultural differences. I loved the characters of Saya and Chihaya, as well as a few side characters.
I feel this book was a tiny bit slow at the beginning, but it was so atmospheric and beautifully written (and translated) that I fell in love with it. It had the elements of adventure, political intrigue, discussion of deities and immortality, myth and a unique fantasy element central to the plot (the dragon sword, the water maiden etc.). Brilliant.
I feel this book was a tiny bit slow at the beginning, but it was so atmospheric and beautifully written (and translated) that I fell in love with it. It had the elements of adventure, political intrigue, discussion of deities and immortality, myth and a unique fantasy element central to the plot (the dragon sword, the water maiden etc.). Brilliant.
lavendermarch's review against another edition
5.0
4.8 stars. SO GOOD! I feel extraordinarily proud of myself. I got this book for Christmas, read 66 pages, and put it on my bedside table. I hadn't picked up until today. I started from the very beginning, and though I was confused, all was revealed. And frankly, it was done really well. I liked Saya, and Chihaya was just...ahhh. A cool breath of air. Very nice. Wonderful plot line. I do wish Saya could've done a little more with her powers though, which is why I took off o.2 stars.