The book is a look at one of the most famous time periods in Japan: the 16th century where the three most famous generals -- Ieyasu, Hideyoshi and Nobunaga -- were all discovering their fate. I've read a book like this before -- Eiji Yoshikawa's [Taiko] which takes place in the exact same time period but focuses on the strategy that saw Hideyoshi become the great leader.

But this time the era is shown via the perspective of Tama Hosokawa, daughter of the great daimyo, Mitsuhide, who was allied with Nobunaga. Instead of the military strategy that dominated the great book, Taiko, we get the perspective of a woman as she learns what her role is in 16th century Japanese society. And not only do we get to see this but we also get to see her adaptation to the Christian faith that was being introduced at the time.

So overall, a fascinating look at the era via a great new perspective that is excellently crafted by the author, Ayako Miura. Definitely a must read. ( )