Brilliance of the Moon

Tales of the Otori, Book Three

By: Lian Hearn

Narrated by: Kevin Gray, Aiko Nakasone

In the final installment of the Tales of the Otori, the young Takeo meets his destiny, fulfilling the prophesy: "You were born into the Hidden, but your life...is no longer your own."

The stage is set: Takeo and his new bride Kaede are on the brink of starting a war to reclaim the lands that are her rightful claim by birth, with a thousand loyal warriors by their side. But much more is at stake, with Takeo sworn to avenge the death of his adoptive father. Kaede, a not-at-all helpless damsel, has also cast a first stone by renouncing the powerful Lord Fujiwara, who considers her his first wife.

An imaginary feudal Japan is vividly reconstructed in this magical tale filled with clan rivalries, supernatural powers, shadowy tribes, and true love. Lian Hearn's epic fantasy of a conflict-ridden, mystical world has enraptured fans around the world, thanks to many complex mysteries, fascinating characters, and a riveting buildup to the dazzling finale.

©2004 Lian Hearn (P)2004 HighBridge Company

Critic reviews

"A fragrant blend of romance and martial-arts action." (Publishers Weekly)
"A worthy conclusion to a genuinely thrilling epic saga." (Booklist)

Can't wait for more

I loved the trilogy! I found myself looking foward to driving just so I could listen to it. The writing was well done and the storyline and setting were great.

great book

this was a great story. i didn't want to stop listening. felt like i was part of it. got the entire triology now.

Splendid

I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the Otori books. The language use is beautiful, the setting is intriguing and the characters are compelling. What a great ending to to a superbly told tale.

A plesant "read"

Would you listen to Brilliance of the Moon again? Why?

Yes, because I fall asleep.

What about Kevin Gray and Aiko Nakasone ’s performance did you like?

I like them :)

Any additional comments?

I do find keeping up with all the charters a little tricky at times.

Decent conclusion

Brilliance of the moon is overall a decent conclusion to the Otori trilogy. The book feels like far less of a trudge than Grass for His Pillow. The emotions and motivations of the characters felt more engaging again end it does a fair job of summing up the story arc.
*SPOILERS*
However, much of the story is reliant upon Deus ex Machina to resolve the overall conflicts. It is my opinion that Hearn was trying to convey that fate was really in charge the whole time, but it still feels contrived and even somewhat lazy. Overall, while better than the second book it still falls short the first. But I do applaud that she made sure neither protagonist escaped unscathed.
Again, narration is excellent.