FOUR MILLION COPIES SOLD. In 40 languages. One of the most thrilling series of our time. Enter the feudal world of the Otori - filled with magic, treachery and intrigue - inspired by medieval Japan and created by acclaimed Australian author, Lian Hearn.

'The best story of magic, love, sex, revenge and suspense to have come this way since Philip Pullman.' INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY

Otori Takeo's future is uncertain. If he is to reclaim his Otori heritage, he must fight for it - but his army is untrained and Takeo, despite his legendary skills as an assassin, knows nothing of warfare. Can he defeat those who seek to destroy him, and so bring peace to the Three Countries?

To take what is rightfully his, Takeo must conquer the warlord Arai Daiichi and the nobleman Lord Fujiwara, but every step is fraught with danger for him and his great love, Shirakawa Kaede. Their destinies are determined by forces beyond their control.

INCLUDES an extract from THE HARSH CRY OF THE HERON PLUS three chapters of EMPEROR OF THE EIGHT ISLANDS, the first novel in Lian Hearn's spellbinding new Tale of Shikanoko series.

'One of the most thrilling series of our time.' THE TIMES

'... a world that is rich with character and detail, yet effortless to read' SYDNEY MORNING HERALD

'An engrossing fantasy saga of literary quality.' THE AGE

'Lian Hearn's marvellous storytelling talent ... makes reading these books a moment of pure bliss.' LE MONDE