The Harsh Cry Of The Heron

Book excerpt: 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 Lord Otori Takeo and his consort Kaede have ruled for over sixteen years. The Three Countries are rich, peaceful and prosperous. The sacred birds, the Houou, nest at Terayama and a fabled creature, the Kirin, has appeared on their shores. Heaven seems to smile on them. Yet their very success has drawn them to the attention of the distant Emperor and his general, the warlord Saga Hideki, who covet the wealth of the Three Countries,especially Takeo's heir, his eldest daughter Shigeko, now of marriageable age. At the same time, the renegade Tribe family, the Kikuta, seek revenge on Takeo for the murder of their leader. Everything Takeo and Kaede have achieved is threatened. INCLUDES an extract from HEAVEN'S NET IS WIDE 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