Hearn, Lian,
Grass for His Pillow.
Young Picador, 2004.
ISBN: 0 3304 1526 3

This is the second novel in the powerful Tales of the Otori trilogy, which is set in an imaginary feudal Japan. Young lovers Takeo and Kaede are convinced they will never meet again, but are always in each others' thoughts. Takeo unwillingly serves the Tribe as an assassin, but struggles with his conscience, aware that killing is against his peaceful upbringing. He is desperate to claim his heritage as an Otori Lord, but knows that if he deserts the ruthless Tribe he will be killed. Meanwhile, Kaede, pregnant with Takeo's child, resists the seemingly inevitable prospect of marriage. She determines to become a force in her own right, but knows that, in a man's world, she will meet much opposition. This is a compelling saga of love, loyalty, betrayal and murder, with convincingly realised characters and settings; readers will be left desperately awaiting the final installment, Brilliance of the Moon (due September 2004).

RA 13+/IL 13+
Reviewed by Sarah Harrington
Spring 2004