Ahoy there me mateys!  I received this fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  So here be me honest musings . . .

I love Marie Brennan and requested this book based on a) her being the author; and b) it dealing with Japanese folklore.  I did not know that this book took place in a fictional world called the legend of the five rings which apparently is a card and role playing game.  I cannot speak about how it fits into that world but I can speak to how it stands alone.

In this story, Agasha no Isao Ryotora, a samurai goes to a small isolated village to determine why supernatural creatures descend on the town at the full moon leaving destruction and death in their wake.  While there, he unexpectedly meets samurai Asako Sekken from an opposing clan.  The two of them are drawn into a much bigger problem that could destroy the world.  Can they work together and solve the issue?

This book centers around Yōkai, which are historical Japanese monsters, and the legend of the Hyakki Yagyō or parade of demons.  I very much enjoyed getting to learning more about these concepts.  The highlight was the characters.  I loved watching Ryotora and Sekken's relationship develop in the novel.  It is slow-burn in terms of relationship development and plot but unfolded more like an older style myth so I very much enjoyed it.  Additionally, I liked how the chapters switched back and forth between the two samurai.

The mystery itself was fun to watch unfold.  Though the pace was steady, the ending ramped up.  And I adored the ending which is rare for me.  I am very glad that I picked this book up.  Arrrr!

So lastly . . .

Thank you Aconyte Books!