Lord of the Darkwood – Lian Hearn

Samurai, spirits, and a kingdom at war.

In medieval Japan, Shikanoko's destiny collides with the fate of the empire. As rival clans battle for power, alliances shift and betrayals unfold. Lian Hearn concludes her sweeping Tale of Shikanoko saga with lyrical prose, political intrigue, and mythic resonance that lingers long after the final page.

⭐ Goodreads: 4.0/5 from 1,000+ ratings — "A powerful finale — poetic and immersive."

Perfect for fans of historical fantasy with Japanese mythological elements. Trending among readers who love epic feudal Japan settings, tragic heroism, and lush world-building. If you loved Across the Nightingale Floor (Lian Hearn), The Poppy War (R.F. Kuang), or The Grace of Kings (Ken Liu), this is essential reading.

This is Book #4 in The Tale of Shikanoko series — pair with Emperor of the Eight Islands, Autumn Princess, Dragon Child, and The Tengu's Game of Go for the complete set.

A paperback (2016) in Good condition.