This novel stand alone as a thrilling tale of passion, love and betrayal set in Japan a long time ago. Full of poignancy, it's totally gripping and as ever Lian’s writing is dazzling and laden with the atmospheric detail of the time.
If you've already read the three volumes of the Tales of Otori then you'll be clamouring for this one; if not Harsh Cry of the Heron will be enjoyed by all lovers of historical fiction.
An attempted assassination of Kaede reveals that the forces of destiny still bear down on Takeo. While his strength and power come from the enduring love of Kaede, the blind sage's prophecy that only his son could bring death to him, haunts his thoughts. This is an epic of warfare and sacrifice, revenge, betrayals and unconquerable love.
Lian Hearn studied modern languages at Oxford University and worked as a film critic and arts editor in London before settling in Australia. A lifelong interest in Japan led to the study of the Japanese language, many trips to Japan and culminated in the writing of the Tales of the Otori trilogy.
