The second and final instalment of 'The Tale of Shikanoko': a bold new epic of a fantastical medieval Japan from the creator of the global phenomenon 'Tales of the Otori', Lian Hearn, whose books have sold over four million copies worldwide.

Against a background of wild forest, elegant castles, hidden temples and savage battlefields, the adventure that began with Emperor of the Eight Islands draws to its thrilling conclusion.
The rightful emperor is lost. Shikanoko is condemned to live, half-man and half-deer, an outlaw in the Darkwood. Yet the mighty lords who now rule the Eight Islands are prey to suspicion and illness, and drought and famine choke the realm. Only Shikanoko can bring healing, by restoring the preordained ruler to the Lotus Throne. And only one person can bring him back from the Darkwood . . .