Debut Showcase: Heart of the Ronin by Travis Heermann

Heart of the Ronin (US - Canada - UK)
By Travis Heermann (Website - Blog - - Trailer - Writeline)
Publisher: Five Star (ME)
Release date: February 18, 2009
Hardcover: 442 pages
Excerpt

Publisher's Blurb:
Thirteenth-century Japan is a dangerous place. Shape-changing animals and bloodthirsty demons can be as unpleasant as a gang of bandits. Ken'ishi - a young, idealistic warrior with his father's mysterious sword on his hip and a wise, sarcastic dog at his side - dreams only of being samurai. Little does he suspect the agony and glory that await him when his dreams come true.

When Ken'ishi saves a beautiful, noble maiden from a pack of bandits, he becomes embroiled in the intrigues of samurai lords, Mongol spies, and a crime boss known as Green Tiger. But Ken'ishi has a few secret weapons. If only he knew more about his mysterious past, his parents' murder, and the sword that seems to want to talk to him. . . .

Mulluane's Take:
I want it! Alternate history, sarcastic dogs, talking swords and set in Japan! FINALLY! A debut that has my name written all over it. This is part one of a three part epic tale (and we know how much I hate series right?), and one I'd love to get my hands on. There is a great review here: Fantasy Book Critic.

Tia's Take:
I have to admit I like the sound of this one as well. I haven't read a Japan-based novel since I read Shogun about ten years ago. I adore novels that can take me into a completely different culture, and it's all the better if the culture is real-world. This novel officially releases on Tuesday.