The first book in this series is Across the Nightingale Floor, which I really enjoyed. Hearn's style was direct yet descriptive, which suited the Asian context.

However, this sequel is not nearly as good. This book splits the plot line into a male and female one. The male plot line is good, but the female plot line is weak. Not much happens in the female plot line and I found myself dozing off or waiting for it to end. Unfortunately it dominates the book.

Hearn's style is still fresh and interesting. Too bad most of the book wasn't.

I'm hoping the third in the series will revive it.