Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion

A mother struggling to repress her violent past,
A son struggling to grasp his violent future,
A father blind to the danger that threatens them all.

When the winds of war reach their peninsula, will the Matsuda family have the strength to defend their empire? Or will they tear each other apart before the true enemies even reach their shores?

High on a mountainside at the edge of the Kaigenese Empire live the most powerful warriors in the world, superhumans capable of raising the sea and wielding blades of ice. For hundreds of years, the fighters of the Kusanagi Peninsula have held the Empire’s enemies at bay, earning their frozen spit of land the name ‘The Sword of Kaigen.’

Born into Kusanagi’s legendary Matsuda family, fourteen-year-old Mamoru has always known his purpose: to master his family’s fighting techniques and defend his homeland. But when an outsider arrives and pulls back the curtain on Kaigen’s alleged age of peace, Mamoru realizes that he might not have much time to become the fighter he was bred to be. Worse, the empire he was bred to defend may stand on a foundation of lies.

Misaki told herself that she left the passions of her youth behind when she married into the Matsuda house. Determined to be a good housewife and mother, she hid away her sword, along with everything from her days as a fighter in a faraway country. But with her growing son asking questions about the outside world, the threat of an impending invasion looming across the sea, and her frigid husband grating on her nerves, Misaki finds the fighter in her clawing its way back to the surface.

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nominator: Judith
official page count: 651

Chapter Breakdown

Date		Chapters 		MPDQs
16 Jul		Chapter 1 - Chapter 4 	Judith (Belem)
17 Jul		Chapter 5 - Chapter 7 	Fiona (3P)
18 Jul		Chapter 8 - Chapter 12 	Catherine (Burj)
19 Jul		Chapter 13 - Chapter 16	Insiyah (Sky)
20 Jul	*****Break Day******
21 Jul		Chapter 17 - Chapter 21	Rina (Liz)
22 Jul		Chapter 22 - Chapter 26 Amanda (Eiffel)
23 Jul		Chapter 27 - Chapter 29 Aiswyra (Pisa)
24 Jul		Chapter 30 - End 	Teddie (ESB)

Guidance for DQ setters
Aim for a reasonable number of questions: 4 - 5 is typical. Please don't post too many - any more than 7 gets unwieldy!
Use consecutive numbering of the DQs for your days. So, for example, if Day One is posted as questions 1-4, Day Two should start at number 5 etc.
Don't worry too much about your questions: you aren't being tested on how clever your questions are!
Hints and tips:
- Is there a quote that jumped out at you? Use that in a question.
- What about the characters - do they generate strong feelings? No feelings? - either way, we can explore that!
- What about that plot twist?!
- Explore the writing style: is there an unusual structure being used? what's the tone of voice like? or the point of view?

Want more information about how NBRC runs their Book of the Month discussions? Check out the information here

Volunteers

nom: Judith Belem

Fiona - 3P
Lexi - Belem BU
Insiyah - Sky
Aiswyra - Pisa
Mel - 3P BU
Mel - 3P Ex
Jenny - ESB
Teddie - ESB BU
Teddie - ESB Ex
Catherine - Burj
Catherine - Burj Extra
Amanda - Eiffel
Melanie Joy - Icono
E - Lotus
Rina - Liz
Kaley - Liz BU
Angie - ESB BU
Angie - ESB Extra entry
Melissa - Pisa BU

Randomiser

There were 13 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Mel - 3P Ex
Catherine - Burj
Insiyah - Sky
Rina - Liz
Amanda - Eiffel
Aiswyra - Pisa
Fiona - 3P
Teddie - ESB Ex
Melanie Joy - Icono
E - Lotus
Catherine - Burj Ex
Jenny - ESB
Angie - ESB Extra entry

Timestamp: 2025-07-13 17:24:22 UTC

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volunteering for DQs (3P)

Yay! My nomination won, though very surprised it did!

Back up for Judith

Volunteering for Sky Tower

Volunteering for Pisa (Last day)

Back-up for Fiona, 3P, and adding an extra token, please. :)

Volunteering for ESB.

Backing up Jenny for ESB - adding an extra token please! :)

Volunteering for DQ's for Burj Khalifa adding extra token please

Volunteering for Eiffel Tower

Volunteering for DQs for Icono Tower!

I'm in! :-)

Volunteering for DQs as well - Team Lotus Tower.

Volunteering for DQs - Team Elizabeth Tower

volunteering for backup for Team Liz

I envy those of you reading this for the first time. Enjoy

Volunteering as another Back Up for ESB!

Also, requesting an extra Entry from tokens, please!

Backup for Aiswyra, Team Pisa

Days are up!

You know the rules: if you can't do your day it can be passed to a listed backup. If you don't have a backup then, or you are late, we'll move to the next unique team....

Enjoy!

I'll take over Day 2 for Melindam (3P)

I'm good with my day

I’m good with my day :)

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
This book has been all over BookTok. Which is normally a reason for me to avoid a book. But something at this one kept having me peek at it. And then figured what the heck and added it to my tbr. Nominated it on a whim and was very surprised it won the vote, so yay. Never read anything by this author before. As for expectations, I'm hoping for some interesting political drama, cool fighting and an interesting magical system.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
I thought it was an interesting way to go about showing the issues from the beginning without it being too heavy handed. The history lecture was a bit longer than I think it needed to be and still convey what the author was trying to get across. Having the transfer student is honestly interesting that they let that happen at all. I mean what did they expect to happen? Though I guess most of the teachers don't necessarily even know they are teaching propaganda. It gives faint North Korea vibes a bit on this aspect of the story.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
Real female friend who love and support one another genuinely, what a novel concept!! I'm most interested in learning how and why she ended up married to Tekure. He sounds like a douche. Maybe arranged marriage? Also a bit curious as to how she managed to train elsewhere and then come back.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
Oh I really hope so. And I hope she knocks his teeth in with her sons cheering her on.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
I think it's a pretty fun system and it seems like there are a lot of different levels and types of power. I'm interested to see how it all develops.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?

I've never heard of the book or the author before it got selected for BOM. I've heard a few of my teamies who already started the book say that they're not so excited to read it, so that scared me a little haha

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?

I think the author does a pretty good job at the descriptions, although all the different places etc. are a bit difficult to distinguish for me. But it's very clear that they're very isolated, especially given what we learn from Kwang. I also feel like we don't get to know too much about the other parts of the world, as it's Mamoru's POV and he doesn't know much about the rest of the world. No idea about why the Emperor is doing that.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!

I like Misaki and her friends too! I'm very interested in her backstory. It seems like she had a good life before she got married and I'd like to hear about that life.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?

Oh I already hate him as well. What a jerk. If we don't get that scene from Misaki, I'll be really mad.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?

I'm not quite sure if I understand it. But it seems cool!

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship / the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
I'm hoping it's good; I'm a huge fantasy person, but I'm really picky about the books I end up enjoying because if the worldbuilding is terrible, I'm not going to enjoy it at all. That said, I got into this one pretty quickly, so I have tentatively high hopes.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
Extremely. Kwang comparing the world and technology he's seen with this, where there's barely any coms/phones around is a pretty big indicator. No paved roads, no hospitals - I don't think any village in the real world is quite this level of isolated.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
I love her; the part where she clearly had an incredible and adventurous past and is now stuck as a subdued housewife whose only job is to take care of the home and have kids? I can't imagine how stifled she must feel, but as a character, I love reading her POV. Also yes, love the friends, particularly her sister-in-law; I'm so glad the two are friends and they've not been cast as rivals.

4.) Takeru (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
I really hope that scene comes, or better yet, she comes out as a badass and he regrets that he never really knew her because he is such a patriarchal man in all the worst ways.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
I'm intrigued, though this also reminds me a bit of Avatar, so I am trying to keep an open mind right now. I keep flipping back and forth between the glossary, the characters, and the chapters, which is quite helpful in understanding the connections and how they work.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
Have not heard of it before. This genre is not one of my favorites so I am a tough critic.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
I think the author does a great job and creating a picture of how isolated it is. No way I could live like that!

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
I like Misaki so far. I think she has an interesting past. Hopefully, we will hear about it as the story continues.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
Tekure is not a likeable character. I hope Misaki steps up and show us how it should be done!
5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
Not my favorite genre, sometimes I struggle following the story but I kind of like it so far.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
I had heard of this before because it was KU and of booktube. I would skip over the reviews though because I wanted to read either way. I was a bit surprised it got nominated and won. Pretty sure I voted for it though 🤔. I do like to go into books blind because the blurb or book description, typically gives way to much away.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
I feel like the Emperor has managed because of the isolation of the village from environmental surroundings and not having technology that the cities have.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
Her history was fun to read. I think finding out how her fates changed will be interesting and how her past will help her in the future.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
Yes I do think this is one of those books where fighting back against misogamy might play a part, especially if war comes to be.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
I like that earth elements are used and will be interesting learning more about it.



DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?
I thought it was super interesting and the history was well thought out for the book. I am impressed.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship / the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?
I feel like if war comes to be which I have heard there is that in fact yes. I think they will need more weapons and will not be able to pay like they have in the past.

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?
Well knowing she is now married and a mother seems odd, Like how and why? Knowing that she was a fighter and lives in a place that she is not even allowed inside the Dojo is crazy.

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?
I feel they will. But with Misaki not been training for many years it might not end well.

DQ'S Day 3 Chapter 8 - Chapter 12
10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interupted?
11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?
12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?
It's not unrealistic by any standards. Historically speaking, there would always be one family who ruled the area and everyone else fell under them. In what capacity and in what roles, how the relationship between the two groups went differs based on culture and other factors, but it makes sense.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship/the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?
Maybe. The Kotetsu family represent Mamoru's escape from the rules of his home, and the opportunity to live a different life, even if it is within the confines of the mountain.

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?
I found her ability to put herself out there and really measure herself against the best extremely admirable. Not many would do that.

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?
I hope so. The conversation seemed like the first time she felt like she could also be a guiding figure to him, something she'd previously resigned herself against. I hope she continues to be able to be his guide.


DQs Day 3
Chapter 8 - Chapter 12
10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interrupted?
Almost definitely. A man who has never been defied suddenly defied by his young son? He would have beaten Mamoru down just to prove a point.

11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?
I do understand it better; I'm still drawing a lot of Avatar parallels though.

12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?
Things were deliberately kept under wraps for sure - Kwang called it propaganda, and he wasn't wrong. As for attacking such an isolated village - maybe there's something there that no one knows about? Or maybe it's about morale - if the Sword of Kaigen are the country's hopes, defeating them would be a huge loss to morale of common soldiers.

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?
I liked the hierarchy. I think during that time period it makes sense.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsuda family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?
Yes, I think it plays an important role in the story

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a the real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?
I think shocking. She is a mother kind of shocking.

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?
I think we will see that. or at least I hope so.

Day 4 DQs (Chapters 13 to 16)

13. There are multiple references to the snow and the mountain turning red. Scenes like this are for me a stark reminder of the brutality and bloodiness of war, rather than the romanticised glory of protection.

Is there a scene or a moment from your life you can pinpoint when the realities of war struck you the way it did Mamoru?


14. Misaki revealed herself as a fighter, and Mamoru revealed his abilities in blood manipulation to his uncle that he learnt from his mother. As the reader, how did you feel when these moments came about in quick succession in relation to Misaki?


15. Since the beginning, we are repeatedly told that the Matsuda family is powerful, important, etc. We get to see this over the battle as the two brothers join forces and create the Matsuda Dragon.

Powerful families put a lot of pressure on their children to carry on the legacy. We see this in Mamoru and Hiroshi, who at five years old is determined to do better than his peers at any cost. Do you think this is a practice that should be continued in today's day and age?


16. Well, this has been quite the bloody section. Takashi's last order to Mamoru, Mamoru having to order his master to leave him and his having to face all the enemy himself, Misaki desperately protecting her home, the killing of all these mighty warriors of the Sword of Kaigen...

What I'm wondering though, is that if such a bloody battle that spans across six chapters and 15% of the novel is in the middle of the story, what happens after? Do you have any predictions for what happens after this battle?

DQs Day 3
Chapter 8 - Chapter 12
10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interrupted?
Absolutely, He would have beaten Mamoru.

11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?
I struggle with this genre so its still a bit confusing

12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?
I don't think anyone else knew what was coming. Not sure why they attacked a isolated village.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?

Never heard, no expectations. Generally enjoying, but the use of italics for the national language is annoying - I associate italics with internal monologues. I wish a different font had been used instead (especially as italics without quotes is used for the internal thoughts!)

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?

Very effective, and their particular location even more so. Shades of Japan (ya reckon?!) hint at that - exclusion of traders and control of information goes a long way, but the high tech comms in use is interesting in it's clash with Mamoru's region.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!

The women seem very real - I like the mix a lot!
I'm curious as to why she agreed to go from a family and culture that allowed (encouraged?) her to fight and hone her skills into one that represses them, and why she's gone along with that so long too.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?

Very much hope so! A synthesis of her blood control plus the pure ice to win the day?

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?

I find it a bit strange that everyone seems to have ice magic - is that in the world? just in Kaigen? the uses and family variants are interesting

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
No to all! No expectations, although I did read the blurb for this one!

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
Seems to be effective. Whew, I felt like I was in schooling listening to a very long lecture! I think it could have been a bit shorter and just as effective. I suspect keeping technology from being used is a great way to isolate.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
I like her character. I want to know how she came to be where she is today. It seems that from her brief “sword fight” that she is well trained, so I want to know how and where she learned and why or how she came to her current status/position. She knows a lot and she attended an international school…so why did she return! I want to know everything!! .

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
I don’t think we are supposed to like Tekure and if that is true, the author conveyed that in lightning speed! I already think Misaki is a badass; I really hope that the steps up and fights against the system. Which results in her husband being taken down several notches and her sons stand behind her!

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
It’s interesting and seems to be multi-layered. It will be fun to see what all is involved and how it is used.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
No, I hadn't heard of this book or the author before. That said, I have pretty high expectations because I really liked the book blurb. I'm hoping it turns out to be a great story.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
Very effective, in my opinion. The Emperor probably isolated Kaigen step by step, in small increments, so that most people didn’t even realize what was happening.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
I really like Misaki - she and her friends are awesome! I’m curious about how she ended up on the Kusanagi Peninsula and how she came to marry Takeru.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
I don’t like Takeru either, but I don’t hate him (yet). Maybe it was an arranged marriage, and he actually wanted to marry someone else?

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
I like it! Blood magic sounds really interesting, it reminds me a bit of an earlier BOTM that also featured blood magic.

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?
It matches with their following “the old ways” and I like that the author seems to have done significant research to make it as realistic as possible.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship / the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?
I do think it will have an important part in the story, otherwise why setup that relationship? I’m not sure how, and don’t want to predict. I’m enjoying the story as it unfolds and don’t want to spoil it for having expectations that probably wouldn’t be near the actual story.

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?
That was awesome and the one thing that I really wanted to be true! I think the fact that she wanted to test her skills against one of the best was very admirable and shocking! I would find it very hard to put myself out there and to go up against someone who has such an advantage – even if it were just because she hadn’t trained in so long. I also think she is a warrior by birth and blood and that it will continue to be the path she takes.

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?
I think it would be great if they fight side by side. I hope that she continues to try to show Mamoru how things could (or should) be instead of doing what she is supposed to do according to her husband and the old ways.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?

No, in fact I hadn't heard of it until I saw it posted on our SS for the TT Challenge. I've never read a book by him nor heard of the author until seeing this book. I have no real expectations except based on the GR ratings, I assume it's be pretty good.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?

I think the author is quite effective at conveying Kaigen's isolationist culture through detailed worldbuilding, cultural practices, and the strong emphasis on family and village loyalty.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!

What I'm most curious about is what exactly is she hiding about her past and why? She's obviously been trained herself so why hide it because she's obviously suppressing skills and instincts? And how did she end up in a pretty submissive and domestic role in an isolationist, patriarchal village?

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?

I fully expect a moment where Misaki reclaims her power publicly and breaks traditional expectations.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?

I like it so far and I think it's being beautifully restrained. They magic system isn't just cool, it's meaningful for the characters. The fact that it's passed down and practiced through generations of disciplined training gives it the feel of an ancient tradition. It feels both mystical and martial. It's also clear (to me) that skill, control, and mental focus are just as important as raw power.

DQ'S Day 3 Chapter 8 - Chapter 12

10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interrupted?
I think he absolutely would have; he wasn’t used to being defied or stood up too. I think he would have tried to beat the defiance out of Mamoru.

11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?
I don’t know that I understand it, but is coming together and is easier to see what magic they have at their disposal. I’m not sure which I would want…other than the rare one!!

12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?
Possibly those closest to the Emperor, but I don’t think it would have been widely known. Seems like the village has a valuable secret or something that is worth taking.

Day 4 DQs (Chapters 13 to 16)

13. There are multiple references to the snow and the mountain turning red. Scenes like this are for me a stark reminder of the brutality and bloodiness of war, rather than the romanticised glory of protection.
Is there a scene or a moment from your life you can pinpoint when the realities of war struck you the way it did Mamoru?
It would have had to been 9/11 for me. I was on a cruise when the attack happened and specifically in Playa del Carmen. We had left the ship early that morning and when we returned (well after the attacks), there wasn’t a single person milling around about the ship. The gathering places and hallways were empty and all the TVs all over the ship were turned on to show what had happened. When we left the room, turned off the TV and came back, the TV was on again. It was eerie and disconcerting. The reality came to me when we stopped at any other ports or when we traveled home in the airports with all the military personnel, machine guns and so many things shut down. It was as if we had entered a completely different hostile country that was controlled by the miliary. It was plain scary to see that in both Mexico and America with so many people unsure of what to do next!

14. Misaki revealed herself as a fighter, and Mamoru revealed his abilities in blood manipulation to his uncle that he learnt from his mother. As the reader, how did you feel when these moments came about in quick succession in relation to Misaki?
For me, it showed their willingness to protect family and friends (lost they loved) regardless of the consequences.
15. Since the beginning, we are repeatedly told that the Matsuda family is powerful, important, etc. We get to see this over the battle as the two brothers join forces and create the Matsuda Dragon.
Powerful families put a lot of pressure on their children to carry on the legacy. We see this in Mamoru and Hiroshi, who at five years old is determined to do better than his peers at any cost. Do you think this is a practice that should be continued in today's day and age?
I understand the want to have your family’s legacy carry on, but not at the cost of your children’s innocence or lives. I think their legacy can be recorded and known today without pressuring children to carry it forward.

16. Well, this has been quite the bloody section. Takashi's last order to Mamoru, Mamoru having to order his master to leave him and his having to face all the enemy himself, Misaki desperately protecting her home, the killing of all these mighty warriors of the Sword of Kaigen...
What I'm wondering though, is that if such a bloody battle that spans across six chapters and 15% of the novel is in the middle of the story, what happens after? Do you have any predictions for what happens after this battle?
I hope that Misaki, Mamoru and Hiroshi are able to reconnect with their family and that they are able to build a better life for their people after this battle! (view spoiler)[I’m not even sure they all survive at this point!!! (hide spoiler)]

DQ'S Day 3 Chapter 8 - Chapter 12
10. Mamoru is becoming more friends with Kwang Chul-Hee and seems to be rebelling more and finally has a fall out with his father. Do you think his father would have hit Mamoru again if Misaki wouldn't have accidentally interupted?
Yes, probably.

11. Are you understanding their powers and magic system more through these last few chapters and the fighting that has occurred. Which power would you want?
I would want a healing power of some sort.

12. Misaki received a letter from her friend and told her to run and get out of town. With the Emperor keeping it a secret. Do you think anyone else knew war was coming? And why they are attacking such an isolated village?
Yes, Misaki's brother sent a hint in his letter, probably some other people knew as well.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in?
No and no. Pretty cover though. Absolutely no expectations.

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively?
I feels like how I imagined Shangri-la was in that movie. Completely isolated. It was interesting to hear the new kid in school talk of what was basically iPhones and the like, and nothing like that on the island. How? Fear and propaganda. I think it takes effort, but I don't think it is too hard to do. We get that today in this country with FaceBook and YouTube algorithms. Stay in your own bubble, and nothing can penetrate it. If it is state run, like North Korea, then all the minds can be controlled.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay!
I really want to know her history. I get that she was an accomplished student of some kind, and I want to know why she has repressed all of her talents. Probably not her choice, and my guess is that she will be very important and powerful in the book. Or at least I hope so.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book?
Something like that, maybe? I got the feeling that he will somehow make amends for what he has done to his family et al. Why I feel this, I have no idea. Right now, I would be fine if he jumped off a bridge.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far?
I think it is intriguing. We have only really been introduced to ice (water) wailers. Are there others as well? Are they on other islands, with other schools? Are they what made up the opposing armies in the last wars?

Cat wrote: "DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

Generally enjoying, but the use of italics for the national language is annoying - I associate italics with internal monologues. I wish a different font had been used instead (especially as italics without quotes is used for the internal thoughts!)"

I was going to mention something about the italics. For a minute there I thought they were speaking telepathically or something. That should be a different font for sure.

DQs Day 2
Chap 5 to 7

6. What do you think about the hierarchy of the villages and the Matsudos and Yukinos being the "rulers" of the mountain?
Important and powerful families have been one of the backbones of human history for good and for ill, so I am not surprised that the structure has not gone away, or is being used in this story, which feels historical and futuristic at the same time.

7. We get to know the history of the relationship between the Matsudos and the Kotetsus. Do you think this relationship / the Kotetsu family will play an important role later on in the story? If so, how?
It will, I think that somehow the forging of those elite swords will help Mamoru get his extra power. Somehow. Not sure of the method.

8. In chapter 6, we find out that Misaki was a real badass in her past. Was there anything that stuck out to you when getting to know her backstory? Something interesting, shocking, odd?
I think the fact that her family sent her away to school is the shocking thing. Especially if she was to return to this rigid system and marry instead of use any of her new knowledge and skill. I am guessing that Robin is her first love. I am curious if anything ever comes of it. If he survives and they meet up later or something.

9. The conversation between Misaki and Mamoru was heartwarming. Do you think we will see both of them side by side as warriors by the end of the book?
I really hope so. No idea what they will be fighting for or against yet, but I want them to be fighting together for sure.

DQs Day 1
Ch 1 to 4

1.) Had you heard of this book before it was nominated for/was selected to be a BOM this month? Or read other books by the author? Any expectations going in? I had never heard a thing about this book until it was nominated. I HOPED I would like it - I generally enjoy fantasy, so that's a plus :)

2.) How effective is the author at conveying the isolationist nature of Kaigen? And at the glimpses of what the rest of the world is really like? How do you think the Emperor has managed to do this so effectively? I think a lot of how the Emperor has managed is by all the teaching of the children by the adults. They've only learned the "party line", so of course take that as truth.

3.) Misaki is an interesting character with a lot of repressed or hidden depths I think. I like that one of the main characters in an epic fantasy is not a 20 something who just happens to master everything in 5 pages. What are you most curious about her at the moment. Also, shout out to her friends, who seem like real women-friends. Yay! First off, I agree about her friends - I like them a LOT. And I really want to know more about Misaki (and I think we will, given the precis). I'm curious about why in the world she married Tekure :). And I'm also really wondering what she can do as far as magic/fighting.

4.) Tekure (husband/father) has managed to make me hate him without even popping up on page yet. Go him. Do you think we'll get a scene where Misaki does her version of 'down with the patriarchy' before the end of the book? Oh boy I hope so - I don't like him either.

5.) What do you think of the magic system so far? It is interesting but I feel like we've just grazed the surface (makes sense since there is a lot of book left).