Kaze Hikaru, Volume 4

March 15, 2007
Nineteenth-century Japan was not a peaceful place. During this period of social upheaval, teenage girl Seiwho is determined to avenge the deaths of her father and brotherdisguises herself as a boy in order to join the Mibu-Roshi. The warrior group, ferociously loyal to the Shogunate and bushido code, is a perfect place for Sei. Going by the name Kamiya Seizaburo, she quickly develops feelings for her assistant vice-captain, Soji. But romance takes a backseat to action in Volume 4, with Soji agreeing to kill the Mibu-Roshi captain. Sei is shocked to discover that he follows through on his promise, and after the new captain institutes a strict policy where seppuku (ritual suicide by disembowelment) is the punishment for even minor offenses, Sei begins to question her morals and loyalty. The historical aspect is well researched, but readers without a basic knowledge of Japanese history will be lost (e.g., some may miss the significance of Sei's shaved head). However, the history is also the novel's greatest strength: Sei lives under an interesting code, very different from modern ideals. The series will appeal to fans who followed its run in Shojo Beat, and, where demand warrants, this series is a solid addition to teen collections.Sadie Mattox, DeKalb Cty. P.L., Decatur, GA

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