The Harsh Cry of the Heron (epilogue)

Enter the feudal world of the Otori – filled with magic, treachery and intrigue – inspired by medieval Japan and created by acclaimed Australian author, Lian Hearn.

The Harsh Cry of the Heron is the Epilogue to the five-part Tales of the Otori series. More than four million copies have been sold in over 36 countries; now the series is available as ebooks for the first time.

‘The best story of magic, love, sex, revenge and suspense to have come this way since Philip Pullman’ Independent On Sunday (UK)

Lord Otori Takeo and his consort Kaede have ruled for over sixteen years. The Three Countries are rich, peaceful and prosperous. The sacred birds, the Houou, nest at Terayama and a fabled creature, the Kirin, has appeared on their shores. Heaven seems to smile on them.

Yet their very success has drawn them to the attention of the distant Emperor and his general, the warlord Saga Hideki, who covet the wealth of the Three Countries, especially Takeo’s heir, his eldest daughter Shigeko, now of marriageable age. At the same time, the renegade Tribe family, the Kikuta, seek revenge on Takeo for the murder of their leader.

Everything Takeo and Kaede have achieved is threatened.

‘ A tour de force of pure storytelling’ Sydney Morning Herald

Lian Hearn’s Tales of the Otori series of five novels has sold over four million copies. She is also the author of Blossoms and Shadows and The Storyteller and His Three Daughters. Lian Hearn has made many trips to Japan and has studied Japanese.

Visit facebook.com/lianhearnauthor and www.lianhearn.com

PRAISE FOR THE TALES OF THE OTORI

‘An engrossing fantasy saga of literary quality.’ The Age

‘Lian Hearn’s marvellous storytelling talent … makes reading these books a moment of pure bliss.’ Le Monde

‘an enthralling and original work of fantasy’ The Times