Lady of the Bridge

Princess Saiko’s father has promised her to the Emperor as a consort - a match essential for peace in Japan. Only someone from the Shogunate’s blood will do for the match, and she is the only female of age in the line, so none other can serve. Before she leaves for Kotu, Saiko meets a warrior on her bridge and is instantly enamored of him. She doesn’t tell him who she is, only that she is from the castle. They only have a few short days for their relationship to bloom, but she is willing to put her all into it, and so is the warrior, Takomori. How will these lovers escape Saiko’s obligation, yet keep peace in Japan?

Author Laura Kitchell gives readers a taste of the intricacies of Japanese architecture in "Lady of the Dragon", seen when bridges and buildings are described in detail, down to the last dragon. The story starts out slowly and gradually picks up pace as the days countdown to when Saiko is to leave for Kotu. Discourse is stilted at times and the mixture of dialogue to narration is disproportionate. Description of the customs is done well, however, and the reader can sympathize with the princess as well as understand from where the Shogun is coming.  All in all, this story has something for everyone; customs, adventure, melding of hearts, and forgiveness. It is well done and gives a good overview of life in seventeenth century Japan.

Belinda Wilson