With the changing of the seasons, Kazuchiyo's campaign in the west is brought to a temporary close. He and his lovers, seeking recuperation and renown, begin the march home, but not to Aritaka's stronghold of Gyoe. Lord Aritaka instead bids them come to Suyama Province, to the mountain of the Red Dragon that Kazuchiyo's true family called home.

To see his father's murderer take their ancestral seat is almost more indignity than Kazuchiyo can bear, but with the autumn harvest festivities underway, he bides his time increasing his skill with magic, navigating new enemies and new alliances, and preparing for the autumn harvest festivities. His armies, and his lovers, can't yet afford another conflict. Even so, intrigue and assassination are a samurai's stalwart fellows, and war is never far behind.

Lord of the East is the third book of the KAZUCHIYO series, continuing the adventures and romance of a young samurai, his most loyal warrior, and a trickster shinobi. Visit melanieschoenbooks.com for updates and more information.