Book Review: The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang

In this Japanese inspired military fantasy, M.L. Wang has created a work of art that feels like a gut punch the whole way through (in the best possible way).

Set in the world of Kaigen the reader follows the Mastuda family as they discover that the world around them is not quite as it seems. Very early on we come to understand that the powerful element weaving Theonites living in the “Sword of Kaigen” have been fed falsehoods from the emperor. The censorship has kept them under lock and key, making them believe that they alone, would protect the lands from any oncoming threats. The patriarchal leaders of this town believe every word that has come from the government and will fight anyone who claims otherwise, often resulting in bloodshed. It isn’t until a young boy from out of town moves that these beliefs are questioned at all.

Under the rule of the patriarchy Misaki longs for her live of adventure and violence. Fighting crime and dealing justice to those who dared to move against her. But she gave that life up, when she agreed to marry Matsuda Takeru, have his sons and become the perfect housewife. She lives a lie, hiding her true nature behind the men. Her skill with blade and blood forgotten under the kitchen floor. Her son Mamoru is learning to be the next master of the whispering blade, a highly skilled warrior able to master wind and water at just 14 years old. As Momoru and Misaki start to talk more freely about her past and his training, a threat is at their shores in the form of foreign army ready to shake Kaigen and their beliefs to its core.  

The Sword of Kaigen is a complete package of a novel. The world is immersive, the characters are compelling, the slow build of plot intertwined with rich and painful history creates a well-rounded standalone fantasy. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I was angry, I was mournful, and I couldn’t help but laugh at the way toddlers were portrayed so perfectly. Never have I felt this emotionally invested in a story that is so well captured in a single book.

Although the story is situated on the Kaigenese peninsula, the world is blown open by the rich history and stories of our characters pasts. The Sword of Kaigen itself is beautifully described as a mountainous, oceanic region lush with an abundance of wind, water, and ice. The reader is invited to experience the surrounds rather than just read the words off the page. It was easy to imagine myself walking along dirt roads, full of sheer cliffs and rocky terrain, feeling a sea breeze wash over my skin as I travelled.

The magic system is somewhat reminiscent of the elemental magic in Avatar the Last Airbender coming in the form of Jia. An ability to pull certain elements and manipulate their powerful effects. The Matsuda’s specialise in ice and the use of it was extensive. We saw these powers on show in more than one occasion, from the practical right up until its most devastating effects. Not only was the reader treated to Jia, but we also saw a multitude of other powers from different races be used throughout the story.

The character arcs explored were nothing short of masterful. I felt completely differently towards them at the end of this book than I did at the beginning. Each character whether they played a large or smaller part fit into the story and added something. There was no character that did not serve some purpose and push the tale forward.

The story itself was a slow burn which at the same time felt like it was over too quickly. The way the elements were layered together built tension, drama, and suspense. Finally, the conclusion was satisfying, for such an epic tale. This is no easy feat for an author (but great for the reader as the author has said they are not writing in this world anymore).

I personally didn’t read this book for about a year after the hype train. I didn’t want to get sucked into the hype only to feel disappointed. While I am glad I waited and got to experience the Sword of Kaigen with fresh eyes, I also didn’t need to worry at all.

This was my second 5 star read of the year!