Shaykitteh's World of Books

Kitsune are not good nor evil, but instead provide balance between the two...

A bittersweet novel that brought me to laughter and tears many times over the course of this story - a story of a young kitsune who believes her destiny is mapped out for better or worse. It's a sign of a good book when you put it down and you're conflicted on how you should feel; sad for the people who you didn't learn enough about and now never will, happy for those who have fulfilled their destinies, and even content with those who perhaps didn't have the honor of their family history hanging over their heads. I forget who first said that Great Destinies often bring Great Deaths, but it has been proven time and time again. Especially when Gods are involved.

Destiny, the young woman in this book, is aptly named for the fate that she has been raised to believe will follow her. And when it's time to make a choice, you can only follow your heart. But giving up your life has many reasons.... as many of the characters in this book know. And kitsune are always tricksters with a surprise waiting for you.

I enjoyed the mixture of Japanese folklore and more modern demonic creatures, with a splash of Greece thrown in. Lisa Williamson manages to capture a plot line that should feel contrived and over-used but manages to throw her own fresh twist on it. Her characters are the crowning achievement, however, since they truly bring the story to life.

I would also like to add a note that this novel was gifted to me with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. Since I should have been asleep two hours ago and I had to finish the book and write my review first because I couldn't put it down... I think you can understand why I feel this novel deserves 5 stars.

As I sit here wiping the tears (Of joy or sorrow? Or both?) from my cheeks, I want to point out that you can purchase a kindle edition of To Save Face or Family from Amazon for only $2.99 by visiting this page: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KFHMQ82/?tag=shasworofboo-20. While you're there, if you enjoyed my review, I would appreciate it if you could mark it helpful on Amazon. The link to my review on amazon is listed in the "Source" section at the bottom of this review.