Shadow of the Fox

At first this title was a bit difficult for me to get into, I kept getting hung up on specific words or characters that are taken from Japanese folklore. But after a little googling, I was hooked on this title. The first few chapters focus on giving you a backdrop to the magical system and the differing forces at play. Due to the plot line and characters, I found myself thinking that it should be adapted into an anime series!

The Wicked Fox is inspired by Japanese folklore and this was another book, I just couldn't put down. On the backdrop of a dragon that can grant any wish every thousand years for the one who holds the Scroll of a Thousand prayers, enter a girl who is half Kitsune, a fox that possess magical abilities and the ability to ward off evil. Growing up at a monastery and hidden from the world due to her unnatural abilities, Yumeko learns about the Scroll of a Thousand Prayers, when the monastery gets attacked by demons looking for the scroll. Upon the destruction of the monastery, she escapes with a part of the scroll and goes on a journey to another monastery to ensure the safety of the scroll from demonic influences.

Upon her escape, she meets Kage Tatsumi, a demon slayer, who assists her on her quest, but little does she know that Kage is tasked by the Shadow Clan to retrieve the scroll no matter the cost. Follow these characters and other unlikely characters (including a dishonored Samurai and a royal), in their quest to go to the monastery who knows the secret of the Scroll of a Thousand Papers and the location of all of the pieces of the scroll. From battles with demons, understanding honor, and learning about inner power, this title is a must read for those who enjoy fantasy.