I was disappointed with the tales of the Otori, as I’ve mentioned in previous reviews of Hearn’s work. How can a book about an alternate Feudal Japan with ninjas, spies with supernatural powers, and samurai go wrong?

Heaven’s Net is Wide is the strongest entry in the series, which is sad on its own since the main character from her other books doesn’t show up until the last few pages. The book does do a good job of filling in gaps that the rest of the series alludes to. Shigeru is a strong main character who exhibits cunning, patience, and bravery in the face of hardship.

The pace is a little slow at times, and Hearn ends the book in her typical rushed fashion. I’m beginning to wonder if she has a word limit to her stories. All of the books seem take most of the story setting up the climax, only to rush through them or take shortcuts to bring about the conclusion.

As much as I’d like to, based upon the concept and what it could have been, I cannot recommend this series.

Rating: 3 out of 5 (What’s This?)