I am not someone who pays much attention to a book cover. But just look at this one!!! It attracted me so much that I was already halfway there to request a review copy on netgalley. Then the blurb goes on to indicate this to be a tale of a really strong female character and I just couldn't resist. 
 Risuko is the tale of a girl who was sold off at a tender age and her journey towards becoming a Kunoichi. It was interesting to see Kano grow and mature with the story. Her energy is infectious. She felt more mature than her age for most parts. But at times her youth and inexperience showed through her rash decisions and actions. She is one of those characters who you is just there and slowly starts to grow on you and by the end you find yourself cheering her on. The plot is simple and quite straightforward and the author's narration is what keeps you engaged to the story. Japanese Culture is something I have always wanted to know more about and this book has plenty of it. I enjoyed getting a glimpse of the country, even if it is through fiction, and its rich culture. The author has done an admirable job with each setting and the flow of the story is smooth. Apart from the slow start, this book has no pitfalls and will leave you craving for more. You will crave for more of Risuko and more for David's beautiful language. The book is clearly aimed at younger readers and as such the author has kept his language simple. Yet there is much beauty in that simplicity. 
 Overall, this book was quite an entertaining read. I dearly wish to get my hands on the next installment.