To date it’s the longest book I’ve read (at least until I read the IQ84 trilogy book) and it’s a wild ride. Many twists and turns and everything leading to… A slightly underwhelming ending? But still, the ending was wrapped up and satisfactory.
I hoped for a happy ending with Mariko and Blackthorne, but I greatly respect James Clavell for not going that direction. Toronaga may just be the greatest mastermind I’ve come across in my reading journey (or at least joint first with the Count of Monte Cristo).
I’m glad I was able to finish it before the new Shogun TV show airs. It will be interesting to see how they compare.
by PM_ME_YOUR_SOULZ
2 Comments
Glad you enjoyed it, one of my all time favorites. First time I read it, felt similar about the end. I’ve revisited it 3-4 additional times and wholeheartedly understand/agree with Clavell’s decision to package the end. Like the Count of Monte Cristo, the mastery of Toronaga …his patience, planning, and execution is what’s crucial to the story; the results are a given.
So pumped for the miniseries.
Thai pan, the next book in the asia saga, is also a great read. I din’t think I enjoyed it as much as Shogun, but it has some brilliant characters.