I didn't realise that this was part of a series so I will definitely go back and read the first before reading this one again as I think I would understand some things more than I did the first time around. It was a well written storyline that was engaging and compelling and well developed characters that I loved and think I will love even more on a reread after the first book.

I really enjoyed this one! As with Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale, this sequel is rich in culture and tradition. I loved learning more about Risuko's life in a Feudal Japan setting, as her lessons and training to become an kunoichi!

I also enjoyed getting to know more about some of the characters in the first book, as well as meeting some new interesting faces as well!

I felt this one did take a slightly different approach with the story telling. While Risuko was her same curious self, I didn't feel the emotional side as much in this one. She did spend time with friends and learn valuable lessons (both those she enjoyed, as well as some of a more painful nature as well) about who she was and who was was to become as she trained at the Full Moon, but the theme of friendships and family that was so relevant in Risuko took a slightly more muted and withdrawn approach in this one. It wasn't that I didn't enjoy the story, but I felt this one focuses more on the mystery and on some special guests at the Full Moon, and less on Risuko and her growing friendships at the Full Moon with the people she now calls family.

I did enjoy this sequel though, and am excited to see what the next installment will bring! I really enjoyed seeing Risuko learn more about herself and about her past in these first two books, and I look forward to more of her story in the future!

Can one girl stop a killer?
The future of Japan hangs in the balance, and it's up to a girl who likes to climb to save the day
Two armies have descended on the Full Moon, and the war that has torn Japan apart for over a century threatens to destroy Lady Chiyome's school for young shrine maidens (and assassins).

In this thrilling sequel to Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale, Risuko must face warlords, samurai, angry cooks, a monster in the hills, the truth about her father, a spy among the kunoichi...

And a murderer.

Someone kills a Takeda lieutenant, staging it to look like suicide. Can Risuko figure out who would do such thing?

And can she keep it from happening again?