Overview

A clash of civilizations ignites a thrilling historical saga! In 1276 AD, English knight Edward Gawain and his fellow Crusaders, fleeing the Holy Land, are swept to the shores of Nippon (Japan) amidst a looming Mongolian invasion. Can these unlikely allies bridge cultural divides to defend a nation on the brink?

As distrust and hatred of foreigners run high, Edward and his men find themselves tested by their samurai captors. But when Edward saves the life of a young regent, Hojo Tokimune, barriers begin to fall. Amidst political intrigue and a budding romance, news of a second, larger Mongolian invasion arrives. Now, Edward must choose: cling to old allegiances or embrace a new destiny.

For readers of historical fiction seeking a gripping adventure, Ranshin explores themes of loyalty, cultural exchange, and the clash of civilizations. Will Edward and his Crusaders adapt in time to help the samurai face the coming storm? Or will ancient hatreds doom them all?

Author Biography

After working as a scientist for the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, Ted Takashima moved to California, where he studied at the University of California. He has published more than twenty novels in Japan. His novels include Intruder, which won the 1999 Suntory Mystery Award; Pandemic (2010), which foretold the global spread of COVID-19 in 2020; The Wall (2020), a redemption story set against the backdrop of a refugee crisis at the Trump border wall with Mexico; and The Gene of Life (2021), a Sci-Fi crime page-turner.