Set in an alternate universe resembling feudal Japan, the book combines the tale of historical female samurai Tomoe Gozen with the legends and creatures of Japanese mythology to create an action-adventure fantasy.

It is the first part of the Tomoe Gozen Trilogy which met with some success in the 1980s fantasy novel market.

The series is notable for its unusual, highly researched samurai background and feminist story slant.

Tomoe Gozen, a warrior of incredible skill, is the vassal of warlord Shojiro Shigeno.

The story mostly traces Tomoe's attempts to regain her honour, leading her into conflict with enemies, friends and the samurai culture that created her.