The Miko is the 2nd book from the Nicholas Linnear series. Though it is related to the first - The Ninja, the book is interdependent from it. This has a whole new story and lots of characters introduced and to my displeasure, re-introduced. My problem with this is that it lacked the elements of suspense, thrill, and awe I felt reading on the first one. Nicholas didn't wow me. And the premise in which this book revolves tend to tear me off. Yukio, again. And then, Lew Croaker alive. Eric Van Lustbader probably wants to surprise the readers but I did not like how he manipulated Linnear here and the story itself-combining revenge, the imbuing conflict between countries, deceit, etc. But what I like about here is the contention and doubts Nicholas felt at the end part of the story. Now, we see Linnear breaks and tries to mend himself. Together with Justine. Overall, it was still good though not what I expected.
If you like the mix of badass men, beautiful (but sometime very dangerous)women, facts from back then when it was written and a simply but excellent way of telling a story so it feels like you´re standing there watching it all happen; you´ll like Miko :)
What do You think about The Miko (1995)?
Frankly I am a bit disappointed with this book. "The Ninja", the first Nocholas Linnear book, is one of my favourite books, so when I found out that there are more books featuring Nicholas I was really looking forward to devouring them. Sadly my (maybe impossibly high) expectations were not satisfied. Dont get me wrong. "The Miko" is still a good book with fine suspense, some interesting martial arts scenes, very intense erotic and also provides a nice insight in japanese culture and phsychology (as far as I, being a gaijin, can judge this). I enjoyed reading the book a hope that the next one, "White Ninja" will be even more interesting.
—Alex
