This story was an absolute gift to listen to. The narration brought it to life, yet part of me wishes I’d read it on the page just to fully linger on how beautifully the author crafts her language. The Sword of Kaigen is more than the long-awaited discovery of a powerful female main character—it’s a rare gem that stands strong entirely on its own. The strength and vulnerability of its heroine, the raw honesty in its portrayal of youth, marriage, community, and tradition—every thread is woven with such deliberate care and emotional intelligence. It’s a story that lingers long after it ends, and I’m deeply grateful to have found it.