Flame in the Mist

Ahdieh, Renee.  Flame in the Mist.  2017.  G. P. Putnam's Sons, a Division of Random House.  New York, NY.

Mariko is the only daughter of a powerful Samurai.  Her parents have arranged a marriage between her and the Emporer's Son.  As her caravan travels to the Imperial City for the wedding, it is attacked by the infamous Black Clan.  Mariko is the lone survivor of the attack.  Determined to find and destroy the members of the Clan, Mariko disguises herself as a boy and infiltrates the group, making herself learn the skills that are necessary for her very survival.

As Mariko spends more time with the Black Clan, she comes to the realization that the story is much more complicated than she had originally thought.  Things are not as they seem - and while the Black Clan does not like her father, they would never have wantonly killed every member of the caravan.

Determined to find out more, Mariko is stopped when her brother and her betrothed husband discover the Black Clan's hideout in the woods.

Mariko's determination, spirit of adventure and quick intellect make this story stand out.

Author's Website: http://www.reneeahdieh.com/

Find this book in your local public library: https://www.worldcat.org/title/flame-in-the-mist/oclc/993698066&referer=brief_results