Autumn Bridge

In 1311, as enemies close around the Cloud of Sparrows Castle, Lady Shizuka begins recording the secret history of the Okumichi clan. Her account traces the family’s prophetic inheritance, forbidden relationships and cycles of loyalty and betrayal. Hidden for centuries, the scrolls preserve the experiences of Genji’s ancestors and explain how their choices continue to govern the clan’s identity.

The manuscripts reappear in 1861, when Emily Gibson undertakes their translation while Lord Genji struggles to protect his domain during Japan’s encounter with the West. As the narrative moves between medieval Japan and the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate, Emily recognises disturbing parallels between the old chronicle and the lives around her. The novel develops the history behind Cloud of Sparrows while bringing Genji’s family secrets, Emily’s divided affections and an unresolved prophecy towards a common conclusion.