Laura Joh Rowland's series never ceases to amaze me. They are incredibly enjoyable and interesting! These books highlight why Japanese history is so great and unique.
My only minor complaint is with the main character, Sano. His values and beliefs, mainly about women and war, are very modernized and don't match the era and location he is in. I know he's meant to be the connection between the reader and the story but I find him a little unbelievable at times. But I commend the ending of the book for showing that if presented with the perfect opportunity, he will take it to save his family even if it means betraying others.