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"The weight and power of James Clavell's Shogun notwithstanding,The Sword & the Chrysanthemum, Journey of the Heart  by Susan Scharfman, in many ways is more accessible and sweeter. If you want to be swept away to a world (17th century Japan) that doesn't limit itself to the same rules of nature and culture that we are forced to live by, this is effective writing and an enjoyable read with compelling characters." - Ben Jonjak, The Midwest Book Review. See full review at www.midwestbookreview.com.

"With passion and rich detail, Susan Scharfman has written an epic story spanning two continents and a life - altering inner journey." Book Review, Foreign Service Journal Magazine."

"One of the best print - on - demand books I've read. In fact, of all POD published books we have in the store, this is one of the most beautifully and carefully written." Jennifer Stark, Barnes & Noble, New York.    

"A talented author, Susan Scharfman has written a substantial and impressive romance novel with heavy overtones of fantasy. The overarching spiritual philosophy rings true and the intricate cultural details of 17th century Japan and China are awe - inspiring. In The Sword & the Chrysanthemum, Journey of the Heart, Scharfman's writing style is facile and skilled; her prose moves swiftly and in an entertaining manner."  Writer's Digest

"I haven't been this captivated by a book since The Mists of Avalon, or as inspired since Richard Bach's Illusions." Vivian Greene, author of Good Mourning, inspirational lecturer and creator of the syndicated cartoon, Kisses

"I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys being taken on a journey. All the senses are touched by the author's use of words - like paint on a canvas. Here are romance, mystery, intrigue & a history lesson of the Orient. I'm looking forward to the sequel." Anna Pizzoferrato, The Sun Sentinel, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 

"Sorry my English not very good. I am Chinese girl now living in Shenzhen, a beautiful modern city near Hong Kong. While studying at university in Luoyang City, capitol of many dynasties, my professor Dr. Zhou, recommended your book to our class. Thank you for such very good book that I read online. For us not easy to find English editions. You are erudite scholar. I admire you and hope you come to China. I will be your good guide." Vicky Liu

"An enchanting journey - a good read from beginning to surprising end. Historically interesting, with characters who are real people you care about. The love story is charming and the spiritual journey, uplifting." Reviewed by Cleo Theophilis, (Amazon online).

"This charming story is a spiritual quest and a romantic adventure. Exciting and exotic, it's set in samurai Japan and Ming China. But it's also relevant today. The journey was well worth taking. Spielberg should make a movie of this one!" Reviewed by MJG (Barnes and Noble online)

A Quest of Her Own -A complete review, in PDF format, from the Jersey Journal