Warmth From the Rising Sun (Shoju and Matashi, #1)

Long ago, on the picturesque but remote Jussei Island, there was an ancient and sacred temple known as Dansei Karuto—the Cult of Men. Every year, the village elders chose boys of age to be selected to serve the temple. Not only was it the highest honour to be chosen, it meant a rich and full life for the families of the boys who were.

But only a handful were ever taken in by the temple.

The year they come of age, Shoju, and his companion, Matashi, wait to learn their fate. As it happens, Shoj...