Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay

In this epic fantasy, Guy Gavriel Kay brings an alternate Tang-era China to life. Shen Tai has chosen an unorthodox way to mourn his father's death. Shen Gao was a famous general, and that is why Shen Tai spends two years in a remote valley, burying the bones of long-dead soldiers. 40,000 men from two armies fell there; every night, Shen Tai hears the ghostly screams of the yet-unburied. His efforts yield an unexpected gift, one that is so valuable that it not only changes his life, but also the history of his country.

Under Heaven is an adventure saga with a richly described setting and a large cast of realistic characters. It will appeal to fans of both historical fiction and fantasy.

Readalike: Tales of the Otori series by Lian Hearn.