Black Sun, Red Moon: A Novel of Java

“Your enemy’s enemy is your friend. But for how long….”

A war story with a twist. Based on astonishing true events!

"Exquisitely written…an exciting and exactingly brutal slice of history."— BookLife

“…[it made me] feel like I was living through it, every uncertain, funny or white-knuckled minute.” — Amazon review.

August 1945: News of Japan’s surrender has Mac’s platoon itching to sail home. Suddenly and without explanation they are rushed to the island of Java. Disappointed, the war-weary soldiers console themselves with dreams of tropical weather, fresh food and appreciative locals. Instead they find themselves targets in a new, unreported war. Outnumbered and out-gunned they need help — help only the defeated but still-proud Japanese can provide. To survive both sides must set aside bitter hatreds and stand as allies against a wave of revolutionary terror.

Kenichi Ota had steeled himself for a last, suicidal stand. Saved by his emperor’s capitulation, he will risk his life once more to keep a promise….

For Kate, one of thousands of former prisoners of the Japanese, a fragile, romantic secret threatens her future….

“Black Sun, Red Moon gives us an almost tangible glimpse of the chaos that was Java in 1945-46. It is an ambitious, compelling saga of men at war, captivity, forced prostitution, murder, political dirty tricks and mob terror. Marron's writing — based on painstaking research — is sweeping, poignant, passionate and unflinching.” — Publisher’s Catalog

Rory Marron is a 'flags and gun-smoke' novelist with a special interest in the Orient. His  writing, which is always faithful to the historical record, reflects a keen, near obsessive, interest in research into period and location. Rory was born in Lancashire, England but lived in Tokyo for 12 years, where he worked in the media industry and also studied a number of martial arts including kendo and iaido. He has travelled widely in Asia. His first-hand experience of the diverse cultures, legends and lore of the region gives his plots and characters a depth and authenticity that resonates with fans of stories set in Asia.