Amazon.com (ISBN 156931439X, Paperback)

Transported by the book The Universe of the Four Gods, Miaka, a Japanese schoolgirl more interested in snacks than studies, continues her adventures in a mythical ancient China. Her budding romance with the dashing Tamahome is played against the threat of an attack from the rival kingdom of Kutuo. It's imperative that Miaka, in her role as Priestess of Suzaku, find the remaining four supernatural warriors and summon the protector-deity of the realm of Konan, where she's taken refuge. She's also tested by Tai Yi-Jun, a crotchety old woman who controls the fictional universe. Miaka is sent back to her own world for a brief stay, but the bond with Tamahome proves too strong: she turns shuns her old life to venture back to Konan.

In addition to the unfolding narrative, the end of each chapter includes Watase's rambling letters to her readers that discuss everything from her thoughts about manga to her shoe size. --Charles Solomon