Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa

Musashi - Miyamoto Musashi Masana is a real Japanese historical character.  Yoshikawa chronicles his life from the late teens to late twenties as Musashi matures from an impetuous youth who awakens among the dead of the Battle of Sekigahara to a samurai who meets his chief rival in a to the death match.  Along with his own exploits, this tome also of those who affected his growth.  Hon'iden Osugi has sworn vengeance on Musashi for her perceived dishonor. Hon'iden Matahachi is his best friend who vacillates between blaming Musashi for his dishonor and self-loathing.  Otsū is Matahachi's fiancée who falls in love with Musashi. Okō and her daughter Akemi who Musashi and Matahachi meet after Sekigahara and latch on to the pair for their own advancement.  Saski Kojirō Ganyrū who for his own advancement, sets himself up as Musashi's rival.  Takuan, a Zen monk, guides Musashi along the way to enlightment.  Jōtarō and Iori, the young boys who Musashi meets along his travels, who decide that they want him as their sensei.