A great book introducing a great setting to RPG. A complete book that not only introduces the mechanics, but also includes an adventure to bring new characters together and give them a glimpse at the larger world of Rokugan. That said, these mechanics may not be for everyone as the system is designed (as the author puts it) for "roleplay not roll-play". The system is designed to make players consider strengths and weaknesses and truly create a three dimensional character. The mechanics are also designed to reflect the quick brutality of actual sword fights in the kenjutsu style. Characters who rush straight into a conflict will most likely live short lives.

For deep characters and harsh realities, this is a great game. If your group is more interested in levels and hack-and-slash, but still want to play in the world of Rokugan, I recomend the 2nd edition/d20 books.

I want everyone to know that L5R is the single most challenging RPG out there. It has a quick kill dice system. It has a dueling system that feels more like a high stakes poker game than a simple hack/slash system. It has a system for large scale battles that keeps a GM from saying there are 500 goblins, roll initative. It has a developed culture that makes you choose your words at every turn, including to other players. If you are serious about roleplaying over roll playing, download this game and all its source books. If you are an white wolf fan but thinks its getting a little arcade like, if you play d&d but find yourself just writing the toughest pc possible, if you want to just pick up a game that is a good read, L5R happens to be one of the few games that gets things right.