Seishi Yokomizo (1902–1981)

Originally written in 1973 and now released by Bolinda Publishing with translation from the Japanese by Jim Rion and narrated by Akira Matsumoto. The story is set in post WW2 Japan and was reflective of the times post war which was contemporary for the author. The Detective Kindaichi Mysteries first came out as serials and later as books which were popular in Japan. The series is finding new readers among those whose families originated there and seems to be quite popular with those who have a greater understanding of the background. Which is my roundabout way of saying that while the deductions were exemplary, I found it slow and difficult for me to relate. But it is interesting and I do favor books set in places I can never afford to visit. And I geek history. Glad that I read it.
I requested and received a free temporary audio copy from Bolinda Audio via NetGalley. Thank you!… (mais)

This is a real 'locked-room murder mystery' that young private detective Kosuke Kindaichi is determined to solve.
During the wedding night, the head of the Ichiyanagis and his bride are brutally killed. When they were found in the morning, no traces were found in the fresh snow around the building, all the shutters were closed and the door was locked from the inside. How could the murderer have escaped? What happened? This mystery is written with many twists and turns. On the one hand, the reader thinks he is on the trail of the murderer, but soon realises that he is looking in the wrong direction.
It was a very exciting and amusing read.… (mais)

An uneasy feeling remains after reading The Hojin Murders. Does it have to do with the lock? Does it have to do with the fact that throughout the book it is said that this or that would later prove to be important in this case? That names and places are mentioned with only the initial letter? I can't bring it home. Even though I enjoyed this book, the characters, Japanese words and customs, I would like to give the author a few words of praise. The positive point is that he is able to mislead you about who or what and how. Just like Agatha Christie, but a bit more flawed because after a while it became clear to me that the supposed murderer could almost be removed from the list after the first few pages. It's not bad, it's not special. But I look forward to another title from this author. If only to know whether he has refined his writing style over the years.… (mais)