After a long break, I am back with four mini reviews of Korean books.
Book review: 『北斎殺人事件』by Katsuhiko Takahashi
Second book in the ukio-e series, 北斎殺人事件 is both an engrossing murder mystery and a fascinating exploration of Hokusai’s life. However, it felt very tedious to read at times, and it definitely belongs to the most difficult books I read in Japanese so far.
Book review: 『13階段』by Kazuaki Takano
A book about wrongful conviction and capital punishment with an engrossing investigation.
『白い衝動』by Katsuhiro Go
Even though I found the main character difficult to understand, I really enjoyed this book for its engrossing plot and interesting topics.
Book review: 『シャイロックの子供たち』by Jun Ikeido
Not my favourite Jun Ikeido but still an engrossing read that tackles typical problems that bank employees are facing before turning into a real mystery.
Book review:『奇譚ルーム』by Kaoru Hayamine
A mystery book for children that is both easy to read and engrossing. Recommended for language learners!
Book review: 『七回死んだ男』by Yasuhiko Nishizawa
Time loop and murder mystery… this book sounded so promising, yet I ended up being disappointed with it.
Book review: 『殺人現場は雲の上』by Keigo Higashino
A collection of linked short stories with an overall light tone. Maybe my least favourite Higashino read so far, but still a relaxing and entertaining read.
Book review: 『絆』by Kenji Kosugi
Entirely set in the courtroom, this novel features lawyer Harashima and won the Mystery Writers of Japan Award in 1988.
Book review: 『カディスの赤い星』by Go Osaka
A mystery/adventure book that takes us from Japan to Spain in 1975, カディスの赤い星 won the Naoki Prize as well as a Mystery and Adventure awards.
Book review: 『写楽殺人事件』by Katsuhiko Takahashi
I would not recommend this book if your are looking for a murder mystery about art and ukiyo-e. But if you are interested in the mystery of Sharaku’s true identity, this book is for you!
Book review: 『白光』by Mikihiko Renjo
A really great book if you like mysteries that deal with psychology and family secrets.