It's been quite a while since I read a Keigo Higashino novel. I have always enjoyed Japanese mystery thrillers notably those by Higashino. Chancing this book during one of my weekly library visits, I had to read the same.
During a regular beat at the Nihonbashi Bridge, a constable notices a staggering man who collapses on the bridge near the Kirin statue. Initially thinking it was a drunk man, the constable soon realizes that the person was stabbed and had dropped dead. In a separate incident, a young man gets involved in an accident and goes into a coma. The police find the dead man's purse and briefcase on the man thereby making him a suspect. His girlfriend thinks otherwise! So does Detective Kaga! Is he really the murderer? What was the cause of the person's death? The story deals with Kaga trying to get to the bottom of the mystery.
One thing that I like very much about Keigo Higashino is how sets up the whole plot right to the detail of the surroundings. The places where the story happens are always well described in each of his books which I really look forward to during each read. That too the Nihobashi prefecture was well described and I did take a break from the book tp explore the place on Google. The cultural and economic know-how of the country is well put out. Higashino always has this no-nonsense style of writing which I really feel is his forte. You are already into the story the moment the book is opened. The suspense element was well maintained. I did have my own doubts about the perpetrator but the culprit was unpredictable enough. There was ample space given to all the major characters which were a handful. Especially, Yuto and Kaori. Even though I liked the suspense, there was something missing towards the end. A sort of losing steam. And the real reason was a downer for me.
In short, Keigo Higashino is in his usual form and has given us a pretty decent read. Even though not on par with his previous works; nevertheless suspense and crime lovers might enjoy the read.
No comments:
Post a Comment