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The Hunter and Higashi Mysteries #2
The Osaka Syndicate: a Mystery-Thriller, Hunter and Higashi Book 2
How do you stop a killer that’s everywhere?
This is the dilemma facing young detectives Jessica Hunter and Kenta Higashi when they discover a sinister organisation known as The Syndicate is behind a brutal murder in Osaka.
Fresh from saving the British School of Kyoto from a vicious attack, the two school friends are lauded as heroes, but they alone know the real perpetrators are still at large. When a talented young hacker is found dead in Osaka, Jessica is the first to link it to The Syndicate, whose powerful network runs far wider and deeper than even she could have imagined.
Why are they building a secret army? And what is The Syndicate’s connection to a major organisation in Osaka?
Outgunned on every level and surrounded on all sides by an invisible foe that will stop at nothing, Hunter and Higashi must live on their wits if they want to survive.
This is the dilemma facing young detectives Jessica Hunter and Kenta Higashi when they discover a sinister organisation known as The Syndicate is behind a brutal murder in Osaka.
Fresh from saving the British School of Kyoto from a vicious attack, the two school friends are lauded as heroes, but they alone know the real perpetrators are still at large. When a talented young hacker is found dead in Osaka, Jessica is the first to link it to The Syndicate, whose powerful network runs far wider and deeper than even she could have imagined.
Why are they building a secret army? And what is The Syndicate’s connection to a major organisation in Osaka?
Outgunned on every level and surrounded on all sides by an invisible foe that will stop at nothing, Hunter and Higashi must live on their wits if they want to survive.
- GenresMysteryYoung Adult
450 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2024
About the author
S.J. Cullen
6 books36 followersS.J. Cullen has never murdered anyone, nor has he ever solved a real-life crime. He has, however, been an international schoolteacher in Asia, so his stories about Hunter and Higashi, a crime-solving duo who attend a British school in Japan, are not completely pulled out of thin air.
He is originally from the North of England, though now lives in Stellenbosch, a lovely historical town in South Africa. The Hunter and Higashi Mystery series represents an attempt to combine his experiences teaching abroad with a love of thrillers and mysteries.
You can learn more and receive a free mystery thriller at www.SJCullen.com
Be sure to follow S.J. on Bookbub for news on the latest releases https://bit.ly/4dBv02U
He is originally from the North of England, though now lives in Stellenbosch, a lovely historical town in South Africa. The Hunter and Higashi Mystery series represents an attempt to combine his experiences teaching abroad with a love of thrillers and mysteries.
You can learn more and receive a free mystery thriller at www.SJCullen.com
Be sure to follow S.J. on Bookbub for news on the latest releases https://bit.ly/4dBv02U
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 9, 2024
Things seem to have quieted down since the last book, but The Syndicate never rests. Hunter and Higashi uncover a new plot. They also seem to make new friends.
Minus the supernatural element of the last book, which is missed.
Minus the supernatural element of the last book, which is missed.
August 17, 2024
S J Cullen is a truly gifted wordsmith.
Right from start, the mysterious unfoldment of the opening chapter stirred up enough intrigue to fully grab my interest and pull me on board.
Furthermore, the alternating individual storylines surrounding Jessica and Kenta, prior to their inevitable reacquaintance, were well crafted and gave rise to further curiosity and heightened anticipation. It was during this build up that I just knew this book was going to take over my life for a few days!
The cliff hanger chapter endings made it very hard to put the book down.
I found the smooth flowing and richly descriptive story telling to be highly engaging. As with the previous book, A Curse in Kyoto, there were plenty of interesting and well researched references to the Japanese surroundings and culture. So much so that it makes me want to go and visit Japan and experience it for myself.
I really loved and appreciated the little details of 'normality' and humorous touches throughout the book, as they gave momentary pockets of light relief from the accumulating tension.
Even though I'm a wimp when it comes to violence (cushion at the ready!) I felt the heavier action scenes were not too prolonged or over gory, but shocking enough to stir up high emotions of both empathy and anger. This just increased my urge of wanting the perpetrators to be caught and brought to justice.
To me, this story had a fully satisfying balance of great characters, suspense, excitement, action and betrayal set in a fascinating location, as well as a couple of fleeting but enjoyably sweet moments of young romance and vulnerability.
Overall I loved and rate this story and thought it was an excellent follow up to the first book. Sean's hard work has really paid off and I would highly recommend others to read this book, because it's pure quality. Meanwhile I look forward to reading further publications of this captivating series.
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me.
Right from start, the mysterious unfoldment of the opening chapter stirred up enough intrigue to fully grab my interest and pull me on board.
Furthermore, the alternating individual storylines surrounding Jessica and Kenta, prior to their inevitable reacquaintance, were well crafted and gave rise to further curiosity and heightened anticipation. It was during this build up that I just knew this book was going to take over my life for a few days!
The cliff hanger chapter endings made it very hard to put the book down.
I found the smooth flowing and richly descriptive story telling to be highly engaging. As with the previous book, A Curse in Kyoto, there were plenty of interesting and well researched references to the Japanese surroundings and culture. So much so that it makes me want to go and visit Japan and experience it for myself.
I really loved and appreciated the little details of 'normality' and humorous touches throughout the book, as they gave momentary pockets of light relief from the accumulating tension.
Even though I'm a wimp when it comes to violence (cushion at the ready!) I felt the heavier action scenes were not too prolonged or over gory, but shocking enough to stir up high emotions of both empathy and anger. This just increased my urge of wanting the perpetrators to be caught and brought to justice.
To me, this story had a fully satisfying balance of great characters, suspense, excitement, action and betrayal set in a fascinating location, as well as a couple of fleeting but enjoyably sweet moments of young romance and vulnerability.
Overall I loved and rate this story and thought it was an excellent follow up to the first book. Sean's hard work has really paid off and I would highly recommend others to read this book, because it's pure quality. Meanwhile I look forward to reading further publications of this captivating series.
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me.
August 16, 2024
Author takes us back to the British school in Kyoto. Jessica and Kenta discover that something sinister is going on and an organisation is behind all the unthinkable happenings. While Kenta receives a message from a friend about something threatening. But the mystery is deep and it’s hard to find the links connecting to the organisation and all their sinister doings. So many unexpected things happens. And as Jessica and Kenta are getting closer to the truth, the more perilous their odyssey is becoming. The book is action packed, heart pounding, twisty and the ending was unpredictable. This is the kind of book that will keep you on the edge.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing the ARC
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing the ARC
August 20, 2024
The story picks up shortly after the first book. It turns out that although Jessica has seemingly given up on the investigation into the Syndicate, she is still monitoring the news in the area. On the other hand, Kenta tries to live a normal teenage life.
He tries not to get involved with the whole 'syndicate-thing' and meets more with his friends and girlfriend and tries to avoid Jessica.
However, one day Jessica notices a murder in Osaka, the circumstances of which are very similar to the disappearance case in the previous book. She travels to the location where she meets another enthusiastic girl, Carmen. Carmen has a journalistic website and offers to help. This is how the investigation into the twisted world of the Syndicate begins.
The location this time is Osaka and Kyoto. This change of location and new characters were also necessary, as the author gave the opportunity for other conflicts and actions to unfold. I really liked Carmen (sometimes more than Jessica :'D ). Her positive view added a whole lot to the story. Kenta and Jessica's dynamic has also developed a lot and their trust in each other is repeatedly tested by the events.
It is difficult to write more without spoilers, so I would just add that I really liked investigating with this couple. Fortunately, the end of the investigation was nut as usual, and the author demonstrated well that life is not black and white, but rather grey. And the location is perfect (I love Japan, and Kyoto is my favorite city - I've been to most of the locations, so this series felt particularly close to me)!
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange of an honest review. Thank you, I am very grateful! <3
He tries not to get involved with the whole 'syndicate-thing' and meets more with his friends and girlfriend and tries to avoid Jessica.
However, one day Jessica notices a murder in Osaka, the circumstances of which are very similar to the disappearance case in the previous book. She travels to the location where she meets another enthusiastic girl, Carmen. Carmen has a journalistic website and offers to help. This is how the investigation into the twisted world of the Syndicate begins.
The location this time is Osaka and Kyoto. This change of location and new characters were also necessary, as the author gave the opportunity for other conflicts and actions to unfold. I really liked Carmen (sometimes more than Jessica :'D ). Her positive view added a whole lot to the story. Kenta and Jessica's dynamic has also developed a lot and their trust in each other is repeatedly tested by the events.
It is difficult to write more without spoilers, so I would just add that I really liked investigating with this couple. Fortunately, the end of the investigation was nut as usual, and the author demonstrated well that life is not black and white, but rather grey. And the location is perfect (I love Japan, and Kyoto is my favorite city - I've been to most of the locations, so this series felt particularly close to me)!
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange of an honest review. Thank you, I am very grateful! <3
August 18, 2024
It’s great to be back with the teenage detectives duo from Japan – Hunter and Higashi!
Told from dual POVs, the plot continues right where the first book ended, now Jessica and Kenta must face an even bigger enemy!
One of the things I like from this series so far is the easy writing style and the way it vividly describe some of the places which really made me feel like I was there with the main characters - Jessica and Kenta investigating the case. In this book, we get to explore new areas such as Osaka and Nara.
A new character is also introduced in this story, Carmen. She’s highly intelligent and fearless which made her a perfect fit to our duo detectives.
I really enjoyed seeing her work together with Jessica to uncover the truth. Even though, for this very reason I don’t get to see Jessica and Kenta in action together as much as in the first book.
The last few chapters is quite intense and while some things felt resolved, the game is not over yet… I still have so many questions left, I’m hoping this would not be the end to the series and will continue again!
Overall, this is a great sequel to this series. I really enjoyed my time reading following the investigation and exploring Japan with Jessica, Kenta and Carmen in this story!
I’m looking forward to read the next book from this author in the future!
I received an advanced review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
Told from dual POVs, the plot continues right where the first book ended, now Jessica and Kenta must face an even bigger enemy!
One of the things I like from this series so far is the easy writing style and the way it vividly describe some of the places which really made me feel like I was there with the main characters - Jessica and Kenta investigating the case. In this book, we get to explore new areas such as Osaka and Nara.
A new character is also introduced in this story, Carmen. She’s highly intelligent and fearless which made her a perfect fit to our duo detectives.
I really enjoyed seeing her work together with Jessica to uncover the truth. Even though, for this very reason I don’t get to see Jessica and Kenta in action together as much as in the first book.
The last few chapters is quite intense and while some things felt resolved, the game is not over yet… I still have so many questions left, I’m hoping this would not be the end to the series and will continue again!
Overall, this is a great sequel to this series. I really enjoyed my time reading following the investigation and exploring Japan with Jessica, Kenta and Carmen in this story!
I’m looking forward to read the next book from this author in the future!
I received an advanced review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
August 19, 2025
This is the second of the Hunter & Higashi series. It follows on from the previous book, where a mysterious syndicate is revealed to have been behind the events that transpired.
To be honest, this book has all of the failings of the first one. Namely, paper-thin characters who aren't very likeable, and a predictable plot. Jessica and Kenta spend little time together and still aren't even friends. They're hardly a duo, and do their sleuthing with other people.
The plot is preposterous, as the Syndicate is supposed to be all powerful... yet they have trouble dealing with two schoolkids, when there are ample opportunities to dispose of them.
As usual, the book is an easy, fast-paced read, so it is not unenjoyable. It's just very irritating at times.
One thing that annoyed me a lot were the numerous times in the book where a key word was missed in the story (like someone pressed 'delete'... and on occasion half a sentence. What do editors do nowadays?
2.5 stars rounded up cos I'm in a good mood.
To be honest, this book has all of the failings of the first one. Namely, paper-thin characters who aren't very likeable, and a predictable plot. Jessica and Kenta spend little time together and still aren't even friends. They're hardly a duo, and do their sleuthing with other people.
The plot is preposterous, as the Syndicate is supposed to be all powerful... yet they have trouble dealing with two schoolkids, when there are ample opportunities to dispose of them.
As usual, the book is an easy, fast-paced read, so it is not unenjoyable. It's just very irritating at times.
One thing that annoyed me a lot were the numerous times in the book where a key word was missed in the story (like someone pressed 'delete'... and on occasion half a sentence. What do editors do nowadays?
2.5 stars rounded up cos I'm in a good mood.
August 17, 2024
Jessica and Kenta are in trouble once again.
They are up against a dark organisation called the Syndicate, they have already killed once when the brutal murder of a boy in Osaka hit the headlines.
But with eyes everywhere how do they possibly catch the culprit?
Even though the pair successfully foiled the plot at the British school of Kyoto they knew even then that those responsible were still on the streets and after the death of Genji, a fresh faced hacker with links to the syndicate they realise their web covers far more than they thought.
Up against an invisible enemy they know something big is brewing, they just haven't figured out what yet, but can luck fall their way twice and can they stop the enemy in time before more lives are claimed?
This was a seamless follow up to the preceding novel, I adore this series and soooo looking forward to the next Hunter and Higashi novel.
They are up against a dark organisation called the Syndicate, they have already killed once when the brutal murder of a boy in Osaka hit the headlines.
But with eyes everywhere how do they possibly catch the culprit?
Even though the pair successfully foiled the plot at the British school of Kyoto they knew even then that those responsible were still on the streets and after the death of Genji, a fresh faced hacker with links to the syndicate they realise their web covers far more than they thought.
Up against an invisible enemy they know something big is brewing, they just haven't figured out what yet, but can luck fall their way twice and can they stop the enemy in time before more lives are claimed?
This was a seamless follow up to the preceding novel, I adore this series and soooo looking forward to the next Hunter and Higashi novel.
August 16, 2024
This is the second book I have read in the Hunter & Higashi Mystery series. I am planning a trip to Japan, and have been reading a variety of books to give me a sense of the country.
I really enjoyed The Osaka Syndicate for its location and characters. The detectives are school kids, but are quite relatable to an adult. They are interesting people, and are complementary in their approaches to the crimes.
The plot and detection are also good, and satisfying in their conclusion.
I recommend this book especially to people wanting a Japanese setting, and also to those who like mysteries (Osaka is possibly more of a thriller than A Curse in Kyoto, which had a bit more detection).
This review was based on a complimentary pre-release copy.
I really enjoyed The Osaka Syndicate for its location and characters. The detectives are school kids, but are quite relatable to an adult. They are interesting people, and are complementary in their approaches to the crimes.
The plot and detection are also good, and satisfying in their conclusion.
I recommend this book especially to people wanting a Japanese setting, and also to those who like mysteries (Osaka is possibly more of a thriller than A Curse in Kyoto, which had a bit more detection).
This review was based on a complimentary pre-release copy.
August 16, 2024
I am still in the process of reading this book (The Osaka Syndicate - by S.J. Cullen). This book carries on from the book A Curse in Kyoto by S.J.Cullen. Once I start reading this book I cannot put it down. Having visited Japan I thought I would start reading the books in this series.
I like the fact that the chapters are short but filled with enough of the story to keep you gripped and the feeling of wanting to read more.
This book has me sat at the edge of my seat at points and has my heart pounding. I feel like I am actually there experiencing what is happening.
I will update this review once I have completed the book.
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me.
I like the fact that the chapters are short but filled with enough of the story to keep you gripped and the feeling of wanting to read more.
This book has me sat at the edge of my seat at points and has my heart pounding. I feel like I am actually there experiencing what is happening.
I will update this review once I have completed the book.
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me.
March 18, 2025
An exceptional story grabbing you from page one. Jessica Hunter and Kenta Higashi are fighting against the Syndicate that had caused problems at the British School of Kyoto that they attend. This time it’s the schools in Osaka that are being targeted. Getting adults to listen to them is nearly impossible.They have a new friend Carmen Winters who joins them in their fight against the Syndicate, all the while they have a bounty on their heads. They all come close to being killed. This book is a stand alone should you have not read book one. Looking forward to book three to see where it takes them next. You definitely must read this book, and book one. If not you will be missing out on two really well written stories, and you don’t want that to happen.
August 16, 2024
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me. I could not put this book down. Once I got started, I stayed up really late to finish. I was interested in the first book by the location in Japan and enjoyed it so much I had to read the second. Historical Japan is one of my interests. Strong female characters like Jessica and Carmen always piques my interest. Go, Girls! The story kept me reading to find out who the villain was, what their real goal was, and how they planned to accomplish it. Kept me hooked until the end. I highly recommend it for a good escape and a fun read.
August 16, 2024
Once again I was transported to Japan and the lives of Kenta Higashi and Jessica Hunter.
The wannabe teenage crime fighters plus a friend race across 2 cities for clues to help catch criminals.
This book had me mesmerised and I found it very hard to put down.
The book makes you feel like you are indeed one of the teenagers and you are pounding the streets in search of clues so much so that
you want to join in and help find clues.
This is another brilliant book by S J Cullen.
This review was based on a complimentary
pre-release copy.
The wannabe teenage crime fighters plus a friend race across 2 cities for clues to help catch criminals.
This book had me mesmerised and I found it very hard to put down.
The book makes you feel like you are indeed one of the teenagers and you are pounding the streets in search of clues so much so that
you want to join in and help find clues.
This is another brilliant book by S J Cullen.
This review was based on a complimentary
pre-release copy.
September 24, 2024
The second book to Jessica Hunter and her tale was gripping, she and Kenta remind me of Watson and Holmes with how much detail they can go into, yet still shown as missing some factors due to the fact they are teenagers. The way S.J describes and sets scenes can pull you right in and place you straight into the setting which is to be applauded and watched for his further books!
Admittedly I stayed up late to finish flicking through a personal favourite series that I can’t wait for more of!
(The author gifted me a copy of the book for an honest review)
Admittedly I stayed up late to finish flicking through a personal favourite series that I can’t wait for more of!
(The author gifted me a copy of the book for an honest review)
August 25, 2025
While the stakes were higher in this book making for a bit of a more interesting story overall but the same issues as I had with the first book are there with the additional of Carmen kinda being pointless really, Jessica isn’t as annoying but I feel it just gunna finish the trilogy out of principle rather than because I want to. The end as well simultaneously feeling like a slog and without really wrapping anything up in an effective way.
September 4, 2024
Another good read in the series
The Hunter and Higashi series is a great YA read. This one continues on the conspiracy theory that there was something larger at play in the first book. Well written, this gripping tale continues building the main characters from the previous novel while introducing new characters. Recommend this book!
The Hunter and Higashi series is a great YA read. This one continues on the conspiracy theory that there was something larger at play in the first book. Well written, this gripping tale continues building the main characters from the previous novel while introducing new characters. Recommend this book!
May 10, 2025
Book 2 in this fun series that takes place in Japan. Jessica and Kenta are at it again. They are hot on the trail of a sinister syndicate that is behind a brutal murder in Osaka. The network they are pursuing has a plan that will take all of their wit and perseverance to take down. Thwarted at every turn they manage to turn things in their direction. Exciting from start to finish!
September 4, 2024
An awesome sequel to Hunter and Higashi's first adventure. More suspense, more danger, and new characters entering the fray. It was really hard to put this one down, and will be even harder to wait for the next instalment, which I'm already really excited about! :)
December 16, 2024
another thriller involving H&H
Jessica and Kenta team up again when a young computer whiz turns up dead. Their dealings with the Syndicate, a shadow foundation, provide a gripping and powerful story that is the continuation from the first book, a Curse in Kyoto
Jessica and Kenta team up again when a young computer whiz turns up dead. Their dealings with the Syndicate, a shadow foundation, provide a gripping and powerful story that is the continuation from the first book, a Curse in Kyoto
December 16, 2024
Jessica and Kenta team up again when a young computer whiz turns up dead. Their dealings with the Syndicate, a shadow foundation, provide a gripping and powerful story that is the continuation from the first book, a Curse in Kyoto
June 13, 2025
Book 2 was certainly a good one.
Was hard to put down once I got into it fully.
The plot was really good along with the characters as well, good wide range of them all.
Now onto book 3 we're indeed it is gonna be another series that will be coming to an end very soon.
Was hard to put down once I got into it fully.
The plot was really good along with the characters as well, good wide range of them all.
Now onto book 3 we're indeed it is gonna be another series that will be coming to an end very soon.
August 19, 2024
Absolutely brilliant! I was engaged the whole time and I’m already looking forward to the next book! I received a copy of this book from the publisher and I’m reviewing it voluntarily.
June 22, 2025
Book 2 -still fun & thrilling
If you like an action- packed story, Japanese culture and fun characters, this book is for you. Can't wait for #3!
If you like an action- packed story, Japanese culture and fun characters, this book is for you. Can't wait for #3!
September 20, 2024
SJ Cullen has truly outdone themselves with Osaka Syndicate, the thrilling sequel to their debut novel. The writing has matured in this second installment, making it even better than the first. The protagonist’s chemistry with the surrounding characters continues to deepen, adding layers of emotional complexity that I found both captivating and believable. The mystery at the heart of the story was compelling, full of unexpected twists and high-stakes tension that kept me glued to the pages. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series. If you’re a fan of intricately woven mysteries and evolving character dynamics, Osaka Syndicate will not disappoint!
September 15, 2024
The Osaka student detective team is back with a bang! With a more sinister conspiracy to unravel and more dangerous attacks to confront! Indeed, the action really hots up in the sequel, and, for a while, teenage detectives Hunter and Higashi seem to have bitten off more than they can chew, or even grasp.
A student has mysteriously died, and the Syndicate, whom we caught a glimpse of in the first book, could be involved. At the centre of the conspiracy is a young Japanese group heiress with a mysterious motive against Japanese schools. Worse, she will stop at literally nothing! That includes doing away with anyone who maybe a threat to their target, including Hunter and Higashi.
Some furious detection skills are involved, with Hunter taking the lead here, but when Higashi’s sister is threatened, his resolve to go after the Syndicate is strengthened. Will these two be able to foil the attacks on their lives and the Plot? Read on to find out.
Book 2 is much more violent than the first and gripping as well. The author seems to be knowledgeable about the Japanese education system and asking some pertinent questions about students’ life choices being supreme, without any parental or school pressure to choose a path leading to so-called success.
I like the pair! They are still finding a pattern or structure but their ability to coordinate under pressure stands out, and makes you hopeful. A duo to watch out for!
Thanks to the publisher for the complimentary pre-release copy; this review is my honest opinion. #netgalley #Japanesethriller #Japanesemystery #teendetectives
A student has mysteriously died, and the Syndicate, whom we caught a glimpse of in the first book, could be involved. At the centre of the conspiracy is a young Japanese group heiress with a mysterious motive against Japanese schools. Worse, she will stop at literally nothing! That includes doing away with anyone who maybe a threat to their target, including Hunter and Higashi.
Some furious detection skills are involved, with Hunter taking the lead here, but when Higashi’s sister is threatened, his resolve to go after the Syndicate is strengthened. Will these two be able to foil the attacks on their lives and the Plot? Read on to find out.
Book 2 is much more violent than the first and gripping as well. The author seems to be knowledgeable about the Japanese education system and asking some pertinent questions about students’ life choices being supreme, without any parental or school pressure to choose a path leading to so-called success.
I like the pair! They are still finding a pattern or structure but their ability to coordinate under pressure stands out, and makes you hopeful. A duo to watch out for!
Thanks to the publisher for the complimentary pre-release copy; this review is my honest opinion. #netgalley #Japanesethriller #Japanesemystery #teendetectives
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews