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Reiko Watanabe & Inspector Aizawa #1
Shadows of Tokyo
Tokyo, December 1931
As Japan expands its empire in China and unemployment ravages the economy, Police Inspector Kenji Aizawa receives an anonymous call about the imminent assassination of a leading statesman. The secret informant is Reiko Watanabe, geisha mistress to the plot’s mastermind.
Headstrong and outspoken, Reiko prefers a “modern” life to being a geisha and is horrified that her lover, the American-educated descendant of samurai, Masaru Ryusaki, has become a fascist firebrand. Together with his allies in the Imperial Army, Ryusaki plans to overthrow the civilian government and establish a military dictatorship.
Torn between honor and duty, Reiko and Inspector Aizawa must forge an unlikely alliance in order to stay one step ahead of Ryusaki and a fanatical Army officer. All the while, they uncover a shadowy conspiracy that reaches into the upper echelons of government, international finance, and even around the Imperial Throne itself.
Set during the intersection of the Japanese invasion of Manchuria and the Great Depression, Shadows of Tokyo brings the turbulent and dangerous world of prewar Japan to vivid life.
Shadows of Tokyo is the first book in a noir historical thriller series set in pre-World War II Japan.
As Japan expands its empire in China and unemployment ravages the economy, Police Inspector Kenji Aizawa receives an anonymous call about the imminent assassination of a leading statesman. The secret informant is Reiko Watanabe, geisha mistress to the plot’s mastermind.
Headstrong and outspoken, Reiko prefers a “modern” life to being a geisha and is horrified that her lover, the American-educated descendant of samurai, Masaru Ryusaki, has become a fascist firebrand. Together with his allies in the Imperial Army, Ryusaki plans to overthrow the civilian government and establish a military dictatorship.
Torn between honor and duty, Reiko and Inspector Aizawa must forge an unlikely alliance in order to stay one step ahead of Ryusaki and a fanatical Army officer. All the while, they uncover a shadowy conspiracy that reaches into the upper echelons of government, international finance, and even around the Imperial Throne itself.
Set during the intersection of the Japanese invasion of Manchuria and the Great Depression, Shadows of Tokyo brings the turbulent and dangerous world of prewar Japan to vivid life.
Shadows of Tokyo is the first book in a noir historical thriller series set in pre-World War II Japan.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2018
216 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Legare
8 books71 followersMatthew Legare has always loved reading, writing, and history. He’s combined his passions to tell stories set during little-known, but fascinating, events of the past. His style is a smooth blend of old pulp magazines and contemporary thrillers, which makes for a pulsating read.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 29, 2018
Great story and characters! If you like noir fiction, political thrillers, or stories about Japan (Memoirs of a Geisha, anyone?), then pick up a copy of this book. The author paints such an authentic picture of life in Japan pre-WWII, you feel fully immersed in the world as you're reading. The plot moves at a brisk pace, and by the end, you wish the book didn't have to end, because you have become attached to the characters. I can't wait for the 2nd installment of this series! Fun read, and you learn something too.
May 30, 2018
This thriller has a unique premise and surprisingly memorable characters. The plot moves swiftly and character motivations are clear and transcend cultures. Very refreshing to see a strong female lead character play a pivotal role in the plot and not just serve as the love interest or a femme fatale! Would love to see a movie-version of Reiko, as I was visualizing her switching "costumes" from a 1920s flapper to geisha back to flapper throughout the story.
February 10, 2021
First in a 3 book series, this is an exciting, action packed, fast moving thriller set in 1931 Tokyo. The main characters are well fleshed out and I could see them in my mind’s eye as I was immersed in the plot of assassination and plans to overthrow the government. I actually read books 2 & 3 before reading this one but it didn’t spoil my reading.
March 4, 2019
Shadows of Tokyo - a review by Rosemary Kenny
The start of the Reiko Watanabe/Inspector Aizawa series by Matthew Legare is Shadows of Tokyo and it's an interesting revelation of the police procedure in Japan's capital city, set against the backdrop of the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia) gang influence on Japanese society and their corrupt influence on lawgivers and businesses etc.
Reiko Watanabe is Aizawa's superior officer, who has his work cut out trying to keep law and order in the huge city. When officials are assassinated and no-one is obviously guilty, he calls Aizawa to take over the investigation. What happens next is shocking, thrilling and unlike any other crime-thriller you'll ever have read before - try it for yourself - you're sure to become a fan!
The start of the Reiko Watanabe/Inspector Aizawa series by Matthew Legare is Shadows of Tokyo and it's an interesting revelation of the police procedure in Japan's capital city, set against the backdrop of the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia) gang influence on Japanese society and their corrupt influence on lawgivers and businesses etc.
Reiko Watanabe is Aizawa's superior officer, who has his work cut out trying to keep law and order in the huge city. When officials are assassinated and no-one is obviously guilty, he calls Aizawa to take over the investigation. What happens next is shocking, thrilling and unlike any other crime-thriller you'll ever have read before - try it for yourself - you're sure to become a fan!
July 18, 2019
She is a Geisha but she wants so much more and so when she overheads a plot to kill a leading statesman. She connects with a policeman but at first he does not know who gives him the information. Can they stop them from doing it? Will she get a better life? Follow them as they try to stop it all
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2021
December 1931 - Sixth Year of the Showa Era - pre-war Japan
Shadows of Tokyo takes place during a Japanese economic depression that is ravaging the economy leading to political turmoil and during the siege and overtaking of Manchuria by the Japanese Armed Forces. Turbulent times in the history of Japan.
We are introduced to Reiko Watanabe rushing down the street in full geisha attire with a white painted face running on traditional geta clogs. But Reiko has two personas - a Geisha wrapped in a traditional kimono and a ‘moga’ the modern girl of Japan. A moga is a flapper wearing short skirts and smoking cigarettes - a vast contrast. The character of Reiko develops and strengthens throughout the novel leading to the surprising ending persuading the reader to see the potential for the second book in the series.
We are also introduced to Masaru Ryusaki, her handsome pampering lover, recently turned into a political activist planning the assassination of politicians. His followers - The Kusanagi Society - backed by powerful politicians and military officials, will plot to unveil the New Japan by overthrowing the government resulting in Martial Law.
Tying the plot together is Inspector Kenji Aizawa, of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, who has thwarted Masaru’s political ambitions before, but can he be successful again as the number Mazura’s followers begin to grow and their aggression builds? The Kusanagi Society espouses a right wing patriotism and grow more emboldened with each plot advance. Reiko betrays her lover to Inspector Aizawa hoping his failure will convince Masaru to give up his new found nationalism and return to his previous life of carefree living as a ‘mobo’ (modern boy of Japan) and his love of dancing, drinking and Jazz music. He was the new breed of modern playboys - educated, worldly and well connected. Reiko’s betrayal links her to Inspector Aizawa in a curious relationship based on a mutual love of Japan - its values, history and culture. Kenji is heartbroken to witness a nation of law abiding citizens turned into a land of fear, assassinations and plots. Motivated by the forces of giri - the devotion to duty - Kenji will do his utmost to bring down the Kusanagi Society.
Culture ripples through the storyline with sightings of rickshaws, Kimono clad women, a cart grilling yakitori chicken skewers, sumo wrestlers strolling the streets, the nefarious Yakuza gangs, jazz clubs, cinema and tea houses. Sightings of Shinto Shrines, Torii gates, the marching Imperial army, and the flag of the rising sun paint the old world setting for the reader’s imagination.
Matthew Legare’s ‘Author’s Notes’ to the reader includes historical facts that enhance the reader’s understanding of the events in the novel. Throughout the book unfamiliar Japanese terms include a brief translation and definition giving the storyline an authentic flavor.
Shadows of Tokyo takes place during a Japanese economic depression that is ravaging the economy leading to political turmoil and during the siege and overtaking of Manchuria by the Japanese Armed Forces. Turbulent times in the history of Japan.
We are introduced to Reiko Watanabe rushing down the street in full geisha attire with a white painted face running on traditional geta clogs. But Reiko has two personas - a Geisha wrapped in a traditional kimono and a ‘moga’ the modern girl of Japan. A moga is a flapper wearing short skirts and smoking cigarettes - a vast contrast. The character of Reiko develops and strengthens throughout the novel leading to the surprising ending persuading the reader to see the potential for the second book in the series.
We are also introduced to Masaru Ryusaki, her handsome pampering lover, recently turned into a political activist planning the assassination of politicians. His followers - The Kusanagi Society - backed by powerful politicians and military officials, will plot to unveil the New Japan by overthrowing the government resulting in Martial Law.
Tying the plot together is Inspector Kenji Aizawa, of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, who has thwarted Masaru’s political ambitions before, but can he be successful again as the number Mazura’s followers begin to grow and their aggression builds? The Kusanagi Society espouses a right wing patriotism and grow more emboldened with each plot advance. Reiko betrays her lover to Inspector Aizawa hoping his failure will convince Masaru to give up his new found nationalism and return to his previous life of carefree living as a ‘mobo’ (modern boy of Japan) and his love of dancing, drinking and Jazz music. He was the new breed of modern playboys - educated, worldly and well connected. Reiko’s betrayal links her to Inspector Aizawa in a curious relationship based on a mutual love of Japan - its values, history and culture. Kenji is heartbroken to witness a nation of law abiding citizens turned into a land of fear, assassinations and plots. Motivated by the forces of giri - the devotion to duty - Kenji will do his utmost to bring down the Kusanagi Society.
Culture ripples through the storyline with sightings of rickshaws, Kimono clad women, a cart grilling yakitori chicken skewers, sumo wrestlers strolling the streets, the nefarious Yakuza gangs, jazz clubs, cinema and tea houses. Sightings of Shinto Shrines, Torii gates, the marching Imperial army, and the flag of the rising sun paint the old world setting for the reader’s imagination.
Matthew Legare’s ‘Author’s Notes’ to the reader includes historical facts that enhance the reader’s understanding of the events in the novel. Throughout the book unfamiliar Japanese terms include a brief translation and definition giving the storyline an authentic flavor.
September 27, 2019
Shadows of Tokyo
This a very well researched book. It focuses on a period in Japan’s history when the forces in the country were coalescing into those that drove Japan towards Pearl Harbour. The mood in the country was militaristic and towards the extreme right. Business leaders were blamed for the recent recession and were not popular figures since they proposed modern industrial strategies and they appeared to be in conflict with many of the country’s traditional values. Bombings, murders and assassinations occurred regularly and the police were largely unable or unwilling to investigate these because of their political origins.
Against this tense context Inspector Aizawa struggles to maintain law and order without the support of his superiors and with the limited assistance of Courtesan Watanabe. It is evident he dislikes the military apparatus because of his involvement as a soldier in an earlier disastrous overseas campaign. It seems likely too that because of this he is unwilling to afford unquestioning obedience and loyalty to those in more elevated positions in Japan’s social hierarchy. Watanabe’s decision to help Aizawa is more difficult to discern, but may have some similar motivation together with some additional personal reasons due to her close relationship with the principal baddie.
The characters are very well drawn though neither is directly appealing, rather they draw their appeal indirectly from their heroism and honesty. The tumult and lawlessness into which the country has fallen is terrifying and the plot unfolds credibly around it all. I really enjoyed the book and went on immediately to read the follow up book, Smoke over Tokyo.
This a very well researched book. It focuses on a period in Japan’s history when the forces in the country were coalescing into those that drove Japan towards Pearl Harbour. The mood in the country was militaristic and towards the extreme right. Business leaders were blamed for the recent recession and were not popular figures since they proposed modern industrial strategies and they appeared to be in conflict with many of the country’s traditional values. Bombings, murders and assassinations occurred regularly and the police were largely unable or unwilling to investigate these because of their political origins.
Against this tense context Inspector Aizawa struggles to maintain law and order without the support of his superiors and with the limited assistance of Courtesan Watanabe. It is evident he dislikes the military apparatus because of his involvement as a soldier in an earlier disastrous overseas campaign. It seems likely too that because of this he is unwilling to afford unquestioning obedience and loyalty to those in more elevated positions in Japan’s social hierarchy. Watanabe’s decision to help Aizawa is more difficult to discern, but may have some similar motivation together with some additional personal reasons due to her close relationship with the principal baddie.
The characters are very well drawn though neither is directly appealing, rather they draw their appeal indirectly from their heroism and honesty. The tumult and lawlessness into which the country has fallen is terrifying and the plot unfolds credibly around it all. I really enjoyed the book and went on immediately to read the follow up book, Smoke over Tokyo.
October 28, 2019
Shadows of Tokyo
By Matthew Legare
"Two concepts warred for superiority now. Order against revolution, law against crime, giri against ninjo and Japan's future hung in the balance."
This quote from the book is a summary of both the political situation in Japan at the time and the plot line of the novel. Legare's meticulous research and skilled story telling immerses the reader in the political and economic turmoil of the era framed by Japan's invasion of Manchuria and the economic pain from America's protectionist tariffs.
The principal characters are introduced early and the story moves quickly adding more interesting characters and key elements of the plot. The writer once again develops a strong female character playing a key role in the story. As a police procedural the book touches the usual elements including office politics, rivalries, intrigue however in the context of 1930s Japan and the attendant social formality of the times.
Reiko as both the geisha and the modern girl is a fascinating character. Knowing and understanding the geisha role, relishing in being a modern girl in the Japanese jazz age, and a patriot at heart.
Aizawa's character grows in this novel as he moves through the complexities of solving the revolutionary plot, we learn some of what makes him tick and the writer leaves enough unsaid about him to keep us interested and anticipating Aizawa's next appearance.
This is a well written and interesting novel combining history, culture influences, within a police procedural format. Read and enjoy.
By Matthew Legare
"Two concepts warred for superiority now. Order against revolution, law against crime, giri against ninjo and Japan's future hung in the balance."
This quote from the book is a summary of both the political situation in Japan at the time and the plot line of the novel. Legare's meticulous research and skilled story telling immerses the reader in the political and economic turmoil of the era framed by Japan's invasion of Manchuria and the economic pain from America's protectionist tariffs.
The principal characters are introduced early and the story moves quickly adding more interesting characters and key elements of the plot. The writer once again develops a strong female character playing a key role in the story. As a police procedural the book touches the usual elements including office politics, rivalries, intrigue however in the context of 1930s Japan and the attendant social formality of the times.
Reiko as both the geisha and the modern girl is a fascinating character. Knowing and understanding the geisha role, relishing in being a modern girl in the Japanese jazz age, and a patriot at heart.
Aizawa's character grows in this novel as he moves through the complexities of solving the revolutionary plot, we learn some of what makes him tick and the writer leaves enough unsaid about him to keep us interested and anticipating Aizawa's next appearance.
This is a well written and interesting novel combining history, culture influences, within a police procedural format. Read and enjoy.
December 17, 2019
Outstanding pulp fiction in Depression-era Tokyo.
Shadows of Tokyo is a rare gem. It's both informative and entertaining. It's surprising that it's not more well known. Taking place in 1931 Japan, the main characters are geisha Reiko and police Inspector Aizawa. When she gets wind that her lover is planning an assassination, Reiko secretly calls Inspector Aizawa to intervene. However, she's careful not to let him know too much as she relies on her lover and mastermind of the assassination, Masaru Ryusaki.
Aizawa plays bodyguard to the intended victim, Baron Onishi, who is in line to become the next leader of Japan. Ryusaki's protege, an insane Army officer named Lieutenant Nakajima, volunteers to be the next assassin, determined to kill or be killed.
The characters are all well defined and fleshed out, with lots of thrilling action that really moves the plot along. At a certain point, the book veers off course (in a good way) and I really didn't know what was coming next. Descriptions of 1930's Tokyo really help with world building and make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.
Will definitely continue to read this author's other works and book 2 of this series.
Shadows of Tokyo is a rare gem. It's both informative and entertaining. It's surprising that it's not more well known. Taking place in 1931 Japan, the main characters are geisha Reiko and police Inspector Aizawa. When she gets wind that her lover is planning an assassination, Reiko secretly calls Inspector Aizawa to intervene. However, she's careful not to let him know too much as she relies on her lover and mastermind of the assassination, Masaru Ryusaki.
Aizawa plays bodyguard to the intended victim, Baron Onishi, who is in line to become the next leader of Japan. Ryusaki's protege, an insane Army officer named Lieutenant Nakajima, volunteers to be the next assassin, determined to kill or be killed.
The characters are all well defined and fleshed out, with lots of thrilling action that really moves the plot along. At a certain point, the book veers off course (in a good way) and I really didn't know what was coming next. Descriptions of 1930's Tokyo really help with world building and make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.
Will definitely continue to read this author's other works and book 2 of this series.
March 5, 2020
I was fortune enough to get a copy of Conspiracy In Tokyo. It is not out for the public but, hopefully, it will soon be. That book hooked me. The characters for Reiko Wantanabe and Inspector Aizawa are what you want and need in a good mystery.
Reiko is a woman forced to be a geisha so she can survive. She wants nothing more than a fun life and being taken care of in a manner that rivals the rich. Being Americanized can be a downfall in pre-war Japan. She loves the music, dances, movies and the beautiful clothes.
Inspector Aizawa is a man with strong convictions. He won't turn his head away from the people wanting only to enrich themselves and change the path of a country tired of war and disasters. The right road is the only road he can travel.
It's non-stop and one of those rare series that actually make you anxious to read the next book. I can't speak more highly of this well written and deeply researched novel. I wish I could give it 10 stars.
Reiko is a woman forced to be a geisha so she can survive. She wants nothing more than a fun life and being taken care of in a manner that rivals the rich. Being Americanized can be a downfall in pre-war Japan. She loves the music, dances, movies and the beautiful clothes.
Inspector Aizawa is a man with strong convictions. He won't turn his head away from the people wanting only to enrich themselves and change the path of a country tired of war and disasters. The right road is the only road he can travel.
It's non-stop and one of those rare series that actually make you anxious to read the next book. I can't speak more highly of this well written and deeply researched novel. I wish I could give it 10 stars.
September 3, 2020
A taste of Japan's past, during its era of depression prior to WW 2.. How people desperate for answers swallowed half truths, lies and betrayal instead of the nourishing food they could no longer purchase. Young women lost their jobs and where told to get married so a husband could support them. but men without jobs could not support a wife and family. Mothers stole precious Koi fish so that they would have something to feed their children and farm families sold their female children to brothels so they could afford to keep working their rice patties. When people are pushed too far something always happens and it generally is not something good. History is written to try and teach us what we did wrong in hopes we will not repeat the same mistakes again.
June 6, 2021
4.0 out of 5 stars Once In - you will be hooked
Reviewed in the United States on June 5, 2021
I originally received a free copy of Conspiracy in Tokyo from the author, and it was my first real connection with historical fiction. I have spent some time in Tokyo, and was aware of much of the Japanese history; was I found was fascinating is how the author was able to weave his plot lines and connect the actions of the characters with the authentic culture of the times. I was fascinated with the female character, a geisha, who one would assume to be docile and submissive; but rather she is assertive, strong minded, and fights for her beliefs. The characters are insightful, and well developed; and the plot line captivating. Once you start this series you won't want to put it down - purchase the collection in one shot so that you won't have to put them down
Reviewed in the United States on June 5, 2021
I originally received a free copy of Conspiracy in Tokyo from the author, and it was my first real connection with historical fiction. I have spent some time in Tokyo, and was aware of much of the Japanese history; was I found was fascinating is how the author was able to weave his plot lines and connect the actions of the characters with the authentic culture of the times. I was fascinated with the female character, a geisha, who one would assume to be docile and submissive; but rather she is assertive, strong minded, and fights for her beliefs. The characters are insightful, and well developed; and the plot line captivating. Once you start this series you won't want to put it down - purchase the collection in one shot so that you won't have to put them down
November 25, 2020
#1 in the geisha Reiko Watanabe & Inspector Kenji Aizawa mystery series set in pre WW II Japan when right wing nationalists were active and political assassinations were prevalent.
It is December, 1931, in Tokyo and there are many right wing Japanese nationalists who feel Japan is being corrupted by capitalists, communists and politicians who are leading Japan astray and they want to restore the true Japan supporting the emperor and the army. Police Inspector Kenji Aizawa is the dedicated policeman who is seeking to stop the man leading one of these efforts and finds himself aided by the man's mistress Reiko Watanabe.
It is December, 1931, in Tokyo and there are many right wing Japanese nationalists who feel Japan is being corrupted by capitalists, communists and politicians who are leading Japan astray and they want to restore the true Japan supporting the emperor and the army. Police Inspector Kenji Aizawa is the dedicated policeman who is seeking to stop the man leading one of these efforts and finds himself aided by the man's mistress Reiko Watanabe.
October 7, 2019
Let's face it: too few people like history.
This is because of years of boring textbooks, mind-numbing lessons, and cold lists
of dates and names one is bound to forget right after the umpteenth text.
But history is made of people, of actions, of conflict, of intertwined fates and mysteries
much like the ones Inspector Kenji Aizawa is called to solve in the first installment of
Matthew Lagare's excellent noir set during the turbulent years of Pre-World War 2 Japan.
A time of economic struggle, rampant inequalities, social unrest, fear of the present and of
a future whose course could be changed forever.
This is because of years of boring textbooks, mind-numbing lessons, and cold lists
of dates and names one is bound to forget right after the umpteenth text.
But history is made of people, of actions, of conflict, of intertwined fates and mysteries
much like the ones Inspector Kenji Aizawa is called to solve in the first installment of
Matthew Lagare's excellent noir set during the turbulent years of Pre-World War 2 Japan.
A time of economic struggle, rampant inequalities, social unrest, fear of the present and of
a future whose course could be changed forever.
October 15, 2019
This is a very good book. The time period of the early 1930's in Japan has been well documented in both fiction and non fiction by Japanese authors. Lagare's books on the period are quite on point and do not have the classic errors that often occur when someone from one culture, tries to get into another culture. To my mind the Inspector Aizawa series should provide a lot of interesting ng reading about a very interesting and important time in the history of Japan and East Asia. I am working on the second book and look forward to many more.
December 27, 2020
I rarely read historical fiction but this book drew me in and held my interest to the end. It's categorized as a mystery but the only mystery is how the uncorrupted Tokyo police officer will be able to defeat a vicious and determined group aimed at instigating a coup. You are left that there is some hope in the world and a few people who have the courage to stand up for what's right, a lesson we could learn here in America.
December 12, 2020
I love the way the author took real history - a particularly difficult time for Japan and the world, then wrapped this story around that core. The protagonist is troubled as he attempts to find the real motivation about why he is in the police force. It started as a job, but he realizes it is much more. Does he do it for the emperor, for Japan, for Tokyo, for the Japanese people, or does he need to do it for his own personal honor?
There is plenty of action, plenty of intrigue as the story develops a main plot line, but with many subplots. We can never be sure who to trust, and how far to trust.
The sum total is a very good read.
There is plenty of action, plenty of intrigue as the story develops a main plot line, but with many subplots. We can never be sure who to trust, and how far to trust.
The sum total is a very good read.
February 8, 2021
This exciting book was full of great characterizations, twisty plot shifts and so much more! I was hooked after the first page! I will definitely read this entre series! Reiko preferring a “modern” life as opposed to being a geisha this head-strong and capable woman really defines what the entire book is all about!
October 18, 2022
I like reading stories that also teach me about history I didn't previously know - in this case, Japan in the early 1900s. My husband has studied Japanese history and is impressed with the way the author wove in actual events and people with the characters he created. We are looking forward to reading the remaining stories!
March 14, 2020
Intriguing crime thriller set in a fascinating period of Japan’s history
Very enjoyable read. The setting in 1930s Japan makes for a fascinating backdrop with insights into Japanese culture and history.
Very enjoyable read. The setting in 1930s Japan makes for a fascinating backdrop with insights into Japanese culture and history.
August 23, 2020
A great series in the making
Author Legare has a winner here with Aizawl and Watanabe. Duty and Desire are the underpinnings of the novel. The novel set in the early 1930’s Tokyo, brings the place and characters alive. I hope to see many more in the series.
Author Legare has a winner here with Aizawl and Watanabe. Duty and Desire are the underpinnings of the novel. The novel set in the early 1930’s Tokyo, brings the place and characters alive. I hope to see many more in the series.
April 3, 2021
Very interesting
This was so interesting to me because I have little to no knowledge of the Japanese culture and mind set. I shall continue to read these and hopefully gain a bit more understanding.
This was so interesting to me because I have little to no knowledge of the Japanese culture and mind set. I shall continue to read these and hopefully gain a bit more understanding.
December 10, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this thrilling story and learned some interesting things about Japanese history and Tokyo in particular. Reiko and the Inspector are likeable characters to me and I have added Mr Legare to my list of favourite authors
November 5, 2019
I love the Inspector Aizawa series and their views of Japan prior to WWII.
May 4, 2020
Reiko Watanabe, a geisha turned police spy assists Inspector Aizawa to stop a far-reaching conspiracy that threatens to turn Tokyo upside down...Quite a fascinating read
June 28, 2020
A fascinating insight into Japanese customs and culture in the early 20th century, expertly interwoven into a compelling detective thriller
November 25, 2020
Loved this book! Enjoyed the character and setting...real treat to read.
Sue B
Sue B
February 4, 2021
Fun Book
After reading so many European historical intrigue books, it was great picking one from a Japanese perspective. Thank you for the read.
After reading so many European historical intrigue books, it was great picking one from a Japanese perspective. Thank you for the read.
July 5, 2021
Very interesting read about a period and location in history( 1930s Japan) I know little about. Sometimes hard to follow because of the many characters but still fascinating! Would recommend this to anyone who enjoys history, thrillers and /or mystery!
July 5, 2021
I have read all this authors book and enjoy them all
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews