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Red Tea
A mystery unfolds in rural Japan. Who is behind the students' murder? Read on to discover the truth.
Jordan Howard moves to the Japanese countryside to become a high school English teacher, not an amateur detective. But when Jordan’s students are murdered one after another, she resolves to find the culprit, fueled by lingering guilt over her own brother’s death.
Toshihiko Sakurai, the ambitious police detective investigating the murders, warns Jordan against getting too involved, both with the case and with him. Yet, the two of them cannot seem to disentangle.
As Jordan gets closer to uncovering buried secrets surrounding the deaths, the murderer closes in on her too. Could she be next on the serial poisoner’s list?
AUTHOR INTERVIEW Why do you write? I write for the same reason a fish It’s the only thing I do well and I’d probably die otherwise. That may be hyperbolic, but what’s a story without a little drama? I love writing characters who know their own mind but not their own path. I love worlds that feel lived in and real enough to touch. I love narratives that keep you glued to the page while your imagination gallops off. Most of all, I love that I can create all this for other people to experience. Also, I need to justify owning that vintage typewriter.
What do you write? I write the stories I want to read, from mystery to fantasy, sci-fi to paranormal romance. No matter the genre, characters come first. I want the reader to not only wonder about, but actually care about what happens next to the people on the page. Even after the story ends. Especially after the story ends. I revel in language and playing with words. There’s nothing quite like the perfect simile.
Why should readers pick up your books? Anyone who loves a slow-burn mystery with a side of romance should pick up RED TEA, especially readers with an interest in Japanese culture. You’ll be right in the middle of blossoming cherry trees, bustling train stations, oh, and a captivating murder mystery, of course! You’ll also get a feel for life in rural Japan, from the eyes of an outsider hoping to fit in. My fiction draws from my own experience living in Japan, and I’ve written RED TEA to transport you there too.
Be sure to scroll up and hit that BUY NOW button to be drawn into a world of mystery, intrigue, and culture!
Jordan Howard moves to the Japanese countryside to become a high school English teacher, not an amateur detective. But when Jordan’s students are murdered one after another, she resolves to find the culprit, fueled by lingering guilt over her own brother’s death.
Toshihiko Sakurai, the ambitious police detective investigating the murders, warns Jordan against getting too involved, both with the case and with him. Yet, the two of them cannot seem to disentangle.
As Jordan gets closer to uncovering buried secrets surrounding the deaths, the murderer closes in on her too. Could she be next on the serial poisoner’s list?
AUTHOR INTERVIEW Why do you write? I write for the same reason a fish It’s the only thing I do well and I’d probably die otherwise. That may be hyperbolic, but what’s a story without a little drama? I love writing characters who know their own mind but not their own path. I love worlds that feel lived in and real enough to touch. I love narratives that keep you glued to the page while your imagination gallops off. Most of all, I love that I can create all this for other people to experience. Also, I need to justify owning that vintage typewriter.
What do you write? I write the stories I want to read, from mystery to fantasy, sci-fi to paranormal romance. No matter the genre, characters come first. I want the reader to not only wonder about, but actually care about what happens next to the people on the page. Even after the story ends. Especially after the story ends. I revel in language and playing with words. There’s nothing quite like the perfect simile.
Why should readers pick up your books? Anyone who loves a slow-burn mystery with a side of romance should pick up RED TEA, especially readers with an interest in Japanese culture. You’ll be right in the middle of blossoming cherry trees, bustling train stations, oh, and a captivating murder mystery, of course! You’ll also get a feel for life in rural Japan, from the eyes of an outsider hoping to fit in. My fiction draws from my own experience living in Japan, and I’ve written RED TEA to transport you there too.
Be sure to scroll up and hit that BUY NOW button to be drawn into a world of mystery, intrigue, and culture!
284 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2018
21 people are currently reading
721 people want to read
About the author
Meg Mezeske
1 book20 followersMeg Mezeske is a copywriter, podcaster, and dilettante who’s happy to finally call herself an author.
Meg likes to put her characters in her favorite places—like Japan. Meg lived and worked in Japan as the only Westerner in a small town. From teaching English to being an impromptu interpreter when a Russian ship ran ashore, Meg loved both the ordinary and extraordinary of Japanese life.
Now, she retells that experience through her fiction, with mystery, murder, and romance thrown in for good measure.
Meg likes to put her characters in her favorite places—like Japan. Meg lived and worked in Japan as the only Westerner in a small town. From teaching English to being an impromptu interpreter when a Russian ship ran ashore, Meg loved both the ordinary and extraordinary of Japanese life.
Now, she retells that experience through her fiction, with mystery, murder, and romance thrown in for good measure.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 45 reviews
November 2, 2018
This novel is set in Japan, one of the most fascinating countries in the world because of its unique culture which the author describes in many parts of the book. If you love that country, this book is certainly for you and you will wish you had some green tea and a delicious onigiri to enjoy while you are reading.
Meg Mezeske engages the reader with well-developed characters and an intriguing plot. She depicts a very clear picture of life in a rural village where some unexplained deaths take place. Her main character, Jordan, an American teacher tries to fit in a Japanse school and at the same time solve the mystery behind those deaths with inspector Sakurai, an attractive policeman. The fact that their relationship is a bit difficult not only because of the situation they are involved in but also due to the fact that they come from very different cultures, makes the novel even more appealing.
Highly recommended to fans of murder mysteries and especially to those readers who are interested in Japanese culture.
www.theleisurediaries.blogspot.com
Meg Mezeske engages the reader with well-developed characters and an intriguing plot. She depicts a very clear picture of life in a rural village where some unexplained deaths take place. Her main character, Jordan, an American teacher tries to fit in a Japanse school and at the same time solve the mystery behind those deaths with inspector Sakurai, an attractive policeman. The fact that their relationship is a bit difficult not only because of the situation they are involved in but also due to the fact that they come from very different cultures, makes the novel even more appealing.
Highly recommended to fans of murder mysteries and especially to those readers who are interested in Japanese culture.
www.theleisurediaries.blogspot.com
June 2, 2018
Great book! It was enjoyable to see the characters develop, and the mystery came to an interesting and believable resolution. There were just enough clues about what was happening that although I didn't solve the mystery myself, I could look back and believe that I conceivably *could* have, were I a better detective. :) I really enjoyed the setting in Japan and all of the cultural observations that come along with that.
June 13, 2018
Red Tea is an engaging but relaxing mystery that makes a nice short read. It's quick-paced and easy to read but has enough intrigue to keep turning pages. The main character Jordan thinks what the reader thinks, and her actions as an amateur detective are relatable. Often I found myself making a note about a potential clue, and one sentence later, Jordan considered it herself.
I found myself wanting a little more description of the bucolic Japanese setting to help settle into each scene a bit more, but you may prefer it if you're looking for something very plot-driven. The romance between Jordan and inspector Toshihiko was somewhat unsatisfying; in fairness, they both had bigger things to worry about.
Overall I enjoyed watching the mystery unfold, and the ultimate reveal is unpredictable but realistic. It's a good debut novel that's worth the read over a cup of hibiscus tea!
I found myself wanting a little more description of the bucolic Japanese setting to help settle into each scene a bit more, but you may prefer it if you're looking for something very plot-driven. The romance between Jordan and inspector Toshihiko was somewhat unsatisfying; in fairness, they both had bigger things to worry about.
Overall I enjoyed watching the mystery unfold, and the ultimate reveal is unpredictable but realistic. It's a good debut novel that's worth the read over a cup of hibiscus tea!
July 29, 2018
I am a huge kindle fan, but you should definitely buy the real physical paperback for your bookshelf because the cover art is so beautiful!
I wanted to live in Japan with Jordan for a while and drink tea and go to some hot springs. Maybe I wouldn’t want to solve a series of murders...actually that might be cool too.
A murder mystery, a complex relationship, and new cultural practices to imagine and explore! What could be better? The setting and lost in translation style loneliness elevate this murder mystery beyond your average whodunit. Definitely drink it in with your favorite hot tea.
I wanted to live in Japan with Jordan for a while and drink tea and go to some hot springs. Maybe I wouldn’t want to solve a series of murders...actually that might be cool too.
A murder mystery, a complex relationship, and new cultural practices to imagine and explore! What could be better? The setting and lost in translation style loneliness elevate this murder mystery beyond your average whodunit. Definitely drink it in with your favorite hot tea.
July 12, 2018
The author is a daughter of a friend, so I purchased the book out of friendship duty. For a first novel in a setting about which I knew little, I found it captivating and interesting. The mystery involved is the death of several students at a rural school in Japan. The primary protagonist is an American school teacher of English in this school. The mystery is well designed and I honestly didn't suspect until the last minute the perpetrator of the murders. Good summer read.
June 26, 2018
Mezeske’s novel is a fun fusion of a Japanese and American perspective. I enjoyed the sometimes hard headed cultural smashing and clashing between the American teacher and Japanese detective as they worked not exactly together to identify an intriguing “how” and a surprise to me “who” at the end. Highly recommend this book.
June 9, 2018
What a fun read! This novel takes you on a mystery journey and a journey of Japan! While Jordan, an American teaching English in a small town in Japan, tries to unravel why her students are being murdered, you travel with her discovering the culture, foods and festivals of the country. Great all-round summer read, sure to keep you guessing til the end "who done it?"
July 16, 2018
A wonderful debut mystery by my friend Meg! Figure out whodunnit while learning what it’s like to live in a small town in Japan. This is a great combination of tidbits about life and culture along with a romance and a series of mysterious incidents leading up to the exciting (nerve-wracking, page turning) chase near the end. Plus, there are so many food descriptions that I had to get [veggie] sushi after finishing the book! The main character, Jordan, is endearing from the start. Her determination to learn more about recent deaths is driven by tragedy in her own life. I read a much earlier version of this story and enjoyed it just as much on the second read, especially watching Jordan process, grow, and learn about herself while being open to what’s next.
July 24, 2018
I loved having Japan culture mixed into a murder mystery, it aids an extra layer of intrigue. Found this book hard to put down!
July 7, 2018
I was given a copy of this from librarything early readers in exchange for an honest review.
Jordan Howard is working at a school in Japan where she learns pupils are commuting suicide. There's rumours of a suicide club but Jordan begins to realize there's something much more sinisister going on.
This was quite a good read. I found it a little slow at times but the main story was quite good. I enjoyed the twist at the end which I hadn't figured out. I also liked the blossoming romance between her and Toshihiko.
A good story all in and I loved all the Japanese culture parts
Jordan Howard is working at a school in Japan where she learns pupils are commuting suicide. There's rumours of a suicide club but Jordan begins to realize there's something much more sinisister going on.
This was quite a good read. I found it a little slow at times but the main story was quite good. I enjoyed the twist at the end which I hadn't figured out. I also liked the blossoming romance between her and Toshihiko.
A good story all in and I loved all the Japanese culture parts
July 3, 2018
Jordan Howard, from the US, has accepted a position as high school English teacher in Japan. She is well liked by the students and she truly cares about them. Soon she is confronted by the death of several of her students who are said to have committed suicide, although those that knew them well said they were murdered. Jordan decides that she is going to find out the truth of what happened not realizing that she is putting herself at risk.
October 15, 2018
I've never been to Japan, but this novel fueled my desire to get on a plane to Tokyo ASAP. Meg wrote about the people and their customs so well that I felt as though I learned them alongside Jordan. And Jordan herself? She felt like a friend by the end, which is a testament to the how well she was written.
No joke, the book had me in open-mouthed awe from the second page. I was blown away by Meg's unique phrasing and word choice that evoked more imagery than anything else I've read lately. I've already personally recommended it to friends, and that's not something I do often.
No joke, the book had me in open-mouthed awe from the second page. I was blown away by Meg's unique phrasing and word choice that evoked more imagery than anything else I've read lately. I've already personally recommended it to friends, and that's not something I do often.
Read
July 5, 2018Overall I found this book fun, although a little strange. It has some predictable elements - the crime aspects, but other parts are less predictable. I enjoyed the author's perspective of what it is like to work as a foreigner in a small Asian community/town. The author has an easy style of writing that allowed me to picture the scene quite clearly.
August 23, 2018
The author kept a great pace and things kept moving. I became extremely attached to all the characters, especially the students. The author really developed out a great story and environment that made you feel like you truly were there in Japan as well. The mystery was gripping and kept me hooked -- the author laid out a nice set of clues through the main character's thoughts and interactions with the other characters. I had a sneaking suspicion on one of the culprits but definitely was surprised by the twist of two culprits working together and their connection. I did have a hard time with the "romance" between Jordan, the main character, and the Inspector. I'm not sure the story needed it and it was a bit unsatisfying in the end. Overall, very great read that I'd recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2018
Very good paced book; it just right for a mystery, but slow enough to feel like you are in rural Japan. I felt like I was in Japan the whole time even though I've never been. I like the way Meg describes things, especially the environment and setting. It made the setting develop as a character itself. It was really cool to read it that way.
July 21, 2018
3.5/5.0
“Red Tea” is written as intricately as a puzzle box is carved.
Read full review in the 2018 July Aug issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Red Tea” is written as intricately as a puzzle box is carved.
Read full review in the 2018 July Aug issue of InD'tale Magazine.
August 23, 2018
Couldn’t put it down! Can’t remember last time I read a book in a week 😂
November 21, 2018
2.5 to 3 stars!!!
Well, when I first picked up this novel I was pretty psyched about the storyline and was expecting something a bit more thrilling. Unfortunately, I didn't get that and the story was a rather average read for me with a few highlights upon which I will elaborate further.
What I did love about this book was the way in which, as a reader, you get to experience the Japanese culture. Told from the POV of the main character, Jordan, an assistant English teacher, I found the descriptions and explanations to be quite immersive. I could actually picture the country, its culture and people. I especially loved how the author described the Japanese way of life, the Festivals, traditions and the landscape. It was a truly beautiful experience and the added mystery gave the book a very atmospheric feeling which was enjoyable. However, that's where it ended for me as I found the rest of novel very simple and I must admit far-fetched.
Firstly, I really didn't like the MC. I guess I would classify this novel as a cosy mystery but I really didn't understand the motive as to why our MC got herself embroiled in trying to solve a crime. She didn't really have any attachment to the students and just knows them from a distance. Somehow, the author tries to form a connection with the MC and minor characters which are rather flimsy and forced. The only thing that holds some substance with the MC is her loss and I guess that fuels her judgement and actions. But, for me, that still doesn't justify her need to wheedle her way into a crime investigation especially as she has no connection with the community. It's like as though she takes it on as a project to fill her time.
Secondly, I didn't like how the crime was solved. It seems that the MC, through her amateur sleuthing, can catch a killer but the police and especially inspector, Toshihiko, come across as very incompetent. I felt the only purpose for his character was to be a romantic interest for Jordan. However, I would have preferred to see more of his involvement with the investigation. This would have added depth and interest to the novel which was severely lacking. Furthermore, it would have given the reader a closer look at how the police department and crime are solved within Japan.
Thirdly, I felt that a lot of focus was placed on the main character and her development throughout the storyline. As a result, the minor characters weren't fleshed out enough. We see a lot of Jordan's thought processes but hardly any back stories are given about the supporting characters. Therefore, all we get is a bunch of wild theories and conjectures that lead to the exposure of the killer. I would have really liked to see more of an engagement with the MC and the other characters. The secret lives they lived, the lies they told - in essence, this would have made for a more complex storyline with sub-plots coming together to make a fuller story.
All in all, although I enjoyed reading about Japan, the story in itself didn't involve much. There were plot twists which weren't really shocking. There was a bit of action towards the end but otherwise the pacing was slow. I found a lot of Jordan's actions very immature and irritating. So I guess this made me like the story less. The concept and setting was unique. The story promising and maybe with added elements as well as complexity would have been more enthralling. Would I recommend reading it? Yes, if you wish to pass the time but otherwise, I feel there are way better options in this genre.
Well, when I first picked up this novel I was pretty psyched about the storyline and was expecting something a bit more thrilling. Unfortunately, I didn't get that and the story was a rather average read for me with a few highlights upon which I will elaborate further.
What I did love about this book was the way in which, as a reader, you get to experience the Japanese culture. Told from the POV of the main character, Jordan, an assistant English teacher, I found the descriptions and explanations to be quite immersive. I could actually picture the country, its culture and people. I especially loved how the author described the Japanese way of life, the Festivals, traditions and the landscape. It was a truly beautiful experience and the added mystery gave the book a very atmospheric feeling which was enjoyable. However, that's where it ended for me as I found the rest of novel very simple and I must admit far-fetched.
Firstly, I really didn't like the MC. I guess I would classify this novel as a cosy mystery but I really didn't understand the motive as to why our MC got herself embroiled in trying to solve a crime. She didn't really have any attachment to the students and just knows them from a distance. Somehow, the author tries to form a connection with the MC and minor characters which are rather flimsy and forced. The only thing that holds some substance with the MC is her loss and I guess that fuels her judgement and actions. But, for me, that still doesn't justify her need to wheedle her way into a crime investigation especially as she has no connection with the community. It's like as though she takes it on as a project to fill her time.
Secondly, I didn't like how the crime was solved. It seems that the MC, through her amateur sleuthing, can catch a killer but the police and especially inspector, Toshihiko, come across as very incompetent. I felt the only purpose for his character was to be a romantic interest for Jordan. However, I would have preferred to see more of his involvement with the investigation. This would have added depth and interest to the novel which was severely lacking. Furthermore, it would have given the reader a closer look at how the police department and crime are solved within Japan.
Thirdly, I felt that a lot of focus was placed on the main character and her development throughout the storyline. As a result, the minor characters weren't fleshed out enough. We see a lot of Jordan's thought processes but hardly any back stories are given about the supporting characters. Therefore, all we get is a bunch of wild theories and conjectures that lead to the exposure of the killer. I would have really liked to see more of an engagement with the MC and the other characters. The secret lives they lived, the lies they told - in essence, this would have made for a more complex storyline with sub-plots coming together to make a fuller story.
All in all, although I enjoyed reading about Japan, the story in itself didn't involve much. There were plot twists which weren't really shocking. There was a bit of action towards the end but otherwise the pacing was slow. I found a lot of Jordan's actions very immature and irritating. So I guess this made me like the story less. The concept and setting was unique. The story promising and maybe with added elements as well as complexity would have been more enthralling. Would I recommend reading it? Yes, if you wish to pass the time but otherwise, I feel there are way better options in this genre.
February 21, 2020
What an excellent and incredibly engaging read! I don’t read a lot of mysteries but I do enjoy them from time to time, and I’m happy to report that Red Tea kept me invested and on the edge of my seat the entire time!
I grew very attached to Jordan and Toshihiko, as well as the various plucky students Jordan regularly interacted with. The romance in this is light, but sweet and well-paced.
As for the mystery, I had a great time trying to piece together the clues along with Jordan and really enjoyed the conclusion.
My favorite part of this novel though is just the extremely vivid and well-described Japanese countryside setting. I never had a single moment of confusion trying to visualize the various places Jordan visits, which was nice. It really helps you get engrossed in the story.
Mezeke’s writing is as beautiful and well-crafted as the world she created, and I’m so excited to see what she does next!
I grew very attached to Jordan and Toshihiko, as well as the various plucky students Jordan regularly interacted with. The romance in this is light, but sweet and well-paced.
As for the mystery, I had a great time trying to piece together the clues along with Jordan and really enjoyed the conclusion.
My favorite part of this novel though is just the extremely vivid and well-described Japanese countryside setting. I never had a single moment of confusion trying to visualize the various places Jordan visits, which was nice. It really helps you get engrossed in the story.
Mezeke’s writing is as beautiful and well-crafted as the world she created, and I’m so excited to see what she does next!
January 17, 2019
As someone who has been living in Japan for years, I can totally relate Jordan as a foreigner in this country. Mostly how she felt on communicating with Japanese characters is a lot similar with my own feelings and that makes the story more enjoyable for me.
For the mystery part, I like how it's not overwhelmingly complicated and difficult to follow. It's a comfortable read by being confused most of the time (I mean it's good) and solving the mystery along with Jordan. I'm also into how the author weaves a little romance into the mystery and although their relationship is not quite a happy-happy one, I think it's more suited to the plot and characters.
Overall, it's quite a page-turner for me and I felt really comfortable to read this. Recommend for those who are looking for a mystery which is not too dark and deep!
For the mystery part, I like how it's not overwhelmingly complicated and difficult to follow. It's a comfortable read by being confused most of the time (I mean it's good) and solving the mystery along with Jordan. I'm also into how the author weaves a little romance into the mystery and although their relationship is not quite a happy-happy one, I think it's more suited to the plot and characters.
Overall, it's quite a page-turner for me and I felt really comfortable to read this. Recommend for those who are looking for a mystery which is not too dark and deep!
September 18, 2018
From leisurely unfolding to high-tension surprise ending, the language is lively and the plot engaging. We are transported to a provincial city in Japan, where the initial novelty and nervousness of the new substitute teacher blends into the charming details of local culture, as it all gradually entwines with the sinister mysterious plot. We are caught up in Jordan's impulse to get to the bottom of the case, from the nail-biting acts of bravery to the moments of triumph and revelation.
Easy and enjoyable to read.
Easy and enjoyable to read.
October 23, 2024
This feels very much like a Nancy Drew novel. Lots of positives and a few negatives. I actually think the love story ends up right where it should.
The two main characters are Jordan Howard, a temporary English teacher from the US, and the detective Ishihiko Sakurai who is helping her solve the case.
Positives:
- The descriptions of Japan felt like realistic life, not an idealized version. She misses easy access to coffee, feels lonely without friends, and enjoys going to festivals.
- Even though most background characters are not fleshed out at all, what we do see of them feels like a real person. Even the “bumbling” teacher isn’t always silly. The students act like kids, but they’re not overly naive.
- (spoiler for love story, not the mystery ahead) The love story to me was good enough. They don’t have a happily ever after, but I don’t think they should have really. They didn’t match to me at all, she is impetuous and foolhardy, while Ishihiko is almost too reserved and calm. She wishes he would show more emotion, and he wishes she wouldn’t jump head first into everything. I think it’s for the best that they don’t stick together.
Things I didn’t like:
- She made a lot of dumb decisions that I would never have done. Granted, the plot would be way more boring if I was the female lead, but sometimes her sneaking around and lying went too far. Pretending to be a reporter? Crossed the line.
- While the first half had great “cozy” descriptions of Jordan’s every day life, the second half ignores everything but the mystery, much like Jordan begins to. Gone are the friendships made with students, after the first death we never hear mentions of her teaching again.
So, it’s a good cozy-style mystery. The plot is slightly predictable, but just the perfect amount for me so I could guess the clues right before they were revealed. I’d be interested to see what Meg Mezeske puts out next!
The two main characters are Jordan Howard, a temporary English teacher from the US, and the detective Ishihiko Sakurai who is helping her solve the case.
Positives:
- The descriptions of Japan felt like realistic life, not an idealized version. She misses easy access to coffee, feels lonely without friends, and enjoys going to festivals.
- Even though most background characters are not fleshed out at all, what we do see of them feels like a real person. Even the “bumbling” teacher isn’t always silly. The students act like kids, but they’re not overly naive.
- (spoiler for love story, not the mystery ahead) The love story to me was good enough. They don’t have a happily ever after, but I don’t think they should have really. They didn’t match to me at all, she is impetuous and foolhardy, while Ishihiko is almost too reserved and calm. She wishes he would show more emotion, and he wishes she wouldn’t jump head first into everything. I think it’s for the best that they don’t stick together.
Things I didn’t like:
- She made a lot of dumb decisions that I would never have done. Granted, the plot would be way more boring if I was the female lead, but sometimes her sneaking around and lying went too far. Pretending to be a reporter? Crossed the line.
- While the first half had great “cozy” descriptions of Jordan’s every day life, the second half ignores everything but the mystery, much like Jordan begins to. Gone are the friendships made with students, after the first death we never hear mentions of her teaching again.
So, it’s a good cozy-style mystery. The plot is slightly predictable, but just the perfect amount for me so I could guess the clues right before they were revealed. I’d be interested to see what Meg Mezeske puts out next!
April 20, 2020
Ex JET attempts Japanese noir. And it’s not a bad attempt to be fair. All be it little wooden and clunky, feeling amateur in parts.
Eg.
“It shone in the yolky light like a soap bubble”
“One girls cheek bloomed with colour, like a silk blouse soaking up spilled wine”
“Her light jacket soaked up the rain like paper”
I liked it mainly to reminisce about the amazing year I spent there as a language teacher 🇯🇵
Eg.
“It shone in the yolky light like a soap bubble”
“One girls cheek bloomed with colour, like a silk blouse soaking up spilled wine”
“Her light jacket soaked up the rain like paper”
I liked it mainly to reminisce about the amazing year I spent there as a language teacher 🇯🇵
November 26, 2018
An OK mystery set in Japan. Credible, if not great writing, an interesting plotline, but a predictable crime story. A debut piece, it could have been better, but not a bad read. Kind of like this review.
April 7, 2019
This was pretty good. Although the ending was pretty predictable, I enjoyed the suspense of the whodunit nonetheless. The setting was beautifully described and made me want to go to Japan so badly. The author describes Ogawa and the surrounding countryside without making it kitschy or foreign. It’s clear she had lived there a while. So, nothing special but an enjoyable and well-written mystery set in Japan, a country I must visit someday.
September 1, 2018
Goodreads, you have failed me. Based on the rating, I read this book, and those are hours I will never recover. Thanks a lot, GR. This book should be marketed as a young adult mystery. Then, it wouldn't be as offensive that the ratings were as high as they were. The writing is simplistic and dull, the characters faint and uninspiring, and the plot was as transparent as a window. To offer a positive spin, perhaps this would be a good book for someone who struggles with or hates reading. But if you're someone who enjoys a well-developed mystery, characters who are fully drawn, and writing that has an artfulness to it, don't bother. The only worthy element were the details about living in Japan. The main character, Jordan, the cliched tall blond American who somehow stumbles upon a murder plot, is an utter bore.
February 20, 2019
A wonderfully gripping story. Kept me coming back, wanting to start the next chapter as soon as I finished the previous. The place-setting was great and I could perfectly picture the settings: the bustling school, the rural village, the cramped apartment. Like I had visited Japan myself.
Jordan felt like a living, breathing person just on the other side of the page.
While mysteries are not usually my … cup of tea, I highly recommend this novel.
Jordan felt like a living, breathing person just on the other side of the page.
While mysteries are not usually my … cup of tea, I highly recommend this novel.
June 19, 2023
Category Ratings use a 10 point scale, with formula to generate 1/2 star and full star ratings.
DNF at 37% of ebook. TRIGGER WARNING: References to Self-Inflicted Death
*****
Characters 5
Atmosphere 5
Writing 6
Plot 4
Intrigue 3
Logic 5
Enjoyment 1
Star Formula Says! : 4.17 which equals a high 2.5 stars, rounded to a 3.
The writing was really, good. The quality is there. It's the story that wasn't doing it for me. My apologies for not being able to get into it.
*****
REFERENCES TO THE TRIGGER BELOW THIS SPACE.
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
Maybe it's the fact that it was a contemporary story. Maybe the way the culture has formed over the centuries. Maybe it was the topic, the belabored finger pointing at suicide. I couldn't make it to the point of figuring out if the American English teacher in Japan who started dating the investigator of her students' deaths, who isn't investigating the deaths as anything other than a suicide pact, figures out if it actually was a suicide pact or if it was something far more sinister...
Wait. What about suicide isn't sinister? Those ideas are our brains messing with our sense of reality, so no. Wasn't feeling it.
DNF at 37% of ebook. TRIGGER WARNING: References to Self-Inflicted Death
*****
Characters 5
Atmosphere 5
Writing 6
Plot 4
Intrigue 3
Logic 5
Enjoyment 1
Star Formula Says! : 4.17 which equals a high 2.5 stars, rounded to a 3.
The writing was really, good. The quality is there. It's the story that wasn't doing it for me. My apologies for not being able to get into it.
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REFERENCES TO THE TRIGGER BELOW THIS SPACE.
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Maybe it's the fact that it was a contemporary story. Maybe the way the culture has formed over the centuries. Maybe it was the topic, the belabored finger pointing at suicide. I couldn't make it to the point of figuring out if the American English teacher in Japan who started dating the investigator of her students' deaths, who isn't investigating the deaths as anything other than a suicide pact, figures out if it actually was a suicide pact or if it was something far more sinister...
Wait. What about suicide isn't sinister? Those ideas are our brains messing with our sense of reality, so no. Wasn't feeling it.
September 3, 2018
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from LibraryThing in return for an honest review.
Jordan Howard is an American exchange teacher of English in Japan. When her students begin dying, Jordan knows something is off. Everyone says the deaths are a result of a suicide pact but Jordan thinks they might be murders. With the help of police officer, Toshihiko Sakurai, Jordan seeks to solve the mystery surrounding her student's deaths.
This book was a quick read and full of twists and turns. I did feel that it dragged at certain points and some plot points were unbelievable. But overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery.
Jordan Howard is an American exchange teacher of English in Japan. When her students begin dying, Jordan knows something is off. Everyone says the deaths are a result of a suicide pact but Jordan thinks they might be murders. With the help of police officer, Toshihiko Sakurai, Jordan seeks to solve the mystery surrounding her student's deaths.
This book was a quick read and full of twists and turns. I did feel that it dragged at certain points and some plot points were unbelievable. But overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery.
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