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Inspector Iwata #3
Unknown Male
THE GRIPPING NEW THRILLER FROM NICOLÁS OBREGÓN
He is a completely unremarkable man.
Who wears the same black suit every day.
Boards the same train to work each morning.
And arrives home to his wife and son each night.
But he has a secret.
He likes to kill people.
Set in the neon drenched streets of Tokyo, this gripping thriller will have you on the edge of your seat . . .
He is a completely unremarkable man.
Who wears the same black suit every day.
Boards the same train to work each morning.
And arrives home to his wife and son each night.
But he has a secret.
He likes to kill people.
Set in the neon drenched streets of Tokyo, this gripping thriller will have you on the edge of your seat . . .
400 pages, Hardcover
First published November 28, 2019
9 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Nicolás Obregón
7 books140 followersNicolás Obregón is a Londoner, a Madrileño, and a full-time writer. His first novel, Blue Light Yokohama, was published in 2017 across the world. It was conceived two days shy of his 30th birthday while travelling on a bullet train from Hiroshima to Kyoto.
The sequel, Sins As Scarlet, set across California and Northern Mexico, was released in 2018. The final Inspector Iwata novel, Unknown Male, came out in late 2019. In it, Iwata returns to Tokyo for one final case when an English exchange student is found murdered in the days leading up to the Olympics.
His fourth novel, a standalone about a child abductor and an Amish colony, will be released in 2025.
Having lived in London and Los Angeles, Obregón now lives in Madrid.
The sequel, Sins As Scarlet, set across California and Northern Mexico, was released in 2018. The final Inspector Iwata novel, Unknown Male, came out in late 2019. In it, Iwata returns to Tokyo for one final case when an English exchange student is found murdered in the days leading up to the Olympics.
His fourth novel, a standalone about a child abductor and an Amish colony, will be released in 2025.
Having lived in London and Los Angeles, Obregón now lives in Madrid.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 20, 2019
*4.5 stars *
After spending the last 10 years working as a private detective in LA, Inspector Kosuke Iwata returns to his native Japan, primarily to take charge of an investigation into the murder of English exchange student Skye Mackintosh, but there are also some ghosts of his own that he needs to exorcise while he’s back on home turf.
Running parallel to this investigation is that of numerous missing sex workers. The perpetrator is quite unremarkable - his disguise? He has no distinguishing features, nothing that would induce someone to give him a second look, someone who just blends in with the rest of us - the perfect persona for a serial killer!
This time out Inspector Iwata really has his work cut out - his orders are to find the student’s killer quickly - with the Tokyo Olympics due to start, the powers that be want it resolved before it sours the reputation of Tokyo.
Nicolás Obregón’s writing is so beautiful that it belies the dark content within, and make no mistake this IS a chilling noir tale - it’s also very complex as Iwata painstakingly digs into Tokyo’s sleazy underbelly, resulting in a fair few suspects, but none of whom feel quite right to Iwata, but he keeps digging until he gets the required results. Loving this series ( although it can be read as a stand-alone). Another riveting read from Mr Obregón!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
After spending the last 10 years working as a private detective in LA, Inspector Kosuke Iwata returns to his native Japan, primarily to take charge of an investigation into the murder of English exchange student Skye Mackintosh, but there are also some ghosts of his own that he needs to exorcise while he’s back on home turf.
Running parallel to this investigation is that of numerous missing sex workers. The perpetrator is quite unremarkable - his disguise? He has no distinguishing features, nothing that would induce someone to give him a second look, someone who just blends in with the rest of us - the perfect persona for a serial killer!
This time out Inspector Iwata really has his work cut out - his orders are to find the student’s killer quickly - with the Tokyo Olympics due to start, the powers that be want it resolved before it sours the reputation of Tokyo.
Nicolás Obregón’s writing is so beautiful that it belies the dark content within, and make no mistake this IS a chilling noir tale - it’s also very complex as Iwata painstakingly digs into Tokyo’s sleazy underbelly, resulting in a fair few suspects, but none of whom feel quite right to Iwata, but he keeps digging until he gets the required results. Loving this series ( although it can be read as a stand-alone). Another riveting read from Mr Obregón!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
December 12, 2019
In the 3rd of Nicolas Obregon's series, Inspector Kosuke Iwata leaves LA after working as a PI for missing persons, returning to Tokyo after an absence of 10 years, a place that holds memories of trauma, tragedy, sorrow, and grief. Obregon's Japan set Noir drips with atmosphere as he immerses us in the neon lights of the city, it's culture, criminal underbelly, sex workers, the growing tribes of homeless living by the river, a Tokyo anxiously preparing for the upcoming Olympics. Iwata has returned at the behest of his old mentor and boss, Commissioner Shindo, a terminally ill man, now a frail shadow of himself, to serve as consultant and lead Inspector on the politically sensitive case of the murder of 22 year old English exchange student, the beautiful Skye Mackintosh at a love hotel. Arriving in Tokyo with Skye's grieving family and boyfriend, Dylan White, is DC Anthea Lynch, a woman of mixed Nigerian and Irish heritage, to support the family and observe the murder investigation.
Iwata's appointment stirs up resentment and jealousy in his police team, and whilst his and Lynch's position owes more to PR and reputation management than any integrity, the two mismatched detectives form a strangely effective partnership. Additionally, Iwata had an ulterior motive in accepting the case, he wants to address the demons that haunted his troubled childhood, planning to address old injustices but will this threaten his new life with 'son' Santi? Meanwhile, fear runs rampant amongst women with the disappearance of sex workers. They are the victims of a sick and unhinged serial killer, Mr Soto, a careful and intelligent salaryman, unobtrusive, unremarkable in apearance and demeanour, the invisible man that is noticed by no-one as he goes about his well planned everyday macabre life.
This latest addition to the series by Obregon is the best one yet, he shines with his rich and lyrical descriptions of a Tokyo that feels like a living, breathing, vibrant and contrary character in its own right, a multilayered and complex city well practiced in the art of seduction, but hard faced, cruel, ruthless and unforgiving, yet insidiously unforgettable, a city that makes its mark on a person for life. The central protagonist Iwata faces the horrors of his past, Hideo Akashi's final moments, the unbearable memories of the loss of Cleo and Nina, and Norika Sakai. He begins to find a certain sense of coming to terms with who he now is as he lays the ghosts of his past to rest, bringing Santi to Tokyo, gaining a much needed measure of peace. This is a beautifully written novel, you can visualise the city and the diverse range of characters with ease, everything all feels so vividly alive, with its echoes of the old classic crime noirs. A brilliant read. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
Iwata's appointment stirs up resentment and jealousy in his police team, and whilst his and Lynch's position owes more to PR and reputation management than any integrity, the two mismatched detectives form a strangely effective partnership. Additionally, Iwata had an ulterior motive in accepting the case, he wants to address the demons that haunted his troubled childhood, planning to address old injustices but will this threaten his new life with 'son' Santi? Meanwhile, fear runs rampant amongst women with the disappearance of sex workers. They are the victims of a sick and unhinged serial killer, Mr Soto, a careful and intelligent salaryman, unobtrusive, unremarkable in apearance and demeanour, the invisible man that is noticed by no-one as he goes about his well planned everyday macabre life.
This latest addition to the series by Obregon is the best one yet, he shines with his rich and lyrical descriptions of a Tokyo that feels like a living, breathing, vibrant and contrary character in its own right, a multilayered and complex city well practiced in the art of seduction, but hard faced, cruel, ruthless and unforgiving, yet insidiously unforgettable, a city that makes its mark on a person for life. The central protagonist Iwata faces the horrors of his past, Hideo Akashi's final moments, the unbearable memories of the loss of Cleo and Nina, and Norika Sakai. He begins to find a certain sense of coming to terms with who he now is as he lays the ghosts of his past to rest, bringing Santi to Tokyo, gaining a much needed measure of peace. This is a beautifully written novel, you can visualise the city and the diverse range of characters with ease, everything all feels so vividly alive, with its echoes of the old classic crime noirs. A brilliant read. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
December 12, 2019
So we come to the last instalment of Nicolas Obregon’s remarkable Tokyo trilogy featuring former detective Kosuke Iwata. Having previously reviewed both Blue Light Yokohama and Sins As Scarlet and quite frankly, raved about both, I approached Unknown Male with more than a sense of delicious anticipation. What I love about Obregon as a writer is the way he so consistently holds his reader in the palm of his hand and the sense of real storytelling that is so absolutely central to the narrative. I must admit that I find it hard to define what it is about his writing that enthrals me, but will try in my own ham-fisted way to do so…
Firstly I think Obregon’s obvious love affair with Tokyo is absolutely central to this book, and his fearlessness in portraying this city with very much a love/hate edge to his depiction of it: “As he walked, he inhaled a cologne of rubbish, exhaust, wet concrete. No city had more nameless streets or alleyways…To walk through her ways was to be inveigled in her web…She murmured from steam vents and snickered from overflowing gutters.” All through the book the intangible hold of the city both on the main characters, and the general populace is front and centre, with Obregon exposing the pulsing beat of a city where there is a real sense of sink or swim, poverty or success and a constant feel of movement in “this shingle beach of crossed purpose“. Obregon also emphasises how easily people become lost, in this teeming morass of people, whether slaves to a wage, slaves to people basest violent desires, and how people seek to navigate a society that slows for no man. Although our detective figure Iwata is a native to the city, Obregon also instils in him a feeling of having to get to grips with this mercurial city after time abroad, and the very particular problems that arise in having to almost start afresh in navigating its unique idiosyncrasies.
Iwata himself is also a complicated soul, imbued with a deep sense of morality pertaining to his professional standards and the way he conducts himself in relation to this particular investigation. However, back amongst his countrymen he does at times seem like a square peg in a round hole, as his methods and thought process put him at odds with his fellow investigators. He is an outsider, but in that mould proves to be extremely effective at approaching the case from a different angle, and intuitive thinking. The issue of morality is explored in many ways throughout the book both through Iwata who is also seeking some personal retribution, but also through the British female detective Anthea Lynch (who finds herself despatched to Tokyo after a serious blip in her own career) and individuals involved with Skye, the murder victim. Throw into the mix one of the most strangely motivated serial killers I have encountered for some time (the thermos flask-eugh) and what Obregon gives us is a real smorgasboard of the good, the bad and ugly where the lines of morality and decent behaviour become fractured, and at times difficult to discern. People acting in surprising and unpredictable ways give a real emotional heft to this book, and also work beautifully in concealing the real villains of the piece, with revenge being another incredibly strong motif resonating through the characters.
I think it goes without saying that Unknown Male has secured a place in my Top 5 of the year with its masterful depth of characterisation, use of location with Tokyo as a living and breathing entity so crucial to the lives and crimes unfolding within it, and the way that the book keeps you in its grasp from beginning to end. It is the close to a trilogy which left me tinged with sadness as I loved these books so much, but also heartens me that hopefully more readers will discover these for themselves. Absolutely outstanding.
Firstly I think Obregon’s obvious love affair with Tokyo is absolutely central to this book, and his fearlessness in portraying this city with very much a love/hate edge to his depiction of it: “As he walked, he inhaled a cologne of rubbish, exhaust, wet concrete. No city had more nameless streets or alleyways…To walk through her ways was to be inveigled in her web…She murmured from steam vents and snickered from overflowing gutters.” All through the book the intangible hold of the city both on the main characters, and the general populace is front and centre, with Obregon exposing the pulsing beat of a city where there is a real sense of sink or swim, poverty or success and a constant feel of movement in “this shingle beach of crossed purpose“. Obregon also emphasises how easily people become lost, in this teeming morass of people, whether slaves to a wage, slaves to people basest violent desires, and how people seek to navigate a society that slows for no man. Although our detective figure Iwata is a native to the city, Obregon also instils in him a feeling of having to get to grips with this mercurial city after time abroad, and the very particular problems that arise in having to almost start afresh in navigating its unique idiosyncrasies.
Iwata himself is also a complicated soul, imbued with a deep sense of morality pertaining to his professional standards and the way he conducts himself in relation to this particular investigation. However, back amongst his countrymen he does at times seem like a square peg in a round hole, as his methods and thought process put him at odds with his fellow investigators. He is an outsider, but in that mould proves to be extremely effective at approaching the case from a different angle, and intuitive thinking. The issue of morality is explored in many ways throughout the book both through Iwata who is also seeking some personal retribution, but also through the British female detective Anthea Lynch (who finds herself despatched to Tokyo after a serious blip in her own career) and individuals involved with Skye, the murder victim. Throw into the mix one of the most strangely motivated serial killers I have encountered for some time (the thermos flask-eugh) and what Obregon gives us is a real smorgasboard of the good, the bad and ugly where the lines of morality and decent behaviour become fractured, and at times difficult to discern. People acting in surprising and unpredictable ways give a real emotional heft to this book, and also work beautifully in concealing the real villains of the piece, with revenge being another incredibly strong motif resonating through the characters.
I think it goes without saying that Unknown Male has secured a place in my Top 5 of the year with its masterful depth of characterisation, use of location with Tokyo as a living and breathing entity so crucial to the lives and crimes unfolding within it, and the way that the book keeps you in its grasp from beginning to end. It is the close to a trilogy which left me tinged with sadness as I loved these books so much, but also heartens me that hopefully more readers will discover these for themselves. Absolutely outstanding.
November 28, 2019
Unknown Male is the third instalment in the Inspector Kosuke Iwata series and how could I resist reading it given I am a Japanophile and these gripping thrillers are based in Tokyo, Japan. Each instalment can be read as a standalone as the story is self-contained, however, you will miss out on Iwata's backstory somewhat. It follows a seemingly ordinary guy living his life the way most people do; working day in day out and going back each night to his family home where his wife and child await him. But Mr Soto is a serial killer with a penchant for the sadistic which results in a number of sex workers being cruelly plucked from the seedy Tokyo underbelly and subjected to horrifying torture before being murdered in cold blood. The second strand of the plot revolves around the death of a young British girl, Skye Mackintosh, discovered at a hotel who was in the country studying. This means Iwata must liaise with Anthea Lynch from the Metropolitan police service back in the UK.
I thoroughly enjoyed this complex and compulsive story and feel it is Obregon's best to date. It's jarring how one can be a brutal killer yet hold down a job and have a pretty mundane and uneventful family life too. It reminds us that you never know who could be doing what. Iwata and Lynch are in some ways mirror images of one another as they both have disgraced themselves in the line of duty and have lost the respect of many of their peers. They have overstepped the mark one too many times and appear to have problems listening to their superiors and following rules. Although sometimes rules are there to be broken. The tale is a gripping and fascinating one and the depictions of Tokyo were magical and so vivid I felt as though I was actually there. Not for the faint-hearted, this is a gritty, gruesome page-turner with twists aplenty and a shocking conclusion to put the cherry on the cake. Many thanks to Michael Joseph for an ARC.
I thoroughly enjoyed this complex and compulsive story and feel it is Obregon's best to date. It's jarring how one can be a brutal killer yet hold down a job and have a pretty mundane and uneventful family life too. It reminds us that you never know who could be doing what. Iwata and Lynch are in some ways mirror images of one another as they both have disgraced themselves in the line of duty and have lost the respect of many of their peers. They have overstepped the mark one too many times and appear to have problems listening to their superiors and following rules. Although sometimes rules are there to be broken. The tale is a gripping and fascinating one and the depictions of Tokyo were magical and so vivid I felt as though I was actually there. Not for the faint-hearted, this is a gritty, gruesome page-turner with twists aplenty and a shocking conclusion to put the cherry on the cake. Many thanks to Michael Joseph for an ARC.
December 22, 2019
This is the third novel of a series, although the first I’ve read. Apart from a section dealing with the central character’s childhood and his poisonous relationship with his father, I still found it read pretty well as a standalone.
Inspector Kosuke Iwata leaves the US, where he has been working as a private investigator and returns to Tokyo after a 10 year absence at the request of his old boss to investigate the murder of a 22 year old female English student.
The novel is actually set slightly in the future: 2020, to be precise, and Tokyo is busy getting prepared for the forthcoming Olympic games. Obregon paints a picture of a city in turmoil; full of corrupt politicians, seedy suburbs ruled by gangsters and legions of homeless people subsisting on the river banks.
Almost predictably, Iwata’s attempts to solve the murder are thwarted by police officers envious of him being given the lead role. His only ally, it seems, is English police officer DC Anthea Lynch who arrived as liaison for the victim’s family.
This is an intricately plotted novel which actually deals with two separate crimes. The location descriptions are very evocative and there is a strong cast of characters, including the complex and troubled Inspector Iwata.
Inspector Kosuke Iwata leaves the US, where he has been working as a private investigator and returns to Tokyo after a 10 year absence at the request of his old boss to investigate the murder of a 22 year old female English student.
The novel is actually set slightly in the future: 2020, to be precise, and Tokyo is busy getting prepared for the forthcoming Olympic games. Obregon paints a picture of a city in turmoil; full of corrupt politicians, seedy suburbs ruled by gangsters and legions of homeless people subsisting on the river banks.
Almost predictably, Iwata’s attempts to solve the murder are thwarted by police officers envious of him being given the lead role. His only ally, it seems, is English police officer DC Anthea Lynch who arrived as liaison for the victim’s family.
This is an intricately plotted novel which actually deals with two separate crimes. The location descriptions are very evocative and there is a strong cast of characters, including the complex and troubled Inspector Iwata.
November 29, 2019
This a rather more accessible story than most home-grown Japanese crime fiction (like The Devotion Of Suspect X, and similar). The clever investigative tangle retains the hallmarks of its genre – an implacable killer, a genuinely perplexing mystery, complex characters motivated by conflicting experiences – but it’s not as outright bizarre as some Japanese fiction can be. Even so, this sophisticated story is definitely more challenging than the average police procedural.
This is the third book to feature the intellectually brilliant but psychologically scarred Inspector Iwata. He returns to his native Japan after years in America, as a stranger in a strange land, not a welcome prodigal son. But he’s the perfect (…expendable) person to assign to a sensitive case which involves the death of a young English woman.
I read the first Iwata book (Blue Light Yokohama) a while back and missed the next one, so was somewhat behind with the character’s development. That wasn’t a problem: the story of Unknown Male is entirely self-contained. Obregón instils real depth in his characters with minimal exposition. He’s unleashed a genuinely ghastly killer, one who manipulates his victims with callous brutality but who passes unnoticed in the commuter throng. An anonymous salaryman, invisible in his dark suit and white shirt, an insidious stalker with a heart full of hate.
The investigators are rather more colourful and no less intense. A British police officer is sent to Tokyo as a liaison / observer, and she is a splendidly conflicted character in her own right. She’s provides a familiar reference point for western readers to engage with an unfamiliar, occasionally unfathomable culture.
Even so, there are many moments of savage brutality, quiet poetry and oblique misery in Unknown Male. Don’t expect to be spoon-fed a straightforward story: much is understated or ambiguous… like that brilliant title, for instance.
Superb storytelling for the patient reader who enjoys the challenge of literary crime fiction. Not necessarily an easy ride!
8/10
I review stacks more crime / fiction in detail over at http://www.murdermayhemandmore.net
This is the third book to feature the intellectually brilliant but psychologically scarred Inspector Iwata. He returns to his native Japan after years in America, as a stranger in a strange land, not a welcome prodigal son. But he’s the perfect (…expendable) person to assign to a sensitive case which involves the death of a young English woman.
I read the first Iwata book (Blue Light Yokohama) a while back and missed the next one, so was somewhat behind with the character’s development. That wasn’t a problem: the story of Unknown Male is entirely self-contained. Obregón instils real depth in his characters with minimal exposition. He’s unleashed a genuinely ghastly killer, one who manipulates his victims with callous brutality but who passes unnoticed in the commuter throng. An anonymous salaryman, invisible in his dark suit and white shirt, an insidious stalker with a heart full of hate.
The investigators are rather more colourful and no less intense. A British police officer is sent to Tokyo as a liaison / observer, and she is a splendidly conflicted character in her own right. She’s provides a familiar reference point for western readers to engage with an unfamiliar, occasionally unfathomable culture.
Even so, there are many moments of savage brutality, quiet poetry and oblique misery in Unknown Male. Don’t expect to be spoon-fed a straightforward story: much is understated or ambiguous… like that brilliant title, for instance.
Superb storytelling for the patient reader who enjoys the challenge of literary crime fiction. Not necessarily an easy ride!
8/10
I review stacks more crime / fiction in detail over at http://www.murdermayhemandmore.net
February 5, 2022
Wonderful
March 18, 2022
A brilliant story of crime investigation.
May 5, 2021
I could not put this book down, each one of the Inspector Iwata novels has had me so enthralled that I finished in one sitting. The descriptions of Tokyo are gritty and beautiful. Highly recommend each one of these novels
November 5, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
An exceptionally dark twisty thriller from an immensely gifted author.
Nicolas Obregon's Unknown Male is a masterful example of Japanese Noir. With its descriptions of the seething underbelly of Tokyo and its 'everyday man' serial killer, Mr Soto, who typifies 'the banality of evil' Hannah Arendt spoke so chillingly of, Obregon has written a compelling thriller. This book is not for the faint-hearted, however. With its stark backdrop of a darker Tokyo, far removed from the genteel face that will be presented to the world during the Tokyo Olympics, and its graphic scenes of mutilation and torture, Unknown Male is both thought-provoking and frightening. Frightening, precisely because Mr Soto is a monster who walks among us with a very human face. These are the monsters which truly haunt our dreams and who Obregon's captures so expertly in his narrative. This book kept me awake precisely for these reasons; reasons which also speak profoundly of this author's talent in being able to engage with his readers in such a profound way. In this Obregon shows an acute understanding of the human condition as exemplified the actions of its main protagonists, Mr Soto and the investigating detectives - Iwata and Lynch. This is not a quick read for the uninitiated in Japanese culture, but its pay-off is immense. This is a twisty, sophisticated mystery that will keep you gripped to the end.
An exceptionally dark twisty thriller from an immensely gifted author.
Nicolas Obregon's Unknown Male is a masterful example of Japanese Noir. With its descriptions of the seething underbelly of Tokyo and its 'everyday man' serial killer, Mr Soto, who typifies 'the banality of evil' Hannah Arendt spoke so chillingly of, Obregon has written a compelling thriller. This book is not for the faint-hearted, however. With its stark backdrop of a darker Tokyo, far removed from the genteel face that will be presented to the world during the Tokyo Olympics, and its graphic scenes of mutilation and torture, Unknown Male is both thought-provoking and frightening. Frightening, precisely because Mr Soto is a monster who walks among us with a very human face. These are the monsters which truly haunt our dreams and who Obregon's captures so expertly in his narrative. This book kept me awake precisely for these reasons; reasons which also speak profoundly of this author's talent in being able to engage with his readers in such a profound way. In this Obregon shows an acute understanding of the human condition as exemplified the actions of its main protagonists, Mr Soto and the investigating detectives - Iwata and Lynch. This is not a quick read for the uninitiated in Japanese culture, but its pay-off is immense. This is a twisty, sophisticated mystery that will keep you gripped to the end.
March 22, 2020
A dark and gripping thriller set in the seedy underbelly of Tokyo
Detective Inspector Kosuke Iwata is called back to his native Japan for the first time in almost 10 years to investigate the murder of a British exchange student, Skye Mackintosh, who has been found dead in a sordid ‘love hotel’. The orders are to find the killer before the start of the Tokyo Olympics, to avoid damaging the city’s international reputation, and DC Anthea Lynch is brought in from London to support Skye’s grieving family and to assist in the investigation. At the same time, the police department in Tokyo are dealing with the disappearances of several sex workers. The man behind this, the unremarkable Mr Sato, is hiding in plain sight, his complete normality and lack of distinguishing features the perfect mask for the evil, sadistic killer within. As Iwata hunts for Skye’s murderer, he finds himself clashing with the rest of the police forces who resent him as an outsider, and also realises his return to Tokyo means he must face some of his own demons from the past.
This is the third of Nicolas Obregon’s novels that I have been fortunate enough to read, and it certainly does not disappoint. Despite being part of a series, it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone story, with a whip-fast plot and plenty of twists, turns and chills packed in throughout. The author’s descriptions of Tokyo are so incredibly atmospheric and detailed that the reader almost feels as if they are there under the neon lights and amongst the hustle and bustle of the city, with both its beautiful and its dark sides described perfectly. Iwata is a complex and empathic character with a strong sense of morality, whose motivations and loyalties are put to the test as he comes to terms with his past losses, including his beloved wife and child. Lynch is also an interesting character and her relationship with Iwata as a fellow outsider worked well. However, the standout character in this novel was the chilling Mr Sato, a monster with a human face, whose sick and twisted behaviour stayed in my mind long after I put down the book.
My criticisms of this novel are few, but I would potentially say that the development of Iwata’s character is not as expanded in this instalment as in the previous books. Additionally, some parts of this story are very dark and gruesome indeed, and some readers may find them gratuitous, and the ending twist was perhaps a little predictable.
In conclusion, I very much enjoyed this novel, and whilst it may be the last instalment in the Inspector Iwata series, I sincerely hope it is not the last I read of this author. I cannot recommend this series enough to any fan of crime thrillers.
Daenerys
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book to review.
Detective Inspector Kosuke Iwata is called back to his native Japan for the first time in almost 10 years to investigate the murder of a British exchange student, Skye Mackintosh, who has been found dead in a sordid ‘love hotel’. The orders are to find the killer before the start of the Tokyo Olympics, to avoid damaging the city’s international reputation, and DC Anthea Lynch is brought in from London to support Skye’s grieving family and to assist in the investigation. At the same time, the police department in Tokyo are dealing with the disappearances of several sex workers. The man behind this, the unremarkable Mr Sato, is hiding in plain sight, his complete normality and lack of distinguishing features the perfect mask for the evil, sadistic killer within. As Iwata hunts for Skye’s murderer, he finds himself clashing with the rest of the police forces who resent him as an outsider, and also realises his return to Tokyo means he must face some of his own demons from the past.
This is the third of Nicolas Obregon’s novels that I have been fortunate enough to read, and it certainly does not disappoint. Despite being part of a series, it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone story, with a whip-fast plot and plenty of twists, turns and chills packed in throughout. The author’s descriptions of Tokyo are so incredibly atmospheric and detailed that the reader almost feels as if they are there under the neon lights and amongst the hustle and bustle of the city, with both its beautiful and its dark sides described perfectly. Iwata is a complex and empathic character with a strong sense of morality, whose motivations and loyalties are put to the test as he comes to terms with his past losses, including his beloved wife and child. Lynch is also an interesting character and her relationship with Iwata as a fellow outsider worked well. However, the standout character in this novel was the chilling Mr Sato, a monster with a human face, whose sick and twisted behaviour stayed in my mind long after I put down the book.
My criticisms of this novel are few, but I would potentially say that the development of Iwata’s character is not as expanded in this instalment as in the previous books. Additionally, some parts of this story are very dark and gruesome indeed, and some readers may find them gratuitous, and the ending twist was perhaps a little predictable.
In conclusion, I very much enjoyed this novel, and whilst it may be the last instalment in the Inspector Iwata series, I sincerely hope it is not the last I read of this author. I cannot recommend this series enough to any fan of crime thrillers.
Daenerys
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book to review.
March 10, 2020
After a gap of ten years, Kosuke Iwata has returned to Tokyo to investigate the murder of a young British student, Skye Mackintosh. The Olympic Games are about to begin, the eyes of the world are on Tokyo, and the Japanese authorities have to be seen to do everything by the book. DC Anthea Lynch from the Met has been sent over with Skye’s family to assist as she speaks some Japanese. Like Iwata, she has a disregard for authority but is also an excellent detective.
There is a parallel storyline about the disappearance of sex workers; there does not appear to be any connection between the two cases. The story mostly focuses on Iwata, interspersed with the thoughts of Mr Sato – an ‘invisible’ man in a suit, with a horrific secret.
I have read all of Nicolas Obregon’s books featuring Kosuke Iwata (Blue Light Yokohama and Sins as Scarlet) and this is his best yet – a gripping thriller with just the right mix of description, action and dialogue. Even though Nicolas Obregon is not a native of Japan, his poetic descriptions of the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, and insights into Japanese culture, make Unknown Male a wonderful example of Japanese noir. It remains to be seen whether this is the last book to feature Kosuke Iwata, but I hope we catch up with him again one day. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy to review.
There is a parallel storyline about the disappearance of sex workers; there does not appear to be any connection between the two cases. The story mostly focuses on Iwata, interspersed with the thoughts of Mr Sato – an ‘invisible’ man in a suit, with a horrific secret.
I have read all of Nicolas Obregon’s books featuring Kosuke Iwata (Blue Light Yokohama and Sins as Scarlet) and this is his best yet – a gripping thriller with just the right mix of description, action and dialogue. Even though Nicolas Obregon is not a native of Japan, his poetic descriptions of the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, and insights into Japanese culture, make Unknown Male a wonderful example of Japanese noir. It remains to be seen whether this is the last book to feature Kosuke Iwata, but I hope we catch up with him again one day. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy to review.
June 30, 2020
Iwata has been working in the US for ten years as an investigator when he's recalled to Japan to find out who murdered an English girl in a love hotel. There are tensions with the local police, the higher ups and the press. Meanwhile, there's an unknown male disappearing sex workers. This was brilliant; I liked the characters and the twists were enough to keep you reading. Slightly gross serial killer at work who pretty much put me off my tea which doesn't happen very often. Not sure if there will be more books about Iwata but if this was the final one, it left him at a good point.
December 27, 2019
Gritty thriller set in Japan, maybe the last featuring Detective Iwata - engaging read
Iwata flies to Japan for personal reasons but also as a consultant helping to solve the murder of an English girl. He gets involved in all sorts of other crime and political machinations. An officer from the Met is also brought in and they work together. There’s a lot of interesting characters and the style can be quite literary at times. The plot is suitably complicated and engages the reader although it is not for the faint-hearted. Enjoyable novel, especially if you’re familiar with the two previous books about Iwata. Definitely recommended.
July 30, 2021
An absolutely fascinating book. I was unaware of the first two books in this trilogy, but I will most definitely be back tracking and reading those as well. The author kept the story descriptive enough, but not overly so, where you could really find yourself engulfed in the story and turning the next page without even realising it. Some of the graphic scenes where phenomenal and disgusting — to write so well about the mind of a killer… that’s talent.
February 14, 2022
Oh wow! This was brilliant! Set in Tokyo, a detective is recalled to solve the case of English girl who has been found murdered. But there is so much more to it than this! Loved every page. I’ve not read any of the other books in the series, but I definitely will be now.
August 6, 2024
Extremely, and I mean extremely, fucking disturbing but quite an excellent thriller. Gonna miss my boy Iwata.
December 21, 2019
Really enjoyed this - This is book 3 - I’ll read the others
November 16, 2020
Unknown Male by Nicholas Obregon
A dark, chilling and unforgettable novel, the third in the series of Inspector Iwata.
Unknown Male can be read as a stand-alone but having previously read novels by the talented Nicholas Obregon it was a pleasure to follow on with the life and cases of Inspector Iwata.
Set in Japan, the murder of a young English student, so near to the Olympics, Iwata receives a request to come back to Japan to investigate. Andrea Lynch from the London Met Police is ordered to Japan to assist in the investigation.
They find a number of young girls have disappeared only to be found murdered, it points to a serial killer.
I particularly liked the character of Anthea Lynch and hope to see her teamed up again with Iwata.
Very descriptive, Obregon use of adjectives brings the reader scenes which are unforgettable, dark, uncomfortable, creepy and horrifying. Brilliantly scripted, superb plot is full of twists with political undertones. I don’t think I will ever forget the thermos; totally cringing.
Thank you to Nicholas Obregon, Michael Joseph and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this outstanding novel for which I have written an unbiased and honest review.
A dark, chilling and unforgettable novel, the third in the series of Inspector Iwata.
Unknown Male can be read as a stand-alone but having previously read novels by the talented Nicholas Obregon it was a pleasure to follow on with the life and cases of Inspector Iwata.
Set in Japan, the murder of a young English student, so near to the Olympics, Iwata receives a request to come back to Japan to investigate. Andrea Lynch from the London Met Police is ordered to Japan to assist in the investigation.
They find a number of young girls have disappeared only to be found murdered, it points to a serial killer.
I particularly liked the character of Anthea Lynch and hope to see her teamed up again with Iwata.
Very descriptive, Obregon use of adjectives brings the reader scenes which are unforgettable, dark, uncomfortable, creepy and horrifying. Brilliantly scripted, superb plot is full of twists with political undertones. I don’t think I will ever forget the thermos; totally cringing.
Thank you to Nicholas Obregon, Michael Joseph and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this outstanding novel for which I have written an unbiased and honest review.
August 6, 2023
The third and last? book in the series about inspector Iwata. Back to Tokyo it is. I love this series, strong stories about a driven yet tormented character in a Japanese setting. I'd love more books here but it has been stated as a trilogy. I feel that due to covid this book has fallen between the cracks which is an utter shame since it is a delight. It is hard to pinpoint why exactly but it resonates. Series is highly recommended.
May 9, 2023
Quite a good story very dark at times. Full of twists and turns. Kept me enthralled from the first page.
December 15, 2019
Nicolás Obregón is an author whose trilogy I’ve read from the start. His debut, Blue Light Yokohama, introduced us to his protagonist, Inspector Kosuke Iwata. Iwata was a newly appointed Tokyo homicide cop and was on the trail of a serial killer, the Black Sun Killer. Iwata was an outsider in the force and the events of that novel led him to leave the Tokyo Police under a cloud; he relocated to the United States, where he worked as a private detective, and this is where we found him for the sequel, Sins as Scarlet. In Obregón's second book, Iwata was asked to look into the death of a transgender relative and stumbled upon a cesspit of corruption and violence in the US/Mexican borderlands. Both Blue Light Yokohama, and its sequel, Sins as Scarlet, were brilliant novels, and so when the author brought out the third novel in the trilogy, I was keen to read it.
Unknown Male takes Iwata back to Tokyo, Japan. A British student, Skye Mackintosh, has been found murdered and with the world’s press taking an interest, the Tokyo Homicide Department is desperate for a quick result. Iwata’s old boss, the head of the unit, is dying of pancreatic cancer and determined not to have the Mackintosh murder unsolved, and thus a blot on his legacy. He calls Iwata back to Tokyo to lead the investigation, installing him as a consultant, though in actual fact he is in charge. Joining him as an observer is DC Anthea Lynch of London’s Metropolitan Police. She has as many issues as Iwata and has been sent to Tokyo to keep an eye on the Japanese investigation into Skye’s murder as a means of keeping her out of trouble back home.
Alongside the high-profile investigation into the murder of Skye Mackintosh is a second investigation which is receiving much less attention, the disappearance of a number of sex workers. It is not clear how linked this is to the murder of Skye and the author does not reveal this until the very end. Neither does he reveal until the end what link, if any, and to which case, the seemingly normal but in actual fact brutal serial murderer, Mr Soto, has. The author weaves all these strands together throughout the novel, each barely touching the other, but doing so enough that we know that one or more are going to impact with each other in the finale. He does this deftly and the plotting of Unknown Male is impressively done.
This isn’t a particularly violent or gruesome novel, but Unknown Male has some horrific elements. Most noticeable is what Mr Soto does with women he’s kidnapped. I won’t go into details but the drink he prepares for them is the stuff of nightmares. But like Hitchcock, the author knows the power of imagination, and these elements are touched on lightly, with much left to the reader to picture for themselves. This is much more effective, in my opinion, than those writers who graphically describe in technicolor and visceral detail.
Unknown Male is perhaps the final book of the author’s to feature his hero Kosuke Iwata. The book closes his story nicely, and while it’s left open for his return in a future novel, it’s also quite possible that his journey has come to an end. It’s a brilliant novel and a fitting end to a brilliant trilogy. Nicolás Obregón is now working on a standalone and some scripts and if they’re as good as this series of novels then I await them eagerly.
Unknown Male takes Iwata back to Tokyo, Japan. A British student, Skye Mackintosh, has been found murdered and with the world’s press taking an interest, the Tokyo Homicide Department is desperate for a quick result. Iwata’s old boss, the head of the unit, is dying of pancreatic cancer and determined not to have the Mackintosh murder unsolved, and thus a blot on his legacy. He calls Iwata back to Tokyo to lead the investigation, installing him as a consultant, though in actual fact he is in charge. Joining him as an observer is DC Anthea Lynch of London’s Metropolitan Police. She has as many issues as Iwata and has been sent to Tokyo to keep an eye on the Japanese investigation into Skye’s murder as a means of keeping her out of trouble back home.
Alongside the high-profile investigation into the murder of Skye Mackintosh is a second investigation which is receiving much less attention, the disappearance of a number of sex workers. It is not clear how linked this is to the murder of Skye and the author does not reveal this until the very end. Neither does he reveal until the end what link, if any, and to which case, the seemingly normal but in actual fact brutal serial murderer, Mr Soto, has. The author weaves all these strands together throughout the novel, each barely touching the other, but doing so enough that we know that one or more are going to impact with each other in the finale. He does this deftly and the plotting of Unknown Male is impressively done.
This isn’t a particularly violent or gruesome novel, but Unknown Male has some horrific elements. Most noticeable is what Mr Soto does with women he’s kidnapped. I won’t go into details but the drink he prepares for them is the stuff of nightmares. But like Hitchcock, the author knows the power of imagination, and these elements are touched on lightly, with much left to the reader to picture for themselves. This is much more effective, in my opinion, than those writers who graphically describe in technicolor and visceral detail.
Unknown Male is perhaps the final book of the author’s to feature his hero Kosuke Iwata. The book closes his story nicely, and while it’s left open for his return in a future novel, it’s also quite possible that his journey has come to an end. It’s a brilliant novel and a fitting end to a brilliant trilogy. Nicolás Obregón is now working on a standalone and some scripts and if they’re as good as this series of novels then I await them eagerly.
November 4, 2019
I have to admit that I struggled a bit with this book. Every so often I was taken out of the story by something that wasn't quite written as fluidly as maybe it could have been. That or some of the Japanese parts didn't quite translate for me. That said, the story was gripping and quite dark at times - graphically so on occasion. Not for the faint hearted!
So... Mr Soto goes to work, comes home, sees his wife and child, all normal behaviour you'd think. But he has a secret. He likes to abduct, keep, torture and kill. He's not a nice man. Especially with some of the other stuff he does on the side, if his main aim isn't heinous enough.
But our story isn't all about him. An English girl has been discovered dead in a love hotel. Tasked to investigate are two disgraced and wounded police - one Japanese, the other an English liaison. Both very good at what they do investigator wise but both a little fond of blurring the lines of authority!
And so begins a rather convoluted tale that takes everyone out of their comfort zones as they try to get to the truth of the matter.
I say convoluted. It was convoluted all the way through until towards the end where everything seemed to be wrapped up quite quickly. A bit too neatly if I have to say. To be honest, and I have to be, this book appeared to me to be more about the investigators than what they were investigating. As I didn't really get on with either of the main two characters that meant that the book fell a little flat to me. It also contained some rather graphic scenes that, although obviously spoke to character, were a little over the top gruesome.
But, something compelled me to keep reading. I guess I wanted justice for the victims and just needed to see it meted out. It helped that I did connect to some of the lesser characters in the book and they kept me going all the way. My persistence was rewarded by a satisfying, albeit a tad contrived, ending. The action scenes were well played out and the investigation itself was intriguing, the explanation satisfying most of my quibbles along the way.
All in all, a solid read that although the during was dubious for me, the ending made up for it. I think that it was more that the author's style of writing didn't quite suit me. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... Mr Soto goes to work, comes home, sees his wife and child, all normal behaviour you'd think. But he has a secret. He likes to abduct, keep, torture and kill. He's not a nice man. Especially with some of the other stuff he does on the side, if his main aim isn't heinous enough.
But our story isn't all about him. An English girl has been discovered dead in a love hotel. Tasked to investigate are two disgraced and wounded police - one Japanese, the other an English liaison. Both very good at what they do investigator wise but both a little fond of blurring the lines of authority!
And so begins a rather convoluted tale that takes everyone out of their comfort zones as they try to get to the truth of the matter.
I say convoluted. It was convoluted all the way through until towards the end where everything seemed to be wrapped up quite quickly. A bit too neatly if I have to say. To be honest, and I have to be, this book appeared to me to be more about the investigators than what they were investigating. As I didn't really get on with either of the main two characters that meant that the book fell a little flat to me. It also contained some rather graphic scenes that, although obviously spoke to character, were a little over the top gruesome.
But, something compelled me to keep reading. I guess I wanted justice for the victims and just needed to see it meted out. It helped that I did connect to some of the lesser characters in the book and they kept me going all the way. My persistence was rewarded by a satisfying, albeit a tad contrived, ending. The action scenes were well played out and the investigation itself was intriguing, the explanation satisfying most of my quibbles along the way.
All in all, a solid read that although the during was dubious for me, the ending made up for it. I think that it was more that the author's style of writing didn't quite suit me. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
November 10, 2019
This is normally the type of book I enjoy and read without looking up from the page, but there was just something for me personally that just didn’t work, I’m not sure what it was. It could possibly be the translation. But I’m not sure. However I am certain there are lots of readers out there that will read this novel and absolutely love it.
The story is quite a dark one, it’s most certainly not a cozy mystery story, so if that’s what you are looking for this is definitely not it. This novel is not for the faint hearted. I have read many of these types of novels and even I struggled with some of the content. There are some graphic scenes of mutilation and torture. Set in the underbelly of Tokyo, a young girl is found dead in a love hotel. The investigators on the case are two disgraced officers one is English Lynch and the other is Japanese Iwata. They are both good investigators but both also like to blur the lines a little.
But then you have Mr Soto, who appears as a normal man, married and having one child, he goes to work, comes home to the family, nothing unusual there, so what is it about him? Turns out he has a dark side, he’s not the nice man you see leaving his family and going to work. He has a secret, he likes to abduct, keep, torture and kill. He is not a nice man at all, what makes it more scary is the fact that he does look normal, you would never suspect him of such heinous crimes. He could be your average next door neighbour.
I didn’t quite gel with the characters as I didn't find anything to like about them, certainly Mr Soto was creepy, but even Lynch and Iwata just didn’t do anything for me, it’s nice to have at least one character that you could like and feel they had redeeming qualities. But not here. The story is at times deeply disturbing but at the same time gripping. This is the first Japanese noir book I have read, I did like some of the descriptions of Japan and life in Tokyo.
The book is well written although the translation didn’t flow right at times. If you like gritty gruesome Japanese noir then this is a book for you.
I would like to thank #Netgalley and #Penguinpunlishers for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest, fair and unbiased review.
The story is quite a dark one, it’s most certainly not a cozy mystery story, so if that’s what you are looking for this is definitely not it. This novel is not for the faint hearted. I have read many of these types of novels and even I struggled with some of the content. There are some graphic scenes of mutilation and torture. Set in the underbelly of Tokyo, a young girl is found dead in a love hotel. The investigators on the case are two disgraced officers one is English Lynch and the other is Japanese Iwata. They are both good investigators but both also like to blur the lines a little.
But then you have Mr Soto, who appears as a normal man, married and having one child, he goes to work, comes home to the family, nothing unusual there, so what is it about him? Turns out he has a dark side, he’s not the nice man you see leaving his family and going to work. He has a secret, he likes to abduct, keep, torture and kill. He is not a nice man at all, what makes it more scary is the fact that he does look normal, you would never suspect him of such heinous crimes. He could be your average next door neighbour.
I didn’t quite gel with the characters as I didn't find anything to like about them, certainly Mr Soto was creepy, but even Lynch and Iwata just didn’t do anything for me, it’s nice to have at least one character that you could like and feel they had redeeming qualities. But not here. The story is at times deeply disturbing but at the same time gripping. This is the first Japanese noir book I have read, I did like some of the descriptions of Japan and life in Tokyo.
The book is well written although the translation didn’t flow right at times. If you like gritty gruesome Japanese noir then this is a book for you.
I would like to thank #Netgalley and #Penguinpunlishers for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest, fair and unbiased review.
November 30, 2019
‘It had been almost ten years since Iwata had been back to Japan, a long time anywhere but a Tokyo lifetime.’
Set just before the start of the 2020 Olympic Games, this is the third entry in Obregón’s series of books involving Kosuke Iwata. After feeling slightly disappointed in the previous outing (Sins as Scarlet, set in the US and Mexico), this was a welcome return to Japan for our damaged detective. The twin elements of the plot may or may not be connected: a series of disappearances among the girls working in the sex industry is sending shockwaves through the city; meanwhile an English girl is found beaten to death in a love hotel. Iwata is assigned to the case of Skye Mackintosh, and is helped by the new character of Anthea Lynch, an officer from the London police.
The two strands of the story are both intriguing; whilst we know from the outset who is killing the prostitutes – the undistinguished, ordinary-looking salaryman Mr Sato – the Mackintosh case gets more and more complex. Somehow the two cases get mixed up and everyone involved is put in peril.
This is a fast-paced, involving thriller. The narrative tone is very much in the vein of the Sam Spade/noir era (‘In San’ya, trouble was nobody’s business. The rest was business as usual’), but it feels toned down since the previous book, where it was a little too intrusive. The character of Iwata continues to be the focus of attention; indeed, his return to Tokyo to accept the case is merely an excuse for him to delve more into his own background, a mission of vengeance on his own part. The appearance of Anthea Lynch, herself a damaged individual, certainly leaves the door open for them to team up again.
Tokyo, and Japanese culture and society, are crucial to these stories, which is why I feel that the second book just didn’t pack the punch that the other two do. This is a welcome return to Japan, and I hope that other books in the series don’t stray too far again from Iwata’s natural environment. It is exactly his place in Japan – being a hometown boy but also feeling alienated from the place at the same time – that both defines him and gives depth to the stories. A worthy 4.5 stars. Great stuff.
Set just before the start of the 2020 Olympic Games, this is the third entry in Obregón’s series of books involving Kosuke Iwata. After feeling slightly disappointed in the previous outing (Sins as Scarlet, set in the US and Mexico), this was a welcome return to Japan for our damaged detective. The twin elements of the plot may or may not be connected: a series of disappearances among the girls working in the sex industry is sending shockwaves through the city; meanwhile an English girl is found beaten to death in a love hotel. Iwata is assigned to the case of Skye Mackintosh, and is helped by the new character of Anthea Lynch, an officer from the London police.
The two strands of the story are both intriguing; whilst we know from the outset who is killing the prostitutes – the undistinguished, ordinary-looking salaryman Mr Sato – the Mackintosh case gets more and more complex. Somehow the two cases get mixed up and everyone involved is put in peril.
This is a fast-paced, involving thriller. The narrative tone is very much in the vein of the Sam Spade/noir era (‘In San’ya, trouble was nobody’s business. The rest was business as usual’), but it feels toned down since the previous book, where it was a little too intrusive. The character of Iwata continues to be the focus of attention; indeed, his return to Tokyo to accept the case is merely an excuse for him to delve more into his own background, a mission of vengeance on his own part. The appearance of Anthea Lynch, herself a damaged individual, certainly leaves the door open for them to team up again.
Tokyo, and Japanese culture and society, are crucial to these stories, which is why I feel that the second book just didn’t pack the punch that the other two do. This is a welcome return to Japan, and I hope that other books in the series don’t stray too far again from Iwata’s natural environment. It is exactly his place in Japan – being a hometown boy but also feeling alienated from the place at the same time – that both defines him and gives depth to the stories. A worthy 4.5 stars. Great stuff.
May 4, 2021
#UnknownMale is part of a crime noir series set in Japan but this has a standalone crime to be solved. An English foreign exchange student has been murdered, and with the Olympics only days away, people at the top want this case closed quickly. An exiled detective Kosuke Iwata is asked to return from US back to Tokyo to lead the investigation. Iwata has his own motive for returning so he agrees. But he soon realises this isn’t an open and close case, as the killer is a completely unremarkable man who wears the same black suit each day, boards the same train to work each morning and comes home to his wife and son each night. In the crowds of Tokyo, he is impossible to find..
💭This is a dark and gritty story, which illuminates the more sinister and miserable side to Tokyo’s dark corners and underbelly filled with corruption, violence, prostitution and poverty. Obregon’s writing style evokes this chilling atmosphere which lingers in the air and I have to admit I had to turn the lights on to check the doors were locked last night before I could think about sleeping 😅
There’s a lot of disturbing graphic descriptions in this book which isn’t for the faint hearted about the killer and his crimes. The story demonstrates the killer’s methodical and disciplined style which definitely adds to the chilling nature of the killer, particularly contrasted against what seems on the surface to be a normal man who lives a seemingly normal life. Someone who won’t leave your imagination in a hurry.
The detective is also an interesting character who seems to be harbouring a disturbing past, and who is mysterious and complex. It’s hard to know if you can even trust him at points in the story.
⚖️A convincing and gripping crime thriller which transports you to a dark and secretive side of Tokyo. Perfect read for those who enjoy crime thrillers with noir elements. Reminds me of Sin City films in portrayal and mood of the book.
💭This is a dark and gritty story, which illuminates the more sinister and miserable side to Tokyo’s dark corners and underbelly filled with corruption, violence, prostitution and poverty. Obregon’s writing style evokes this chilling atmosphere which lingers in the air and I have to admit I had to turn the lights on to check the doors were locked last night before I could think about sleeping 😅
There’s a lot of disturbing graphic descriptions in this book which isn’t for the faint hearted about the killer and his crimes. The story demonstrates the killer’s methodical and disciplined style which definitely adds to the chilling nature of the killer, particularly contrasted against what seems on the surface to be a normal man who lives a seemingly normal life. Someone who won’t leave your imagination in a hurry.
The detective is also an interesting character who seems to be harbouring a disturbing past, and who is mysterious and complex. It’s hard to know if you can even trust him at points in the story.
⚖️A convincing and gripping crime thriller which transports you to a dark and secretive side of Tokyo. Perfect read for those who enjoy crime thrillers with noir elements. Reminds me of Sin City films in portrayal and mood of the book.
May 8, 2021
ith just weeks to go before the Olympics and the world's eyes firmly fixed on Tokyo the body of young British student, Skye Mackintosh, is discovered in a love hotel. Tokyo's Homicide Department are desperate for a lead. As a last resort they enlist the help of a brilliant former detective whose haunted personal life has forced him into exile thousands of miles away.
But it isn't long before Kosuke Iwata discovers the darkness in the neon drenched streets as Skye, like so many others, had her own secrets. Lies and murder haunt a city where old ghosts and new whisper from its darkest of corners and the truth is always just out of sight
Firstly, thank you to the publisher for inviting me to be part of this tour and for sending me a copy of the book.
I had not come across this author before, but when reading the synopsis, thought it sounded great. I love detective and homicide books.
I didn’t realise that the book is third in a series - but you do not need to read the first two novels, it works great as a standalone novel. However, I do plan to reread the book in its trilogy, so will review the first two books later on in the year.
In this book, there are two storylines that are running alongside each other and the author writes so that the book does not get confusing. This takes real talent.
The book is full of clues and probably because I read so many of these novels, I did guess the ending. However, I still loved the way it all came together. The storyline was gripping and harrowing and a real page turner.
This book is great for any detective fans - but beware, it will make you want to visit Tokyo!
I have also spoke to the author about this book, who is very friendly and easy to talk to!
Thank you for an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to revisiting this series as a whole ☺️
But it isn't long before Kosuke Iwata discovers the darkness in the neon drenched streets as Skye, like so many others, had her own secrets. Lies and murder haunt a city where old ghosts and new whisper from its darkest of corners and the truth is always just out of sight
Firstly, thank you to the publisher for inviting me to be part of this tour and for sending me a copy of the book.
I had not come across this author before, but when reading the synopsis, thought it sounded great. I love detective and homicide books.
I didn’t realise that the book is third in a series - but you do not need to read the first two novels, it works great as a standalone novel. However, I do plan to reread the book in its trilogy, so will review the first two books later on in the year.
In this book, there are two storylines that are running alongside each other and the author writes so that the book does not get confusing. This takes real talent.
The book is full of clues and probably because I read so many of these novels, I did guess the ending. However, I still loved the way it all came together. The storyline was gripping and harrowing and a real page turner.
This book is great for any detective fans - but beware, it will make you want to visit Tokyo!
I have also spoke to the author about this book, who is very friendly and easy to talk to!
Thank you for an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to revisiting this series as a whole ☺️
December 9, 2019
This is our third meeting with Kosuke Iwata, and this time we see him return to Tokyo to take care of some unfinished business. I imagine for anyone who hasn't read the previous two books there are parts that may be difficult to follow, but it would also not take away too much from the story line.
Kosuke is in Japan firstly to say goodbye to an old colleague, and secondly at the behest of Comissioner Shindo, who when facing a murder in the run up to the Olympics in Tokyo, brings in Kosuke to solve the crime. Kosuke is still followed by his demons, but this time, with Santi in his heart he seems a little more grounded. In fact, it's the Detective from London, Lynch, that takes on the mantle of the broken one.
The plot follows two crimes, we meet Sato very early on, claiming victims from the sex industry. The second is Skye, a sex worker. How these stories intertwine is really up to Nicolás Obregón to explain and not me.
Overall, this was a good foray. I think I prefer Kosuke in Japan than I did in Los Angeles. I feel the descriptions are more rich, I can smell the rain on the ground, feel the culture running through all of the descriptions. I didn't love the plot, the big twists I'd guessed really early on. But it's a good read. I feel I needed more from some of the characters, but I'd definitely be interested to see what Kosuke gets up to next.
**I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in return for my own personal and honest review**
Kosuke is in Japan firstly to say goodbye to an old colleague, and secondly at the behest of Comissioner Shindo, who when facing a murder in the run up to the Olympics in Tokyo, brings in Kosuke to solve the crime. Kosuke is still followed by his demons, but this time, with Santi in his heart he seems a little more grounded. In fact, it's the Detective from London, Lynch, that takes on the mantle of the broken one.
The plot follows two crimes, we meet Sato very early on, claiming victims from the sex industry. The second is Skye, a sex worker. How these stories intertwine is really up to Nicolás Obregón to explain and not me.
Overall, this was a good foray. I think I prefer Kosuke in Japan than I did in Los Angeles. I feel the descriptions are more rich, I can smell the rain on the ground, feel the culture running through all of the descriptions. I didn't love the plot, the big twists I'd guessed really early on. But it's a good read. I feel I needed more from some of the characters, but I'd definitely be interested to see what Kosuke gets up to next.
**I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in return for my own personal and honest review**
December 13, 2019
It's safe to say I really love Obregón's writing style. Especially when he writes about Japan: so atmospheric, so "Japanese" that it really feels like a book written by a native. And then his characters: Iwata is simply perfect, in my view! His torment is so real, so palpable, I always feel it in my bones. And it's the same with other characters too. The author sure has a magic pen when it comes to transmitting the inner turmoils of his characters and of the city itself.
I actually had issues with this book, yet I couldn't not give it 5 stars, because at the end of it, no matter what I disliked, I just felt touched. So very touched, so emotional, so wowed and so willing to read another installment.
That being said, it seemed to me, this novel was a bit rushed maybe? Or better said, the various narrative lines weren't well interconnected.
Sato's story is very dark, gruesome even. Literally some passages made me wanna puke. But Obregón was a bit skimpy with the details. I would have liked to read way more about Sato's master-plan, even details about the victims, no matter how gruesome. His arrest also comes out of the blue(I am not saying it cannot happen, I am sure it is based in reality but...) and felt a bit as if it was there just to give a chance to shine to some of the secondary characters like Anthea.
Then the "link" between Sato and Skye is underdeveloped. It is suggested but not explored and then nothing comes of it, enough to make one wonder if it was needed...
But the twist was very well done, I really didn't see it coming...not at all!! Plus tying up a few loose ends like Iwata's father, Shindo etc is also well delivered and works wonderfully in the context.
I actually had issues with this book, yet I couldn't not give it 5 stars, because at the end of it, no matter what I disliked, I just felt touched. So very touched, so emotional, so wowed and so willing to read another installment.
That being said, it seemed to me, this novel was a bit rushed maybe? Or better said, the various narrative lines weren't well interconnected.
Sato's story is very dark, gruesome even. Literally some passages made me wanna puke. But Obregón was a bit skimpy with the details. I would have liked to read way more about Sato's master-plan, even details about the victims, no matter how gruesome. His arrest also comes out of the blue(I am not saying it cannot happen, I am sure it is based in reality but...) and felt a bit as if it was there just to give a chance to shine to some of the secondary characters like Anthea.
Then the "link" between Sato and Skye is underdeveloped. It is suggested but not explored and then nothing comes of it, enough to make one wonder if it was needed...
But the twist was very well done, I really didn't see it coming...not at all!! Plus tying up a few loose ends like Iwata's father, Shindo etc is also well delivered and works wonderfully in the context.
November 11, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.
I’ve not heard of this author before and thought the short description of it looked interesting. I have to say I really enjoyed reading this book. There are two storylines - the first of an ordinary, hard working family man who is a sadistic serial killer and secondly the murder of a young British lady who is studying in Tokyo and the disappearance of sex workers. The main character is an ex detective who is asked to return to Tokyo to investigate the murder of the British victim. The UK also send out a police officer to help with the investigation. I felt the story was well written and flowed well and was easy to follow. It held my attention from start to finish. It was very descriptive and I could picture the scenes in my mind. There were quite a few twists in the story and a shocking reveal of the murderer at the end that I did not see coming.
I’ve not heard of this author before and thought the short description of it looked interesting. I have to say I really enjoyed reading this book. There are two storylines - the first of an ordinary, hard working family man who is a sadistic serial killer and secondly the murder of a young British lady who is studying in Tokyo and the disappearance of sex workers. The main character is an ex detective who is asked to return to Tokyo to investigate the murder of the British victim. The UK also send out a police officer to help with the investigation. I felt the story was well written and flowed well and was easy to follow. It held my attention from start to finish. It was very descriptive and I could picture the scenes in my mind. There were quite a few twists in the story and a shocking reveal of the murderer at the end that I did not see coming.
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