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Lady Joker #2
Lady Joker, Volume 2
This second half of Lady Joker, by Kaoru Takamura, the Grand Dame of Japanese crime fiction, concludes the breathtaking saga introduced in Volume One.
Inspired by the real-life Glico-Morinaga kidnapping, an unsolved case which terrorized Japan for two years, Lady Joker reimagines the circumstances of this watershed episode in modern Japanese history and brings into riveting focus the lives and motivations of the victims, the perpetrators, the heroes and the villains. As the shady networks linking corporations to syndicates are brought to light, the stakes rise, and some of the professionals we have watched try to fight their way through this crisis will lose everything—some even their lives. Will the culprits ever be brought to justice? More importantly—what is justice?
Inspired by the real-life Glico-Morinaga kidnapping, an unsolved case which terrorized Japan for two years, Lady Joker reimagines the circumstances of this watershed episode in modern Japanese history and brings into riveting focus the lives and motivations of the victims, the perpetrators, the heroes and the villains. As the shady networks linking corporations to syndicates are brought to light, the stakes rise, and some of the professionals we have watched try to fight their way through this crisis will lose everything—some even their lives. Will the culprits ever be brought to justice? More importantly—what is justice?
601 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 1997
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 9, 2023
"Central freeway, the horseracing track to the right, the beer brewery to the left ..."
-- Yumi Arai, Chuo Freeway
It's absolutely worth reading this to the very last page, the very last sentence. If, like me, at times you find yourself questioning your decision to tackle this behemoth of a crime novel, rest assured the ending is very gratifying.
And yes, at times between page 800 and 1000 (of the 1200 pages of the combined 2 volumes) I was wondering if there isn't too much detail, too much daily routine, too much research. But in the end it all makes sense.
And I was never bored, I just kept wondering: SHOULDN'T I be bored by this? A bunch of middle-aged men taking notes and making phone calls and frying up leftovers, over and over again. But the truth is, I was spellbound. This book would make no sense if you outlined it, but as an artifact in it's entirety its an indisputable masterpiece. I'll absolutely read this again as soon as I can.
-- Yumi Arai, Chuo Freeway
It's absolutely worth reading this to the very last page, the very last sentence. If, like me, at times you find yourself questioning your decision to tackle this behemoth of a crime novel, rest assured the ending is very gratifying.
And yes, at times between page 800 and 1000 (of the 1200 pages of the combined 2 volumes) I was wondering if there isn't too much detail, too much daily routine, too much research. But in the end it all makes sense.
And I was never bored, I just kept wondering: SHOULDN'T I be bored by this? A bunch of middle-aged men taking notes and making phone calls and frying up leftovers, over and over again. But the truth is, I was spellbound. This book would make no sense if you outlined it, but as an artifact in it's entirety its an indisputable masterpiece. I'll absolutely read this again as soon as I can.
August 30, 2023
If I had a penny for every time I’ve read a Japanese crime thriller told from the perspective of the media circus, I’d have two pennies, which is far less than those corporate extortionist hacks made, I hate those guys
December 9, 2022
Spectacular. Lady Joker, as a whole, is not only my favorite book of 2022, it's an all-time favorite for me. The way to think about these two volumes is that Vol 1 is the silver platter upon which Vol 2 is served. Volume 1 sets up everything with deep, fascinating character studies and intricate descriptions of the mechanism for the corporate crime around which the plot revolves. Then Vol 2 comes out like a gunshot. It races at a breakneck pace that absolutely cold not have been maintained had not Vol 1 provided a firm foundation. The plot twists and turns back on itself and moves ever, ever forward. Lady Joker is an incisive statement on the cost of corporate greed and the drive of what always amounts to a few brave people to see it put paid. From the very core of my being, I love this book and recommend it to any reader who appreciates a slow build to a big payoff.
If you would like to know more, see my review of Lady Joker Vol. 1.
If you would like to know more, see my review of Lady Joker Vol. 1.
January 14, 2024
This book was a masterclass in writing. The minute details that all come together, the game of cat and mouse, the dark gangster underbelly taking precedence. It was near perfect. I was engrossed throughout.
And to top it all off - ending the book with GAY allegations?! Kaoru Takamura your MIND girlie!!!!!!!!!!
I won't be surprised if this puts me in a slump as I haven't read anything like it and I think it'll be hard to come by something like it soon
Also, so glad Yo-Chan and Monoi are living their best Paris and Nicole simple life in the mountains with Mutt! Spin off needed about those two just being guys and drinking uncontaminated beers in the countryside
And to top it all off - ending the book with GAY allegations?! Kaoru Takamura your MIND girlie!!!!!!!!!!
I won't be surprised if this puts me in a slump as I haven't read anything like it and I think it'll be hard to come by something like it soon
Also, so glad Yo-Chan and Monoi are living their best Paris and Nicole simple life in the mountains with Mutt! Spin off needed about those two just being guys and drinking uncontaminated beers in the countryside
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2023
A so cunning plot this time carried forward from the post-kidnapping incident of Kyosuke Shiroyama, the president of Hinode Beer in volume 1– another season passed by and Lady Joker is on the move now with a new threat on the ‘beer hostage’. As much as I already know how they would ‘kill the hostage’ (as per Glico-Morinaga case) the execution and progress really get me stunned and enthralled much— from ways they contacted Shiroyama, those letters and how a police officer’s instinct could let Yuichiro Goda to catch the hints, red herrings and the twists.
Multilayered perspectives with alternating POVs but I love how thoroughly it explored the characters’ perspectives and dynamics as well the consequences of the aftermath— from abduction incident, threats, blackmail and fraud coupled with murder, disappearances and suicides, the plot grasped an immersive outlook to the beer industry and its organisational scandals, an insight to political, economy and societal affairs also how it affected the whole system and the people especially— of a broken family ties to forgotten friendships, one’s sanity and those anxieties; quite hectic and grippingly intense but the howdunnit was appealing much to me that I enjoyed Monoi and Handa’s chapters a lot for this. The perspective on procedural (both media and police) was thrilling and it amazed me on how the author could intertwined it with an overwhelmed impact resulted from the case. Love the epilogue so much and how it was told through the city desk reporter’s eyes.
A crafty and ingenious portrait from an inspired real crime case (although I think The Monster with 21 Faces was more wicked compared to our Lady Joker). The whole plot can be quite tiresome to delve into if you’re not really a fan to descriptive and corporate related prose but for a white collar mystery crime this would be a riveting critique on morality and power, a reflection of how capitalism and social injustice could interspersed an unexpected tragedy and victimised a society. 4 stars to this volume!
Thank you Pansing Distribution for sending me a copy to review!
Multilayered perspectives with alternating POVs but I love how thoroughly it explored the characters’ perspectives and dynamics as well the consequences of the aftermath— from abduction incident, threats, blackmail and fraud coupled with murder, disappearances and suicides, the plot grasped an immersive outlook to the beer industry and its organisational scandals, an insight to political, economy and societal affairs also how it affected the whole system and the people especially— of a broken family ties to forgotten friendships, one’s sanity and those anxieties; quite hectic and grippingly intense but the howdunnit was appealing much to me that I enjoyed Monoi and Handa’s chapters a lot for this. The perspective on procedural (both media and police) was thrilling and it amazed me on how the author could intertwined it with an overwhelmed impact resulted from the case. Love the epilogue so much and how it was told through the city desk reporter’s eyes.
A crafty and ingenious portrait from an inspired real crime case (although I think The Monster with 21 Faces was more wicked compared to our Lady Joker). The whole plot can be quite tiresome to delve into if you’re not really a fan to descriptive and corporate related prose but for a white collar mystery crime this would be a riveting critique on morality and power, a reflection of how capitalism and social injustice could interspersed an unexpected tragedy and victimised a society. 4 stars to this volume!
Thank you Pansing Distribution for sending me a copy to review!
September 19, 2024
Lady Joker is one of the most meretriciously crafted crime fiction, postwar analysis, and exploration of societal structures built by men’s passions or sins that I’ve read. It is inspired by a real-life kidnapping in Japan’s history and uses that event as the trigger point to this odyssey. To observe these lively characters from: the criminals, the victims, the police officers, and the detectives, all these individuals are somehow connected to the organisation of Lady Joker.
Before going too deep in this review, truth be told, I read very little crime fiction and mainly consume it through other mediums that I think are better suited for it. One of the reasons I wanted to read it, is simply the girth of it. Both volumes altogether amount to 1,176 pages, and yeah, it isn’t two novels, but one book split into two. What can be so special about this book it needs to be this length, which is double or triple what is typical for its genre. Firstly, I’ve somewhat touched upon the scale of this book, it’s an odyssey. It’s more than crime fiction, there is a reason why this is herald as a cultural touchstone. It’s a dissection of capitalist Japan post-World War II, but not in a superficial sense. I came to really enjoy characters who technically thrived through the system, like Kyosuke Shiroyama. Is it bad or good? That isn’t really the point, but even then, it goes further than that, it discusses traits from how Japan’s past has impacted civilians to this day, especially people from a segregated buraku community. Initially, when I read this book, I was confused by the lack of female characters, but as I read a certain review stating:
Then, as I kept reading the book, that really did click with me. It’s basically exploring men’s sin and how it shaped society for good or ill. It almost feels like crime itself is used as a framing device to explore society and pose philosophical musings that profoundly spoke to me. There is so much beauty to the language, and sometimes it does make you pause and think. As I kept reading the book, especially the second half, I realised this is what The Wire (HBO show) Season 5 wanted to do, if it wasn’t cut short. As that show is multifaceted, it depicts all sides of Baltimore, from the poor, underprivileged, rich, children, life after prison, recovery, the police, drug addicts, working class, criminals, the politicians, and so forth. It’s meant to depict the inhabitants of a city; granted, I don’t think Lady Joker doesn’t distribute itself nearly as much as The Wire, but the Season 5 plot is somewhat reminiscent of what that show attempted to achieve but fell short. Especially the detective plot thread in Lady Joker and how it's used brilliantly. I would admit from a character perspective, the reporters are probably the least interesting, but what it sets out to achieve more than makes up for it. You see this complicated web unravelling and it feels overwhelming like real life. The two translators involved did a brilliant job at conveying the subtle and beautiful writing of Kaoru Takamura.
The character work I thought was brilliant. Especially when Takamura illustrates the psychology of the characters. The first chapter really sets the tone, and it’s such a brilliant chapter in hindsight. How both the beginning and ending complement each other so perfectly. My favourite characters of the lot would be Seizo Monoi, Kyosuke Shiroyama, Shuhei Handa, and Yuichiro Goda, especially the psychology of the characters and how each changes rapidly or subtlety throughout the story.
The themes I touched upon were corporate corruption, social inequality, ambiguity, and social fragmentation. However, the ones I didn’t really mention were fate and free will. Especially how it relates to the message of the overall ending. It’s hard not to spoil, so I won’t go further, but this book will make you reflect upon our society, our actions, the inevitable results, and the chain of history repeats but always differently. It’s such a haunting and yet beautiful ending in a sense. It just feels like real life, for better or worse.
In terms of the plot and pacing, it’s surprisingly excellent. Like, no doubt, it’s a slow burn, but that buildup and payoff are so incredible and can only be done in a book of this length. One element of the book that I found truly fascinating in terms of how the authors depict Japan as a collective is letting us read characters in their given professions. We observe mundane activities from a metal worker, CEO of a massive beer company, detectives on the job, reporters, and the editor in chief—what makes into whatever day's edition and how many drafts and last-minute touch ups occur before publication. Some of the most thrilling is just people betting on horse racing and written in such a cinematic way. This is where I can see the novel being polarising for folks, as it’s very intricate and filled with detail. And it’s perfectly acceptable to find it boring, but these mundane activities aren’t redundant; they serve an important purpose, especially in a thematic sense.
In conclusion, Lady Joker is an incredible read and one of my favourite reads of the year for sure. It’s not for everyone, but it is a cultural touchstone for a good reason.
9-9.5/10
Before going too deep in this review, truth be told, I read very little crime fiction and mainly consume it through other mediums that I think are better suited for it. One of the reasons I wanted to read it, is simply the girth of it. Both volumes altogether amount to 1,176 pages, and yeah, it isn’t two novels, but one book split into two. What can be so special about this book it needs to be this length, which is double or triple what is typical for its genre. Firstly, I’ve somewhat touched upon the scale of this book, it’s an odyssey. It’s more than crime fiction, there is a reason why this is herald as a cultural touchstone. It’s a dissection of capitalist Japan post-World War II, but not in a superficial sense. I came to really enjoy characters who technically thrived through the system, like Kyosuke Shiroyama. Is it bad or good? That isn’t really the point, but even then, it goes further than that, it discusses traits from how Japan’s past has impacted civilians to this day, especially people from a segregated buraku community. Initially, when I read this book, I was confused by the lack of female characters, but as I read a certain review stating:
Takamura's female characters are wives, secretaries, nieces, daughters and they have no point of view of their own in her telling of the story. She seems deeply fascinating by a society made by, run by and destroyed by men and men only.
Then, as I kept reading the book, that really did click with me. It’s basically exploring men’s sin and how it shaped society for good or ill. It almost feels like crime itself is used as a framing device to explore society and pose philosophical musings that profoundly spoke to me. There is so much beauty to the language, and sometimes it does make you pause and think. As I kept reading the book, especially the second half, I realised this is what The Wire (HBO show) Season 5 wanted to do, if it wasn’t cut short. As that show is multifaceted, it depicts all sides of Baltimore, from the poor, underprivileged, rich, children, life after prison, recovery, the police, drug addicts, working class, criminals, the politicians, and so forth. It’s meant to depict the inhabitants of a city; granted, I don’t think Lady Joker doesn’t distribute itself nearly as much as The Wire, but the Season 5 plot is somewhat reminiscent of what that show attempted to achieve but fell short. Especially the detective plot thread in Lady Joker and how it's used brilliantly. I would admit from a character perspective, the reporters are probably the least interesting, but what it sets out to achieve more than makes up for it. You see this complicated web unravelling and it feels overwhelming like real life. The two translators involved did a brilliant job at conveying the subtle and beautiful writing of Kaoru Takamura.
The character work I thought was brilliant. Especially when Takamura illustrates the psychology of the characters. The first chapter really sets the tone, and it’s such a brilliant chapter in hindsight. How both the beginning and ending complement each other so perfectly. My favourite characters of the lot would be Seizo Monoi, Kyosuke Shiroyama, Shuhei Handa, and Yuichiro Goda, especially the psychology of the characters and how each changes rapidly or subtlety throughout the story.
The themes I touched upon were corporate corruption, social inequality, ambiguity, and social fragmentation. However, the ones I didn’t really mention were fate and free will. Especially how it relates to the message of the overall ending. It’s hard not to spoil, so I won’t go further, but this book will make you reflect upon our society, our actions, the inevitable results, and the chain of history repeats but always differently. It’s such a haunting and yet beautiful ending in a sense. It just feels like real life, for better or worse.
In terms of the plot and pacing, it’s surprisingly excellent. Like, no doubt, it’s a slow burn, but that buildup and payoff are so incredible and can only be done in a book of this length. One element of the book that I found truly fascinating in terms of how the authors depict Japan as a collective is letting us read characters in their given professions. We observe mundane activities from a metal worker, CEO of a massive beer company, detectives on the job, reporters, and the editor in chief—what makes into whatever day's edition and how many drafts and last-minute touch ups occur before publication. Some of the most thrilling is just people betting on horse racing and written in such a cinematic way. This is where I can see the novel being polarising for folks, as it’s very intricate and filled with detail. And it’s perfectly acceptable to find it boring, but these mundane activities aren’t redundant; they serve an important purpose, especially in a thematic sense.
In conclusion, Lady Joker is an incredible read and one of my favourite reads of the year for sure. It’s not for everyone, but it is a cultural touchstone for a good reason.
9-9.5/10
August 24, 2024
I enjoyed this, but it's a challenge to read and to recommend. On one hand, it's clever, complex, immersive, and towering in ambition; on the other, it's glacially slow and can be boring as hell. The level of detail is so meticulous, it's both masterful and too much.
Volume 2 corrects some of the issues I had with Volume 1. The setup in Volume 1 was long and slow – necessary for the payoff in this book, but not always enjoyable. Volume 2 is similarly paced, but the characters get more chance to shine. The complete story is such a sprawling web, it basically can't be paced or portioned into volumes in any way that would feel quite right to me. I think it's best approached as one monster book – except then I might not have picked it up!
I liked spending time with these characters and their sad, lonely existences. Their attempts to crack the titular case are not glamorous, but a thankless grind for which they dutifully show up, to be obstructed at every turn. Even the smallest breakthrough feels hard-won. It's not really a crime thriller, as many crime stories are, but a procedural that feels more like nonfiction, narrated with cool, informational omniscience. When there's a burst of action, violence, or heightened emotion, the contrast makes you gasp, and I appreciated that.
Overall, I didn't adore it, but it's undoubtedly a brilliant work, written and translated with great cleverness and care. I was moved and satisfied by the ending. And I want more Yuichiro Goda.
Volume 2 corrects some of the issues I had with Volume 1. The setup in Volume 1 was long and slow – necessary for the payoff in this book, but not always enjoyable. Volume 2 is similarly paced, but the characters get more chance to shine. The complete story is such a sprawling web, it basically can't be paced or portioned into volumes in any way that would feel quite right to me. I think it's best approached as one monster book – except then I might not have picked it up!
I liked spending time with these characters and their sad, lonely existences. Their attempts to crack the titular case are not glamorous, but a thankless grind for which they dutifully show up, to be obstructed at every turn. Even the smallest breakthrough feels hard-won. It's not really a crime thriller, as many crime stories are, but a procedural that feels more like nonfiction, narrated with cool, informational omniscience. When there's a burst of action, violence, or heightened emotion, the contrast makes you gasp, and I appreciated that.
Overall, I didn't adore it, but it's undoubtedly a brilliant work, written and translated with great cleverness and care. I was moved and satisfied by the ending. And I want more Yuichiro Goda.
January 17, 2024
This second and final volume of Lady Joker focuses on the short-term aftermath as well as the long-term effects of the "heist'" that occurred in Volume 1. It is a sweeping panoramic saga of corporate organisations, police bureaucracy, work politics, greed, corruption and the soullessness that one is forced to confront when one does some actual soul-searching.
Despite encompassing such meaningful and ever-pertinent themes, Lady Joker never becomes preachy or monotonous. It remains a riveting read from beginning to end by choosing to deliver its message through a range of characters - each well-etched out, imbued with shades of grey, reacting to various professional and personal quandaries in a way that is relatably human.
.
What elevates Lady Joker to a masterpiece is its unflinching look at systemic lapses without ever losing its compassion for the individuals who are at the centre of these events. It asks - not just the characters but the reader as well - what really is the point of it all? What holds true meaning in life? As I came to the end of the book, I felt a sense of accomplishment having completed this journey that Takamura takes us readers on.
An excellent work of crime fiction, highly recommended.
Despite encompassing such meaningful and ever-pertinent themes, Lady Joker never becomes preachy or monotonous. It remains a riveting read from beginning to end by choosing to deliver its message through a range of characters - each well-etched out, imbued with shades of grey, reacting to various professional and personal quandaries in a way that is relatably human.
.
What elevates Lady Joker to a masterpiece is its unflinching look at systemic lapses without ever losing its compassion for the individuals who are at the centre of these events. It asks - not just the characters but the reader as well - what really is the point of it all? What holds true meaning in life? As I came to the end of the book, I felt a sense of accomplishment having completed this journey that Takamura takes us readers on.
An excellent work of crime fiction, highly recommended.
April 1, 2023
Spectacular. Lady Joker is one of the finest crime novels ever written. The layers upon layers of malfeasance and corruption by those outside the crime being investigated contribute to a confronting and nuanced criticism of Japanese society. A slow burn, and a novel that demands much of its readers, but the pay-off is worth it for those who commit.
July 21, 2024
I wrote this a couple years back but stumbled upon it today so I might as well post it.
Time to attempt to verbalize my thoughts on Lady Joker. Lady Joker, written by Kaoru Takamura, and translated by Maria Iida is a very methodical crime epic that is split into two parts. Since the plot is tantamount to the experience here, I will be as vague as possible when it comes to plot descriptions, needless to say, this is a corporate crime novel, one could say a white collar heist novel too where each facet of the crime is explored at all angles, both pre crime and post crime, from the perpetrators, the victims, and the investigators. It's a novel about different systems and levels of bureaucracy as much as it is about the cast of characters, and with each one attempting to navigate their own labyrinth to find a potential exit or solution, or maybe even subvert it altogether, if possible. If it's a pulse pounding thriller you want, this isn't the book for you, if it's a very deliberately paced book where the investigative / preparation part of crime appeals to you, then this is the book for you. Though don't get me wrong, it gets quite intense, and some parts I found rather poignant too I should say. After reading over 1,000 pages of this, I found it very worthwhile, the ending was quite interesting too in short, excellent novel told in two parts. And yes, while this is falls more on the genre side rather than the literary side of the spectrum, that isn't to say that there isn't any literary depth to this either, like I said before, this is a novel about different layers of systems within Japanese society / bureaucracy, so while it is a crime thriller, it also seems to offer some social commentary in Japanese society in that time frame too, and it's very well done. A good chunk of the characters are from the post WW2 generation, so their motivations stem from the crucible of a rough upbringing shaped by economic hardship of the late 40's, which is contrasted by the more nonchalant outlook of the younger generation, makes for an interesting dynamic as you read how their subplots eventually converge. I mean the plot element that sets everything in motion deals with a ww2 veteran, so there is that too, not quite a spoiler, it's in the prologue. Basic ramblings I suppose. But yes, much like watching someone lay down an elaborate pattern of dominoes with extreme precision, and then the dominoes fall as intended, Kaouru Takamura effectively plots this novel, and it makes for a compelling read to witness how all the different patterns and threads intersect. I won't say anymore plot wise now, and I hesitate to comment on the thematic content beyond the whole social commentary angle and how the characters are essentially prisoners in their own self made mazes. So I will repeat myself once again, great book.
Time to attempt to verbalize my thoughts on Lady Joker. Lady Joker, written by Kaoru Takamura, and translated by Maria Iida is a very methodical crime epic that is split into two parts. Since the plot is tantamount to the experience here, I will be as vague as possible when it comes to plot descriptions, needless to say, this is a corporate crime novel, one could say a white collar heist novel too where each facet of the crime is explored at all angles, both pre crime and post crime, from the perpetrators, the victims, and the investigators. It's a novel about different systems and levels of bureaucracy as much as it is about the cast of characters, and with each one attempting to navigate their own labyrinth to find a potential exit or solution, or maybe even subvert it altogether, if possible. If it's a pulse pounding thriller you want, this isn't the book for you, if it's a very deliberately paced book where the investigative / preparation part of crime appeals to you, then this is the book for you. Though don't get me wrong, it gets quite intense, and some parts I found rather poignant too I should say. After reading over 1,000 pages of this, I found it very worthwhile, the ending was quite interesting too in short, excellent novel told in two parts. And yes, while this is falls more on the genre side rather than the literary side of the spectrum, that isn't to say that there isn't any literary depth to this either, like I said before, this is a novel about different layers of systems within Japanese society / bureaucracy, so while it is a crime thriller, it also seems to offer some social commentary in Japanese society in that time frame too, and it's very well done. A good chunk of the characters are from the post WW2 generation, so their motivations stem from the crucible of a rough upbringing shaped by economic hardship of the late 40's, which is contrasted by the more nonchalant outlook of the younger generation, makes for an interesting dynamic as you read how their subplots eventually converge. I mean the plot element that sets everything in motion deals with a ww2 veteran, so there is that too, not quite a spoiler, it's in the prologue. Basic ramblings I suppose. But yes, much like watching someone lay down an elaborate pattern of dominoes with extreme precision, and then the dominoes fall as intended, Kaouru Takamura effectively plots this novel, and it makes for a compelling read to witness how all the different patterns and threads intersect. I won't say anymore plot wise now, and I hesitate to comment on the thematic content beyond the whole social commentary angle and how the characters are essentially prisoners in their own self made mazes. So I will repeat myself once again, great book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
The ending may have been appropriate but it was not satisfying!
I expected a little more pace in the second book (like the second half of the first book) but didn’t really get it.
Still a WONDERFUL book when paired to the first volume. Loved learning about these facets of Japanese history, certain cultural norms, and the role of the Burakumin and Zainichi Koreans.
Overall really happy I read this, and the two-volume set is 4 stars. I just didn’t like this volume as much.
I expected a little more pace in the second book (like the second half of the first book) but didn’t really get it.
Still a WONDERFUL book when paired to the first volume. Loved learning about these facets of Japanese history, certain cultural norms, and the role of the Burakumin and Zainichi Koreans.
Overall really happy I read this, and the two-volume set is 4 stars. I just didn’t like this volume as much.
September 2, 2024
Finally finished one million years later. Slow pace read but enjoyed the series
January 19, 2023
My comments from the review of LJ One remain appropriate for this extension of the story. However, in the end, another nearly 600 pages of exposition become somewhat exhausting. By the last 100 pages I was having difficulty keeping the thoughts of the various characters separated. Admittedly, as noted before, I, a reader outside the culture, cannot appreciate the motivations reported in this work but I trust they are accurate. The novel ends darkly and, to me, unsatisfactorily. Of course, the discourse is about the corruption of modern society and especially the 'free enterprise' system and the conflict that presents in Japanese culture where loyalty and integrity often demand conflicting conduct necessitating a final denouement. But all institutions covered in this saga are touched by corruption. We are left to accept that as a unchangeable state of society. Worth reading? My answer is a not too enthusiastic "yeah."
August 16, 2023
Una obra maestra con todas las letras. Mil doscientas páginas de análisis psicológico de todo un conjunto de personajes envueltos en una trama de secuestro de un alto ejecutivo de una compañía cervecera nipona, basado en un caso real irresuelto a día de hoy y con ramificaciones en los bajos fondos de Tokio. Como la mayoría de la literatura japonesa de género, se toma su tiempo con mil y un detalles de las vidas de los policías, periodistas, delincuentes y hombres de negocios que pueblan la historia, añadiendo muy sutilmente pinceladas que ayudan a componer un cuadro que, una vez visto en conjunto, no puede dejar de maravillar al lector que sepa apreciar esta forma de narración pausada.
March 28, 2024
Finally, I have finished the most complex crime book I ever read, well, the complex meaning of ‘people’ meets ‘numbers’, so it was an understandable, dissemble kind of complex. Set in the 1990s, the author explores diverse characters who live in the aftermath of war; some of them face discrimination amidst socioeconomic anxiety, and on the other side, the author gives us a peek into the high corporate level in Japan and the underground things politicians do. This book consists of five parts: the first and second are taken from the perpetrator's perspectives, the third and the fourth are from the victim's perspectives, and the last is a combination of both. These perspectives bring us an intimate glimpse into each character's life. We can ‘almost’ feel empathy and curiosity about each character.
Reading this book makes me feel as if I am watching a heist movie, only that the existence of a plan is close to none. There is a movie, but I can’t find any link to watch it online. In the beginning, the reader is introduced to a letter that may have been the key to all the hustle and bustle. Had it not been for past wrongdoing and buried secrets, the Lady Joker may not have existed. The fundamental part starts at Part 3 where all the actions and confusion of the perpetrator method finally take place. The best part yet, it was told from the victim's side (the kidnapped president, police, and a few journalists). True to be said, the primary catalyst for going forward in reading this book is the blurred reasoning of the perpetrators, and I am curious about how this book ends. The author instilled a few emotions to rekindle human relations, but it all was summed up in the end. I mean, isn't it too late for that?
It may be complex, and even in the last chapter, still leaves you with unanswered questions. This may be a good book for those inclined to stock stories, police procedurals, and high corporate secrets. I read from another article that this book is a reimagined writing from a true story, I have read the so-called original story and found it a bit amusing despite all the terror it had caused to Japan once upon a time. All in all, the author did a great job on the details of socioeconomic back then, a spice of thrill between the doer-victim, and overall a 3.5 star read for me.
Reading this book makes me feel as if I am watching a heist movie, only that the existence of a plan is close to none. There is a movie, but I can’t find any link to watch it online. In the beginning, the reader is introduced to a letter that may have been the key to all the hustle and bustle. Had it not been for past wrongdoing and buried secrets, the Lady Joker may not have existed. The fundamental part starts at Part 3 where all the actions and confusion of the perpetrator method finally take place. The best part yet, it was told from the victim's side (the kidnapped president, police, and a few journalists). True to be said, the primary catalyst for going forward in reading this book is the blurred reasoning of the perpetrators, and I am curious about how this book ends. The author instilled a few emotions to rekindle human relations, but it all was summed up in the end. I mean, isn't it too late for that?
It may be complex, and even in the last chapter, still leaves you with unanswered questions. This may be a good book for those inclined to stock stories, police procedurals, and high corporate secrets. I read from another article that this book is a reimagined writing from a true story, I have read the so-called original story and found it a bit amusing despite all the terror it had caused to Japan once upon a time. All in all, the author did a great job on the details of socioeconomic back then, a spice of thrill between the doer-victim, and overall a 3.5 star read for me.
February 6, 2023
“‘Lady Joker’s on the move. They’ve demanded six hundred million in cash’ ‘Lady—what?’ … The assistant inspector repeated the English words. ‘Lady as in first lady. Then joker as in the trump card. Lady Joker. That’s what the crime group is calling themselves.’”
My thanks to John Murray Press U.K. Baskerville for an eARC and to John Murray Press U.K. Audio for a review copy of the unabridged audiobook edition, both via NetGalley, of ‘Lady Joker Volume 2’ by Kaoru Takamura. The audiobook is narrated by Brian Nishii.
‘Lady Joker’ was originally published as ‘Redi jōkā’ in Japan in 1997 and was translated from the Japanese by Marie Iida and Allison Markin Powell. Both volumes open with a handy Dramatis Personae.
It is best to think of ‘Lady Joker’ as a near 1,200 page novel that has been split into two parts. The second volume picks up where the first ended. As I noted in my review of Volume 1, it is quite a commitment, though combining reading with its audiobook proved an immersive experience and assisted with the pronunciation of unfamiliar names and words.
It has a complex plot. Very briefly in 1990 a group of five men meet at a racetrack. They each have a grudge against the Hinode Beer Company and over the next few years they concoct an elaborate plan that involves kidnapping the Company’s president and extorting a significant amount of money from them. They name their group ‘Lady Joker’. The second volume opens in May 1995.
The story is inspired by the unsolved Glico-Morinaga kidnapping that took place in 1984. The narrative moves between the conspirators, the executives of the company, journalists, and the police.
‘Lady Joker’ is a slow burn, character driven novel with a focus on Japanese society, especially its complex corporate culture. I would categorise it as a blend of crime and literary fiction. Despite its length I found myself quickly drawn into its narrative.
With respect to the audiobook, actor Brian Nishii has narrated a wide range of titles and has a golden, resonant voice that was a pleasure to listen to.
Overall, ‘Lady Joker’ is a fascinating, multilayered novel that clearly deserves its designation as a modern classic of Japanese literature. It’s wonderful that it has now been made available to English readers.
My thanks to John Murray Press U.K. Baskerville for an eARC and to John Murray Press U.K. Audio for a review copy of the unabridged audiobook edition, both via NetGalley, of ‘Lady Joker Volume 2’ by Kaoru Takamura. The audiobook is narrated by Brian Nishii.
‘Lady Joker’ was originally published as ‘Redi jōkā’ in Japan in 1997 and was translated from the Japanese by Marie Iida and Allison Markin Powell. Both volumes open with a handy Dramatis Personae.
It is best to think of ‘Lady Joker’ as a near 1,200 page novel that has been split into two parts. The second volume picks up where the first ended. As I noted in my review of Volume 1, it is quite a commitment, though combining reading with its audiobook proved an immersive experience and assisted with the pronunciation of unfamiliar names and words.
It has a complex plot. Very briefly in 1990 a group of five men meet at a racetrack. They each have a grudge against the Hinode Beer Company and over the next few years they concoct an elaborate plan that involves kidnapping the Company’s president and extorting a significant amount of money from them. They name their group ‘Lady Joker’. The second volume opens in May 1995.
The story is inspired by the unsolved Glico-Morinaga kidnapping that took place in 1984. The narrative moves between the conspirators, the executives of the company, journalists, and the police.
‘Lady Joker’ is a slow burn, character driven novel with a focus on Japanese society, especially its complex corporate culture. I would categorise it as a blend of crime and literary fiction. Despite its length I found myself quickly drawn into its narrative.
With respect to the audiobook, actor Brian Nishii has narrated a wide range of titles and has a golden, resonant voice that was a pleasure to listen to.
Overall, ‘Lady Joker’ is a fascinating, multilayered novel that clearly deserves its designation as a modern classic of Japanese literature. It’s wonderful that it has now been made available to English readers.
April 24, 2023
A fantastic ending to the two part novel. All I can say is that if you loved Lady Joker Volume one you won't be disappointed with volume two.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2023
Es ist wirklich nicht einfach, mich mit Trivialitäten aus dem japanischen Alltagsleben zu langweilen, aber die Lady-Joker-Romane haben diese Kunst zur Vollendung geführt.
February 25, 2024
The end of this one rokked my world
August 18, 2024
Much more fast paced and exciting than Vol. 1! I enjoyed the character complexities and final ending
June 12, 2024
Really, really, really dragged in the middle but the ending makes up for it
January 25, 2025
The two volumes may be some of the best paced books I’ve read. Highly engaging and descriptive with a plot worthy of a mini-series.
December 9, 2025
i gave up
April 9, 2024
I've never read anything quite like this - equal parts thriller, psychological masterclass, and economics textbook. A slow burn, but a fascinating read.
January 30, 2023
This is a review of both Lady Joker volumes 1 and 2.
“…the logic was plain to see. Lady Joker was a mistake”.
This is the most complete crime story I have read in years. Greed, extortion, murder, disappearances, corruption and criminal gangs are all part of this vast epic that forms around one main crime – the kidnapping of the president and CEO of Hinode Beer by five societal outsiders whose only connection is a shared love of horse racing. In Lady Joker volume 1, we read of the development and unfolding of the plot and the immediate aftermath. Lady Joker volume 2 follows the investigation into the kidnapping over the course of the following year.
But this is not a crime story. Across two volumes and over 1100 pages, Kaoru Takamura has woven a story of corporate Japan and the people who “must enjoy spinning around as cogs in the company wheel…to dream of prosperity under the aegis of the company”. The kidnapping is merely what anchors the plot and character together. Volume 1 explores the motivations of five societal outsiders to join in a kidnapping conspiracy. In volume 2, the kidnapping forces the characters to further confront and re-evaluate their existence where it has largely been in service to an amorphous organisation – be that Shiroyama, the CEO with 30+ plus years of service to Hinode, a detective involved in the kidnapping investigation, or the newspaper man constantly seeking the next scoop. The story is told through their multiple points of view adding to the intricate picture of life in Japan. A Japanese Death of a Salesman perhaps?
My only gripe is that the female characters were relegated to minor roles as “the wife” or “the secretary”. This however may be a reflection of corporate life in Japan in the 90s where women did not have roles in executive. One of my gripes about the Japanese fiction we read is it is often simply weird – little plot in favour of portrayals of outsiders. Yes, there are outsiders in Lady Joker but their outsider status and their being apart from the corporate world is not the whole plot. I hope to read more Japanese fiction where this is the case.
If you like your crime fast-paced and bloody, this is probably not for you. However, if you want your crime with a heavy dose of social commentary then you will relish this novel. It is the perfect mix of plot and characterisation I both wanted to finish it but also didn’t want it to end. Grab a beer and enjoy.
“…the logic was plain to see. Lady Joker was a mistake”.
This is the most complete crime story I have read in years. Greed, extortion, murder, disappearances, corruption and criminal gangs are all part of this vast epic that forms around one main crime – the kidnapping of the president and CEO of Hinode Beer by five societal outsiders whose only connection is a shared love of horse racing. In Lady Joker volume 1, we read of the development and unfolding of the plot and the immediate aftermath. Lady Joker volume 2 follows the investigation into the kidnapping over the course of the following year.
But this is not a crime story. Across two volumes and over 1100 pages, Kaoru Takamura has woven a story of corporate Japan and the people who “must enjoy spinning around as cogs in the company wheel…to dream of prosperity under the aegis of the company”. The kidnapping is merely what anchors the plot and character together. Volume 1 explores the motivations of five societal outsiders to join in a kidnapping conspiracy. In volume 2, the kidnapping forces the characters to further confront and re-evaluate their existence where it has largely been in service to an amorphous organisation – be that Shiroyama, the CEO with 30+ plus years of service to Hinode, a detective involved in the kidnapping investigation, or the newspaper man constantly seeking the next scoop. The story is told through their multiple points of view adding to the intricate picture of life in Japan. A Japanese Death of a Salesman perhaps?
My only gripe is that the female characters were relegated to minor roles as “the wife” or “the secretary”. This however may be a reflection of corporate life in Japan in the 90s where women did not have roles in executive. One of my gripes about the Japanese fiction we read is it is often simply weird – little plot in favour of portrayals of outsiders. Yes, there are outsiders in Lady Joker but their outsider status and their being apart from the corporate world is not the whole plot. I hope to read more Japanese fiction where this is the case.
If you like your crime fast-paced and bloody, this is probably not for you. However, if you want your crime with a heavy dose of social commentary then you will relish this novel. It is the perfect mix of plot and characterisation I both wanted to finish it but also didn’t want it to end. Grab a beer and enjoy.
July 26, 2023
Made it to the end of this epic novel. Volume Two picked up the pace slightly but I still feel that this novel is way over-written. Does any story really need 1200 pages to be told? I found I would get frustrated by the repetition of material or the incredibly fastidious detail of information that ultimately didn't matter. Then we'd get to an exciting bit and my attention would hook in again.
And the almost complete absence of female characters is quite shocking. I understand that Japanese business and policework in the 90s would be mostly comprised of men, but there were women affected by the events of this novel - Shiroyama's wife, for instance - whose viewpoint would have provided a different angle.
I did enjoy Lady Joker and I'm glad to have read it. But definitely a case of bigger not being better.
And the almost complete absence of female characters is quite shocking. I understand that Japanese business and policework in the 90s would be mostly comprised of men, but there were women affected by the events of this novel - Shiroyama's wife, for instance - whose viewpoint would have provided a different angle.
I did enjoy Lady Joker and I'm glad to have read it. But definitely a case of bigger not being better.
December 16, 2023
The 3 and 2 stars (probably adjusted for 0.5 more each) represents my disappointment at having invested about 2 weeks worth (it was a slow-burn of 1,200 pages in total), a time I will never get back.
Despite the accolades (which should stand in the 90s but probably not so now), there is a lot of promise in the storyline, but the slow-burn (in contrast to Yokoyama Hideo, which punches you through a mix of different speed build-ups in his books) doesn't really amount to much. Too much anguish among the characters, and the crime details are conveniently uncovered by the good guys based on a lot of guesswork without any smartness. This is not a honkaku detective book nor a crime procedural - and the ending didn't resolve anything (I hated the various "twists" near the 2nd half of the 2nd book).
Despite the accolades (which should stand in the 90s but probably not so now), there is a lot of promise in the storyline, but the slow-burn (in contrast to Yokoyama Hideo, which punches you through a mix of different speed build-ups in his books) doesn't really amount to much. Too much anguish among the characters, and the crime details are conveniently uncovered by the good guys based on a lot of guesswork without any smartness. This is not a honkaku detective book nor a crime procedural - and the ending didn't resolve anything (I hated the various "twists" near the 2nd half of the 2nd book).
July 15, 2024
The build-up in Volume 1 really paid off in this one. Although the book is quite lengthy, the writing is incredibly detailed and the narrative itself, I think, is more introspective, in the sense that I got to really dive into the characters' consciousness. How they percieved themselves and the world around them are what pushed me to complete the book in 4 days.
I absolutely loved Goda, even though (and because) he is lowkey depressed and pathetic.
I absolutely loved Goda, even though (and because) he is lowkey depressed and pathetic.
November 20, 2023
Finally. I finally finished it. With both volumes, this story totals approximately 1200 pages. It's extremely detailed but somehow still very gripping. Volume 1 walked so that Volume 2 could run.
There is one chapter where a character spends about 14 pages trying to work out what minute detail was different about a bus stop from when he saw it the previous day. It was absolutely compelling.
There is one chapter where a character spends about 14 pages trying to work out what minute detail was different about a bus stop from when he saw it the previous day. It was absolutely compelling.
March 2, 2023
Horse racing, dentistry, machining, manufacturing, business management, stock trading, print journalism, police investigation—reading Lady Joker feels like learning about these subjects from an industry veteran. I cannot imagine the amount of research Takamura-san must have put into this. The level of detail fascinated me, and it drives much of the elucidation of the characters’ personas and worldviews. I could see it frustrating more action-oriented readers, but if you are a sucker for minutiae, this is your book.
Not to say that Lady Joker isn’t full of action, intrigue and plot development. The first volume in particular draws the reader along in compelling fashion, as we see plans unfold from different viewpoints and then have the wool pulled over our eyes—left to piece together the mystery along with everyone else. The second volume idles for a stretch (I could make the case for cutting ~100 pages), but it finally gets over the hump and progresses to a satisfying conclusion. Like any worthwhile fiction, there are no heroes and villains here, only complex people driven (I’d say) to overcome that pervasive sense of dukkha, each in their own way.
Finally, a note on translation. I’ve heard it said that translators’ names should be on the cover, and that honor is well deserved here. Iida and Powell prove that English holds a world of words that showcase beauty, depth and highly specific meanings—far from the banal, undifferentiated language we native speakers oft accuse it of being. The English language edition of Lady Joker shows that translation is a high art form worthy of our deep respect and appreciation—especially given the need to bring Takamura’s industry-specific terminology and precision to life.
TL;DR: Cool book, lots of detail, complex characters. Slow at times, but in the end a captivating crime drama that educates as much as it entertains.
4.0 rating is factored across both volumes:
- Vol. 1, 4.5
- Vol. 2, 3.5
Not to say that Lady Joker isn’t full of action, intrigue and plot development. The first volume in particular draws the reader along in compelling fashion, as we see plans unfold from different viewpoints and then have the wool pulled over our eyes—left to piece together the mystery along with everyone else. The second volume idles for a stretch (I could make the case for cutting ~100 pages), but it finally gets over the hump and progresses to a satisfying conclusion. Like any worthwhile fiction, there are no heroes and villains here, only complex people driven (I’d say) to overcome that pervasive sense of dukkha, each in their own way.
Finally, a note on translation. I’ve heard it said that translators’ names should be on the cover, and that honor is well deserved here. Iida and Powell prove that English holds a world of words that showcase beauty, depth and highly specific meanings—far from the banal, undifferentiated language we native speakers oft accuse it of being. The English language edition of Lady Joker shows that translation is a high art form worthy of our deep respect and appreciation—especially given the need to bring Takamura’s industry-specific terminology and precision to life.
TL;DR: Cool book, lots of detail, complex characters. Slow at times, but in the end a captivating crime drama that educates as much as it entertains.
4.0 rating is factored across both volumes:
- Vol. 1, 4.5
- Vol. 2, 3.5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews