Golden Age of Detective Fiction

Think Fast, Mr. Moto, the third installment in John P. Marquand’s gripping Mr. Moto series, unfolds in the intriguing settings of pre-World War II Shanghai and Honolulu. The narrative weaves a web of suspense and espionage, as the protagonist, Wilson Hitchings, is dispatched by his uncle on a mission to close down a gambling house in Honolulu, operated by a family member, Eva. The Hitchings, a prominent banking family, are apprehensive about the potential negative publicity from the casino.

Mr. Moto, a Japanese secret agent, is drawn into the gambling operation, as Chinese and Russian interests are exploiting it to finance anti-Japanese activities in Manchuria. The novel delves into the intricate geopolitical tensions of the era, providing a vivid portrayal of the locales involved. Throughout the narrative, Mr. Moto is on a mission to dismantle the operation, all the while safeguarding Japanese interests.

Mr. Moto, a character of remarkable intelligence, charm, and spy skills, is a standout in the novel. His interactions with Wilson Hitchings and other characters are a testament to his cunning and resourcefulness. The novel, a captivating blend of historical context and mystery, is a testament to Marquand’s ability to create engaging, multi-dimensional characters and settings. Mr. Moto’s character, in particular, is a masterstroke, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.

The Review

I recently picked up Think Fast, Mr. Moto by John P. Marquand to review for #1937club (but didn’t have time to review it), and it was a delightful dive into the world of pre-WWII intrigue and adventure.

From the beginning, Marquand’s writing transported me to the bustling streets of Shanghai and the exotic locales of Honolulu; he is writing takes on the spiritual heir of the recently departed Earl Derr Biggers. The rich descriptions and historical context painted a vivid picture of the geopolitical tensions of the era. The setting felt like a character, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. His descriptions of Hawaii are especially poignant and beautifully crafted.

The protagonist, Wilson Hitchings, is a young and somewhat naive heir to a banking empire thrust into a world of danger and deception. His mission to shut down a gambling operation in Honolulu is more than just a family errand; it’s a plunge into a labyrinth of international espionage. Mr. Moto, the enigmatic and resourceful Japanese secret agent, is the true star of the story. His charm, intelligence, and cunning are perfectly balanced, making him a fascinating and multi-dimensional character.

I found Marquand’s ability to blend suspense with cultural insights particularly engaging. Mr. Moto’s interactions are steeped in the nuances of East-West relations, and his character serves as a bridge between these worlds. The author’s own experiences in Asia shine through, giving the narrative a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find in many thrillers.

The plot is a well-crafted web of intrigue with enough momentum to keep me interested in the rather obvious plot. The stakes are high for the characters and the broader political landscape, adding a sense of urgency to the story. The pace is brisk, and Marquand’s prose is elegant and accessible, making it a pleasure to read.

However, the book has its minor flaws. Some of the secondary characters felt underdeveloped, and there were moments where the pacing slowed down slightly due to extensive descriptions. But these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Think Fast, Mr. Moto is a stellar example of classic spy fiction. It not only entertains but also offers a glimpse into the complexities of international relations in a bygone era. If you’re a fan of espionage novels or simply looking for a gripping and well-told story, I highly recommend reading this book. It’s a four-star adventure that will leave you wanting more of Mr. Moto’s exploits.

John P. Marquand Biography

John Phillips Marquand (November 10, 1893 – July 16, 1960) was an American author renowned initially for his Mr. Moto spy stories. He later gained widespread popularity and critical acclaim for his satirical novels, notably winning the Pulitzer Prize in 1938 for The Late George Apley. A recurring theme in Marquand’s work is the restrictive nature of life within America’s upper class and among those striving to be part of it. He portrayed the characters bound by these social codes with a distinctive blend of respect and satire.