Tag: honkaku

Essay

Book Review: The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo

The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo is a classic Japanese mystery novel that has captivated readers since its publication in 1946. The novel is known for its intricate plot, vivid characters, and the masterful way in which the author weaves together various elements to create a complex and engaging mystery. In this essay, we will examine the major themes of the novel, its plot, and … Continue reading Book Review: The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo

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Essay

What is a Honkaku Mystery?

Honkaku mysteries are a sub-genre of detective fiction that originated in Japan. The term “honkaku” roughly translates to “orthodox” or “genuine,” and the genre is characterized by its adherence to strict rules and logical deductions. Honkaku mysteries are often compared to the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, particularly the Sherlock Holmes stories, for their emphasis on the puzzle-like nature of the mystery. One of … Continue reading What is a Honkaku Mystery?

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Book Reviews

Book Review: The Decagon House Murders by Yukito Ayatsuji

The Decagon House Murders is a Japanese mystery novel by Yukito Ayatsuji, first published in 1987. The book is often considered one of the best examples of the “honkaku” (meaning “authentic”) mystery genre, which emphasizes the use of logical puzzles and clues for the reader to solve the mystery alongside the characters. The story follows seven college students who travel to an isolated island to … Continue reading Book Review: The Decagon House Murders by Yukito Ayatsuji

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Book Reviews

Book Review: The Inugami Curse by Seishi Yokomizo (Detective Kindaichi Mysteries, 4)

The Inugami Curse by Seishi Yokomizo is a classic mystery novel originally published in Japanese in 1951. The book has been translated into English by Yumiko Yamazaki and has since gained a reputation as one of the finest Japanese detective novels of all time. The plot of The Inugami Curse centers around a wealthy and eccentric Japanese businessman named Sahei Inugami, who dies suddenly and … Continue reading Book Review: The Inugami Curse by Seishi Yokomizo (Detective Kindaichi Mysteries, 4)

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Book Reviews

Book Review: Malice by Keigo Higashino (The Kyoichiro Kaga Saga, 1)

Malice is a locked-room mystery novel written by Keigo Higashino, a popular Japanese author known for his intricate plots and clever twists. The novel follows the story of a famous novelist named Kunihiko Hidaka, who is found dead in his locked study the night before he is set to leave Japan for Canada. The only person known to be in the study with him at … Continue reading Book Review: Malice by Keigo Higashino (The Kyoichiro Kaga Saga, 1)

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