"The incense game begins," Usugumo said. The sisters sat up straighter, like warriors preparing for battle. "Listen to the incense. Let its voice tell you who it is."
She set the celadon bowl on the floor between her and the elder sister and bowed.Title: The Incense Game: A Novel of Feudal Japan
Author: Laura Joh Rowland
Published September 18, 2012; Minotaur Books hardcover
Genre: historical mystery
Book description: "In the wake of a terrifying earthquake, Sano Ichiro races to solve a crime that could bring down the shogun's regime.
When a massive earthquake devastates Japan in 1703, even the shogun's carefully regulated court is left teetering on the brink of chaos. This is no time for a murder investigation—except when a nobleman's daughters are found dead from incense poisoning and their father threatens to topple the regime unless Sano Ichiro tracks down the killer.
With the help of his wife, Reiko, and his chief retainer, Hirata, Sano begins a secret investigation that jeopardizes his whole family."
I enjoyed this historical mystery set in 18th century Japan and rated 4 stars!
Japan in the 1700s - that would definitely be a new setting for me. Sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me a little of Shogun, which I have on my shelf, but haven't read yet. I love the setting, and the time period. It sounds excellent. I hope that you love it!
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy this book, Harvee!
ReplyDeleteJapan 1703? Sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read your final thoughts on this one!
ReplyDeleteI like this one. Will have to take your recommendation again.:)
ReplyDeleteOh, a crime novel in shogun Japan! Sounds really interesting :) I've only watched a few anime series about that period so far, about time I read a book as well.
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