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The Tattoo Murder

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( 3,598 ratings, 524 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Tattoo Murder by Akimitsu Takagi is a gripping crime novel that delves into the underworld of post-war Tokyo. The story revolves around a gruesome murder involving a woman with a full-body tattoo, and the investigation that ensues is full of intricate puzzles and unexpected twists. As detectives and an amateur sleuth work to unravel the mystery, the narrative keeps readers on edge with its blend of cultural intrigue and complex characters.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you love intricate and atmospheric mysteries that combine elements of traditional Japanese culture with a suspenseful, twisting storyline. Set in post-war Tokyo, it offers a unique glimpse into the world of crime-solving with a compelling mix of art and enigma, perfect for fans of classic whodunits and cultural intrigue.

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A classic Japanese murder mystery set in post-war Tokyo and steeped in the illicit subculture of Yakuza tattoos.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Kinue Nomura survived World War II only to be murdered in Tokyo, her severed limbs discovered in a room locked from the inside. Gone is the part of her that bore one of the most beautiful full-body tattoos ever rendered.

Kenzo Matsushita, a young doctor who was first to discover the crime scene, feels compelled to assist his detective brother, who is in charge of the case. But Kenzo has a secret: he was Kinue's lover, and soon his involvement in the investigation becomes as twisted and complex as the writhing snakes that once adorned Kinue's torso.

'Like voyeurs, we follow Takagi down the charred streets of bombed-out Tokyo to scenes of fastidiously executed decadence' – The New York Times

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Tattoo Murder has been praised for its intricate and fantastically absorbing storyline, with a comparison to John Dickson Carr for its ghoulishness and ingenuity. Readers enjoy its unique setting and powerful plotting, considering it a delightful and different take on the crime and thriller genre. The novel provides a vivid picture of post-war Tokyo, and despite its age, its themes and execution resonate as thoroughly modern. Additionally, it's described as clever, kinky, and highly entertaining.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781782278283

Publisher: Pushkin Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 October 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Pushkin Vertigo

Contributors:

  • Translated by Deborah Boehm

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 384

About the Author

Akimitsu Takagi was born in Japan in 1920 and worked as an aeronautical engineer until he decided to become a mystery writer on the recommendation of a fortune teller. He went on to become of the country's most popular crime authors and, winning the prestigious Mystery Writers Club Award. The Tattoo Murder was Takagi's debut. It was first published in 1948 but has never been published in the UK until now.

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