Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
Death at the Crossroads
Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Dale Furutani
Class/Genre: Mystery Historical
Series: Matsuyama Kaze # 1
Morrow, Jul 1998, $24.00, 256 pp.
When William the Conqueror defeated Harold at Hastings, Saxon rule ended. Chaos ruled much of the land as forces loyal to the Norman destroyed Saxon strongholds and bandits roamed the countryside. A comparable event has also occurred in Japan in 1603 when the armies of Iegaso defeated that of the ruling Emperor Hidyoshi at the Battle of Sekighara. Matsuyama Kaze, a ronin samurai searches for the daughter of his late lord and lady who died because of that recent battle. This task was the last order given to Matsuyama Kaze by his lady. Until he completes the task, he cannot serve another master. He has had little success so far.
Matsuyama Kaze gets distracted when he observes Jiro, a peasant, standing over a corpse of a man with an arrow protruding from his back. Kaze tries to point out relevant facts involving the murder to the corrupt district magistrate. When Jiro is going to be executed for the murder, Kaze, racing against time, tries to uncover the identity of the real culprit.
One of the most pivotal years in Japanese history is 1603, which is brilliantly brought to life by award winning writer Dale Furutani. The author provides a different cadence that enables readers to feel a culture that seems so alien to that of the western world. It is especially humorous and ironic to see how alien the Japanese find the customs and culture of Westerners.
DEATH AT THE CROSSROADS is an intricately woven and unique historical mystery that stars a hero who will be well received by fans of the sub-genre. Readers know that Matsuyama Kaxe will never quit until he finishes his quest, regardless of the foes he must face. In other words, he is a competent Quixote. Hopefully, this is the start of a long relationship between the character and his audience.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
If you enjoy this website, a link would be appreciated. |