[DeepL Translation - needs review] An early work by a pioneer in the world of hard-boiled novels!
Private detective Saku is asked to investigate the background of Shiga, a watch dealer, and immediately starts following him. However, soon after, the strangled corpse of Shiga's wife is discovered. Next, the client of the investigation gives notice of termination of the contract. Saku, a private detective who is trying to solve the mystery, finally arrives at the core of the case. ......
In add...
One of the earlies Japanese hardboiled crime novels
This is a classic hardboiled novel in the vein of Dashiell Hammett or Raymond Chandler. It features an independent, small-time private eye who follows only his own, very strong moral code, and will see his case through despite all kinds of obstacles or temptations. Tough guys and seductive women abound. You know the type. If you enjoy such novels (I do), there's no reason you won't enjoy this one.
As fits this type of novel, the language isn't flowery in the slightest. This is an older book (1962) so I guess some vocabulary may be dated, but I didn't have much trouble with it. For reference, I listened to the audiobook, so I don't know about any use of rare kanji. What I had most trouble with was keeping track of all the names that kept cropping up. I should have been keeping notes.
The plot was satisfyingly complex and took the reader on a trip through Showa era Tokyo, underworld included. The ending was satisfying and not easy to predict, at least for me.