Helpful Score: 1
This is an odd little book. I'm still not quite sure what to make of it. Ostensibly, it's a mystery but set in "ancient" Japan. Having read a lot of Japanese novels (in translation, of course), this doesn't feel right for the time period. My biggest problem is the leading character is a woman. Now, being female myself, that's not a problem in and of itself; however, it is for ancient Japan. Lady Aoi seems to have a lot of power and a lot of freedom to do as she pleases. She is a member of the emperor's court, applying her "physician's" skills even on the emperor himself.
Although it was well written, neither it's story, nor it's style enticed me into finishing it.
Although it was well written, neither it's story, nor it's style enticed me into finishing it.
Helpful Score: 1
A well-thought-out novel giving insight into ancient Japan.
