Oh my gosh...I found this book just so boring and I tried for 50 pages to give it a chance.

Laura Joh Rowland's Sano Ichiro series of mystery novels adds new life to the growing sub-genre of historical fiction. Nearly all-historical mysteries are set in medieval Europe, colonial America or Victorian England. Rowland opens the genre to a new world by setting her novels in ancient Japan. What's more, her ability to strike balance between historical research, plot, and character development creates a solid novel. Many of her counterparts in the historical genre over-use historical data as a means to hide lack of plot and character depth. Rowland's strength of balancing history with plot make 'Pillow Book' a cut above the average historical 'whodunit'.

'The Pillow Book of Lady Wisteria' joins together Sano Ichiro, his wife Reiko and detective Hirata into the investigation of the murder of Lord Matsudaira Mitsuyoshi. Sano is the shogun's Most Honorable Investigator of Events, Situations, and People and is commissioned by the shogun to solve the crime. With his wife, Hirata and team of investigators, Sano plunges headfirst into a mystery full of greed, lust, and deception. In the process, 'Pillow Book' provides a wondrous glimpse into the world of feudal Japan.

Mitsuyoshi, the shogun's heir and favorite nephew is found dead in Edo's pleasure quarter, Yoshiwara. Mitsuyoshi, known for his careless and often reckless playboy spirit was a client of Lady Wisteria. Wisteria resided in Yoshiwara as a high-priced prostitute servicing Edo's elite class. In her room Mitsuyoshi is found dead, a hairpin stabbed through his eye. To complicate matters for Sano, Lady Wisteria being a potential witness as well as the primary suspect to the crime, has disappeared.

The intrigue of the book intensifies as various enemies of Sano, Reiko and Hirata plot against them for political and personal gain. In a society where duty and honor play a huge roll in personal actions, Sano must work to divide friend from foe if he is to bring Mitsuyoshi's killer to justice. He must protect himself without sacrificing his rank in the Tokagawa regime. As well as, protecting the honor of his family.

Rowland unfolds her story best when using historical data to illustrate Japanese customs and how these customs effect her characters reactions to situations and events. Her books have been criticized since her characters do not act and react the way a modern day American would if put in similar situations. However, one of the joys of a historical novel is to learn about the time period and setting of the story.

For example, sexuality in feudal Japan is not branded with the same censure as in modern-day America. Homosexuality and prostitution do carry the social stigma they do today; conversely, monogamous relationships are not always revered, or desired. Inter-personal relationships in feudal Japan both of a sexual and non-sexual nature operate in a far different convention. Rowland approaches these differences to create conspiracy and turmoil amongst her characters.

The structure of the Tokagawa government also influences how the characters in 'Pillow Book' interact with each other. Personal gain, self-preservation, greed and power play a huge roll in the events surrounding the death of Lord Mitsuyoshi. Since justice in feudal Japan is harsh and seemingly cruel to our justice system, it is impossible then to assume the characters would act in a modern-day manner. Rowland's mystery plots depend heavily upon her characters acting and reacting within their culture, and social structure.

In her novel 'The Pillow Book of Lady Wisteria' Laura Joh Rowland does a remarkable job of opening the mind to a people, and culture that is far-removed from our own. In addition, she manages to write a compelling mystery that is a page-turner. Her characters have depth, and offer insight into a time and place unlike our own. The books portrayal of events, and character interactions reveal the author's knowledge of ancient Japan. Rowland's writing style is smart, sophisticated, highly visual and refreshing. Sano Ichiro and the novel 'The Pillow Book of Lady Wisteria' offer a breath of fresh air into the increasing popular world of historical fiction. Highly recommended for lovers of mysteries and historical fiction.

About my grading system: I interpret Amazon.com's five-star ranking system as follows: 1 star = far below standards, 2 stars = below standards, 3 stars = meets standards, 4 stars = exceeds standards, 5 stars = far exceeds standards.

With "The Pillow Book of Lady Wisteria," Laura Joh Rowland has achieved the high level of suspense and tension I haven't seen since her first two novels (Shinju and Bundori). Just when I thought this series was losing steam after the clunky and tepid plot of "Black Lotus," Rowland has regained the form that made this atmospheric series so enjoyable to read. Here's hoping her next novel--which I will purchase when it comes out in paperback--won't disappoint.

Bundori is the 2nd installment in Laura Joh Rowland's Sano Ichiro series. Having secured shogun Tsunayoshi's favor in the first book, Sano has been elevated to "sosakan" level, kind of the chief investigator to the court. The main mystery plot involves a killer who is collecting "bundori" war trophies based on a century-old betrayal of the first shogun, Oda Nobunaga.
Sano must find the killer, while avoiding the wrath of the jealous chamberlain Yanagisawa, the allure of the mysterious priestess/ninja Aoi, and a host of uncooperative samurai and citizens.
Strengths:
Throughout the book are colorful descriptions of old Edo (now Tokyo) that give a sense of place. Rowland evokes the five senses, as well as inner senses with respect to atmosphere. I liked that there was action in the city aside from the investigation, such as the riots and resulting fire that burned throughout the latter portion of the book. This gave me the idea that there were other things happening outside the life of Sano. Rowland gives detailed physical descriptions of characters. Her use of history and cultural notes pulls one into the period. I also liked the sexual tension between Sano and Aoi, with love interest possibilities, plus the addition of the loyal Hirata as a sidekick.
Work areas:
The mystery ends up not nearly as compelling as the numerous subplots that surround it. As an antagonist, Yanagisawa basically has no redeeming qualities. There were times when Sano, an educated and intelligent man, acted so thickheaded that I wanted to throttle him. While the sensual details worked, Rowland needs work on showing emotions rather than telling them. There were also instances of someone saying something in Japanese, then translating it themselves into English, such as "Okashii ridiculous." I also can't let slide this gem of dialogue: "Dirty saboteur! Who are you working for, you agent of evil and darkness?"

Still, I enjoyed the period detail and the pacing was gripping, keeping me moving the story. I'm looking forward to watching these characters grow and eager to find out what happens next.

Bundori is an intriguing mystery thriller penned by Laura Joh Rowland, and the sequel to Shinju. The story takes place in Edo (now known as Tokyo), Japan in 1689, and centers around a murder investigation involving much more than simply murder. The "Bundori Killer" decapitates his victims and mounts their heads as war trophies for... what? And why? ("Bundori" means "war trophy" in Japanese.)

The rather difficult task of answering these questions falls to Sano Ichiro, the shogun's sosakan-sama (Most Honorable Investigator of Events, Situations, and People). Already a daunting case, Sano's job is made much more difficult by the interference of the second most powerful man in Japan, Chamberlain Yanagisawa. Yanagisawa is jealous of Sano because he saved the shogun's life and feels that he is a threat to his own power. Another unexpected element is thrown into the mix in the form of a female ninja disguised as a shrine maiden working for Yanagisawa against her will. He orders her to sabotage Sano's investigation, but... let's just say things don't go quite as smoothly as Yanagisawa could have hoped for.

As the mystery unfolds, the story and characters only grow more intriguing. As the real murderer isn't revealed until the very end, it makes for a very suspenseful read. Being a fan of pretty much all things Japanese, the frequent use of Japanese terms, greetings, and such was a big turn on. It also provided an interesting look at 17th Century Japanese culture, and the mind frame of the people that made up that culture. The story was crafted beautifully and executed in a very believable manner. Bundori is one of those books that draws you in and keeps you hooked until the very end.

I would gladly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery, but also to anyone who enjoys Japanese culture. Reading Shinju is not necessary to understand and enjoy Bundori, but will give you a better understanding of Sano's character and the events that got him where he is. If you're in the mood for a good mystery thriller with a dash of romance and political intrigue (well, maybe more than a dash of the latter) thrown in, then Bundori is the book you've been looking for!

In BUNDORI, Sano Ichiro takes on his next official assignment as the Shogun's Most Honorable Investigator of Events, Situations, and People. This time he's searching for a bizarre serial killer who seems to be living in the past, presenting the heads of his slain enemies as "war trophies" in tribute to his lord. Once again, as in SHINJU, Rowland gives us a terrific read -- more thriller than whodunit. And she gives us a lot of info on society and everyday life in medieval Japan. She creates an AMAZING sense of place, combining the societal info with her excellent descriptions: "A haze of pale foliage added brightness and life to the city's drab brown thatched or tiled roofs. Cherry trees, in full blossom now, spread rosy clouds over the banks of the many canals, formed solid bands of radiant color along the broad, muddy Sumida River, and turned the hills beyond the castle into a breathtaking wash of pink and green. Their fragrance scented the air with an elusive, poignant sweetness. In the distance, high above the city to the west, rose Mount Fuji's serene, snowcapped peak."

I found the detailed sex scenes a bit distasteful, but they did contribute to the sense of character and to the tension. These books are a tremendous amount of work. Rowland can be very proud. Great entertainment. These books are very well done.

I loved Shogun and when I learned of this mystery series I couldn't wait to read them. Although it took me a while to get into the mindframe of the main character and the feudal system of Japan, once I did I enjoyed this book. Although some of the mysteries weren't hard to figure out there were enough plot twists and turns to keep me interested in whether Sino would ever acheive his goals of finding, and proving, the truth. I am just starting the 2nd book in the set and look forward to the rest.

This story is very strong on atmosphere and weaker on real mystery. I found it a fascinating glimpse into what the real tenor of medieval Japan might have been like. Suicidal behavior characterizes not only the initial crime victims but the obstinate actions of Sano Ichiro, a police commander struggling against the extremely rigid and hierarchical filial, political, and police "system" in 1689 Edo (Tokyo). He seems to instinctively know the "truth" despite all his social conditioning in the samurai code of loyalty, obedience, and reputation. As the first in the series the author should have shown by his actions, rather than assertion alone, that Sano in fact had had a history of dedication to the alleged "truth and justice" that conveniently appears whenever he is pressed by custom or patron to conform to an official cover-up he seeks to break. Aside from the author's simplistic psychology this is a fascinating story because of the realistic and exotic atmosphere, the feeling engendered by Joh's descriptive ability that you are really there. The author is particularly sensitive to Edo's sweet or foetid odors and to localizing each of the scenes with visual clues. The book is nicely printed. The story has a very exciting samurai conclusion, but despite the blurbs there's no love interest here.

If you are interested in Japanese folktales, bushido, or just ancient Japan in genral, this is an excellent book, well worth the money. I don't enjoy mysteries at all, and didn't read this book expecting one, so I suppose that is why I could not solve teh mystery until it was revealed to me. The descriptions of 17th century Japan are outstanding, you reallty feel like you are there. The sequel, Bundori, surpasses even this book, but I'd reccomend going in chronological order. The books after Bundori kind of trail off, and the plots become less beleivable, even for a fiction tale. But it is definetly worth it to read about how a common teacher is requested to teh court of the shogun.

Set in Seventeenth Century Japan, Laura Joh Rowland's Black Lotus is the sixth book in the Sano Ichiro series of mystery novels. Once again Sano, his wife Reiko and his Chief Retainer Hirata are joined together. This time, to solve the cause of a mysterious fire at the Black Lotus Temple. A fire thought to claim the lives of three people. Their only suspect and premiere witness, Haru, is found at the sight of the fire beaten, and scared.

Unable to make Haru speak, Sano instructs his wife to befriend Haru and coax as much information about the crime from her as possible. Through a series of interviews with Haru, Reiko becomes convinced that Haru is innocent of the crime committed at the Black Lotus Temple. As Reiko investigates further, she suspects the Black Lotus Sect as a front for criminal activity. Believing that Haru will help expose the evils of the Black Lotus, Reiko shelters Haru from arrest.

Meanwhile, Sano and Hirata focus their investigation on Haru, believing she is the sole culprit in the crime committed at the Black Lotus Temple. Upon learning that Reiko has acquired an affinity for Haru, domestic bliss becomes threatened for Sano. Fearful that a disagreement over the crime will further domestic turmoil, Sano refuses Reiko to continue her investigation into the Black Lotus Sect. Afraid her husband's reputation will be ruined if she does not follow-up her interrogations, Reiko proceeds to protect Haru and ignore her husband's decree.

As always, Rowland's main mystery plot in Black Lotus is likeable. Her strength as a writer is balancing historical data with plot and character development. However, Black Lotus fails to deliver on some of those strengths with key points lacking within the sub-plot of the book.

For example, take the issue of character development. The battle between Sano and Reiko over the guilt or innocence of Haru is exasperating. It would be more believable if the couple simply disagreed over Haru's innocence, but that is not so. Reiko goes to unforgivable lengths to prove the girl innocent. She defies her husband, endangers both of their lives, and forces their marriage to the breaking point.

Pages full of disagreements and bickering between the couple exhaustively distract from the story. Plot development suffers because the story becomes so focused on Reiko's reckless behavior. In addition, Sano's roll as investigator in the book is minimal. As the main character of the series Sano rarely appears in Black Lotus unless he is arguing with his wife.

It gets worse. It is not until Reiko's life is in danger near the end of the story that she all at once realizes how much she still loves Sano. Trapped in the catacombs of the Black Lotus Temple, Reiko prays her husband will come rescue her. Meanwhile, fighting on a bloody battlefield outside the Temple, Sano pines for Reiko. Along with his trusty sidekick Hirata, Sano forges his way through the battle and into the depths of temple. Strong with the conviction that his marriage must survive, Sano races to find Reiko before it is too late. It's true - there is nothing like a damsel in distress to heal the love of an estranged couple.

Conversely, Rowland did a fantastic job of creating a Buddhist sect with fanatical beliefs. That is the strength of this novel. The story would have profited if she were to have focused more on the Black Lotus, their criminal background, and their odd and often disturbing rituals. Instead, Rowland shifted the focus on an indignant Reiko out to prove her husband wrong. It is shame to see what promises to be a solid series of books suffer at the hands of the poor, unrealistic judgement of one single character. Overall, Black Lotus is disappointing compared with other Sano Ichiro novels, but worth reading if you are a fan of the series.

About my grading system: I interpret www.Amazon.com's five-star ranking system as follows: 1 star = far below standards, 2 stars = below standards, 3 stars = meets standards, 4 stars = exceeds standards, 5 stars = far exceeds standards.

I am quite a fan of mystery novels and read most of the popular series by various authors. Black Lotus, the sixth novel by Laura Joh Rowland, is my introduction to her series and I will most definitely go back and read her previous novels. The plots and characters of most series get stale quickly and are often derivative of one another, but Ms. Rowland writes mysteries as historical novels set in 17th century Japan and so has found an interesting new angle for her books.

Judging by some of the previous reviews, it appears that some readers are quite disappointed that Ms. Rowland's characters do not act in a modern fashion, particularly in regards to gender roles. Keep in mind that this is a historical novel, banish your expectations about societal roles, and enjoy a good mystery and some fine historical writing.

The "Black Lotus," the latest installment in the Sano Ichiro mystery series set in 17th century Japan, is an absolutely brilliant read! This novel is exciting and tautly paced, with almost non-stop action and revelations. I found that I just couldn't put this book down -- I was that eager to get to the resolution of this novel; and while I was able to work out a few of the solutions, there were still a few revelations that managed to astound me.

Sano Ichiro, the Most Honourable Investigator of Events, Situations, and People, is enjoying a rare moment of bliss: not only has his relationship with the powerful Chamberlain Yanagisawa taken a turn for the better, but Sano is also enjoying the early days of proud fatherhood. Life seems so wonderful at present and little does Sano suspect that the routine investigation into the case of arson and murder at the Black Lotus temple would so abruptly put an end to this peaceful period.

The Black Lotus sect is a rather mysterious one that seems to be have grown in numbers and patrons almost overnight under the leadership of the charismatic Anraku. Early one morning the priests and nuns are rudely awakened by a fire set to one of the cottages on the temple grounds. And when the fire is put out the bodies of a naked man and the burnt bodies of a woman and child are found. Also found near the cottage is a young girl, Haru, almost incoherent with terror. It is soon becomes evident that the cottage was set on fire on purpose. And when Sano arrives to take over the investigation of the arson, he recognises the naked man as Oyama Jushin, the chief police commander of the area. Further investigation also reveals that all three did not die because of the fire, but that they had been murdered. The only person who might be able to shed some light on the matter is Haru. But she is almost inarticulate with terror. Reasoning that a woman may be able to cut through Haru's fear, Sano asks his wife Reiko to try and gently interrogate Haru. Reiko is ecstatic: months of being confined to the house has made her feel dull and uninteresting. And since her insistence in being involved in Sano's previous cases has been a sore point of contention between them, she takes it as a good sign that he is now asking for her help. Unfortunately this case only serves to estrange Sano and Reiko, for while Reiko sees Haru as a victim in need of protection, testimony from the abbess of the Black Lotus temple, and others paint Haru as a liar and troublemaker. It is also intimated that Haru knew Oyama, and that she hated him. Sano is convinced that Haru is guilty, and Reiko is aghast at his quick conclusions. Especially as her investigations intimate that there is something terribly wrong with the Black Lotus sect. Sano however will not listen to Reiko, even when his own investigators start to come across a lot of people who claim that the sect has not only kidnapped their loved ones, but have also engaged in a series of brutal acts of intimidation. Realising that Haru has no one in her corner, Reiko is determined to prove her innocent, eventhough she fears that her marriage may fall apart as a result.

The "Black Lotus" is a well crafted mystery novel, with a complex and fascinating plot. Who is right, Reiko or Sano? And what dark secrets does the Black Lotus sect really hold? These are the two forces that move this novel. And Laura Joh Rowland is successful in maintaining this fast paced momentum, and in moving to and fro on the issue of Haru's guilt or innocence. Everytime you think that the issue is going in one particular direction, evidence to the contrary is brought forward, thus really keeping you on your toes sotospeak! This is a really engaing and facinating novel, and is probably worthy of a 6 star rating!

Well, this is an ill conceived book. I have to admit, I read only the first 50 pages or so, then skimmed it to see how it ended. Predictably. I love Ms. Rowland's attention to detail and portrayal of life in 17th century Japan, but I have problems accepting characters acting totally out of the cultural norm of the times. The plot itself is silly and the character Reiko increasingly has become a contemptorary action figure with Nancy Drew overtones. If I really enjoyed Xena, I'd watch reruns on TV.

This book has the usual political intrigue and sensual moments readers have come to expect from Laura Joh Rowland's novels. However, I came away feeling less than satisfied with this tale and eager to read the next novel in her series. It seemed as if maybe this book is a "bridge" - it wasn't so much a story in itself but was there to set up for future events. I won't spoil it for anyone who hasn't read the book, but for anyone who is following the series, there should be a MAJOR shake-up of political power in the next book. That interests me more than what happened in this book.

In 1682 (actually the Genroku Period Year 7) Lady Keisho-in, mother of the shogun, decides to take a trip. The imperial mother demands Reiko (the wife of Sano the samurai chief investigator), the pregnant Midori (the spouse of Sano's assistant Hirata) and Lady Yanagisawa (the wife of the second-in-command Chamberlain Yanagisawa) accompany her from Edo to Mount Fuji. None of the three invitees want to go, but each feels they must as loyalty demands so. The Dragon King attacks their retinue resulting in deaths of the protectors and the four females incarcerated at a ravaged island palace.

The Dragon King sends a note to the Shogun demanding the execution of Police Commissioner Hoshina if he wants the return of his mother. The shogun assigns Yanagisawa and Sano to work the kidnapping case, but anyone with ambition sees an opportunity to gain favor by rescuing Lady Keisho. Yanagisawa manipulates the situation to his own benefit, as he prefers men to his wife. The clock ticks closer to a demented individual killing harmless women even Midori who just gave birth in captivity.

Though THE DRAGON KING'S PALACE is typical of a historical abduction mystery, the locale and the characters make this novel unique and wonderful. The story line remains fresh though this is Sano's eighth tale because of the insightful look at an era when palace intrigue rivaled Machiavelli and the samurai code rules. Through the actions, reactions, and thoughts of a deep cast, readers obtain a delightful historical investigative tale whose enchanting center is seventeenth century Japan.

Harriet Klausner

Ever since I read Shogun I've enjoyed books set in ancient Japan. The Samauri's Wife is really good at capturing life in the Land of the Rising Sun except for one thing:A samurai would've rid himself of a wife like Reiko. Her character is totally unrealistic. The average well to do Japanese lady of this time period did not behave like this at all. Historical fiction is one thing, fantasy fiction is another.

On top of this problem, the character of Reiko is annoying. Her prime function seemed to be to get in her husband's way. I found myself hoping that Sano would turn to the bald headed nun. The most compelling love story the book was between Sano's arch rival, the Shogan's second in command and his cunning new lover, Hoshino. There are more books in this series but this it for me.

This was one of the finest books I have read on ancient Japan. The author totally understands the rankings of people in relationship to their social class position in old Japan. I personally lived in Japan for 17 years and studied ancinet Japanese history. This book makes you feel as if you are living in the times of the story timeframe.

When I read Shinju, the first book in this series, I thought I was reading a very good account of life in feudal Japan. So I continued the series. My library didn't carry The Concubine's Tattoo and the Way of the Traitor, so I skipped from Bundori to this book.

Laura Joh Rowland has taken something good and made it even better. Always, Sano Ichiro is plagued by issues with his honor and loyalty to Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. His rival, Chamberlain Yanagisawa is still trying to destroy him. He has another life and death mission to finish. And now he has a fiery, headstrong wife, Reiko-chan, at his side. Things don't look good for Sano Ichiro.

Heian Kyo, now known as Kyoto, or merely Miyaki, is a world stuck in the past. Hundreds of years previously, the Japanese Emperors ruled Japan from this spot. Since then, the capital has moved to Kamakura, and now Edo (now Tokyo). It is a world living on a pension from the bakufu (government). It is a world suspended in the relics and traditions of the past. It is a place where a dastardly murder has occurred.

The Samurai's Wife is a high-flying adventure through ancient Japan. I suggest you get this book. You'll never put it down.

Sano is a detective who is torn between a world, which is attempting to maintain its identity and at the same time deal with modernity. Sano's character embodies the conflicts between these two worlds, however, his true master is the quest for the truth. Similar to the Shinju, Rowland's earlier book, Sano has to overcome overwhelming odds in order to solve a murder however this time finds himself uncovering governmental corruption. Rowland has mastered the art of historical accuracy and suspenseful foreplay.

This is the latest book in the continuing series of Sano the samurai detective, and in my opinion the best. Each of Rowland's books continue to outdo the previous ones, and Way of the Traitor is no exception. The plot is full of twists and turns and is brilliantly written. I couldn't put it down!

Laura Joh Rowland has me hooked on 17th century detective, Sano Ichiro. While telling an intricate tale of murder, treason and political intrigue, she has deviously educated me in the ways of feudal Japan. The rich tapastry she lays out will keep your mind awashed in a temporal painting of your mind. This book is a page turner. I literally could not put it down. I had to know what would happen in the next paragraph, the next page, the next chapter . . . and now that I've finished, the next book. I'm truly sorry I did not become aquanted with Sano Ichiro earlier but I plan on picking up the previous two books in the series Shinju and Bundori. GREAT READING!

THE CONCUBINE'S TATTOO is part of a series of mysteries chronicling the adventures of Sano Ichiro, who investigates matters of intrigue in the shogun's household. In this particular volume, it is the death of Lady Harume, a beloved concubine of the shogun (who is known as a homosexual) which he is called upon to investigate. Unfortunately, this tragedy occurs right in the middle (quite literally) of Sano's wedding to the lovely Reiko, daughter of a magistrate. Of course, Yanagisawa, his nemesis is not only a prime suspect, but also determined to sabotage the case in every way that he can. The case becomes only more intense when it is discovered that the concubine was, in fact, pregnant with what could have been the heir to the shogun's throne. Thus, the murder was a treasonous act. Suspects include a rival concubine, the shogun's mother, and a jealous army officer, as well as an old lover and his wife. Meanwhile, troubles on the home-front are trying Sano's patience. His wife is not the lovely lotus-blossom he expected her to be. Rather than the submissive, blackened-tooth, demure maiden he expected, she is a headstrong willful lass who demands to help Sano in his investigation. He does not wish to be tyrannical, yet he is eager to break his wife's spirit. Ultimately, hanging over his head throughout all of this is the fear that not only will he be killed for failing to solve this case, but that naming the wrong suspect could lead to his execution for blasphemous libel.

This book's strength lays not so much in its plot but in its historical details. It is interesting to hear Rowland's descriptions of the lush and sumptuous shogunate palaces of Kyoto. This is far more of a work of historical fiction than a work of mystery. Frankly, when I read a mystery, I expect the conclusion to be one that is utterly unexpected and has me gasping at its cunning and subtlety with which it was revealed. In this book, the conclusion was fairly ordinary. I can't say I predicted it, but nor was it totally unexpected. The author simply gave us a list of suspects and picked one to be the culprit. Another problem with this book was its mature content. Rather than sleuthing, this book is filled with page after page of erotica and bizarre graphic sex. Basically every character in this book is into something kinky with the exception of our noble hero and his wife who gratify us with typical, yet perfectly executed sex. This isn't what I was expecting to be reading in a mystery novel, and I felt it bordered on pornography--especially given that most of the sex was extraneous to the plot.

What I can say for this book is that I read it two years ago and still remember it quite clearly. The concept of a Japanese, shogunate detective in a mystery series is commendable, and Ms. Rowland certainly knows her facts about Japan. I would just hope that she might be willing to put more intricacies into her plots and spend less time delving into the sexual exploits of minor characters.

The Tokugawa shogunate in the 17th century has been a setting for a number of memorable works: the samurai films of Akira Kurosawa, Eiji Yoshikawa's epic novel "Mushashi," and James Clavell's "Shogun."

It's also the setting for this series of four novels by Laura Joh Rowland featuring Sano Ichiro, the most honorable investigator to the shogun.

When the shogun's favorite concubine is found poisoned, the discovery interrupts Sano's wedding feast as well as unleash a host of concerns. Was the killing an attempt to keep the shogun from begetting an heir? Will someone use the crime as a pretext for getting a rival out of the way?

Sano has good reason to be doubly concerned about the case: failure to find the culprit could mean a visit to the execution ground for himself, his assistant and his family.

Sano is also distracted by his bride, who is as spirited and unconventional as a 17th-century Katharine Hepburn. Their journey toward accommodation and compromise form a major part of the book.

One word of warning: many forms of copulation show up in "The Concubine's Tattoo," and its explicitness may prove unsettling to regular readers of the genre.

The Concubine's Tattoo offers everything that I need in a mystery. It is set in an exotic, fascinating era, 17th century Japan. It has an engaging mystery, about the death of one of Shoguns concubines, Harume while she is illicitly tattooing her lovers' name in a secret place and there are many possible suspects. The main characters in the story are interesting and sympathetic people. She opens the story at the lead character, Sano Ichiro's arranged wedding to Reiko, a Japanese woman with a mind of her own. The untimely death of Harume interrupts the wedding festivities and immediately set Sano and Reiko in conflict because of their different ideas of were a woman' s place is.

There are many great subplots woven throughout the story and Rowland has managed to make Ichiro's enemy, Chamberlain Yanagisawa, a richly drawn and sympathetic character without losing his menace. Actually all of the important secondary characters are given a nice depth, as well as the main characters.

This was the fourth book in a Series of books about San Ichiro's work as the Shoguns investigator and the first that I have read. I am not a regular mystery reader, the plots are usually a bit to predictable for me and I do not like the genre enough to put up with shoddy writing. This book however, and I hope the series, was engaging on several different levels. While it is a stand-alone book it definitely peaked my interest in finding and reading all of the books in this series. This is an author that I look forward to enjoying for years to come.