The Devil's Flute Murders

Seishi Yokomizo's "The Devotion of Suspect X" is a classic whodunit set in post-war Tokyo, where a once-noble family is in mourning after the death of the old viscount Tsubaki. When the family gathers for a divination to conjure the spirit of their departed patriarch, death visits the house once more, and the brilliant Kosuke Kindaichi is called in to investigate. Kindaichi must uncover the Tsubakis' most disturbing secrets while the gruesome murders continue, and he must use all his skills to solve the case before more lives are lost.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: Pushkin Press

Amid the ruins of post-war Tokyo, nestled within the grand Tsubaki house, a once-aristocratic family grieves the loss of their esteemed viscount, Tsubaki. The old composer, known for his brooding nature and troubled soul, has been found lifeless. As the family gathers for a divination to summon the spirit of their departed patriarch, a chilling presence invades the house once more, leading to the summoning of the brilliant Kosuke Kindaichi. However, before Kindaichi can unravel the truth behind the murders, he must delve into the Tsubaki family's darkest secrets, unearthing a web of deception and betrayal that threatens to engulf them all.

As the investigation unfolds, Kindaichi encounters a cast of enigmatic characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. The Tsubaki family, once revered and respected, is now shrouded in suspicion and intrigue. The viscount's wife, Lady Tsubaki, is a mysterious figure, always shrouded in a veil of secrecy. Her husband's younger brother, Tsubaki Sanjuro, is a charming rogue with a hidden agenda. And the family's servants, including the loyal maid, Otsu, and the cunning cook, Kogoro, play pivotal roles in the unfolding drama.

With each passing day, the murders continue, leaving a trail of clues that seem to lead nowhere. Kindaichi must navigate through a maze of false leads, red herrings, and dubious alibis, using his keen intellect and deductive skills to piece together the truth. As he delves deeper into the Tsubaki family's past, he discovers a web of lies and deceit that stretches back decades, and the murders may be connected to a long-buried family feud.

Ingenious and highly atmospheric, Seishi Yokomizo's classic whodunit is a masterwork of crime fiction. The author's intricate plotting and vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of post-war Tokyo, where the shadows of war and the scars of the past loom large. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws and motivations making them relatable and compelling. The solution to the mystery is truly ingenious, leaving readers in awe of Yokomizo's brilliance as a storyteller.

"The Devotion of Suspect X" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, especially those who enjoy intricate plots, atmospheric settings, and well-crafted characters. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Seishi Yokomizo and his contribution to the genre.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782278849