The Meiji Guillotine Murders

The Ark is a mystery novel set in Tokyo during the Meiji era, following chief inspectors Kazuki and Kawaji as they investigate a series of baffling murders. The novel combines elements of mystery, historical fiction, and political intrigue, and is considered one of the most original works in the history of Japanese mystery writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Pushkin Press

An audacious puzzle mystery, intricately woven into a meticulously crafted historical tapestry. Among the most original works in the annals of Japanese mystery writing, Haruo Yuki's The Ark is a timeless masterpiece set in the vibrant city of Tokyo, 1869, at the dawn of the Meiji era. While Japan attempts to heal the wounds of the recent civil war, the new regime grapples with the challenges of maintaining peace amidst the settling of old scores and the influx of dangerous new ideas from the West. In this tumultuous landscape, a new police force emerges as a beacon of hope, promising to restore order to a land of feuding samurai warlords. Among the brightest stars of this fledgling force are chief inspectors Kazuki and Kawaji, two individuals with unique talents and unwavering determination. Together, they embark on a thrilling investigation into a series of baffling murders that span the capital, traversing from the dimly lit drinking dens to the opulent hotels and the hallowed halls of the Imperial Palace. As they delve deeper into the case, they face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, from the labyrinthine politics of the samurai class to the enigmatic nature of the crimes themselves. With each step, they must unravel the intricate web of lies and deceit that threatens to plunge the country into chaos once more. Will Kazuki and Kawaji be able to solve these seemingly impossible crimes and save Japan from the brink of destruction? Only time will tell in this captivating and suspenseful tale that blends mystery, history, and intrigue in equal measure.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 197 x 129 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782278887