Short stories revolving around the characters associated with the motel "Hotel Royal.' Overall, the stories have lonesome, miserable atmosphere with characters barely making a living. They also shed light on human desires and lust.
An interesting read, the book subtlety explores sexual relations and gender inequality in the Japanese society. However, in my opinion, not deeply enough. It is also rather sad, so with the lack of an interesting plot, it is going to be hard to pick it up again if a fascinating story line is what you seek.