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Somewhat of a disappointment. While I'm enjoying the Chinese setting, this book's plot plodded, the mystery seemed muddled, and the characters were uncharismatic, not to mention that I saw little change in the inspector's circumstances or outlook. The background on the Cultural Revolution and the effect it had on people is what was of chief interest. Expecting a conventional murder mystery to unfold seems pointless with this series, but I'm of two minds whether this is a good or bad thing.
I'm t ...more
I'm t ...more

Xiaolong definitely has a poetic sensibility to his writing that shifts this away from a straight mystery, but it's interesting for its take on modern China. Seeing how Chen struggles to further his own condition without sacrificing his moral code is a universally relatable struggle.
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May 20, 2010
Vesra (When She Reads)
marked it as to-read
Shelves:
series,
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author-q,
fiction,
mystery-thrillers,
pc-300-399,
c-black,
country-china,
pub-soho-crime


Jul 05, 2014
Jocelyn
marked it as to-read