“Onizuka Kumako is a formidable woman in Tokyo, known for her striking beauty and fearless demeanor. She navigates the city’s bars, engaging in seduction and petty crime, with the backing of the local yakuza. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she marries Shirakawa Fukutaro, a wealthy widower unaware of her past. Their happiness is tragically interrupted when Fukutaro dies in a mysterious car accident, leaving Kumako accused of murder and branded a femme fatale. As the media frenzy intensifies, a dedicated defense lawyer begins to question the truth, unraveling the complex web of human desires and biases.”

Why You Should Read?

1. Intricate Psychological Noir: Experience a gripping narrative that delves into the psychological depths of human nature, exploring themes of conviction, bias, and desire.
2. Masterful Translation: Enjoy the first English translation of Seicho Matsumoto’s work, bringing a classic Japanese novel to a wider audience.
3. Complex Characters: Follow the compelling journey of Onizuka Kumako, a multifaceted protagonist whose strength and vulnerability captivate readers.
4. Suspenseful Plot: Engage with a story filled with twists and turns, as Kumako fights to prove her innocence amidst mounting public and media pressure.
5. Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of Japanese society and its intricate connections to crime and justice through a richly woven narrative.