"The Way of the Traitor" by Laura Joh Rowland

Unfortunately, I haven't had much time for reading over the past couple months, as this nearly dormant blog can attest to. But now I finally have a new, albeit brief, review to share with you! I picked up this copy at the local library book sale for a mere 50 cents, but I would gladly pay twenty times that, as it's a genuinely good read.

As a historical novel, The Way of the Traitor is right on the mark. The historical elements are incorporated in a way that doesn't feel obvious, making the prose flow with a very natural feel. Rowland mixes education with entertainment, inserting historical details subtly. It's especially nice, after having read historical novels where the author either tries too hard to put you in the period and crams details down your throat, or doesn't try and makes the setting completely incidental.

I especially appreciated this, since the novels are set in "medieval" Japan (really the late 17th century, but perhaps that was the Japanese equivalent?), which is a time period that I'm not overly familiar with. I had taken a Japanese culture class back in school--which did help a little with recognizing some events and names--but overall, knowledge of Japanese culture or history isn't a requirement to enjoy the book. I did find it very informative, though. A good portion of the plot revolves around the history of Japanese interaction with the West, and the varied reactions it produced.

This is one of those series where later books allude to earlier ones frequently. The Way of the Traitor, being the third book in the series, does make references to the first two books, and does spoil some of the story elements. It probably would be best to specifically seek out the first book in this series if you're interested in reading them.

One thing that struck me is the universality of some of the themes. I found Sano and his situation to be very reminiscent of hard-boiled detective novels; the tought detective, dedicated to his cause, and the corrupt society that conspires to bring him down by any means necessary. He has an almost timeless appeal to him; I found myself almost picturing him in a Philip Marlowe novel. Rowland also weaves in some thriller-genre elements with political subplots.

I'm definitely interested in reading more by this author, since I've far too frequently been disappointed by historical mysteries. I'll be seeking out the first book in this series to start from the beginning, and will hopefully be able to expand more in the subsequent review.

In one sentence: A well-balanced historical mystery that blends gripping storytelling with historical and political anecdotes in a way that entertains and educates.

Good sleuthing!