Book Reviews (マイブック評)

Malice: A Mystery by Keigo Higashino – Minotaur Book

September 15, 2025

It is one of the few books I have read in both Japanese and English. I am a big fan of Keigo HIgashino, and I would say I have read most of his books in Japanese, including this book. Higashino has been one of the leading authors in Japan, especially in the mystery category. He offers us a wide range of stories, and his technique in mystery writing is so varied in each book. He has never discussed how he constructs his mysteries, but he emphasizes he focuses on the “entertainment aspect”. Yes, his books sell very well!

The Japanese title of this book is “Akui”. Recently I joined my alumni book club on zoom, and this is the first book I read to attend the book club. It was so interesting and fun to hear the discussion on this book and to join them. The story of Malice is so twisty. But the psychology part of the story is also very deep, if it is convincing or not, depending on how you take it! I enjoyed reading this book in both languages. I am looking forward to attending the book club for the next month!