ISBN: 0-226-84874-4 Order from: Recorded Books
A solidly satifying mystery with a somewhat aloof but still sympathetic hero, the novel mixes an exotic setting with a dash of politics and plenty of melodrama.
Reviewed by David on September 24, 2003
Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural, Historical, China, Intrigue)
Synopsis: In this very late adventure of Judge Dee, the distinguished Chinese investigator and jurist of the seventh century is very high in his political career. The most senior judge of the Empire and one of the most influencial members of the court, the judge comes to the trading city of Canton to investigate the disappearance of a political ally. The investigation, hampered by the need for secrecy and Judge Dee's own excessive visibility shows a tangle of passion, political intrigue, and criminal greed.
Full Review: In this, apparently last (chronologically) adventure of his the series, the Judge's position makes it very difficult to investigate. Having enormous power, traveling with large entourage, and getting older in years, the Judge makes a less efficient investigator—although still good enough to uncover one last series of evil-doers.
The novel, mixing the author's knowledge of the Chinese culture centuries ago, with the all-too-timeless motivations of greed, lust and power-hunger, makes for a pleasant, at time tense, adventure.
Many of the uncovered stories are melodramatic, but they play well with the exotic setting. As usual, the Judge shows his intelligence, honor and flexibility, combined with persistent xenophobia, which enhances the three-dimensional portrayal of the hero.
The book forms a satisfying ending to Dee's investigative career, corresponding to his historical rise to power and concentration on politics.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6.5; World-building: 7; Originality: 7;
Copyright date 1966, University of Chicago Press, 1993, Trade paperback, 208 pages
ISBN: 0-226-84874-4 Order from: Recorded Books