ISBN: 0-06-015206-0 Order from:
A charming, classical detection story set in ancient China, exposes the early years of the fictionalized detective, and shows the rich culture of Tang China.
Reviewed by David on July 12, 2003
Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural, Historical, China)
Synopsis: During the Tang dynasty, over a thousand years ago, much of China was ruled by well-developed beauracrocy, staffed with scholarly officials who passed tough civil examinations. Nonetheless, despite the organization and booming trade, the country still had plenty of poverty and crime.
And thus much occupation for a district magistrate Judge Dee, well-known for his ability to investigate crimes.
In this early case of his career, Judge Dee leaves the government ministries of the Imperial Capital for a post of a district magistrate.
In his first experience as the senior official as well as the chief investigator, the Judge recruits two assistants, and tackles the convoluted investigation of murder, smuggling, conspiracy and lust.
Red herrings and subtle clues abound, as the Judge forms theories and adjusts them to the facts.
Full Review: A very enjoyable novel, this shows the classical features of the early detective novel, with the intellectual investigator sifting through clues and assisted by several able but less insightful lieutenants.
The judge is a bit aloof, although Chiao Tai and Ma Jong provide more earthy and passionate foils. The investigation is pleasant, and the exotic mileau is fascinating.
There are a number of interesting characters here, but in the tradition of the classical detective fiction, they get only a light if deft description, which doesn't build a deep emotional attachment. One feels respect and fondness for the main characters, but not, say, anguish ot laughter.
This is a very enjoyable book, in an enjoyable series mining an unusual historical environment. The author demonstrates his deep knowledge of the era without forsaking entertainment.
Overall: 6; Plot: 6; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 7; Originality: 7;
Copyright date 1959, Harper & Row, 1983, Cloth, 202 pages
ISBN: 0-06-015206-0 Order from: