Tokyo Redux

The gripping conclusion of David Peace's Tokyo Trilogy, Tokyo Redux explores crime, mystery, and the socio-political landscape of post-war Japan.

In Tokyo Redux, David Peace weaves a gripping narrative that spans decades, exploring the intricate web of crime, mystery, and the socio-political landscape of Japan. Set against the backdrop of post-war Tokyo, the story begins in July 1949 with the mysterious disappearance of President Shimoyama, the Head of the National Railways. American Detective Harry Sweeney takes on the case, navigating a city still reeling from the effects of war and change. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is introduced to Hideki Murota, a private investigator who, fifteen years later, is forced to confront his own past while the city prepares for the 1964 Olympics, a time of hope and transformation.

As the timeline progresses to late 1988, the story shifts focus to Donald Reichenbach, an aging American who finds himself entangled in the final reckoning of one of the greatest mysteries of the Showa Era. Tokyo Redux is not just a crime novel; it is a profound exploration of identity, memory, and the haunting shadows of history that linger in the bustling streets of Tokyo. Peace’s masterful storytelling skillfully intertwines multiple perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of voices that reflect the seismic changes within the city.

Critically acclaimed, Tokyo Redux has been described as a powerful and stirring read, showcasing Peace's ability to craft a polyphonic narrative that resonates deeply with readers. With its blend of historical events and fictional intrigue, this novel stands out as a compelling conclusion to Peace's Tokyo Trilogy, leaving readers both satisfied and contemplative about the complexities of human nature and the passage of time.