Black Lotus (Sano Ichiro Mysteries)
Samurai detective Sano Ichiro, the hero of Laura Joh Rowland's  beautifully written mysteries set in Shogun-era Japan, (The Samurai's Wife,The Concubine's Tattoo),  investigates an arson murder at the Black Lotus temple, in which the only  witness--a young girl who swears she doesn't remember what happened--is also the  only suspect. But Sano's wife, Reiko, believes that Haru is innocent and that  the real culprits are hiding behind the barred gates of the temple, home to a  mysterious sect that is rumored to be responsible for a number of criminal acts.  Under pressure to solve the crime, Sano agrees to let Reiko help, but when she  takes matters into her own hands, it puts his career in jeopardy and nearly  destroys their marriage. Who is the mysterious Abbess of the Black Lotus, and  what is the sect's real goal? Is Haru the innocent youngster Reiko believes her  to be, or does the evidence Sano uncovers reveal her deceitful nature and  complicity in the murders of a child, a young woman, and a high-ranking police  commander? As usual, Rowland turns in a brilliant re-creation of a time and  place unfamiliar to most readers: the imperial court of 17th-century Japan,  whose intrigues and excesses provide a fascinating backdrop for the most  charming husband and wife detective team since Nick and Nora Charles. If you  haven't discovered Rowland yet,Black Lotusis your opportunity; this is  a series with real staying power.--Jane Adams--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.