A review by bookswithlydscl
Strange Pictures by Uketsu

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

4.5*

This is a sketchbook of a novel from anonymous cult Youtube personality 'Uketsu'. Four interconnected stories tied together by eerie and unsettling sketches that gives us a mysterious, intriguing, twisty and utterly absorbing read.

Some of the marketing leads with this being horror but I feel that this is a classic mystery thriller with a horrific concept behind it.

Don't be put off by the abrupt end to a couple of the stories, the pay off at the end tying everything together is fantastic giving us as readers a highly satisfying close for what is an overall gripping reading experience.

New readers to translated Japanese mysteries will like enjoy this more contemporary, and what I felt, highly accessible, introduction to the genre. Go along with the more odd short story style and you'll be richly rewarded.

Thank you to NetGalley and Pushkin Press | Pushkin Vertigo for a digital review copy of "Strange Pictures" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.