What a deeply excellent mystery. I loved Shin's characterization, and the slow way information was revealed and twists played out. It was masterfully-written as a mystery and genuinely great to read in that genre, never mind that it's tie-in IP fiction. I picked this up because I'd incidentally picked up Josh Reynolds' Arkham Horror tie-in fiction and loved that, so I figured, why not pick another book by him even if I wasn't familiar with the franchise? (I did know a very little about the Legend of the Five Rings back in the 90s, when I read a lot of gaming magazines, and even bought a beautiful print of a character from, I think, the card game back then? Funny enough, it was definitely a Crane character, because he had white hair.)

I think my only problems with the world-building were inherent to the RPG itself, not to any of Reynolds' writing, which as always was sharp, fun to read, and rich with character. And again, as with the Arkham Horror work he did, it was casually queer, including male options in Shin's marriage potentials and including a nonbinary character as well. I really appreciate this about his writing, as a queer reader and writer; all the works I've picked up from him so far make sure to make the world feel rich and as if I could exist in it.

Just a great read. I'm going to have to go back and pick up the rest of the Daidouji Shin mysteries; this one was standalone, but mentioned other adventures I'd love to know more about.

Special thanks to NetGalley and Aconyte Books | Aconyte for the ARC copy they provided.

Unfortunately, I did not finish this book in time to leave a review before the publication date, and though a review after publication is no less welcome or useful, I feel I do not have the time or space to give this book the attention it deserves.

Though I did not manage to finish A Bitter Taste before its publication, I look forward to reading it at my leisure some time in the future.

There are few feelings better than opening a new Daidoji Shin novel, and A Bitter Taste is no exception. Set in the world of Legend of the Five Rings, the series follows a seemingly lazy and empty-headed member of the courtly Crane Clan. But like every excellent gentleman detective, Shin has hidden depths, and spends his ample spare time turning his mind to puzzles and mysteries. In his fifth outing, the walls are closing in as his family is demanding he finally settle down and get married. He's convinced this is the direst thing that could happen to him... until he's accused of the murder of Kenzo, a Crane Clan auditor.

Now, Shin and his allies—including bodyguard Kasami, investigator and former fiancee Ko, and loyal gambler-turned-servant Kitano—must clear his name. Diving into this strange murder, however, unearths even more mysteries, many dating back across all the books so far. Shin may know he hasn't committed murder, but there's much more he doesn't know. And his discoveries will call into question every choice he's made and every associate he's trusted since his crime-solving adventures began.

A Bitter Taste is a concentration of everything that makes Daidoji Shin novels so good, from the Wodehousian dialogue and social antics to the multilayered mystery waiting to be unraveled. Long-time readers will have a lot to contend with, as the events of this book upend much we thought we knew, and not everyone will make it out alive. It's a novel as glib and dramatic as the white-haired sleuth himself. This is Reynolds at his best—which, as his work is always top tier, is saying something.

Daidoji Shin, a murderer declared!?

Once again Daidoji Shin, "Crane Clan’s trade envoy in the City of the Rich Frog, is battling long odds. Although this time he might have just been stymied by so many hands against him. Mind you there’s a few acquaintances rooting for him as well.
This time his laser sharp mind and ability to pull on various threads to see the whole just might have alluded him.
At the end of the previous title I’d wondered if Shin was being set up to have his wings clipped. Indeed it seems that’s what’s happening.
Shin is sulking about the ultimatum delivered by Lord Kenzo to marry or else. Kenzo, a Crane auditor has been investigating irregularities found the company’s finances. However when Kenzo ends up assassinated, Shin is the prime suspect.
Added to this is the problem of a Crane delegation led by Shin’s cousin Aoto turning up to drag Shin back home, with the added bonus of Shin being now declared a murderer.
Shin now has to contend with family rivalries and fend off an unknown assassin. Oh, and marriage is still an issue. So many factors from previous investigations are tied up with Shin’s now. Fascinating!
As always I am ironically amused and loving Shin’s latest exploits. Who knows what his future brings. Whatever it is, it will be worthy of this unapologetic Crane.

An Aconyte ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

A Bitter Taste is the fifth in the Daidoji Shin series and I am surprised to say I think it may be my least favourite but I will get to that later. I will also say that while this may be able to be read as stand alone I highly recommend reading the first four to fully understand the characters and what is going on.

Now for a start the writing is once again brilliant, the characters are well written and I did enjoy the different point of view for a change. It was interesting to see Daidoji Shin on the other side as it were and instead of trying to just solve a mystery he was trying to ensure his innocence was proven. This side of the plot is well written and executed and enjoyable.

The one thing that did get to me though was the near ending. Shin seemingly does a complete 180 on all the character development we have seen and the Shin we have come to know to seemingly save the person who had betrayed not only his clan but him, himself. This seemed to come out of the blue because we never see any real romantic interest (one of the things I’ve enjoyed is Shin’s flirty nature but never really being romantically attached as such) and suddenly he is willing to marry them to save their life… It just seemed out of character for Shin, out of the blue and a bit random. Now I might have missed something while reading but it just was a bit…odd.

That said it may well be a line up for the next installment, which I am really hopeful is the case. Needless to say, I did still enjoy this read and it was only the ending that stole a star for me. But this is my personal opinion only. It’s still a solid story and enjoyable and it’s great to see more Legend of the Five Rings out there.

Thank you to Netgalley and Aconyte Books for the e-ARC. My review is completely honest and left voluntarily.

Gentleman sleuth Daidoji Shin faces his trickiest case yet when he finds himself being framed for murder when a Crane Clan auditor turns up dead in a soy brewery, all eyes turn to nobleman-turned-detective, Daidoji Shin… but not to solve the man’s murder; rather, Shin is the suspect.

The story was well written with good characters and a solid mystery. This novel was set in a world of a card playing and role playing game so a rich and detailed society had been created over the years. This was not the first in the series either and I have no background knowledge of the world or the series, so I was a little lost with all the characters and history. Saying that I was able to understand what was going on but I knew I was missing lots of emotional context.

I was intrigued enough that I would definitely be interesting in reading the rest of the series. Then I am sure I would enjoy this even more.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

I must confess that "A Bitter Taste" is the first book in the "Legend of the Five Rings" series that I have read, so I am missing some background knowledge about the characters and their relationships. Nevertheless, the plot was gripping and made me eager to read more. The mystery behind the murder is well-crafted, with small hints given throughout the story, leaving me thinking at the end, "How did I miss that?" The romantic subplot was very surprising; due to my lack of prior knowledge, I can't say whether I might have missed something.

What bothered me the most, however, was the use of words like "gangster." For me, they sound too modern for a fantasy story inspired by feudal Japan.

All in all, though, it is an entertaining and well-executed story.

Ok, you do need to actually read the rest of the books or you'll be lost. Now for my review, tdlr: it's great~ A Bitter Taste: Legend of the Five Rings: A Daidoji Shin Mystery" by Josh Reynolds dives right into the action-packed saga of Daidoji Shin. This time around, Shin's caught up in another murder mystery where he's the top suspect—talk about drama! Reynolds weaves in bits from earlier books, adding layers of intrigue while keeping the pace brisk, which had me totally hooked.

One thing that really stands out in this series is how Shin grows as a character. Despite facing all sorts of challenges that force him to confront his past and his responsibilities, he stays true to himself. Reynolds does a great job balancing Shin's personal growth with the charm we've come to love, making his journey both captivating and deep.

The story's got serious tension, thanks to Reynolds' knack for throwing in clever clues and red herrings. Each new reveal builds on the last, leading to a satisfying wrap-up that also hints at what's next. And yeah, the romantic subplot might seem sudden, but it adds a whole new layer to Shin's life and the bigger story.

Basically all said and done, "A Bitter Taste" is a thrilling addition to the Daidoji Shin Mysteries, packed with mystery, suspense, and some seriously good character development. Reynolds knows how to keep us guessing and eager for more, diving deeper into the world of Legend of the Five Rings with each book.

The 5th Daidoji Shin novel in which Shin begins to reap the whirlwind of the various threats that have been simmering in the background. This book, unfortunately for fans like myself, is a solid ending to the subseries featuring our intrepid amateur investigator, one that feels fast paced and intense from start to finish as Shin is caught out by the different groups who want to bring the life he's built crashing down. Full review/further thoughts in the YT link attached.

A Bitter Taste is the fifth book in Daidoji Shin Mystery series set in the Rokugan Empire of the Legend of Five Rings game world. It’s an Asia inspired historical world divided in clans where honour is important, but women are equal and powerful, and same sex relationships are allowed. No knowledge of the game is needed, but the series, especially this book, builds on the previous books, so don’t start here.

This has been a favourite mystery series of mine, and I was eager to read the latest addition. And it delivered—up until the very end. The ending is one of the worst reader betrayals I’ve experienced in a while and it made me want to give the book one star instead of four it would’ve otherwise got. The three stars I gave is a grudging compromise. The following contains spoilers, so if you’re planning to read the book, skip the review.

The beginning of the book finds Daidoji Shin, the Crane Clan representative in the City of the Rich Frog, sulking, because his grandfather has ordered him to marry. He’s not eager to do so and doesn’t have a candidate in mind, let alone feelings for anyone—important to remember at the end—but the order is absolute.

His day turns to worse, when he learns that the auditor his grandfather had sent to put him to rights has been murdered and Shin is the only suspect.

It’s only the start of Shin’s troubles. His cousin has arrived to town, ready to drag him back home in chains if necessary. The only thing stopping him is the murder investigator, someone with whom Shin has had a very personal relationship. Since it didn’t end well, he doesn’t have high hopes for a fair investigation. He needs to solve the murder himself.

What starts as a straightforward murder case turns more and more complicated at every step. Shin realises there’s been a conspiracy against him from the moment he arrived to town, the roots of which stem from long before. As he unravels it, he learns that people close to him he has trusted absolutely weren’t who he thought they were, and that they have betrayed him. Unable to believe it, he allows himself to be lured into a trap to expose the people responsible, no matter what it means to him personally. After some tense scenes, everything ends in a very satisfying manner.

And then the aftermath ruins it.

The series has always focused on the mysteries. Shin starts as a gambler and someone who likes the company of women, but the mysteries always take precedence, and during the course of the series there’s been no romances. There have been a couple of characters that could’ve become the romantic interest, but nothing serious. I didn’t mind. I never liked the one mainstay possibility, and Shin’s never indicated any romantic interest in them anyway.

This was bound to change here because of the order to marry. And the appearance of the old flame was interesting. They were given their own POV chapters and proved themself to be a great potential partner to Shin. I was looking forward to it even.

And then, in the aftermath, they’re sent away without so much as a token of reminiscing and what ifs. Instead Shin, in an act of complete character reversal, betrays not only his own principles but those of his world in general by deciding that he needs to save the person who’s betrayed not only their clan but Shin too from hanging. Apparently, the only solution is to marry them. Out of the blue—because the reader has insight into Shin’s thoughts and there’s been nothing—romantic feelings are expressed. Reader is to believe they’re genuine.

I was so disgusted I would’ve thrown the book away if I hadn’t been reading on my tablet. What was the author thinking, ruining the character like this? I understand that a writer of mysteries isn’t necessarily familiar with romantic tropes, but someone who has shown they’re not worth the trust of the main character is not chosen as the romantic partner. Even if they’re about to hang. If you don’t want them to hang, then you don’t make them the traitor in the first place, because that came out of the blue too, even if I always disliked them and found their fate satisfying. The character has zero redeeming qualities as is, and since there hasn’t been a romance between them before, they can go. Shin would’ve mourned a while, which would’ve made for a good start for the next book, and then he would’ve moved on. Making him a completely different person for this unworthy character was infuriating to say the least. That there was a better option available, dangled in front of the reader—unlike the other character—adds insult to injury.

Before the aftermath, I was anxious that this would be the last book in the series. Now, I don’t care. I don’t want to read about Shin who’s ready to betray his principles for a traitor, and I definitely don’t want to read about him with that person.

A Bitter Taste - Legend of the Five Rings: A Daidoji Shin Mystery by Josh Reynolds is the fifth book in the series and what an introduction! I absolutely have the previous four on my "to buy" list as I was flying blind in some area's, although the book can be read as a standalone without hesitation

If you love east asian films/ series, you will adore Daidoji Shin, the Nobleman/ Detective dashing MMC. I blipping well love me a cosy mystery as you know and this is so very unique in the genre, being on its more grittier side and based in fantasy/ Japanese history

Absolutely a win!

Thank you to NetGalley, Aconyte Books and the author Josh Reynolds for this awesome ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

A Bitter Taste by Josh Reynolds, a good continuation of the series. This book ties up some of the loose ends from the other books, and yet leaves the door open for more adventures that I hope are coming.

This was such a wonderful surprise. When I picked this book up, I didn't realize it was the 5th in the series. I told myself I would read three chapters and assess if I needed to DNF this book or continue. Imagine my surprise when my lack of previous book knowledge didn't make a difference in my enjoyment. Daidoji Shin was a fun character, and I loved the whole nobleman turned detective trope that is happening. The mystery was tight, the characters were enjoyable, and I enjoyed that the story had actual consequences for people's actions. It wasn't a cozy mystery where everyone ends up with a happy-ever-after ending. It was much more suspenseful than I was expecting. I give A Bitter Taste 5/5 stars and I have already purchased the previous books in the series and look forward to starting the series from the beginning.


Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review A Bitter Taste by Josh Reynolds. All opinions are my own.

Entering the World of Rokugan

"A Bitter Taste," set in the rich tapestry of the Legend of the Five Rings (L5R) universe, is a masterful creation by Josh Reynolds. Known for his adeptness at weaving intricate narratives within established worlds, Reynolds brings Rokugan to life with vivid detail and an enthralling plot. From the onset, the reader is thrust into a land where honor, duty, and destiny intersect in a dance of intrigue and conflict. Rokugan, a realm inspired by feudal Japan, is a place where the samurai code, bushido, and the mystical forces of the kami shape the lives and destinies of its inhabitants.

Protagonist in the Shadow of Honor

At the heart of "A Bitter Taste" is a protagonist who exemplifies the complex interplay of personal honor and societal expectations. This character, deeply flawed yet undeniably compelling, navigates the treacherous waters of Rokugan's politics and supernatural elements with a keen sense of survival and duty. Reynolds expertly crafts a hero who is as much a product of his environment as he is a rebel against it. His internal struggles and external conflicts drive the narrative forward, providing a human lens through which we view the grandeur and peril of Rokugan.

A Web of Intrigue and Deception

The plot of "A Bitter Taste" is a labyrinthine affair, filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Reynolds weaves a tale that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The central mystery, involving a series of unexplained events and hidden agendas, unfolds with meticulous pacing. Each revelation peels back another layer of Rokugan's complex society, exposing the intricate dance of power, loyalty, and betrayal that defines this world. The narrative's structure is such that it invites readers to piece together clues, rewarding those who pay close attention with a deeper understanding of the plot's nuances.

Rokugan: A Character in Its Own Right

Rokugan itself serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a character with its own presence and influence. Reynolds' descriptions of the setting are rich and evocative, painting a picture of a land where every location has its own history and significance. From the bustling courts of the Crane Clan to the rugged wilderness patrolled by the Crab Clan, each scene is brought to life with a level of detail that immerses the reader fully. The cultural and geographical diversity of Rokugan is explored thoroughly, making the setting as dynamic and engaging as the characters themselves.

Themes of Honor and Corruption

"A Bitter Taste" delves deep into themes central to the L5R universe, particularly honor and corruption. The protagonist's journey is one of navigating these twin forces, often finding that the line between them is blurred. Reynolds does not shy away from exploring the moral complexities of his characters, presenting honor not as a simple code but as a multifaceted concept that can both uplift and destroy. Corruption, both literal and metaphorical, pervades the narrative, challenging characters to maintain their integrity in a world rife with deceit and moral compromise.

Supernatural Elements and Their Impact

The supernatural aspects of "A Bitter Taste" are seamlessly integrated into the plot, enhancing the sense of mystery and danger. The kami, spirits of nature, and other mystical forces play crucial roles in the unfolding events, reminding readers that Rokugan is a land where the mundane and the magical coexist. Reynolds' portrayal of these elements is respectful of the source material, adding depth to the narrative without overwhelming the human aspects of the story. The balance between supernatural intrigue and grounded character development is a testament to Reynolds' skill as a storyteller.

Dialogue and Character Interactions

Reynolds' dialogue is sharp and purposeful, reflecting the formalities and subtleties of Rokugani society. Conversations are laden with subtext, often revealing more than the words themselves. This attention to detail extends to character interactions, which are complex and multifaceted. Relationships in "A Bitter Taste" are marked by a blend of personal and political motivations, creating a web of alliances and enmities that add layers to the story. The dialogue not only advances the plot but also deepens our understanding of the characters and their world.

Pacing and Narrative Structure

The pacing of "A Bitter Taste" is expertly managed, ensuring that the story maintains momentum without sacrificing depth. Reynolds structures the novel with a keen sense of timing, alternating between moments of intense action and quieter, more introspective scenes. This balance allows readers to fully engage with the narrative, savoring the buildup to key events while also appreciating the intricacies of character development. The narrative's flow is smooth, with transitions that feel natural and well-considered.

A Tapestry of Subplots

"A Bitter Taste" is enriched by a tapestry of subplots that intertwine with the main narrative. These secondary storylines add depth and breadth to the novel, offering insights into various aspects of Rokugan's culture and politics. Reynolds deftly juggles multiple plot threads, ensuring that each one contributes meaningfully to the overall story. The subplots provide additional context and stakes, making the world feel lived-in and dynamic. They also serve to flesh out supporting characters, giving them their own arcs and motivations.

Emotional Resonance and Character Growth

At its core, "A Bitter Taste" is a story about personal growth and emotional resilience. The protagonist's journey is marked by significant emotional trials, forcing him to confront his fears, regrets, and desires. Reynolds captures these moments with sensitivity and nuance, creating an emotional resonance that elevates the narrative. The character's growth is portrayed realistically, with setbacks and triumphs that feel earned rather than contrived. This emotional depth makes the protagonist's journey all the more compelling and relatable.

Conflict and Resolution

The conflicts in "A Bitter Taste" are as varied as they are intense. Reynolds crafts scenarios that test his characters' physical, mental, and moral limits. The resolutions to these conflicts are satisfying, often highlighting the complexities of the choices faced by the characters. Rather than opting for easy answers, Reynolds presents resolutions that reflect the multifaceted nature of the challenges. This approach adds a layer of realism to the story, as characters must navigate the consequences of their actions in a believable and engaging manner.

Thematic Exploration of Duty and Sacrifice

Duty and sacrifice are recurring themes in "A Bitter Taste," explored through the lens of the protagonist's journey and the wider context of Rokugan's societal expectations. Reynolds delves into the burdens of duty, illustrating how it shapes and sometimes confines the characters. Sacrifice, both personal and communal, is portrayed with a poignant gravity, highlighting the costs of loyalty and honor. These themes resonate throughout the narrative, providing a deeper layer of meaning and reflection for the reader.

Final Act and Climax

The final act of "A Bitter Taste" brings the various narrative threads to a head, culminating in a climax that is both thrilling and emotionally charged. Reynolds orchestrates the climax with precision, ensuring that the stakes are high and the resolutions impactful. The protagonist's journey reaches a poignant conclusion, one that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. The climax is not just a resolution of the plot but also a culmination of the character's personal growth and thematic exploration.

Reflections on the Ending

The ending of "A Bitter Taste" leaves a lasting impression, prompting readers to reflect on the journey they have undertaken. Reynolds ties up the main narrative threads while leaving enough open-ended elements to suggest that the story and its characters continue beyond the final page. This approach allows for a sense of closure while also inviting contemplation about the broader implications of the story. The ending is both a conclusion and a beginning, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and the ongoing challenges faced by the characters.

Legacy of "A Bitter Taste" in the L5R Universe

"A Bitter Taste" stands as a significant contribution to the Legend of the Five Rings universe. Reynolds' ability to capture the essence of Rokugan while crafting a compelling and original narrative ensures that this novel will be remembered as a standout entry in the series. The book enriches the L5R lore, offering new perspectives and deeper insights into the world and its inhabitants. For fans of the series, "A Bitter Taste" is a must-read, offering both familiarity and innovation in equal measure.

Final Thoughts

In "A Bitter Taste," Josh Reynolds delivers a masterful blend of mystery, honor, and supernatural intrigue, set against the rich backdrop of Rokugan. The novel excels in character development, thematic depth, and narrative complexity, making it a compelling read for both newcomers and long-time fans of the Legend of the Five Rings universe. Reynolds' skillful storytelling ensures that "A Bitter Taste" is not just a novel but an experience, one that leaves a lasting impression and invites readers to ponder the intricate dance of honor and destiny in the world of Rokugan.

I have been reading Legend of the Five Rings (L5R) novels since the Clan War series was released in 2000. This series, alongside the Marie Brennan (100 Demons, Candles, and Fortunes series), are some of my favorite L5R books. The characters are compelling, and the relationships Josh Reynolds has built over these five titles are terrific. I do hope for more Daidoji Shin adventures, as well as other L5R titles.

For those new to this series, I would highly recommend starting with any of the other four novels in the Daidoji Shin series before diving into this one. While nothing would be lost on a new reader, the past exploits of our main cast may not have the same emotional impact without the context provided by the previous novels.

Overall, the novel finds Daidoji Shin facing ghosts from his past and a shadowy organization pulling strings behind our hero. The pace is quick and relatively cinematic, and the mystery keeps me guessing. A Bitter Taste is the fifth title in the series, and while the mystery takes a backseat to pulling together past threads from previous titles, readers will still keep guessing and turning pages. While this may discourage newer readers to the series, past fans will be delighted. It is a worthwhile mystery title to include in any library collection, especially if you are looking to add more non-traditional settings to their collection. It will also satisfy someone looking for books with an Asian fantasy setting.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Aconyte Books for an advanced copy of this mystery series set in a role playing world, where dark forces are gathering and not the many wedding invitations our hero is inundated with.

There is a lot to be said about friends, family, colleagues, and the general public thinking one is, well, a lout. No one asks much, no one expects much, and no one really sees much. Sure this makes some particular achievements, say saving a theater, of even solving mysteries get tut-tutted away, but one can continue to do these things without bother, or real life getting in the way. However, every lout has its day, and someone might remember, oh him/her/they, we have to do something about that blight on our reputations. And the perfect life starts to go wrong. The lout in question is our hero Daidoji Shin, whose perfect life of non-responsibility begins to fade when he receives order to marry. At the same time a muder in the town is bringing even more disruption into Shin's life, and might end Shin's quiet life and his mortal life for good. A Bitter Taste: Legend of the Five Rings: A Daidoji Shin Mystery is the fifth in the series written by Josh Reynolds, and might possibly be the last if our hero can't shake of the malaise of upcoming nuptials.

Daidoji Shin is at a crossroads. Pressures are mounting from his family to marry. At the same time his clan, the Crane are looking into his business interests, and are seem to be looking for ways to bring him back into the clan, and ruining the life of leisure and investigation he has been enjoying. A member of the Crane clan, an auditor who Shin had grown friendly with is found dead and word is being spread that Shin is responsible. Shin is shut out of the case when an outside Katsuke investigator, is called in, which is worse news for Shin, as they were once engaged to be wed. As more people in the City of the Rich Frog are slain, Shin slowly comes to the realization that there is not just a plot against Shin, there is a far larger plot with far more enemies than he knew. And many of these enemies are far closer to Shin than he thinks.

Another great read from Josh Reynolds, an author that I have come to expect the best from, and have never been disappointed. This is a departure from the usual Shin books, as the stakes the tension, and even the violence have been ratcheted up. Reynolds brings elements from the previous books, characters, little Macguffins, mentions, even enemies and carefully and cleverly creates a story that really changes Shin in many ways, and some of the characters around him. Reynolds is not afraid of changing things, which is rare in series books. The story is well told, with a few red herrings, but a lot of clues to point the way to careful readers. What I enjoy most is that Reynolds can do action and ratiocination, but Reynolds also takes time to give his characters a chance not only to breath, but to have a scene that even makes us care for them, or understand why they do what they do. Even minor characters like a maid or an actor, are given a few lines, to make them alive, not background fodder. This is a skill, one one that Reynolds is very good at, and really gives what could be just a tie-in book to a game not just gravitas, but a reason for readers to keep reading.

These are great books, Good mysteries with a Japanese flair. For players of the game these really compliment the experience, and capture the feeling really well. To regular readers these are great stories, fun, with a lot of heart. I can't wait for more.

A bitter taste is the 5th book in the Daidoji Shin mystery set in the world of the legends of the five rings. Before I start my review, it’s not imperative to read the first four books in order to enjoy it but knowledge of the events of the first four books is needed as a lot of elements of those stories are woven into the final book.

The mystery and world building is good. Josh Reynolds managed to interweave multiple elements of the previous books into this one without it feeling clunky and drawn out. There are multiple twists and turns in the book that managed to keep me engaged ( and I have a notoriously short attention span)

I love Daidoji Shin as a character as he is three dimensional. He portrays himself as a typical upper class dandy but throughout each novel we see different facets of his personality and we see a lot of character growth! What I particularly liked was that he did grow from all his experiences but his personality was still the same.

Overall, this is a thrilling 5th instalment of the series!

It’s all come to a head: our idling hero must marry and he’s not best pleased about it. How will he be able to bumble about town and buy theatres and hang out with whomever he pleases if he’s married and packed off to a country estate? Then an auditor sent to investigate him is found murdered and Shin becomes the prime suspect. And the “independent” investigator is non other than his ex-betrothed…

As noted by other reviewers, this novel builds on previous ones in the series so will make the most sense if you’ve read them. It also has the feel of tying up (some) loose ends to make a possible end to the series. Personally, I think he’s marrying the wrong woman so I didn’t find the ending as convincing - the romance just seems to come from nowhere on his side.

Quibbles aside, this is a fast paced murder mystery and an enjoyable way to spend a couple of evenings. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Everyone's favorite Crane courtier, Daidoji Shin is back in action! After finishing the story, I'm still not sure whether this was the last time we had a chance to read about his stories, but more about that later.

This is the fifth book in the series, and in my view it is also the most unique one. It was true for the previous four installments that they could be read in any order, as it would not impact the overall enjoyment and understanding of the story. However, in case of A Bitter Taste, knowledge of the previous books' events is a must, as those events interconnect with this story on many instances. The investigation Shin himself needs to conduct here is a very personal one - after all, his life is at stake, as he is accused as a murderer. As such things go at Rokugan, a Kitsuki investigator is called upon to carry out the official investigation of the murder case, pressured by the Daidoji family to conclude quickly, after all, it is inevitable that he is guilty. But is he?

The whole plot of the novel revolves around Kitsuki Ko and Shin uncovering in parallel the threads of the web Shin's enemies have weaved, joined by some familiar faces from the previous books. I don't consider myself too good at spotting the culprit in detective / mystery novels, but here I realized relatively quickly who was the real murderer... but the actual twist of how the story turned out this way surprised me, in a good sense. My only gripe is that I felt it would have made more sense to add 20-25 pages to the end, as the aftermath of the twist was a bit rushed and not 100% rational. But sometimes the ways of the heart do not necessarily need to be logical and rational.

By the end of the novel, I feel that the big story arc of Shin is finished, framing together the previous four books nicely, which makes me wonder whether this really was the end of Daidoji Shin's adventures. I would be sad if it would be the case, I loved all books in this series. However, the last chapter keeps a certain character's and organization's fate at question, which can suggest that more novels might be in the making.

If you have been a fan of the series, this is a must read for you. If you have not read the previous 4 novels, then start with Poison River, that is the first step to be a fan of the Daidoji Shin books :)

Josh Reynolds does adventure well, and I enjoy the amount of time and research he puts into his craft. I was not familiar with the background for this story, but really enjoyed the narrative.