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This was almost an interesting commentary on success, free-will and identity. 

The stylistic writing was definitely a choice that detracted from my read. Unfortunately, majority of the characters were flat and had no perceivable depth, likely a consequence of how our main character viewed his world. 

Despite this, the story was a page-turner that had me reading until it was finished, feeling emptier than before I had begun.

anunderwhelmingaction scifi blockbuster, would not read again

“I remember every word ever said to me." That was a lie. Who would want that? Most of it I delete from permanent memory.

This is my sanctuary moon. To date, I have read this book twice, listened to the audiobook 2 times, and watched the show 2.5 times just this year.

Wells manages to tell so much within such little writing. The world building is excellent and given on a character determined need to know basis which keeps it bite sized and easily digestible. This is indeed premium quality entertainment.

5/5 enjoyment

reading this felt like I was being told to just get over my depression because hey, in another lifetime, your life could be just as miserable if not worse 🤷‍♀️

ironically made me more depressed than I already currently am

Higashino really knows how to use the reader's impression and assumptions against them, thoroughly subverting all expection. What was supposedly a locked room novel instead lead me through the psychology and complexity of its characters.   
Spoilers ahead.
I became frustrated as the detective continued the investigation far beyond the scope of his job requirements, believing that all the facts were already accounted for. As I slugged through the interviews, wondering why I was still on this journey, new information was slowly contradicting old truths I believed.

The changing perspectives made it difficult to discern truth from lies. The shock of the initial chapters was deeply embedded in my mind and in no way did I ever attempt to shift my initial impressions of the characters, as Higashino anticipated and intended.

“Apparently, it won't do just to tell the reader what a particular character is like. The author needs to show their habits or their words and let the reader form an image on their own.”

a masterclass in writing, a delightful read that I wish I could read again for the first time

Arguably a very good read deserving of it's acclaim. 

Some twists are very clever but all the details of the crime left out in the open and if the reader is smart enough to piece it together, it becomes a show of cat and mouse.

Ishigami mentions time and time again about finding his life's purpose (生きがい) and  channels that energy into extreme, selfless ‘devotion' as if he were just a pawn.

The ending left me bitter. I could not understand the mentality and psychology of the characters, and felt they were not strong enough for such plot.

I was initially not impressed by this book upon finishing it, however, several months later, it seems I can't stop thinking about it.  I don't know where that leaves me but I guess it means I enjoyed it.

7/10

-20250729