The Dead Returns

I keep hearing that The Dead Returns isn't as dark and engaging as Akiyoshi Rikako's other works, but I have to disagree. While it's definitely on the lighter side, the mystery is still properly done and the twists also flow smoothly. As it follows the perspective of a high school student, you can expect the main character to behave like the teenager he is. He makes a lot of mistakes and may seem careless, but that's what makes it realistic. He's not an adult after all, and his character growth itself is a major part of the book.

This one also contains an unexpected spiritual element, and when the realization hit, I had to go back to pick up all the hints I missed.