Keigo Higashino’s A Midsummer’s Equation is an intricately woven mystery that combines a whodunit plot with a reflection on environmental dilemmas and human motivations. It is the third English-translated novel in the Detective Galileo series and once again features the brilliant physicist Manabu Yukawa in the role of an unconventional detective.
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What is A Midsummer’s Equation by Keigo Higashino about?
A Midsummer’s Equation is a captivating mystery set in a struggling seaside town, where the death of a former detective amidst a heated debate over an underwater mining project unravels hidden connections and buried secrets. The story combines environmental dilemmas with a complex investigation led by physicist-detective Manabu Yukawa.
The story unfolds in Hari Cove, a fading resort town on Japan’s coastline, embroiled in conflict over a proposed underwater mining operation. The environmental stakes are high, as the pristine waters are threatened, and the town’s future hangs in the balance. Amid this tense backdrop, the death of a former detective, Tsukahara, sets off a complex murder investigation that unearths deep-seated secrets from the past. One of the novel’s strengths lies in its layered storytelling.
Higashino masterfully balances the suspense of a classic murder mystery with the larger issues of morality, human connection, and environmental ethics. The clash between the local and Tokyo police adds an interesting dynamic, reflecting the rivalry and bureaucracy that can hinder investigations. Yukawa’s unique position as a physicist rather than a formal investigator allows him to navigate these tensions while maintaining a neutral yet incisive perspective.
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The characterization is particularly engaging. Yukawa’s relationship with Kyohei, a young boy staying at the inn, adds warmth and depth to the narrative. Kyohei’s curiosity and burgeoning interest in science create a touching subplot that contrasts with the darker elements of the story. Yukawa himself, with his logical yet empathetic approach, becomes a fascinating figure who bridges the gap between cold reasoning and human emotion. The resolution of the mystery is both satisfying and thought-provoking. Higashino’s use of past events to shape the present narrative adds complexity, though it may feel opaque at times.
The unraveling of motives, hidden truths, and familial connections keeps readers guessing until the final pages. The interplay between Narumi’s personal struggles and her ties to the crime highlights the author’s skill in creating multifaceted characters who blur the lines between right and wrong. Higashino’s writing also delves into the psychology of his characters, exploring how their actions are driven by love, guilt, and a desire to protect. This human element enriches the plot and elevates the novel beyond a conventional mystery. Even seemingly minor characters contribute meaningfully to the story, making it a study of how individual lives intersect within a larger societal framework.
While A Midsummer’s Equation is part of a series, it stands on its own. The slow buildup may challenge readers unfamiliar with Higashino’s style, but patience is rewarded with a richly layered narrative that blends suspense with poignancy. For fans of intelligent mysteries that explore moral ambiguities, this novel is a compelling addition to the genre.