Michael Crichton must be a very well-connected kind of a guy. He seems to have the knack of creating a novel about the topic of the minute, while it still is the topic of the minute, and this story is a great example of his talent. While I really enjoyed the story, all it really is is one of those annoying detective stories where there is an honest, earnest guy and a more experienced partner and the junior guy spends the whole novel trailing in the senior man's footsteps, understanding the clues provided too late. The real star in the story is the tumult of facts concerning Japanese habits, business practices and customs and for that reason alone, the book is worth reading.

Something you might not be aware of is the fact that Mr. Crichton obviously now intends all his fiction for the big screen - the John Connor in the book is a direct reference to Sean Connery, the actor who played him in the film version. Still if you were disappointed by the film version, you'll find the book much more to your liking. Overall, not bad, but not one of his best.

Ben gives it:

Price: £4.99
Published by: Arrow (ISBN 0-09-933731-2)

last updated: 25th September 1996