“Sano may carry a sword and wear a kimono, but you'll immediately recognize him as an ancestor of Philip Marlowe or Sam Spade.” —The Denver Post

“Readers who enjoy a deep, insightful examination of a bygone period will want to read Perfumed Sleeve and the previous novels of this solid series.” —Midwest Book Review on The Perfumed Sleeve

“In its careful, beautiful portrayal of a dangerous time in Japanese history, this ninth in a popular detective series is every bit as satisfying as the preceding eight. . . . Rowland has created a compelling and lively series.” —Dallas Morning News

“Defty combining a classic whodunit with vivid period detail, Rowland raises the stakes for her next book with an unexpected twist at the end that promises to present her dogged but fallible hero with even more difficulties in the future.” —Publishers Weekly

“Rowland uses her fine eye for detail to portray the intricate surface and roiling underbelly of life in a tightly structured, controlled society. Her Japan is a mix of Kabuki theater-like stylized formality, palace intrigue, and physical action that would do a martial arts movie proud.” —The Times-Picayune (New Orleans) on The Dragon King's Palace

“A lively dissection of the samurai code of honor, sexual dishonor, palace infighting, and ancient Japanese mores.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Rowland is one of the best mystery writers around. You owe it to yourself to check out the best suspense series you've never heard of.” —The Flint [Michigan] Journal