A Curse in Kyoto

Book Review: A Curse in Kyoto by S.J. Cullen

Rating: 4 Stars

As a lover of mysteries and thrillers, I was excited to dive into A Curse in Kyoto by S.J. Cullen, and it did not disappoint! Set against the enchanting backdrop of Kyoto, this YA mystery introduces us to Jessica Hunter, a sixteen-year-old who has seen more of the world than most adults. Just when she thinks she's settled into her new life at the British School of Kyoto (BSK), things take a dark turn.

The story begins with whispers of a phantom geisha haunting the school, a missing star student, and strange symbols appearing all over campus. What's more, it all seems to stem from a cursed museum exhibit that the school had the dubious honor of hosting. Intrigued? I certainly was! Jessica, feeling a bit out of place in her new surroundings, teams up with Kenta Higashi, the football team captain and a friend of the missing student. Together, they embark on a thrilling quest to uncover the truth behind the eerie happenings, all while navigating their own personal differences.

What I particularly enjoyed about this book was its pacing—Cullen masterfully builds tension throughout the narrative, keeping readers on their toes. The writing style is engaging and fluid, which made it easy to immerse myself in Jessica's world. The setting of Kyoto itself is practically a character in its own right, with vivid descriptions that transport you right into the heart of Japan's rich culture and history.

Overall, A Curse in Kyoto is a fast-paced debut that I found thoroughly enjoyable. Jessica and Kenta make a dynamic crime-solving duo, and I was rooting for them every step of the way. As the mystery deepens and danger escalates, I couldn't help but be captivated by their journey. And with an ending that leaves you hungry for more, I'm already looking forward to diving into the sequel, The Osaka Syndicate!

If you're into YA mysteries set in intriguing international locations, this book is definitely worth picking up!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️