Inspektor Takeda und die Toten von Altona | Henrik Siebold


fiction | crime | german | mystery

First published 2016


Book cover of Inspektor Takend and die toten von Altona by Henrik Siebold

Inspektor Takeda und die Toten von Altona is an interesting mix of cultural intrigue and classic detective work. The novel is set against the vibrant backdrop of the northern Germany city, Hamburg, where we are introduced to Inspector Takeda, a Japanese detective on an exchange program. Takeda who finds himself embroiled in the complex dynamics of German crime investigation.

The story begins with the mysterious deaths of two prominent local figures, setting the stage for a multi-layered investigation that reveals more than just the face of crime in Altona. Siebold deftly weaves cultural contrasts into the narrative, highlighting Takeda's unique approach and perspective, which both helps and hinders the investigation. This cultural interplay is one of the novel’s strongest aspects, providing a fresh twist to the genre and keeping readers engaged.

The protagonist, Takeda, is a very well-developed character, who is portrayed with depth and nuance. His calm demeanor, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, clashes yet compliments his German colleagues' more straightforward methods. This dynamic gives a fascinating insight into the challenges and benefits of cross-cultural collaboration.

The pacing of the novel stumbles occasionally  particularly in the middle sections, where the narrative seems to lose its momentum. Some readers might find the secondary characters underdeveloped, with few standing out beyond their interactions with Takeda. Additionally, while the cultural insights are enriching, there are moments where they feel a bit forced, as if the author is trying too hard to remind the reader of Takeda's foreignness.

The plot is intricate and well-constructed, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing and the climax is satisfying. Despite this, the resolution ties up the various narrative threads effectively, giving readers a sense of closure.

Overall, Inspektor Takeda und die Toten von Altona is a solid addition to the detective genre, offering a unique protagonist and an engaging storyline. It’s a recommended read for those who enjoy culturally infused mysteries and are looking for something a bit different from the norm. While it may not reach the heights of a five-star thriller, its originality and well-crafted protagonist make it worth a read.


Posted 15.06.2024



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