The Kamogawa Food Detectives

Nothing like Japanese crime fiction to remind you to expect the unexpected, although to be fair, I wasn't too sure what to expect when I plucked this book from the want to read lists. I also, freely confess, I have no memory of it going onto that list so something must have tweaked interest more than once. Published in 2013 it's obviously been lingering for quite some time, there are now 11 books in the series, but it looks like only the first two have been translated so far.

This first novel, THE KAMOGAWA FOOD DETECTIVES, introduces the reader to Koishi Kamogawa and her father Nagare. Together they run an unbranded, hard to find restaurant that obliquely advertises their side gig of a detective agency, which is dedicated to recreating dishes that only exist in their client's memories. Often holding the key to happy times, memories of childhood, friends, family and important moments in their past, the dishes are varied, the memories sketchy and Nagare often has to get quite creative in recreating them. 

What happens is that if a client can find the restaurant, they are normally served a set menu of food which is always wonderful, and gratefully received, and then sit with Koishi to describe their desire. This often involves recounting the circumstances, location and involvement of others, as well as the reason they want to return to that moment. From there Nagare takes over, often travelling to conduct his research, working in the restaurant kitchen and eventually, on the return visit of the client, presenting them with the results of his labours. Payment is never preset, client's pay what they feel the service has been worth.

So not what you'd expect, not what I'd ever have thought I'd enjoy reading. But it was thoroughly enjoyable (and more than a bit hunger inducing). Gentle, sweet and slow paced, this won't be for everyone, but if you're of a mind for something different then it could be just the thing. (You might want to get in a supply of really good Japanese food before you commence.)