I just finished a book that I enjoyed a lot. It's called 'Silent Thunder' by
Peter Tasker. This is a thriller set in modern day Japan, with the plot
revolving around a financial power-play.  I found it interesting for the well
crafted plot, and it's view on Japanese society and the character of the
nation. Lots of fascinating little glimpses into daily life in Toyko, with 
he
lack of privacy and over-crowding that permeates that city. Lots of insight
into the conflict between the aspirations of individuals and the masses of
drone-like 'salarymen'.  Reminded me a bit of Michael Crichton's 'Rising 
un'.
If you liked that one you'll like this one better, I think.
I know there are a lot of Donald E. Westlake fans among the regular to this
echo, and I'm one of them. I've loved his Dortmunder series, with the 
umbling
characters and capers gone awry.
I just finished a book that is quite different from that series in many ways,
but strikingly similar in many other ways. The Book is called 'Kahawa' and is
sub-titled 'The Africa Novel'.  The story is set in Kenya and Uganda during
Idi Amin's reign of terror. All the hallmarks of Westlake's writing are still
there, the little details that flesh out the characters and the plot,
believable characters and dialog.
In the preface, Westlake apologizes for the 'graphic' sex; citing that it was
essential to the plot. The sex angle is certainly alot more pronounced than 
n
the Dortmunder series, but it is hardly pornographic.  And it is pretty
important to the development of the sub-plots.
The book gives a good view of some of the levels of African's based on their
race; white, black or Asian. I don't have any first-hand knowledge, but the
caste system that Westlake portrays certainly rings true. In any even, a very
enjoyable read.
Bob 8-{)
 
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