"13" by Yumi Hotta is an electrifying and captivating novel that takes readers on an exciting journey filled with suspense and mystery. The story revolves around a group of thirteen individuals who receive a mysterious invitation to participate in a life-threatening game. As they dig deeper into the game, they quickly discover that their pasts and secrets are intertwined, forcing them to collaborate to solve the challenges and survive.

Hotta's storytelling is exceptional, building suspense and keeping readers engrossed throughout the entire novel. The pacing is well-crafted, blending action-packed scenes with moments of introspection for the characters. The author's descriptive prose enables readers to fully immerse themselves in the intricately crafted world.

One of the strengths of "13" lies in its diverse and well-developed ensemble cast of characters. Each individual has their own distinct personality, strengths, weaknesses, and secrets. Hotta skillfully explores their backstories, motivations, and fears, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative. This character-driven approach allows readers to form strong connections with the protagonists, making their struggles and victories all the more impactful.

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A thrilling tale of mystery and suspense!

The plot of "13" is intricately woven, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages. Hotta seamlessly blends elements of psychological thriller, mystery, and action, creating a thrilling and unpredictable story. The game itself is ingeniously designed, with challenges that are both intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-inducing.

Overall, "13" is an enthralling and captivating novel that will hold readers spellbound from start to finish. Yumi Hotta's masterful storytelling, well-developed characters, and gripping plot make this book a must-read for fans of suspenseful and engaging thrillers.

What are readers saying?

Yumi Hotta's book "_13_" has garnered a range of reviews from readers, offering various perspectives on the story's strengths and weaknesses.

Many reviewers have commended Hotta's skill in crafting engaging and relatable characters. They admire the growth of the protagonist, Shou, throughout the book, as well as the author's ability to explore moral dilemmas, teenage struggles, and personal relationships within the narrative.

The book's exploration of Go, a strategic board game, has also been met with positive feedback. Both newcomers to the game and experienced players have appreciated Hotta's detailed explanations and her effective portrayal of the game's intricacies. The strategic aspects of Go, intertwined with the emotional journey of the characters, have captivated readers and held their interest throughout the story.

However, some readers have raised concerns about the pacing of the book. They feel that certain sections, particularly the Go matches, drag on and could benefit from a faster tempo to maintain excitement and momentum. Some have suggested that injecting more action into these moments would improve the overall pacing of the story.

Additionally, a few readers have mentioned that the translation of the book may impact the reading experience. Although most readers still enjoyed the story, they noticed a few instances where the translation felt slightly awkward or could have been smoother.

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