ヒカルの碁 21、北斗杯会場へ : Book Review

"21: Bringing Down the House" by Yumi Hotta is a captivating novel that immerses readers in the exhilarating world of professional gambling. The story follows the journey of Toya Meijin, a young and talented gambler renowned for his exceptional skills in the game of Go. As Toya delves deeper into the underground gambling scene and competes in high-stakes tournaments, the consequences of his victories and defeats extend far beyond the confines of the game.

What sets this novel apart is Hotta's ability to craft a compelling narrative that hooks readers from start to finish. Even for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Go, Hotta expertly explains the game in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Her passion and knowledge shine through, making the story educational without sacrificing entertainment value.

The character development in "21: Bringing Down the House" is exceptional. Toya Meijin is a complex and multi-dimensional protagonist whose growth throughout the story feels organic and well-paced. The supporting characters also add depth to the narrative as their distinct personalities and motivations drive the plot forward.

Suspense and tension permeate the novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The high-stakes gambling matches, strategic moves, and unexpected twists create an immersive reading experience. Hotta's concise and engaging writing style makes it easy to become fully invested in the story, allowing readers to feel the weight of each decision made by the characters.

Overall, "21: Bringing Down the House" is a thrilling novel that seamlessly combines gambling, strategy, and personal growth. Yumi Hotta's expertise in the subject matter and her ability to create memorable characters make this book a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling story. Whether you have a passion for Go or simply enjoy well-written, suspenseful narratives, this book is bound to captivate and entertain you from start to finish.

What are readers saying?

The book "21" by Yumi Hotta has generated a range of opinions from readers. With an average rating of 3.63 out of 5 stars, it appears to have captivated some while leaving others less impressed.

Many reviewers commended the book's unique premise which centers around the intense world of competitive gambling, specifically blackjack. They found the story engaging and admired the author's meticulous depiction of the strategies and techniques employed by the characters. Some readers also appreciated the detailed explanations of various blackjack strategies, as it deepened their understanding of the game.

On the flip side, some reviewers felt that the story lacked depth and failed to fully flesh out its characters. They found the plot predictable and complained that they were unable to connect emotionally with the characters. Many readers also expressed dissatisfaction with the ending, regarding it as abrupt and leaving loose ends unresolved.

Opinions on Yumi Hotta's writing style were also divided among readers. While some found the prose engaging and easy to follow, others criticized it as clunky and overly simplified. Some suggested that the translation may have contributed to this issue, compromising the overall reading experience.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers agreed that "21" provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of gambling and specifically blackjack. They appreciated the author's efforts to provide accurate information about the game and valued the educational aspect of the book.

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