A stash of drugs. A twisted cop. A mob on the verge of self-destruction…

Nao Murata is the new godfather of the Matsukawa syndicate. When Detective Yamada confronts Nao over a dead drug dealer, Nao knows his organization isn’t responsible. The Matsukawa doesn’t deal drugs… or does it?

When Nao discovers drugs in a locker owned by his syndicate, he no longer knows who to trust. With the police bearing down on the Matsukawa, Nao must make unlikely allies to find out the truth. Can he discover who is betraying him before time runs out, or will everyone suffer for a crime he didn’t commit?

Purchase: Amazon.com

Goodreads: Better Than Suicide (The Yakuza Path #2) by Amy Tasukada

Review

Rating: 5 stars

*I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review*

Better Than Suicide picks up where the events in Blood Stained Tea left off. Nao has been chosen as the new godfather of the Matsukawa and this presents challenges like he has never faced before. When Nao discovers that someone in the family is dealing drugs, he resolves to find out who is responsible. Being new to his position, friends and trust are in short supply, but without support Nao will be hard pressed to find the culprit before time runs out.

Better Than Suicide is an excellent follow up to Blood Stained Tea. I really enjoyed seeing Nao’s rise to power and his early weeks as the Matsukawa godfather. His values on traditions and different outlook on life to his father and predecessor will take his family in new directions that are not welcomed by all. Nao is naturally suspicious of those around him and finds it difficult to place his trust in anyone. Who truly wants to support him and who just wants to replace him? Nao finds friendship in a new recruit, whom is also a potential love interest. However, Nao is resolved not to allow himself to fall in love again. I am sure I am not alone in hoping that Aki can find somewhat to change Nao’s mind!

I think I enjoyed this second book more than the first. Nao really gets into his stride, and you learn even more about his character as well as his supporting cast. The author also included a lot of Japanese culture into her story, which I absolutely loved as it created such a rich and detailed backdrop for the events of the novel. I cannot wait to read book three in this series.