Though only vaguely connected to Japan I want to introduce you to “Dark Waters” from Rain Oxford, the first book of her Elemental series.

Rain Oxford is a teacher who has been writing for more than half of her life. The Asian-influenced cultures she creates were inspired by Japan, where she attended Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto. She does most of her writing in a secluded cabin in the woods with a four-pound Maltese as a companion. When she’s not teaching or creating worlds, she usually enjoys cooking, playing the piano, or photographing exotic wildlife.

I was lucky enough to be able to work together with her and translate the first part of the five book series into German. I love the mix of mystery and magic of the novel and can only recommend it. The hero of the series is Devon Sanders, a private investigator known for his efficiency and discretion, who has no interest in getting involved with the paranormal community. Unfortunately for him, the paranormal community does have an interest in him, or at least in his secret. Devon is exceptional in solving cases using his uncanny intuition.

When Devon uncovers a violent murder, he knows it is not a natural crime. In order to solve this case and expose the murderer, he will have to go undercover as a wizard in the paranormal university, Quintessence. He soon discovers that his talent has more to do with supernatural forces than he ever knew.

Devon Sanders and his roommates Darwin and Henry are interesting characters and I can’t wait to see how they will be evolving over the next books. Anyone who loves magic and a good mystery novel should give Dark Waters a try. (Available on Amazon)