E
Edogawa Rampo
Edogawa Rampo pseud. of Hirai Tarou
The Lipless Man
Synopsis
A man is found dead, his face grotesquely disfigured and his lips surgically removed. Detective Akechi Kogoro is called to investigate this bizarre and gruesome murder, which quickly spirals into a complex web of deception and dark secrets. As more victims appear, each bearing the same horrifying mutilation, Akechi must delve into the twisted mind of a killer obsessed with beauty and revenge.
Genres
Frequently asked questions
Is this book part of a series that must be read in order?
This novel is the fifth full-length entry in the Akechi Kogoro series, but it functions as a standalone mystery that can be enjoyed without prior knowledge of the detective's earlier cases.
Does this story introduce any recurring characters?
This book marks the first appearance of the youthful assistant Kobayashi, who becomes a central figure and frequent collaborator in the detective's future investigations.
Are there any notable literary references or connections to the author's other works?
The narrative incorporates a reference to the author's own 1925 short story titled The Human Chair, weaving elements of his broader macabre bibliography into the investigation.