‘Deadlines vs Bloodlines’ by Afreen is set in Tokyo’s underworld, that brings together crime, suspense, ambitions, love, and revenge in a contemporary world where power reigns supreme; with criminal aspirations and schemes on the high. With shades similar to Japanese hits such as Stray Dog and Shoplifters, the book makes for an entertaining thriller where all loose ends tie up together in the end to give a wholesome reading experience. For lovers of Japanese literature and movies, this book comes as a pleasant surprise from an author new to the genre. With sharp characters and a succinct plot, it’s an easy read for anyone seeking edge-of-the-seat thrill bringing the Japanese diaspora alive.
Author: Afreen S | Genre: Short-stories | Pages: 434
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Yuki Tanaka, an ambitious reporter, goes undercover to expose Akira Sato, a powerful crime boss of the Yamanaka clan, but an unexpected attraction complicates her mission. Gaining Akira’s trust, she becomes his personal assistant, only to find herself torn between duty and emotion. Their growing connection leads to a passionate affair, but before Yuki can confess the truth, Akira’s right-hand man exposes her identity. The revelation that Yuki is the daughter of Akira’s enemy throws everything into chaos. Faced with betrayal and hidden truths, Akira and Yuki must navigate a dangerous path to uncover the past and decide whether love can triumph over vengeance.
Afreen’s characters come with a certain depth and complexity, with much to their name. Matsuda, the editor-in-chief of Tokyo Daily is determined to cleanse the Japanese society of the Yamanaka gang, Yuki is a strong-willed protagonist, caught between her duty as a journalist and the growing emotions she feels for Akira, who she is supposed to expose. Her determination and intelligence make her an impressive lead, but her headstrong nature often blinds her to the dangers around her. She is not a typical damsel in distress or an overpowered action heroine—her flaws and internal struggles between loyalty, ambition, and love make her relatable. Akira, though feared by many, is not just a ruthless leader but someone shaped by her past, and intent on building a name for herself. She is a master strategist, always thinking ten steps ahead, yet her inability to trust fully makes her emotionally vulnerable. Her growing attachment to Yuki creates conflicts she never anticipated.
The supporting characters add further depth to the story. Takeshi, Akira’s fiercely loyal right-hand man, is highly skilled and honorable and uncovers Yuki’s real identity. His protective instincts and clashes with Yuki create additional tension. Yuki’s parents – Sakura and Kenji Himura – and their past legacy is the turning point in the plot; one that readers won’t see coming. Characters wear the crown in Afreen’s crime thriller and rightly so.
The novel paints a vivid picture of Tokyo’s underground world, from the glitzy yet dangerous nightclub scene to the secretive meetings behind closed doors. The setting adds to the tension, just as much as their individual stories, that threaten to tear their world apart. Afreen’s writing is fast-paced and engaging. Action-packed scenes interspersed with introspective moments give the plot the balance it demands, whilst helping readers understand and soak into their challenges, their desires, their worlds. The blend of suspense and romance teetering on erotica will keep most readers engaged, as Yuki and Akira’s intertwined life and fates twist and turn with every page.
Eventually, a book that could have been even better if both the main characters – Yuki & Akira – had more substantial meat about their past and present than just the love angle. It seemed to take the focus away from the rather interesting plot a tad. Having said that, there isn’t a moment of dullness or boredom as one waits to arrive at the end of their journey, which ends happily; a stark contrast to how the novel starts. Familial bonds, love, and comraderie make this for a warm and thrilling read, one that any newcomer to the page will surely enjoy much.
Please note: I received an ARC from the author but the review remains unbiased.
About the Author
Afreen is a writer, a dreamer and storyteller, captivated by the seductive and intoxicating desires that shape human experiences, particularly when it comes to women. She finds excitement in capturing the raw, electric pull between characters, crafting moments that ignite passion and stir deep emotions. For her, writing is more than just putting words on a page—it is about creating stories that take readers on unforgettable journeys, sparking curiosity, excitement, and intense feeling. Whether through heart-pounding suspense or a slow-burning romance, her goal is to make every story deeply felt.
