The Summer of the Ubume

"The Summer of the Ubume" is a novel by Natsuhiko Kyogoku, part of the Kyogokudō series blending Japanese folklore with mystery. It revolves around traditional spirits called "ubume," which are pregnant women who die before childbirth and return as apparitions. The story follows a detective who investigates a series of inexplicable deaths linked to these spirits, exploring themes of life, death, and cultural beliefs. The novel combines supernatural elements with psychological depth, offering a nuanced look at Japanese ghost legends within a compelling mystery framework.