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In every case, the modus operandi is the same, and the only clue available is a cryptic message scrawled on the wall bearing the signature "Ronin" - the Japanese name for a masterless samurai.
Connor Burke, a part-time college teacher with a passion for the martial arts, is called in to help out with the investigation by his brother, an NYPD detective. With the help of his teacher, the master warrior Yamashita Sensei, Burke begins to follow the trail of clues that stretches across time and place, ultimately confronting his own fears, his sense of honor, and the ruthless killer who calls himself "Ronin".
Combining the exotic world of the Japanese martial arts with the gritty nuts-and-bolts aspects of a murder investigation, Sensei is a fast-paced, riveting thriller that explores the links between people as they struggle for mastery, identity, and a sense of belonging.
Connor Burke, a part-time college teacher with a passion for the martial arts, is called in to help out with the investigation by his brother, an NYPD detective. With the help of his teacher, the master warrior Yamashita Sensei, Burke begins to follow the trail of clues that stretches across time and place, ultimately confronting his own fears, his sense of honor, and the ruthless killer who calls himself "Ronin".
Combining the exotic world of the Japanese martial arts with the gritty nuts-and-bolts aspects of a murder investigation, Sensei is a fast-paced, riveting thriller that explores the links between people as they struggle for mastery, identity, and a sense of belonging.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published April 9, 2003
48 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
John Donohue
36books84followersJohn Donohue is a novelist and martial artist whose novels in the Burke Yamashita series, Sensei, Deshi, Tengu and the forthcoming (July 2011) Kage all explore the world of elite martial arts training and the implications of a life of action
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 22, 2018
This first book in the Connor Burke series serves as a decent introduction.
Connor Burke is the senior student of Yamashita, a Japanese sword master. They have a kind of Remo/Chiun thing going on.
A mysterious man with links to Yamashita is in New York and killing martial artists in duels. Connor's brother, a cop asks him to help. Connor pokes around, get in way over his head, and eventually, it all comes down to a fight, where Connor learns what the warrior's path he has chosen really means.
Not bad, but it's hard to believe anyone could be as naive as Connor Burke.
Connor Burke is the senior student of Yamashita, a Japanese sword master. They have a kind of Remo/Chiun thing going on.
A mysterious man with links to Yamashita is in New York and killing martial artists in duels. Connor's brother, a cop asks him to help. Connor pokes around, get in way over his head, and eventually, it all comes down to a fight, where Connor learns what the warrior's path he has chosen really means.
Not bad, but it's hard to believe anyone could be as naive as Connor Burke.
April 15, 2008
Of course, I wrote this, so I like it a bit....
August 9, 2019
A predictable story. A boring main character. A non-existent mystery. Thank God, it was short.
March 25, 2013
Donohue's writing skill is superb, but there were a few things about SENSEI that bugged me and ultimately kept me from granting it four stars. The biggest problem with it is that Donohue wrote it in the format of a hard-boiled mystery, when it really should have been a straight-up thriller. Trust me, there's very little mystery to be found here. And the main character, martial arts student/expert Connor Burke, makes for a pretty lousy detective. I was two steps ahead of him the whole way, which means you'll probably be three or four. The martial arts element in SENSEI is awesome, but it also forces the characters to do things that defy common sense--such as choose a knife over a gun, or walk straight into an obvious trap. I also had a hard time knowing what to make of the main character. At the beginning, Burke comes across as little more than a supremely dedicated martial arts student, but, by the end, he is somehow able to go toe-to-toe with a true master. SENSEI is predictable as hell, but it's still good, solid fun. If Donohue can iron out some of the kinks in his storytelling, I expect this series to shape up into something great.
March 1, 2015
OK, I loved it for pure entertainment -- plus that elusive energy that kept me caring about the characters and the story.
Donohue's SENSEI satisfies on many levels -- not only is the writing well-crafted with memorable images that delight, but the reader (if new to martial arts) is treated to both Japanese culture/tradition and the journey one takes to become a master -- all wrapped in a tightly plotted murder mystery. I enjoyed the unfolding the story, the thoughtful study of relationships between student and teacher and between brothers.
Donohue describes the discipline (and heightened senses) required to master any art. as well as what we know and come to learn about ourselves and those we love. This is not a romance. In fact, poor Connor Burke doesn't even have a girl friend. But that's not the point. He does have family and a teacher to lead the Way as he explores his own sense of personal responsibility.
Donohue's SENSEI satisfies on many levels -- not only is the writing well-crafted with memorable images that delight, but the reader (if new to martial arts) is treated to both Japanese culture/tradition and the journey one takes to become a master -- all wrapped in a tightly plotted murder mystery. I enjoyed the unfolding the story, the thoughtful study of relationships between student and teacher and between brothers.
Donohue describes the discipline (and heightened senses) required to master any art. as well as what we know and come to learn about ourselves and those we love. This is not a romance. In fact, poor Connor Burke doesn't even have a girl friend. But that's not the point. He does have family and a teacher to lead the Way as he explores his own sense of personal responsibility.
July 7, 2020
A very good book for this type of fiction, reminiscent in some ways of Lustbader's work (although I suppose that comparison is inevitable). It lacks the scope of a Lustbader or Trevanian, but is well written and nicely paced with a good balance of action and character development. The author does not lean too heavily on the language and concepts of martial arts, but rather shows a deep knowledge by using those ideas relevant to the story in an informative and interesting way.
I question the motives of some of the characters' choices; at times it feels forced for the sake of moving the story forward. Otherwise, it is very enjoyable and I look forward to reading more from this author. I would especially like to see more development of some of the secondary characters in this novel, but at this point I don't know if that's in the cards.
I question the motives of some of the characters' choices; at times it feels forced for the sake of moving the story forward. Otherwise, it is very enjoyable and I look forward to reading more from this author. I would especially like to see more development of some of the secondary characters in this novel, but at this point I don't know if that's in the cards.
August 4, 2019
Accurate, but not very compelling
I appreciated the authenticity of the martial arts in the book, but sadly I didn’t find the characters very interesting. Burke came off as flat and a one dimensional do-gooder. His sensei didn’t seem to have any character traits other than being a really good swordsman.
Coming from reading Robert Crais� Elvis Cole series I had some high expectations. Sadly “Sensei� didn’t live up to them. I’ll still give the next book in the series a read.
I appreciated the authenticity of the martial arts in the book, but sadly I didn’t find the characters very interesting. Burke came off as flat and a one dimensional do-gooder. His sensei didn’t seem to have any character traits other than being a really good swordsman.
Coming from reading Robert Crais� Elvis Cole series I had some high expectations. Sadly “Sensei� didn’t live up to them. I’ll still give the next book in the series a read.
July 23, 2017
Good stand alone book
I have just finished the second book. I believe someone could read this first book and enjoy it without committing to the series. Its not too deep or intense, a good easy read. It gives a hint as to the style of the following book which I enjoyed, but regardless, I believe if you have had a basic interest in martial arts you might enjoy it. If you just want a crime story I would mark it as 3 stars.
I have just finished the second book. I believe someone could read this first book and enjoy it without committing to the series. Its not too deep or intense, a good easy read. It gives a hint as to the style of the following book which I enjoyed, but regardless, I believe if you have had a basic interest in martial arts you might enjoy it. If you just want a crime story I would mark it as 3 stars.
April 16, 2018
Interesting read that I enjoy with the exclusion of when the hero and his master fell for a really, really idiotic and obvious trap set by their nemesis. Since it played such a pivoting role in the book, my evaluation of the book dropped to two stars. Yes, it was that senseless.
I enjoyed other books by this author so I will mostly likely give the second book of this particular series a chance.
I enjoyed other books by this author so I will mostly likely give the second book of this particular series a chance.
August 21, 2022
Who's murdering all these senseis and why? I martial arts student and his police detective brother set about finding the answer. Lots of a good Japanese lore, a likeable narrator, and respectable writing throughout. The only problem... not enough fighting. There's the prologue and the climactic showdown at the end but... that's pretty much it. The rest, while serviceable, certainly wasn't exceptional enough to recommend.
March 31, 2019
Loved this! Finally a real black belt writing a great story who knows about martial arts and the loyalty, respect for his Sensei.
This is the first book in a series. Very well written, couldn’t put it down.
The other books are a bit difficult to find but I bought a few.
This is the first book in a series. Very well written, couldn’t put it down.
The other books are a bit difficult to find but I bought a few.
December 15, 2022
The author thoroughly educates you in the ways of the samurai without boring or academic. You learn the phrases, their meanings and their history. The fight scenes are graphic and believable. This is a good read.
March 19, 2024
A very good read. Being a New Yorker and a martial artist I enjoyed both the setting and the content of this book. I’m glad I managed to finally read this after having it on my want to read list for years.
January 3, 2017
Nicely done
A lot of respect to Mr. John Donohue. It is clear he is a student of the martial arts. I really enjoyed this book and am starting the next one. Thank you Mr. Donohue!
A lot of respect to Mr. John Donohue. It is clear he is a student of the martial arts. I really enjoyed this book and am starting the next one. Thank you Mr. Donohue!
October 14, 2019
One of my 10 best first mysteries read in 2003.
October 15, 2019
Liked the series
December 19, 2022
It's okay, but the main character is really stupid if a good fighter... in other words the plot is forced :-)
April 6, 2023
Excellent balance
I have read all five of this series, and Donohue strikes a masterful balance between action and humor, philosophy, and Martial Arts worldview.
I have read all five of this series, and Donohue strikes a masterful balance between action and humor, philosophy, and Martial Arts worldview.
May 29, 2023
Knowing that this is one of many books in this line, I can only wait for more. Characters were named and developed ready for more to happen.
September 13, 2011
His protagonist, Connor Burke, is a finely realized and interesting character with substantial depth, complex feelings and motivations, and is an unusual hybrid of both college professor and martial artist. Connor, a thinking man's hero, finds himself drawn into a police investigation because of his unusual background and expertise. All the characters are finely realized, the plot reasonably realistic, the atmosphere compelling, but it's the pacing of the novel that appeals to me the most. Much like Dave Robicheaux in James Lee Burke's novels, Donohoe's character, Connor Burke, narrates events in an introspective, almost brooding fashion, and thoughout the story is contemplative, thoughtful, and focused on matters conscience and trust. He is an extremely interesting and sympathetic character and it is a pleasure to read about his adventures. So while the action is completely lively and thrilling, the story itself is calm and centered. This novel is much like the martial artists it depicts; externally violent and active, yet calm and centered within.
The novel is set in New York City, features an impressive amount of action, and unfolds in layers as Connor seeks down and confronts an extraordinarily talented martial artist who for obscure reasons has murdered several prominent martial arts teachers (sensei).
The novel is set in New York City, features an impressive amount of action, and unfolds in layers as Connor seeks down and confronts an extraordinarily talented martial artist who for obscure reasons has murdered several prominent martial arts teachers (sensei).
November 27, 2012
Sensei is a typical Am-Jap story. This falls in the category of books that blend the American environment with Japanese philosophy. This is a story set in Brooklyn and is about the Japanese martial arts training community. It has a mix of Japanese martial arts with some NYPD cop drama. This book will remind you of some of the Hollywood Am-Jap movies like Red Sun, Black Rain, etc. There is no Yakuza in the story. This story is more about relationships between teacher and students, a touch of Japanese traditions here and there, a bit of NYPD drama, etc. There is no twist or subterfuges in the plot and is quite linear. I read this book while travelling � in between flights, in airport lounges, over solitary time with beer, waiting for family to fly in to an airport, etc. And since this was my first book I read on my new Kindle Fire HD, I more or less sailed through it. Moreover , when a very gorgeous fellow traveller saw the book I was reading and started off an interesting conversation about Japan and its traditions, this book surely came to help keep up the charm quotient. This is the first in the series Connor Burke Martial Arts thriller. Maybe I will pick up the next two, or maybe I won’t. Overall, this is a very ordinary book and there are better AmJap stories out there.
February 10, 2024
This is a re-read of a great story and character and reminds me of years past when I start my journey on the "Way". The author is knowledgeable and skilled in several styles as well as Asian history and background all blended into a page turned that holds your attention.
Connor Burke, a part-time college teacher with a passion for the martial arts, is called in to help out with the investigation by his brother, an NYPD detective. With the help of his teacher, the master warrior Yamashita Sensei, Burke begins to follow the trail of clues that stretches across time and place, ultimately confronting his own fears, his sense of honor, and the ruthless killer who calls himself "Ronin".
Combining the exotic world of the Japanese martial arts with the gritty nuts-and-bolts aspects of a murder investigation, Sensei is a fast-paced, riveting thriller that explores the links between people as they struggle for mastery, identity, and a sense of belonging.
Connor Burke, a part-time college teacher with a passion for the martial arts, is called in to help out with the investigation by his brother, an NYPD detective. With the help of his teacher, the master warrior Yamashita Sensei, Burke begins to follow the trail of clues that stretches across time and place, ultimately confronting his own fears, his sense of honor, and the ruthless killer who calls himself "Ronin".
Combining the exotic world of the Japanese martial arts with the gritty nuts-and-bolts aspects of a murder investigation, Sensei is a fast-paced, riveting thriller that explores the links between people as they struggle for mastery, identity, and a sense of belonging.
September 29, 2011
An exciting book with an even pace to the action that allows the auther John Donohue to do some good character building.
This is the beginning of a story about a NYC college professor (Connor Burke), trained in various forms of the martial arts and was accepted as a student of one of the premier sword master of Japan (formerly) approximately 3 yrs earlier. Some murders are committed by a former student of the sensei (Yamashita), when he was still in Japan. And the story takes off from there. Oh, btw Connor's older brother just happens to be an NYPD Detective investigating one of the murders there.
I have already purchases books 3 (Tengu) and 4 (Kage) in the series for the Kindle and waiting for the publisher to release a Kindle version of book 2 (Deshi). If you're a Kindle user and wish to read this series, please contact the publisher St. Martin's Minotaur and ask them to make it available for the Kindle.
Sorry no romance in this book, just action.
This is the beginning of a story about a NYC college professor (Connor Burke), trained in various forms of the martial arts and was accepted as a student of one of the premier sword master of Japan (formerly) approximately 3 yrs earlier. Some murders are committed by a former student of the sensei (Yamashita), when he was still in Japan. And the story takes off from there. Oh, btw Connor's older brother just happens to be an NYPD Detective investigating one of the murders there.
I have already purchases books 3 (Tengu) and 4 (Kage) in the series for the Kindle and waiting for the publisher to release a Kindle version of book 2 (Deshi). If you're a Kindle user and wish to read this series, please contact the publisher St. Martin's Minotaur and ask them to make it available for the Kindle.
Sorry no romance in this book, just action.
October 23, 2007
Eh. I mean, I finished it in an afternoon so it's not like it was a waste of time, but overall it just wasn't that good. Maybe I don't really like mystery novels. But according to the book jacket, all his other works are martial arts how-to's, which might explain why I didn't flip for his fiction.
I got kind of excited when he started talking about the Japanese attitude toward gaijin but he said nothing original, nothing of note.
Fun fact: fighting the gym leaders in Pokemans is based on the ancient custom of dojo arashi (dojo storming). When you felt you had learned everything your sensei had to teach you, you would leave for other gyms and challenge their high-level students and sometimes their masters. Interesting?
I got kind of excited when he started talking about the Japanese attitude toward gaijin but he said nothing original, nothing of note.
Fun fact: fighting the gym leaders in Pokemans is based on the ancient custom of dojo arashi (dojo storming). When you felt you had learned everything your sensei had to teach you, you would leave for other gyms and challenge their high-level students and sometimes their masters. Interesting?
August 14, 2016
Ok, had high hopes for this book. Liked it very much, the main character Connor Burke is nicely understated kind of guy whose mastery of the martial arts is subtly explored in a graduated manner. We never know how accomplished he is until we need to and it is integral to the story.
The peripheral characters are handled well as is the interplay between Burke and his taciturn Sensei.
I tend to measure this genre of book to my all time favourite Martial arts stories by Marc Olden. The best one being Giri.
This is the first of the Connor Burke series and while it was no Giri it was still a good read.
The peripheral characters are handled well as is the interplay between Burke and his taciturn Sensei.
I tend to measure this genre of book to my all time favourite Martial arts stories by Marc Olden. The best one being Giri.
This is the first of the Connor Burke series and while it was no Giri it was still a good read.
November 17, 2015
"Sensei: A Thriller" is an OK piece of edu-tainment. Its a crime novel about capturing a killer that includes a lesson on kendo.
The author's prose is wry and at times amusing: "Long Island in the summer is like the Mekong Delta, hot and humid, but with more concrete". This made reading the story easier. However, the story takes too long to develop and ends too quickly. The Japanese characters remain very stereotypical. Oddly, this book violates the Thriller formula, in that it has no female love interest and no sex. Women are mentioned very infrequently, and play almost no part in the story.
The book is readable, but unremarkable.
The author's prose is wry and at times amusing: "Long Island in the summer is like the Mekong Delta, hot and humid, but with more concrete". This made reading the story easier. However, the story takes too long to develop and ends too quickly. The Japanese characters remain very stereotypical. Oddly, this book violates the Thriller formula, in that it has no female love interest and no sex. Women are mentioned very infrequently, and play almost no part in the story.
The book is readable, but unremarkable.
April 1, 2012
I really enjoyed this mystery, so much so I went on to read the sequel. A very detailed, almost poetical, description of martial arts training...yet so firmly grounded in reality...and in the main character, who is so impressively living in his life with a foot in both realms. He has a wry sense of humor and keen observational eye that I quite enjoyed. Lots of great characters, I love the cop duo...his brother, specifically. A nice balance between esoteric and real life, the esoteric never overwhelms, just adds to things. A well done mystery.
March 10, 2009
Someone who calls himself Ronin is going around and killing martial arts masters across the U.S. A New York detective asks his brother Connor Burke, a university professor and martial-arts student, for help. Connor recruits his own sensei Yamashita, and the two open their case of whoopass to solve this mystery and crack some heads.
This book reminds eclectic martial artists such as myself that traditional martial arts can still be fun.
This book reminds eclectic martial artists such as myself that traditional martial arts can still be fun.
March 15, 2010
As a career martial artist, I was very excited to read this book. The martial arts elements are outstanding and very technically accurate. Unfortunately, the rest of the book, including the portrayal of many of the martial arts masters, is a series of one cliché after another.
I will definitely check out the other books, as I have seen reviews saying they get better, as you would expect (or at least hope :)) with any author.
I will definitely check out the other books, as I have seen reviews saying they get better, as you would expect (or at least hope :)) with any author.
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