Title: The Lost Man
Subtitle: From Corporate Ambition to a Life of Submission and Identity Rebirth
Series: Japanesque TS
Author: Yulia Yu. Sakurazawa
Welcome to “The Lost Man: From Corporate Ambition to a Life of Submission and Identity Rebirth,” an enthralling addition to the Japanesque TS series by Yulia Yu. Sakurazawa. This ground-breaking novel is a unique exploration of power dynamics, gender identity, and the corporate culture of Japan, offering a fresh perspective on LGBTQ+ themes mixed with gender-bending romance — all set against the backdrop of Japan’s hierarchical workplace.
Originally published in Japanese as 一般職にされた男 (A Man Reduced to Secretary), this novel has been translated into English by the author herself, preserving its original essence while making it accessible to a broader audience. What sets The Lost Man apart from other LGBTQ+ novels is its bold, unapologetic portrayal of a man’s journey from a position of privilege and ambition to one of submission, self-discovery, and ultimately, acceptance. It is a thought-provoking story that challenges traditional norms of gender and power while delving deeply into human vulnerability and resilience.
The story follows Naoki Hamaguchi, a young, ambitious career-track employee in Japan’s corporate world, who faces an unthinkable demotion to a secretarial role — a position traditionally occupied by women. His fiancée, Reiko, takes on a managerial role, and the balance of power between them shifts dramatically. At first, Naoki resists his new role, struggling against the confines of rigid gender expectations and his own pride. However, as the story unfolds, he begins to embrace his new reality, navigating a workplace dominated by powerful women, all while grappling with his evolving identity and relationship with Reiko.
At its heart, The Lost Man is a poignant love story, but it also serves as a sharp critique of societal norms and the pressures of conformity. It challenges the reader to question what it truly means to find one’s place in the world. The novel’s exploration of gender fluidity and role reversals is particularly compelling. Readers are drawn into Naoki’s emotional turmoil and eventual transformation, as he experiences life through a lens that defies conventional expectations of masculinity.
Sakurazawa masterfully weaves in humor, drama, and romance while maintaining an undercurrent of hope. Her vivid descriptions of Japanese corporate life provide a rich setting that is both fascinating and authentic, offering readers a glimpse into an environment where ambition, tradition, and personal identity collide.
This novel is perfect for fans of LGBTQ+ literature, gender-bending romance, or anyone intrigued by Japanese culture, particularly its workplace dynamics. The Lost Man doesn’t just entertain — it invites introspection, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity.
Whether you’re a long-time reader of Sakurazawa’s Japanesque TS series or new to her work, The Lost Man is sure to captivate and inspire. Don’t miss this unforgettable tale of love, transformation, and self-discovery.