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Commissaire aux morts étranges #1
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths
Everyone has secrets. Even the king.
When a gruesomely mutilated body is found on the doorstep of the Versailles Palace in 1759, the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is called to the scene. His ensuing investigation is thwarted at every turn by shady figures such as notorious seducer Casanova, a mysterious Italian gentlewoman who knows more than she lets on and a secret order harbouring revolutionary sentiment.
As the body count rises, the Inspector is brought even further into a web of deceit that he soon suspects may go all the way to the very top of society.
When a gruesomely mutilated body is found on the doorstep of the Versailles Palace in 1759, the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is called to the scene. His ensuing investigation is thwarted at every turn by shady figures such as notorious seducer Casanova, a mysterious Italian gentlewoman who knows more than she lets on and a secret order harbouring revolutionary sentiment.
As the body count rises, the Inspector is brought even further into a web of deceit that he soon suspects may go all the way to the very top of society.
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 28, 2012
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August 18, 2020
"The a Inspector of Strange and unexplained Deaths" is the first book of seven in an atmospheric historical fiction series, translated from its original French. Set in the debauchery of Louis XV's reign, it is a story of palace intrigue, of backstabbers, of spies, and of seductions. It is a time where science and religion are questioned. The world is changing. The main character, Volnay, is a Sherlock Holmes character who reads scientifically the clues behind unexplained deaths, but he is a dueling Holmes crossed with a Musketeer. The other two main characters are seductive entities whose webs are too enticing to resist, Giacomo Casanova and Chiara, irresistible forces of intoxication. Here, the story begins with the discovery of two of the King's mistresses slaughtered with their faces ripped off as if by wolves. The story is overwhelmingly and dizzyingly complex.
April 26, 2019
Take a trip with me, if you will to the excrement filled streets of pre-revolutionary Paris, and the dark and derring-do adventure that is Casanova and the Faceless Woman. I’m not a great reader of historical crime fiction, but with my slight obsession with The Three Musketeers, and the absolutely beautiful production of this paperback, it’s got flaps everyone, flaps, I was more than intrigued, and zut alors, what a brilliant read it was.
From the very first instance, Barde- Cabucon completely immerses his reader in the sights, sounds and teeming atmosphere of a Paris underscored by unrest, seditious movements, and a simmering resentment to Louis XV, the sexually voracious and profligate king. What you completely absorb as a reader is the sense of overcrowding, the imminent eruption of violence from the smallest beginnings, poverty and dirt. This vivid and lively depiction of Paris, set against the sumptuous confines of the royal court is strongly in evidence throughout the book, and this is an author who absolutely excels at scene setting, from the minutiae of a humble library, to a gaudy whorehouse, or to a narrow festering alleyway where danger lurks. I absolutely loved the descriptive nature of this book, and the way it so adroitly captured the lives of its inhabitants through all the senses.
I cannot begin to comprehend the depth of research that had to be undertaken for this, the first, of a now established series. By dint of using Casanova as a central character, there was an automatic need for the author to not only adhere to what we already know about him, but for him to become a fully fleshed out and engaging character who remained truthful to fact. Hence, the book is peppered with references to his own life story, but Barde-Cabucon also has a tremendous amount of fun with him too, as we bear witness to his sexual exploits, swordmanship, manipulation and skulduggery. This works superbly well, as he becomes entangled with the maudlin and intense Volnay, the Inspector for Strange and Unexplained Deaths, quite possibly the best job title in the world. As a larger conspiracy unfolds, we bear witness to an exquisite game of cat and mouse, and intense one-upmanship from two men who are divided on so many levels of life, and their wildly different moral compass. This plays out, not only in consideration of the central crimes and a conspiracy that brings the royal household into the mystery, but also on a baser level as a certain young lady casts a spell on them both too. The joie de vivre of Casanova is endlessly at odds with the despondent pragmatism of Volnay, leading to an entertaining, and at times enlightening insight into the lives of these two very different men. There’s also an incredibly cool monk. What book would be complete without one? Sit down Dan Brown.
The plot itself is quite complex, as Barde- Cabucon brings into play the bigger themes of religion, alchemy secret societies, and presents the reader with a larger puzzle where the questions of morality, loyalty and sedition prove integral to Volnay’s investigation. I did find that closer attention was needed sporadically to really get to grips with who was plotting what, against who and why, but cleverly these more intense periods of the narratives are beautifully interrupted by some great swashbuckling action scenes, or another of Casanova’s passionate or ill-judged trysts which gives the plot a good fluidity of acceleration and deceleration overall. Yes, it’s quite a dense read, but the strength of the characterisation, the incredibly visual description and scene setting, and the wealth of historical detail just makes this book shine. I am delighted to see that that there a host of further books in this series, as I think that Monsieur Barde-Cabucon has just accrued another devotee. Highly recommended.
From the very first instance, Barde- Cabucon completely immerses his reader in the sights, sounds and teeming atmosphere of a Paris underscored by unrest, seditious movements, and a simmering resentment to Louis XV, the sexually voracious and profligate king. What you completely absorb as a reader is the sense of overcrowding, the imminent eruption of violence from the smallest beginnings, poverty and dirt. This vivid and lively depiction of Paris, set against the sumptuous confines of the royal court is strongly in evidence throughout the book, and this is an author who absolutely excels at scene setting, from the minutiae of a humble library, to a gaudy whorehouse, or to a narrow festering alleyway where danger lurks. I absolutely loved the descriptive nature of this book, and the way it so adroitly captured the lives of its inhabitants through all the senses.
I cannot begin to comprehend the depth of research that had to be undertaken for this, the first, of a now established series. By dint of using Casanova as a central character, there was an automatic need for the author to not only adhere to what we already know about him, but for him to become a fully fleshed out and engaging character who remained truthful to fact. Hence, the book is peppered with references to his own life story, but Barde-Cabucon also has a tremendous amount of fun with him too, as we bear witness to his sexual exploits, swordmanship, manipulation and skulduggery. This works superbly well, as he becomes entangled with the maudlin and intense Volnay, the Inspector for Strange and Unexplained Deaths, quite possibly the best job title in the world. As a larger conspiracy unfolds, we bear witness to an exquisite game of cat and mouse, and intense one-upmanship from two men who are divided on so many levels of life, and their wildly different moral compass. This plays out, not only in consideration of the central crimes and a conspiracy that brings the royal household into the mystery, but also on a baser level as a certain young lady casts a spell on them both too. The joie de vivre of Casanova is endlessly at odds with the despondent pragmatism of Volnay, leading to an entertaining, and at times enlightening insight into the lives of these two very different men. There’s also an incredibly cool monk. What book would be complete without one? Sit down Dan Brown.
The plot itself is quite complex, as Barde- Cabucon brings into play the bigger themes of religion, alchemy secret societies, and presents the reader with a larger puzzle where the questions of morality, loyalty and sedition prove integral to Volnay’s investigation. I did find that closer attention was needed sporadically to really get to grips with who was plotting what, against who and why, but cleverly these more intense periods of the narratives are beautifully interrupted by some great swashbuckling action scenes, or another of Casanova’s passionate or ill-judged trysts which gives the plot a good fluidity of acceleration and deceleration overall. Yes, it’s quite a dense read, but the strength of the characterisation, the incredibly visual description and scene setting, and the wealth of historical detail just makes this book shine. I am delighted to see that that there a host of further books in this series, as I think that Monsieur Barde-Cabucon has just accrued another devotee. Highly recommended.
November 17, 2020
7.5/10 stars
Full review available on my blog here.
Very French, reminiscent of Dumas and Gautier, with a pinch of Pérez-Reverte.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, from now on TISUD for the sake of me finishing this review this year and you ever reading it in full, is the first instalment in a 7-book series, a recipient of a Prix Sang d’encre for 2012, and the only Barde-Cabuçon book currently translated to English. Published by Pushkin Vertigo imprint in their series of non-English mysteries and crime novels, it had earlier existed on the market under a probably less sellable but more faithful to the original title, Casanova and a Faceless Woman. So, if you’ve read Casanova, TISUD is not a sequel, but the same exact book, just republished 😉. Ooof. Since this book is about mysterious, mistaken and hidden identities, the whole affair with the English title is simply delightfully ironic.
TISUD is a historical crime novel, and a very peculiar one at that. It takes place in 1759 in decadent Paris, somewhere between the shiny halls of Versailles ruled by debauched Louis XV and his cohorts, and the dirty, dangerous hovels of Parisian suburbs inhabited by the desperate poor. The social climate is the most compelling character in this novel, as the general population of Paris is seething with resentment, misery and anger, and seems on a brink of revolution, while the decadent elites seem oblivious to both the inequity and the inherent risks (and since it’s historical fiction, TISUD gets this part to a t).
On the streets of Paris, a horribly mutilated body of a young woman is discovered; the inquiry into her death quickly leads into a very dangerous territory – to the boudoirs of Versailles, where terminally bored Louis XV is mostly preoccupied with his newest sexual conquests, be they consensual or not, or even adult or not. But since the inquirer in question is Chevalier de Volnay, named the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths by Louis XV himself as a reward for saving the king’s life two years prior, we may hope he’ll get to the bottom of the case. And what a case it is, linking Louis XV, his extremely influential mistress Madame de Pompadour, the mysterious Count Saint-Germain, the Enlightenment philosophers, Church fundamentalists, Freemasons, secret societies conspiring in a very Ra's al Ghul style to topple existing social order and put themselves on top, desperate prostitutes and would-be alchemists, and many, many more – and last, but not least, none other than Chevalier de Seingalt, the famous lover, womanizer, spy, courtier, scammer, memorialist and adventurer Giacomo Casanova.
As I mentioned before, this novel seems very French to me. What I mean by it is that TISUD doesn’t concern itself too much with the criminal mystery at its core – it is much more interested in exploring the human relationships, the secrets of human hearts and minds, the social games played by big and small. Blackmail, verbal sparring, double entendres, innuendos – this seems the true forte of Barde-Cabuçon. The mystery gets solved in the meantime, right between the romantic drama and the political intrigue. In that context, TISUD reminded me very much of Theophile Gautier’s novel, Captain Fracasse, via Alexander Dumas’s Count of Monte Christo, or even Gustave Flaubert’s books, where the plot often serves as a background for the true drama of the clash between characters’ personalities, between their dreams, needs and reality. It’s also written in a charmingly old-fashioned style, with long, unusually structured sentences, stilted conversations and much care for social niceties. It might be the style, or the translation - after all, English and French are structurally different enough for it to matter.
TISUD is a meandering affair; many pages are spent on the detailed description of clothing, food, interiors, lazy conversations. Even more – on the intangible tortures of hearts and souls. There’s a bit of a social commentary, a delightful sprinkling of historical figures and events – such as the aforementioned assassination attempt on Louis XV by Damiens, so meticulously described by Michel Foucault in his seminal work, Discipline and Punishment, or the mystery surrounding Saint-Germain.
All in all, The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is an interesting addition to the popular mystery/crime genre. If you’d like something a bit different to the usual American fare, a mystery wrapped in a period drama/romance and tied with a nice ribbon of historical social commentary, this might be just the book for you.
Full review available on my blog here.
Very French, reminiscent of Dumas and Gautier, with a pinch of Pérez-Reverte.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, from now on TISUD for the sake of me finishing this review this year and you ever reading it in full, is the first instalment in a 7-book series, a recipient of a Prix Sang d’encre for 2012, and the only Barde-Cabuçon book currently translated to English. Published by Pushkin Vertigo imprint in their series of non-English mysteries and crime novels, it had earlier existed on the market under a probably less sellable but more faithful to the original title, Casanova and a Faceless Woman. So, if you’ve read Casanova, TISUD is not a sequel, but the same exact book, just republished 😉. Ooof. Since this book is about mysterious, mistaken and hidden identities, the whole affair with the English title is simply delightfully ironic.
TISUD is a historical crime novel, and a very peculiar one at that. It takes place in 1759 in decadent Paris, somewhere between the shiny halls of Versailles ruled by debauched Louis XV and his cohorts, and the dirty, dangerous hovels of Parisian suburbs inhabited by the desperate poor. The social climate is the most compelling character in this novel, as the general population of Paris is seething with resentment, misery and anger, and seems on a brink of revolution, while the decadent elites seem oblivious to both the inequity and the inherent risks (and since it’s historical fiction, TISUD gets this part to a t).
On the streets of Paris, a horribly mutilated body of a young woman is discovered; the inquiry into her death quickly leads into a very dangerous territory – to the boudoirs of Versailles, where terminally bored Louis XV is mostly preoccupied with his newest sexual conquests, be they consensual or not, or even adult or not. But since the inquirer in question is Chevalier de Volnay, named the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths by Louis XV himself as a reward for saving the king’s life two years prior, we may hope he’ll get to the bottom of the case. And what a case it is, linking Louis XV, his extremely influential mistress Madame de Pompadour, the mysterious Count Saint-Germain, the Enlightenment philosophers, Church fundamentalists, Freemasons, secret societies conspiring in a very Ra's al Ghul style to topple existing social order and put themselves on top, desperate prostitutes and would-be alchemists, and many, many more – and last, but not least, none other than Chevalier de Seingalt, the famous lover, womanizer, spy, courtier, scammer, memorialist and adventurer Giacomo Casanova.
As I mentioned before, this novel seems very French to me. What I mean by it is that TISUD doesn’t concern itself too much with the criminal mystery at its core – it is much more interested in exploring the human relationships, the secrets of human hearts and minds, the social games played by big and small. Blackmail, verbal sparring, double entendres, innuendos – this seems the true forte of Barde-Cabuçon. The mystery gets solved in the meantime, right between the romantic drama and the political intrigue. In that context, TISUD reminded me very much of Theophile Gautier’s novel, Captain Fracasse, via Alexander Dumas’s Count of Monte Christo, or even Gustave Flaubert’s books, where the plot often serves as a background for the true drama of the clash between characters’ personalities, between their dreams, needs and reality. It’s also written in a charmingly old-fashioned style, with long, unusually structured sentences, stilted conversations and much care for social niceties. It might be the style, or the translation - after all, English and French are structurally different enough for it to matter.
TISUD is a meandering affair; many pages are spent on the detailed description of clothing, food, interiors, lazy conversations. Even more – on the intangible tortures of hearts and souls. There’s a bit of a social commentary, a delightful sprinkling of historical figures and events – such as the aforementioned assassination attempt on Louis XV by Damiens, so meticulously described by Michel Foucault in his seminal work, Discipline and Punishment, or the mystery surrounding Saint-Germain.
All in all, The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is an interesting addition to the popular mystery/crime genre. If you’d like something a bit different to the usual American fare, a mystery wrapped in a period drama/romance and tied with a nice ribbon of historical social commentary, this might be just the book for you.
September 5, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
A murder mystery set in Paris during the reign of Louis XV. Two prostitutes are found murdered with their faces removed. Time for his majesty's inspector of strange and unexplained deaths (and his trusty sidekick monk/C.S.I) to step in. However the underage sex workers were known to the royal family (art imitating life?)
Inspector Volnay must tread a tightrope to conclude his investigation. Power lies with the king, Madame Pompadour , the kings ex lover and now pimp in chief seeks to consolidate her role as the Kings confidant. Sartine the corrupt chief of police seeks to advance his position through any means possible. Add to this two secret societies, religious groups (who turn a blind eye abuse because the perpetrator is a powerful catholic, again the more things change the more they stay the same!) Various henchmen, whom you don't know belong to which group because everyone is a spy. Oh and the all round chancer Casanova and a love interest are thrown into the mix as well.
It has the makings of a good period murder mystery, e.g. C.J Sansome's Shardlake series, but with too many threads, groups and red herrings the plot sort of disappears up its own arse. A pity because there is a decent book hiding within this one.
I enjoyed reading about Volnay and the detective work. The writer brings to life the poverty and depravity of Paris and the wealth and depravity of Versailles. Its an OK 3 out 5 for me, could have been a 4 but the ending did little to resolve the status quo so you are left thinking that after all that effort nothing has really changed.
A murder mystery set in Paris during the reign of Louis XV. Two prostitutes are found murdered with their faces removed. Time for his majesty's inspector of strange and unexplained deaths (and his trusty sidekick monk/C.S.I) to step in. However the underage sex workers were known to the royal family (art imitating life?)
Inspector Volnay must tread a tightrope to conclude his investigation. Power lies with the king, Madame Pompadour , the kings ex lover and now pimp in chief seeks to consolidate her role as the Kings confidant. Sartine the corrupt chief of police seeks to advance his position through any means possible. Add to this two secret societies, religious groups (who turn a blind eye abuse because the perpetrator is a powerful catholic, again the more things change the more they stay the same!) Various henchmen, whom you don't know belong to which group because everyone is a spy. Oh and the all round chancer Casanova and a love interest are thrown into the mix as well.
It has the makings of a good period murder mystery, e.g. C.J Sansome's Shardlake series, but with too many threads, groups and red herrings the plot sort of disappears up its own arse. A pity because there is a decent book hiding within this one.
I enjoyed reading about Volnay and the detective work. The writer brings to life the poverty and depravity of Paris and the wealth and depravity of Versailles. Its an OK 3 out 5 for me, could have been a 4 but the ending did little to resolve the status quo so you are left thinking that after all that effort nothing has really changed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2019
Review to follow.
September 26, 2024
Firstly, let me state that I received a free galley copy of this book from the publisher in return for an unbiased review, for which I heartily thank Pushkin Publishers. This being said, however, it was this fact that kept me reading this book as long as I did. Had I paid my own money for the book, I would have stopped reading and thrown it on the midden heap long before I finally did (although I spared it the midden heap!) I felt it only fair to those who granted me an advance copy to do my best by the book, and persevere as long as possible. However, I read for pleasure and there was no pleasure in reading this, I'm sorry to say.
Much as the original book description and apparent premise seemed promising, it is difficult to see why the author could not deliver. While reading, every aspect of the book seemed either to miss the mark completely or to overshoot it, and as a result, it succeeded in nothing. For example, the title - The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths' promises much, and one is keen to read something of this Inspector. However, as the story unfolds, absolutely nothing can be gleaned from this character, beyond the fact that he is relatively young, and that he was given his post by dint of some service to the King. The post seems to carry no authority or official status, and the inspector seems to hold a somewhat dubious position. Everyone seems to know who he is but his position seems to carry weight with no-one. He seems very much a loner and appears to keep himself to himself, yet everyone seems to know who he is, which seems hard to credit.
The Inspector is one of the book's three central characters. The other two are even more of an enigma as is the Inspector's attitude towards them, which highlights even more incongruity in this character. The second of the central characters is the libertine Casanova (for some inexplicable reason) and the other is a young Contessa who is palpably a spy for Madame de Pompadour, the king's ex-favourite and his de facto spymaster. The Contessa calls at The Inspector's house after the initial murder is discovered, with no more than an extremely specious reason. Without giving away the plot, her behaviour is dubious to say the least and a child of six could have gleaned that she was there to spy, yet our 'Hero' appears oblivious to this fact, and he seems able to see nothing beyond her 'lily white skin', heaving bosom and rustling silk skirts. So is the scene set for almost every encounter between this detective and this female, with his brain firmly in his codpiece. This is so disappointing as this makes the story so ridiculous when it could have been so much better. Casanova has also noticed these dubious merits of la Contessa but we can expect nothing more from a man of his libidinous disposition.
So the story unfolds, with the Inspector unaccountably allowing both Cassanova - a man he claims to detest and his clear rival for the favours of the lady - and the Contessa herself, an obvious mole, to 'assist' him with the investigation. Groaning inwardly and appalled by his idiocy, I read on.
Another strange and undeveloped character is that of the monk, the inspector's accomplice - I hesitate to say friend as their relationship in that regard is again not really defined. He is held in awe and also some contempt by everyone around, yet there seems to be no real reason why. As is the case throughout the book, we are told this by the author, rather than shown it by the actions and reactions of those around him, which adds to the confusion. There is rather too much 'tell' rather than 'show' in the story. We are told everything we ascertain about the Inspector (other than the fact that he is a credulous fool - he shows us that himself rather well). We are repeatedly told (and by the man himself most of the time) that Cassanova is a shameless rake. Had the author attempted to convey these things by dint of showing rather than telling, there might be some more dept to these characters.
The Parisian setting of the book is beautifully described, as is the extremes of the lives of the inhabitants - the opulence of the nobility and the squalor of the peasants - but there is an element of excess in both. Everything is a little TOO gilded or a little TOO muddy, which adds to the sense of theatre that runs through the whole book, but not in a good way. The settings, the characters and the story are all larger than life and ultimately faintly ridiculous, causing the whole thing to fail utterly. Some reviewers blame the failure of the book on the translation, but I cannot see how this can be. Surely translation alone cannot make a sow's ear out of a silk purse! Frankly, I found it quite nonsensical as a work of historical fiction and absolute rubbish as a work of historical detective fiction.
Much as the original book description and apparent premise seemed promising, it is difficult to see why the author could not deliver. While reading, every aspect of the book seemed either to miss the mark completely or to overshoot it, and as a result, it succeeded in nothing. For example, the title - The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths' promises much, and one is keen to read something of this Inspector. However, as the story unfolds, absolutely nothing can be gleaned from this character, beyond the fact that he is relatively young, and that he was given his post by dint of some service to the King. The post seems to carry no authority or official status, and the inspector seems to hold a somewhat dubious position. Everyone seems to know who he is but his position seems to carry weight with no-one. He seems very much a loner and appears to keep himself to himself, yet everyone seems to know who he is, which seems hard to credit.
The Inspector is one of the book's three central characters. The other two are even more of an enigma as is the Inspector's attitude towards them, which highlights even more incongruity in this character. The second of the central characters is the libertine Casanova (for some inexplicable reason) and the other is a young Contessa who is palpably a spy for Madame de Pompadour, the king's ex-favourite and his de facto spymaster. The Contessa calls at The Inspector's house after the initial murder is discovered, with no more than an extremely specious reason. Without giving away the plot, her behaviour is dubious to say the least and a child of six could have gleaned that she was there to spy, yet our 'Hero' appears oblivious to this fact, and he seems able to see nothing beyond her 'lily white skin', heaving bosom and rustling silk skirts. So is the scene set for almost every encounter between this detective and this female, with his brain firmly in his codpiece. This is so disappointing as this makes the story so ridiculous when it could have been so much better. Casanova has also noticed these dubious merits of la Contessa but we can expect nothing more from a man of his libidinous disposition.
So the story unfolds, with the Inspector unaccountably allowing both Cassanova - a man he claims to detest and his clear rival for the favours of the lady - and the Contessa herself, an obvious mole, to 'assist' him with the investigation. Groaning inwardly and appalled by his idiocy, I read on.
Another strange and undeveloped character is that of the monk, the inspector's accomplice - I hesitate to say friend as their relationship in that regard is again not really defined. He is held in awe and also some contempt by everyone around, yet there seems to be no real reason why. As is the case throughout the book, we are told this by the author, rather than shown it by the actions and reactions of those around him, which adds to the confusion. There is rather too much 'tell' rather than 'show' in the story. We are told everything we ascertain about the Inspector (other than the fact that he is a credulous fool - he shows us that himself rather well). We are repeatedly told (and by the man himself most of the time) that Cassanova is a shameless rake. Had the author attempted to convey these things by dint of showing rather than telling, there might be some more dept to these characters.
The Parisian setting of the book is beautifully described, as is the extremes of the lives of the inhabitants - the opulence of the nobility and the squalor of the peasants - but there is an element of excess in both. Everything is a little TOO gilded or a little TOO muddy, which adds to the sense of theatre that runs through the whole book, but not in a good way. The settings, the characters and the story are all larger than life and ultimately faintly ridiculous, causing the whole thing to fail utterly. Some reviewers blame the failure of the book on the translation, but I cannot see how this can be. Surely translation alone cannot make a sow's ear out of a silk purse! Frankly, I found it quite nonsensical as a work of historical fiction and absolute rubbish as a work of historical detective fiction.
March 18, 2019
“However scientific our cast of mind, it always comes down to this, does it not? […] How to get rich and remain forever young. The universal dream of mankind.”
Casanova and the Faceless Woman, by Olivier Barde-Cabuçon (translated by Louise Rogers LaLaurie), is crime fiction set in and around Paris and the Palace of Versailles a few decades before the French Revolution. Its protagonist is Volnay, a serious young man living in frivolous, dangerous times. Granted the title, Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, after he saved the life of King Louis XV, the local police chief does not appreciate Volnay’s incursion into what he regards as his territory.
Volnay works with a disgraced monk who has an interest in and keen knowledge of the latest scientific thinking. He examines the bodies of the dead in an attempt to uncover clues as to how they met their end. This is the age of enlightenment, although there is wider interest in associated gossip, along with wild exaggeration, than in deduction and proof.
The story opens with the discovery of a body – a mutilated young woman. The skin on her face, palms and fingertips has been removed. When Volnay arrives at the crime scene he is dismayed to find it was the renowned philanderer, Casanova, who first came across the victim. Casanova watches as Volnay removes a letter from the woman’s clothing and is then intrigued when the policeman claims it fell from his sleeve.
This letter proves key to the investigation. Influential and shadowy figures are eager to read what it contains as it affects the dissolute and capricious King. His Majesty’s detractors are seeking ways to bring down the monarchy. Others advise caution until those who would grasp power after such a revolution may be put in place.
Casanova regards his involvement in the investigation as another entertainment, especially when a beautiful young aristocrat, Chiara, shows an interest. Volnay is also drawn to the girl and this unlikely trio find they must share secrets if the case is to be solved and the reason the letter is so sought after understood.
Then another young woman is found dead, with her face removed, this time outside a property used by the King to meet with the young girls he favours. Despite the similarities in the victims’ demises, Volnay is perplexed by the differences. With his life endangered from multiple sources, he discovers that trusting Chiara may have been a mistake.
Although this is crime fiction it will appeal to those who enjoy vividly depicted historical fiction. There are sumptuous descriptions of dress and setting, of food consumed and the decadent lifestyles of those who found favour within the Palace of Versailles at this time. Their wealth and privilege may be contrasted with the dangers lurking in the dark and dirty streets of Paris where penury is widespread. Small coins are earned by whatever means necessary to survive, with little loyalty. Death is common and rarely investigated. Punishments are brutal, meted out to those who would not assist powerful figures whose spies are everywhere.
Volnay is an interesting character although I regarded the romantic element of his story an unnecessary distraction. Casanova’s role is well developed – the reasoning behind his behaviour credible even if his performance abilities are overplayed. As I have little interest in dress and lavish furnishings I found the pace unduly slow due to the many details. It also disheartened me to consider the risks people take with their health in order to achieve what is widely accepted as beauty.
“Nothing of all this was real, or true. It was all a carefully maintained illusion.”
Although well written and structured there were too many elements within the story that personally irritated. I grew tired of the lily white skin, rustling silk and gleam of gilt furnishings. I was curious about the science until the unlikely denouement – again, this flight of imagination felt unnecessary (authors are, of course, free to write as they choose).
For those with an interest in the lifestyles of the wealthy the tale offers a colourful portrayal. Centuries later plutocrats are still seeking personal advantage over the greater good of scientific discovery. Aging is rarely regarded as a privilege with outward beauty highly valued. I may well be taking an entertainment too seriously, but I found this tale depressing.
Casanova and the Faceless Woman, by Olivier Barde-Cabuçon (translated by Louise Rogers LaLaurie), is crime fiction set in and around Paris and the Palace of Versailles a few decades before the French Revolution. Its protagonist is Volnay, a serious young man living in frivolous, dangerous times. Granted the title, Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, after he saved the life of King Louis XV, the local police chief does not appreciate Volnay’s incursion into what he regards as his territory.
Volnay works with a disgraced monk who has an interest in and keen knowledge of the latest scientific thinking. He examines the bodies of the dead in an attempt to uncover clues as to how they met their end. This is the age of enlightenment, although there is wider interest in associated gossip, along with wild exaggeration, than in deduction and proof.
The story opens with the discovery of a body – a mutilated young woman. The skin on her face, palms and fingertips has been removed. When Volnay arrives at the crime scene he is dismayed to find it was the renowned philanderer, Casanova, who first came across the victim. Casanova watches as Volnay removes a letter from the woman’s clothing and is then intrigued when the policeman claims it fell from his sleeve.
This letter proves key to the investigation. Influential and shadowy figures are eager to read what it contains as it affects the dissolute and capricious King. His Majesty’s detractors are seeking ways to bring down the monarchy. Others advise caution until those who would grasp power after such a revolution may be put in place.
Casanova regards his involvement in the investigation as another entertainment, especially when a beautiful young aristocrat, Chiara, shows an interest. Volnay is also drawn to the girl and this unlikely trio find they must share secrets if the case is to be solved and the reason the letter is so sought after understood.
Then another young woman is found dead, with her face removed, this time outside a property used by the King to meet with the young girls he favours. Despite the similarities in the victims’ demises, Volnay is perplexed by the differences. With his life endangered from multiple sources, he discovers that trusting Chiara may have been a mistake.
Although this is crime fiction it will appeal to those who enjoy vividly depicted historical fiction. There are sumptuous descriptions of dress and setting, of food consumed and the decadent lifestyles of those who found favour within the Palace of Versailles at this time. Their wealth and privilege may be contrasted with the dangers lurking in the dark and dirty streets of Paris where penury is widespread. Small coins are earned by whatever means necessary to survive, with little loyalty. Death is common and rarely investigated. Punishments are brutal, meted out to those who would not assist powerful figures whose spies are everywhere.
Volnay is an interesting character although I regarded the romantic element of his story an unnecessary distraction. Casanova’s role is well developed – the reasoning behind his behaviour credible even if his performance abilities are overplayed. As I have little interest in dress and lavish furnishings I found the pace unduly slow due to the many details. It also disheartened me to consider the risks people take with their health in order to achieve what is widely accepted as beauty.
“Nothing of all this was real, or true. It was all a carefully maintained illusion.”
Although well written and structured there were too many elements within the story that personally irritated. I grew tired of the lily white skin, rustling silk and gleam of gilt furnishings. I was curious about the science until the unlikely denouement – again, this flight of imagination felt unnecessary (authors are, of course, free to write as they choose).
For those with an interest in the lifestyles of the wealthy the tale offers a colourful portrayal. Centuries later plutocrats are still seeking personal advantage over the greater good of scientific discovery. Aging is rarely regarded as a privilege with outward beauty highly valued. I may well be taking an entertainment too seriously, but I found this tale depressing.
March 30, 2019
“However scientific our cast of mind, it always comes down to this, does it not? […] How to get rich and remain forever young. The universal dream of mankind.”
Casanova and the Faceless Woman, by Olivier Barde-Cabuçon (translated by Louise Rogers LaLaurie), is crime fiction set in and around Paris and the Palace of Versailles a few decades before the French Revolution. Its protagonist is Volnay, a serious young man living in frivolous, dangerous times. Granted the title, Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, after he saved the life of King Louis XV, the local police chief does not appreciate Volnay’s incursion into what he regards as his territory.
Volnay works with a disgraced monk who has an interest in and keen knowledge of the latest scientific thinking. He examines the bodies of the dead in an attempt to uncover clues as to how they met their end. This is the age of enlightenment, although there is wider interest in associated gossip, along with wild exaggeration, than in deduction and proof.
The story opens with the discovery of a body – a mutilated young woman. The skin on her face, palms and fingertips has been removed. When Volnay arrives at the crime scene he is dismayed to find it was the renowned philanderer, Casanova, who first came across the victim. Casanova watches as Volnay removes a letter from the woman’s clothing and is then intrigued when the policeman claims it fell from his sleeve.
This letter proves key to the investigation. Influential and shadowy figures are eager to read what it contains as it affects the dissolute and capricious King. His Majesty’s detractors are seeking ways to bring down the monarchy. Others advise caution until those who would grasp power after such a revolution may be put in place.
Casanova regards his involvement in the investigation as another entertainment, especially when a beautiful young aristocrat, Chiara, shows an interest. Volnay is also drawn to the girl and this unlikely trio find they must share secrets if the case is to be solved and the reason the letter is so sought after understood.
Then another young woman is found dead, with her face removed, this time outside a property used by the King to meet with the young girls he favours. Despite the similarities in the victims’ demises, Volnay is perplexed by the differences. With his life endangered from multiple sources, he discovers that trusting Chiara may have been a mistake.
Although this is crime fiction it will appeal to those who enjoy vividly depicted historical fiction. There are sumptuous descriptions of dress and setting, of food consumed and the decadent lifestyles of those who found favour within the Palace of Versailles at this time. Their wealth and privilege may be contrasted with the dangers lurking in the dark and dirty streets of Paris where penury is widespread. Small coins are earned by whatever means necessary to survive, with little loyalty. Death is common and rarely investigated. Punishments are brutal, meted out to those who would not assist powerful figures whose spies are everywhere.
Volnay is an interesting character although I regarded the romantic element of his story an unnecessary distraction. Casanova’s role is well developed – the reasoning behind his behaviour credible even if his performance abilities are overplayed. As I have little interest in dress and lavish furnishings I found the pace unduly slow due to the many details. It also disheartened me to consider the risks people take with their health in order to achieve what is widely accepted as beauty.
“Nothing of all this was real, or true. It was all a carefully maintained illusion.”
Although well written and structured there were too many elements within the story that personally irritated. I grew tired of the lily white skin, rustling silk and gleam of gilt furnishings. I was curious about the science until the unlikely denouement – again, this flight of imagination felt unnecessary (authors are, of course, free to write as they choose).
For those with an interest in the lifestyles of the wealthy the tale offers a colourful portrayal. Centuries later plutocrats are still seeking personal advantage over the greater good of scientific discovery. Aging is rarely regarded as a privilege with outward beauty highly valued. I may well be taking an entertainment too seriously, but I found this tale depressing.
Casanova and the Faceless Woman, by Olivier Barde-Cabuçon (translated by Louise Rogers LaLaurie), is crime fiction set in and around Paris and the Palace of Versailles a few decades before the French Revolution. Its protagonist is Volnay, a serious young man living in frivolous, dangerous times. Granted the title, Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, after he saved the life of King Louis XV, the local police chief does not appreciate Volnay’s incursion into what he regards as his territory.
Volnay works with a disgraced monk who has an interest in and keen knowledge of the latest scientific thinking. He examines the bodies of the dead in an attempt to uncover clues as to how they met their end. This is the age of enlightenment, although there is wider interest in associated gossip, along with wild exaggeration, than in deduction and proof.
The story opens with the discovery of a body – a mutilated young woman. The skin on her face, palms and fingertips has been removed. When Volnay arrives at the crime scene he is dismayed to find it was the renowned philanderer, Casanova, who first came across the victim. Casanova watches as Volnay removes a letter from the woman’s clothing and is then intrigued when the policeman claims it fell from his sleeve.
This letter proves key to the investigation. Influential and shadowy figures are eager to read what it contains as it affects the dissolute and capricious King. His Majesty’s detractors are seeking ways to bring down the monarchy. Others advise caution until those who would grasp power after such a revolution may be put in place.
Casanova regards his involvement in the investigation as another entertainment, especially when a beautiful young aristocrat, Chiara, shows an interest. Volnay is also drawn to the girl and this unlikely trio find they must share secrets if the case is to be solved and the reason the letter is so sought after understood.
Then another young woman is found dead, with her face removed, this time outside a property used by the King to meet with the young girls he favours. Despite the similarities in the victims’ demises, Volnay is perplexed by the differences. With his life endangered from multiple sources, he discovers that trusting Chiara may have been a mistake.
Although this is crime fiction it will appeal to those who enjoy vividly depicted historical fiction. There are sumptuous descriptions of dress and setting, of food consumed and the decadent lifestyles of those who found favour within the Palace of Versailles at this time. Their wealth and privilege may be contrasted with the dangers lurking in the dark and dirty streets of Paris where penury is widespread. Small coins are earned by whatever means necessary to survive, with little loyalty. Death is common and rarely investigated. Punishments are brutal, meted out to those who would not assist powerful figures whose spies are everywhere.
Volnay is an interesting character although I regarded the romantic element of his story an unnecessary distraction. Casanova’s role is well developed – the reasoning behind his behaviour credible even if his performance abilities are overplayed. As I have little interest in dress and lavish furnishings I found the pace unduly slow due to the many details. It also disheartened me to consider the risks people take with their health in order to achieve what is widely accepted as beauty.
“Nothing of all this was real, or true. It was all a carefully maintained illusion.”
Although well written and structured there were too many elements within the story that personally irritated. I grew tired of the lily white skin, rustling silk and gleam of gilt furnishings. I was curious about the science until the unlikely denouement – again, this flight of imagination felt unnecessary (authors are, of course, free to write as they choose).
For those with an interest in the lifestyles of the wealthy the tale offers a colourful portrayal. Centuries later plutocrats are still seeking personal advantage over the greater good of scientific discovery. Aging is rarely regarded as a privilege with outward beauty highly valued. I may well be taking an entertainment too seriously, but I found this tale depressing.
October 6, 2020
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is part of the Pushkin Vertigo line that provides translations into English of popular mysteries written in other countries/languages. And, I’m a huge fan of historical mysteries, and also of mysteries set in France, so I was honored to receive an advance review copy of this title from Pushkin/NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The book is set in Paris of the 1700s, and has appearances from many historical characters, including King Louis XV; the King’s mistress, Madame de Pompadour; the Venetian, Giacomo Casanova (yes, THE Casanova), the Comte de Saint Germain; and Antoine de Sartine, the head of the police in Paris. Although the plot initially seems fairly straightforward (if quite gruesome), it quickly becomes complex and political, with the involvement of the King and some of the dark-ish activities going on in and around his court. In addition to the rich historical background, I enjoyed the various plot threads and complexities, and liked following along with the main protagonist, Volnay, as he investigated. I unfortunately read this book during the week, with the result that I had a couple of nights when I didn’t get quite as much sleep as I really needed, since I had trouble putting it down.
In the end, my only minor complaint is that I had trouble believing that the wound Volnay receives near the end wouldn’t have been fatal, especially with the medical care available in the 1700s. However, somehow it doesn’t kill him, and please note - this isn’t even really a spoiler, since there are several more titles in the series already written in the original French. So it’s obvious, if a bit hard to credit, that he survives. One other minor wish is that there would have been some historical notes, telling more about the background of the book, and which other characters and events, besides the really well-known ones, were also historical.
Neither of these complaints is serious though, and I’m very hopeful that more titles will get translated into English. I’ll definitely read them if they are! I struggled a little bit over whether to give this book four or five stars, and if I could have given it a 4 ½, I would have. Please note, though, that I tend to be pretty conservative in awarding stars, only giving five stars to maybe one in thirty or forty books. So in the end, I went with four stars – but that is still a great rating from me and means I really recommend a book. And my thanks again to Pushkin/NetGalley for the ARC!
The book is set in Paris of the 1700s, and has appearances from many historical characters, including King Louis XV; the King’s mistress, Madame de Pompadour; the Venetian, Giacomo Casanova (yes, THE Casanova), the Comte de Saint Germain; and Antoine de Sartine, the head of the police in Paris. Although the plot initially seems fairly straightforward (if quite gruesome), it quickly becomes complex and political, with the involvement of the King and some of the dark-ish activities going on in and around his court. In addition to the rich historical background, I enjoyed the various plot threads and complexities, and liked following along with the main protagonist, Volnay, as he investigated. I unfortunately read this book during the week, with the result that I had a couple of nights when I didn’t get quite as much sleep as I really needed, since I had trouble putting it down.
In the end, my only minor complaint is that I had trouble believing that the wound Volnay receives near the end wouldn’t have been fatal, especially with the medical care available in the 1700s. However, somehow it doesn’t kill him, and please note - this isn’t even really a spoiler, since there are several more titles in the series already written in the original French. So it’s obvious, if a bit hard to credit, that he survives. One other minor wish is that there would have been some historical notes, telling more about the background of the book, and which other characters and events, besides the really well-known ones, were also historical.
Neither of these complaints is serious though, and I’m very hopeful that more titles will get translated into English. I’ll definitely read them if they are! I struggled a little bit over whether to give this book four or five stars, and if I could have given it a 4 ½, I would have. Please note, though, that I tend to be pretty conservative in awarding stars, only giving five stars to maybe one in thirty or forty books. So in the end, I went with four stars – but that is still a great rating from me and means I really recommend a book. And my thanks again to Pushkin/NetGalley for the ARC!
June 23, 2019
I usually enjoy historical fiction, and historical detection as a sub-species of this. It needs a compelling and convincing context, and, for my money to be as well written as any other kind of fiction. This book clearly worked for many others but not for me. Of course it's in translation but I assume that reflects the written quality of the original; there were a lot of cliches and tired description, as well as too much telling rather than showing. Everything tended toward excess (magic, murder, secret societies, sex) and the wildly implausible, so I found it stagey and the three central characters unconvincing in their relations. I struggled to finish it.
May 29, 2021
A neo gothic murder mystery and political intrigue in mid-18thC France: the Enlightenment v superstition; Science v alchemy; reason v sentiment; secular society and a republic against the church and monarchy. It wants to be a swashbuckler with brains but it’s too ponderous and humorless. The plot is shambolic and nobody, the inspector especially, is very smart. Also, Louis XV liked the ladies but he was hardly the inconsequential, sex distracted figure depicted here.
April 16, 2018
J’ai eu un peu de mal à entrer dans cette ambiance d’intrigues autour de Versailles. Le personnage principal (le commissaire) me semble fade comparé à celui plus mystérieux du moine qui l’accompagne. Mon esprit a bien souvent vagabondé m’obligeant à relire des passages déjà « lus ». Une intrigue qui manque un peu de saveur. Mais peut-être ne l’ai je pas lu au bon moment ?
April 14, 2019
I do hope Pushkin publish the other 6 Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths novels as I really enjoyed the first. I love the mix of real characters with fictional characters, the historical detail, the intrigue and the plot immerses you in the novel. A young woman's body is found in the street but the skin on her face has been removed, Inspector Volney investigates with his faithful assistant, the monk. Volney finds himself placed in danger as the many political/religious factions are working against him however he is aided by an unlikely ally, the Chevalier de Seingalt more famously known as Casanova.
Olivier Barde-Cabucon brings 18th century Paris to life with detailed descriptions of the place, the characters, the fashion, the city and its' buildings, he makes you read around the subject, making you want to know more about the period. Great for fans of CJ Sansom and Andrew Taylor.
Olivier Barde-Cabucon brings 18th century Paris to life with detailed descriptions of the place, the characters, the fashion, the city and its' buildings, he makes you read around the subject, making you want to know more about the period. Great for fans of CJ Sansom and Andrew Taylor.
April 29, 2019
The story is set 18th century Paris, when a young woman has been found murdered and her face mutilated. Tasked with the investigation is The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths - Chevalier De Volnay.
Volnay and his partner, the Heretic Monk soon find themselves drawn in to a deadly game of deceit that could cost Volnay his life.
With Spies everywhere, who can they trust?
A fabulous read full of intrigue, twists and turns. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely read the rest.
Volnay and his partner, the Heretic Monk soon find themselves drawn in to a deadly game of deceit that could cost Volnay his life.
With Spies everywhere, who can they trust?
A fabulous read full of intrigue, twists and turns. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely read the rest.
August 12, 2020
2.5 stars
This has a great cast of characters,and a beautiful setting in the courts of Versailles and the streets of Paris.
An interesting crime,when a young girl is murdered and her face removed,a sinister brotherhood,a mystery letter...
It just didn't really have any tension.. I found it slow in parts...
I'd like to read a further story...just for the main characters.
This has a great cast of characters,and a beautiful setting in the courts of Versailles and the streets of Paris.
An interesting crime,when a young girl is murdered and her face removed,a sinister brotherhood,a mystery letter...
It just didn't really have any tension.. I found it slow in parts...
I'd like to read a further story...just for the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2019
I really tried to like this book, I thought it had great potential. But it just didn't engage me. I didn't like any of the characters and the language felt forced and cliche in many places - not sure whether that's the translation or the original
December 8, 2019
Had high hopes for this one but it failed to live up to expectations. It has been translated from French and may have suffered as a result. Here Casanova teams up with a French police officer to solve the murder of a young woman whose face has been removed. To complicate matters the dead girl appears to have some link to the king. Disappointing.
April 28, 2020
2.5 stars rounding up, I really wanted to like this book but I don't know if the prose failed to click with me or if it was the other issues that made it something of a frustrating slog. Set in the reign of Louis XV and following the titular inspector as he attempts to discover the truth behind a rather gruesome murder potentially linked to the King and revolutionary elements using the limited science available and his own intuition and logic.
It should have been an easy slamdunk but it failed for a few reasons. Mainly because the author over-egged the pudding with too many subplots and a failure to apply enough focus on the investigation and the mystery it became especially bogged down with the love triangle between the Inspector, a noble Italian lady interested in the case and Giacamo Casanova himself... Yeah, I didn't really care about it because I barely knew any of these characters it's the kind of subplot that would have worked better if introduced a couple of books down the line. Then there was the subplot of feuding between the Freemasons, the Devout Party, and the Brotherhood of the Serpent which became tedious and lacking in dramatic tension again because I knew none of these organisations and their motivations. Sure the main characters were wary but to compare it to a situation that worked let's look at Moriarty's introduction in Sherlock Holmes, I knew Sherlock Holmes I'd seen him solve mystery upon mystery, defeat the vilest of murderers, so when he told me that this new character Moriarty was the most dangerous criminal of all then I sat up and paid attention. I was afraid for our hero but this is the first book, I neither know nor trust these characters and so just shrug.
If others in the series are translated to English and become available in e-book format then I may check them out as the concept is appealing and the author may improve in terms of plotting but I would honestly struggle to recommend this one even if that's the case.
It should have been an easy slamdunk but it failed for a few reasons. Mainly because the author over-egged the pudding with too many subplots and a failure to apply enough focus on the investigation and the mystery it became especially bogged down with the love triangle between the Inspector, a noble Italian lady interested in the case and Giacamo Casanova himself... Yeah, I didn't really care about it because I barely knew any of these characters it's the kind of subplot that would have worked better if introduced a couple of books down the line. Then there was the subplot of feuding between the Freemasons, the Devout Party, and the Brotherhood of the Serpent which became tedious and lacking in dramatic tension again because I knew none of these organisations and their motivations. Sure the main characters were wary but to compare it to a situation that worked let's look at Moriarty's introduction in Sherlock Holmes, I knew Sherlock Holmes I'd seen him solve mystery upon mystery, defeat the vilest of murderers, so when he told me that this new character Moriarty was the most dangerous criminal of all then I sat up and paid attention. I was afraid for our hero but this is the first book, I neither know nor trust these characters and so just shrug.
If others in the series are translated to English and become available in e-book format then I may check them out as the concept is appealing and the author may improve in terms of plotting but I would honestly struggle to recommend this one even if that's the case.
November 1, 2020
This is a very unusual book. At first glance, the plot is fairly straightforward. In Paris in 1759, a young woman is murdered and horribly disfigured. The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths, Volnay, is charged with finding the culprit.He is aided by his mysterious assistant, a monk. Shortly thereafter, a similar disfiguring murder of a young lady is discovered. The two investigators troll through the levels of Parisian society...from the most dangerous streets to the court of Louis XV...to unravel the mystery.
The attraction of this book lies in the depiction of Paris and the social climate of the time. The author blends elements of monarchy, revolution, freemasonry and alchemy into the fabric of the plot. Throughout the book, there is a foreshadowing of the discontent and social unrest that ultimately results in the French Revolution. The descriptions of Paris and its streets augment the sense of discontent and add a foreboding aura to the narrative.
There are historical figures who play a role in the plot.The most notable is Giacomo Casanova, whose persona gets an interesting fictional interpretation.
This book is dense in narrative and some readers may not find it to their liking. The pace of the book is not conventionally breakneck but is not slow. There is a lot of texture and nuance built into this book. For me, the book presented an overview of the intellectual currents afloat in mid century Europe while presenting an interesting mystery. This is a challenging book that will not be to everyone’s taste but is worth the effort.It is the first English translation of seven books in a series.I look forward to the rest of the series becoming available in English.
The attraction of this book lies in the depiction of Paris and the social climate of the time. The author blends elements of monarchy, revolution, freemasonry and alchemy into the fabric of the plot. Throughout the book, there is a foreshadowing of the discontent and social unrest that ultimately results in the French Revolution. The descriptions of Paris and its streets augment the sense of discontent and add a foreboding aura to the narrative.
There are historical figures who play a role in the plot.The most notable is Giacomo Casanova, whose persona gets an interesting fictional interpretation.
This book is dense in narrative and some readers may not find it to their liking. The pace of the book is not conventionally breakneck but is not slow. There is a lot of texture and nuance built into this book. For me, the book presented an overview of the intellectual currents afloat in mid century Europe while presenting an interesting mystery. This is a challenging book that will not be to everyone’s taste but is worth the effort.It is the first English translation of seven books in a series.I look forward to the rest of the series becoming available in English.
October 3, 2020
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is the first of eight French mysteries featuring Volnay, a man who was made the Inspect of Strange and Unexplained Deaths after saving Louis XV from an assassin. He is called to investigate the murder of a young woman whose entire face had been removed. When his good friend and associate, the Monk, does the autopsy, he creates a death mask that Volnay uses to identify the victim as one of the King’s mistresses.
The novel is full of plot and counter-plot with historical characters. In addition to Louis XV, there are Antoine de Sartine, Comte de Saint Germain, Madame Pompadour, and the famed Casanova. There are also three competing secret societies and all of them have nothing better to do than plot and counter-plot to hold or gain power.
I stuck it out to the bitter end of The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths and wish I had not. As a mystery, though, it is fair. Volnay and the reader had the necessary clues. However, it is simply too convoluted with plots and counter-plots and sheer stupidity. Really, the inane actions of the characters baffled me again and again and far more thoroughly than the mystery.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths will be published on October 6th. I received an e-galley from the publisher through NetGalley.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths at Pushkin Press
Olivier Barde-Cabicon
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
The novel is full of plot and counter-plot with historical characters. In addition to Louis XV, there are Antoine de Sartine, Comte de Saint Germain, Madame Pompadour, and the famed Casanova. There are also three competing secret societies and all of them have nothing better to do than plot and counter-plot to hold or gain power.
I stuck it out to the bitter end of The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths and wish I had not. As a mystery, though, it is fair. Volnay and the reader had the necessary clues. However, it is simply too convoluted with plots and counter-plots and sheer stupidity. Really, the inane actions of the characters baffled me again and again and far more thoroughly than the mystery.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths will be published on October 6th. I received an e-galley from the publisher through NetGalley.
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths at Pushkin Press
Olivier Barde-Cabicon
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
October 8, 2020
This is the first book translated into English in this series by Barde-Cabucon, which is very popular in France. The two characters who are the protagonists in all the books are Volnay (the Inspector) and a man called the Monk. It is set in the reign of Louis XV (in the middle 1700s) and begins with the finding of a woman who has been murdered and had her face cut off.
Volnay had saved the life of the King and for his reward asked to be made the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths (sort of a super-detective). When a second woman suffers the same crime, Volnay finds that his investigation has him caught in the King's court intrigue that includes The Brotherhood of the Serpent, The Masons, Madame Pompador, her brother, a couple of Counts and the famous M Casanova.
The book has the feel of the time of the '3 Musketeers' when everyone (well the Gentry) carried swords and cut-purses and mercenaries worked for many sides (sometimes more than one at a time). The story moves at a decent pace, and except for some supposed magic and alchemy it's a very interesting story with lots of ambiance.
Volnay had saved the life of the King and for his reward asked to be made the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths (sort of a super-detective). When a second woman suffers the same crime, Volnay finds that his investigation has him caught in the King's court intrigue that includes The Brotherhood of the Serpent, The Masons, Madame Pompador, her brother, a couple of Counts and the famous M Casanova.
The book has the feel of the time of the '3 Musketeers' when everyone (well the Gentry) carried swords and cut-purses and mercenaries worked for many sides (sometimes more than one at a time). The story moves at a decent pace, and except for some supposed magic and alchemy it's a very interesting story with lots of ambiance.
January 19, 2021
“Historical mystery” is a genre I love, but don’t read enough of. The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths was a good mystery with plenty of drama and a touch of romance. You can find my comments at Carol's Notebook.
June 25, 2018
Mlle Alice, pouvez-vous nous raconter votre rencontre avec Casanova et la Femme sans Visage ?
"Cela fait longtemps que ce sous-titre de "commissaire aux morts étranges" m'intrigue et l'auteur étant présent au salon du livre de Paris, j'en ai profité pour faire l'acquisition de ce premier tome."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Le corps d'une femme sans visage est retrouvé sur les pavés de Paris au petit matin. Il n'en faut pas plus au jeune Volnay pour récupérer l'enquête et tenter de la résoudre avec l'aide du moine hérétique et de ses méthodes particulières, au balbutiement de la police scientifique..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous?
"J'ai eu beaucoup de mal à rentrer dans l'histoire pour la simple raison que j'ai trouvé difficile de m'intéresser au héros, le jeune Volnay et fameux commissaire aux morts étranges. Étant donné sa fonction et son titre, on s'attend à un homme brillant, un original or dès les premières heures de l'enquête, il se fait tourner la tête par une jeune dame charmante et en oublie complètement de voir ce qui est évident pour le lecteur. Cette dernière, qui se joue clairement de lui et ne sait pas bien ce qu'elle veut, m'a d'ailleurs plutôt agacée, quant à leur troisième acolyte, Casanova en personne, je n'ai pas été plus séduite, ce qui est un comble, non ? Heureusement, la présence du prêtre et l'enquête elle-même attisent un peu plus notre intérêt mais je ne me suis jamais complètement remise de ma déception de trouver ce héros faible et régulièrement ridiculisé à la place de l'homme intelligent et intransigeant que j'espérais."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini?
"J'attendais peut-être trop de ce titre accrocheur et de ces sublimes couvertures, d'autant que l'enquête est plutôt bien menée et que les révélations finales m'ont bien plues. Du coup, je ne sais pas encore si je me laisserai de nouveau tenter, sachant que les tomes suivants sont mieux notés, ou s'il vaut mieux que je m'en tienne là. "
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
"Cela fait longtemps que ce sous-titre de "commissaire aux morts étranges" m'intrigue et l'auteur étant présent au salon du livre de Paris, j'en ai profité pour faire l'acquisition de ce premier tome."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Le corps d'une femme sans visage est retrouvé sur les pavés de Paris au petit matin. Il n'en faut pas plus au jeune Volnay pour récupérer l'enquête et tenter de la résoudre avec l'aide du moine hérétique et de ses méthodes particulières, au balbutiement de la police scientifique..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous?
"J'ai eu beaucoup de mal à rentrer dans l'histoire pour la simple raison que j'ai trouvé difficile de m'intéresser au héros, le jeune Volnay et fameux commissaire aux morts étranges. Étant donné sa fonction et son titre, on s'attend à un homme brillant, un original or dès les premières heures de l'enquête, il se fait tourner la tête par une jeune dame charmante et en oublie complètement de voir ce qui est évident pour le lecteur. Cette dernière, qui se joue clairement de lui et ne sait pas bien ce qu'elle veut, m'a d'ailleurs plutôt agacée, quant à leur troisième acolyte, Casanova en personne, je n'ai pas été plus séduite, ce qui est un comble, non ? Heureusement, la présence du prêtre et l'enquête elle-même attisent un peu plus notre intérêt mais je ne me suis jamais complètement remise de ma déception de trouver ce héros faible et régulièrement ridiculisé à la place de l'homme intelligent et intransigeant que j'espérais."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini?
"J'attendais peut-être trop de ce titre accrocheur et de ces sublimes couvertures, d'autant que l'enquête est plutôt bien menée et que les révélations finales m'ont bien plues. Du coup, je ne sais pas encore si je me laisserai de nouveau tenter, sachant que les tomes suivants sont mieux notés, ou s'il vaut mieux que je m'en tienne là. "
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
October 14, 2020
"The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths" is a period piece, set in 1700's France in the Court of Louis XV. The book is full of intrigue, mysterious societies, mysterious 'people', murder, governmental unrest and spies, lots and lots of spies...EVERYONE spies...on everyone else. :D
Multiple historic figures make an appearance. The court of Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour, Le Comte de St. Germain, Casanova, etc. and the book is well researched and gives voice and life to these figures from the past. The actual mystery, the 'strange and unexpected death' of a literally faceless young woman weaves throughout the court intrigue and political maneuverings. Volnay, our protagonist is sublimely unconcerned with all of these shenanigans or so he would like to appear as he attempts to solve the mystery of a faceless young woman, but keeps getting drawn further and further into multiple political, social and religious plots.
I enjoyed the characterizations. The mysterious goings on kept one intrigued. My favorite characters were a suitably mysterious monk and a magpie. My only complaint is that a lot of the time the story changes from one characters viewpoint to anothers unexpectedly and with no warning. The plot line gets jerked around almost as much as poor Volnay does. The strange and unexplained deaths are finally solved in a suitably twisty fashion.
thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this arc. It was greatly enjoyed and I look forward to further translations of Chevalier Volnay's exploits.
Multiple historic figures make an appearance. The court of Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour, Le Comte de St. Germain, Casanova, etc. and the book is well researched and gives voice and life to these figures from the past. The actual mystery, the 'strange and unexpected death' of a literally faceless young woman weaves throughout the court intrigue and political maneuverings. Volnay, our protagonist is sublimely unconcerned with all of these shenanigans or so he would like to appear as he attempts to solve the mystery of a faceless young woman, but keeps getting drawn further and further into multiple political, social and religious plots.
I enjoyed the characterizations. The mysterious goings on kept one intrigued. My favorite characters were a suitably mysterious monk and a magpie. My only complaint is that a lot of the time the story changes from one characters viewpoint to anothers unexpectedly and with no warning. The plot line gets jerked around almost as much as poor Volnay does. The strange and unexplained deaths are finally solved in a suitably twisty fashion.
thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this arc. It was greatly enjoyed and I look forward to further translations of Chevalier Volnay's exploits.
September 9, 2022
This book caught my attention from the very first instance my eyes captured it! Once I saw it, I knew I had to read it! Probably thanks to the cover ?
So there you have it, I devoured this book in a very short time and left with a more than a favorable impression. There are only a few books a year that are real favorites but, this is one without any hesitation!
One beautiful spring evening, a young woman gets down from a coach in one of the 1750’s Paris streets. After walking out from the road to a little side-turning, she feels a presence following her steps as she walks deep into the alley. A few moments later, just as Casanova happens to be coming past with a lady he’s been entertaining, a scream was heard. Following its source, they found a body. Casanova drops down to its side and discovers that the lady’s face was torn off. Who could be guilty of such barbarism? And for what reasons? That's what the famous inspector of strange and unexplained deaths, Chevalier de Volnay, will have to discover, assisted by his friend, the monk.
So many secrets, so many spies, so many dangers for a policeman trying to do his best.
Overall The inspector of strange and unexplained deaths is a thrilling, compelling, and thought-provoking novel that will easily entertain you for many days and nights. I was intrigued by some of the revelations near the end, which left me wanting to read the next book in the series!
So there you have it, I devoured this book in a very short time and left with a more than a favorable impression. There are only a few books a year that are real favorites but, this is one without any hesitation!
One beautiful spring evening, a young woman gets down from a coach in one of the 1750’s Paris streets. After walking out from the road to a little side-turning, she feels a presence following her steps as she walks deep into the alley. A few moments later, just as Casanova happens to be coming past with a lady he’s been entertaining, a scream was heard. Following its source, they found a body. Casanova drops down to its side and discovers that the lady’s face was torn off. Who could be guilty of such barbarism? And for what reasons? That's what the famous inspector of strange and unexplained deaths, Chevalier de Volnay, will have to discover, assisted by his friend, the monk.
So many secrets, so many spies, so many dangers for a policeman trying to do his best.
Overall The inspector of strange and unexplained deaths is a thrilling, compelling, and thought-provoking novel that will easily entertain you for many days and nights. I was intrigued by some of the revelations near the end, which left me wanting to read the next book in the series!
September 22, 2023
When the horribly mutilated body of a young woman is discovered on the streets of Paris, the Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths is called to the scene. Perhaps it is on account of the translation from the original French which make this title rather cumbersome? However he is named, our protagonist is faced with the mystery of this young woman's death and why she was carrying a letter from the king.
Soon others are drawn into this and it quickly becomes clear that there is a lot more at stake. We are drawn into a world of courtesans and courtiers, secret societies and revolutionaries. The plot turns into something of a love triangle when our protagonist finds himself a rival for the affections of the aristocratic Chiara D'Ancilla: none other that Giacomo Casanova himself.
The characters of the Inspector and Casanova could not be more different. Casanova is everything we would expect him to be and in this story he does not disappoint. Volnay on the other hand has suffered disappointments in love and other events in his life, which have caused him to withdraw and conceal his emotions from others.
As I read this novel, I found myself drawn more to the mystery of the monk's identity and whether or not Volnay would end up with Chiara, as opposed to uncovering the truth of the young woman's death; which turns into something of a subplot underpinning the various twisting threads that make up this novel. It was a definite page-turner. I really enjoyed it.
Soon others are drawn into this and it quickly becomes clear that there is a lot more at stake. We are drawn into a world of courtesans and courtiers, secret societies and revolutionaries. The plot turns into something of a love triangle when our protagonist finds himself a rival for the affections of the aristocratic Chiara D'Ancilla: none other that Giacomo Casanova himself.
The characters of the Inspector and Casanova could not be more different. Casanova is everything we would expect him to be and in this story he does not disappoint. Volnay on the other hand has suffered disappointments in love and other events in his life, which have caused him to withdraw and conceal his emotions from others.
As I read this novel, I found myself drawn more to the mystery of the monk's identity and whether or not Volnay would end up with Chiara, as opposed to uncovering the truth of the young woman's death; which turns into something of a subplot underpinning the various twisting threads that make up this novel. It was a definite page-turner. I really enjoyed it.
September 13, 2020
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths was originally published as Cassanova and the Faceless Woman, but I find the new title much more appropriate because, while Cassanova does appear in the novel, the central character is the inspector referenced in the new title.
Set in and around Versailles during the reign of Louis XV, the novel starts off with an unusual corpse. As the Inspector attempts to solve the crime he finds himself threatened on every side: by two competing religious orders, the Comte de San Germain (an alchemist who may have discovered the secret to eternal life), a ruthless police chief, the King's mistress, and the King himself. And then there's Cassanova, who keeps popping up where he's not expected. The Inspector is the only character in the novel who hasn't taken sides and who doesn't have a hidden agenda. Days later, another woman is killed in a similar fashion...
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths offers a wild ride of a read. It's the kind of book that can sweep one up on a day that's been lackluster, leaving boredom and predictability behind. I strongly recommend readers keep this title in mind for a day when an invigorating refresher—or an escape of a few hours—is needed.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
Set in and around Versailles during the reign of Louis XV, the novel starts off with an unusual corpse. As the Inspector attempts to solve the crime he finds himself threatened on every side: by two competing religious orders, the Comte de San Germain (an alchemist who may have discovered the secret to eternal life), a ruthless police chief, the King's mistress, and the King himself. And then there's Cassanova, who keeps popping up where he's not expected. The Inspector is the only character in the novel who hasn't taken sides and who doesn't have a hidden agenda. Days later, another woman is killed in a similar fashion...
The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths offers a wild ride of a read. It's the kind of book that can sweep one up on a day that's been lackluster, leaving boredom and predictability behind. I strongly recommend readers keep this title in mind for a day when an invigorating refresher—or an escape of a few hours—is needed.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
September 26, 2020
I thought this book was a good read and one of the better murder mystery/historical fiction I have read recently. I found he best thing about it the characters and their relationships with one another. The setting up of the time period was also excellent both in setting and context. The one thing I found lacking was the setting of the location, Paris, as I found this was strong at the beginning by creating the atmosphere of the city, but found it depleted as the book went on and could have been set anywhere in Europe.
I thought the set up of the murder and the conspiracy around it was good and it really hooked me from the beginning. However, when the solution was revealed for the first murder about 3/4 of the way through it came very suddenly at the beginning of a chapter unrelated to the last, and although I enjoyed the revelation and the putting together of the clues. I felt we as readers were told the truth rather than discovered the truth alongside the Inspector. But overall I found it suspenseful and intriguing with excellent ending and characters.
I think some of the negatives may be due to the translation into english rather than the quality of the writing.
Would read another in the series and recommend to others.
I thought the set up of the murder and the conspiracy around it was good and it really hooked me from the beginning. However, when the solution was revealed for the first murder about 3/4 of the way through it came very suddenly at the beginning of a chapter unrelated to the last, and although I enjoyed the revelation and the putting together of the clues. I felt we as readers were told the truth rather than discovered the truth alongside the Inspector. But overall I found it suspenseful and intriguing with excellent ending and characters.
I think some of the negatives may be due to the translation into english rather than the quality of the writing.
Would read another in the series and recommend to others.
April 10, 2019
Not a novel I would have chosen to read had I not been given the opportunity to read and review by Pushkin Press. However I have very eclectic tastes and like to be pushed outside of my comfort zone, in this case I found it worthwhile. Set in and around Paris in 1759, there is lots of excitement to keep the reader interested with conspiracy and spies around every corner as Volnay does his utmost to solve this case in his position as The Inspector of Strange and Unexplained Deaths. A position that is not popular with the Paris police chief as he reports directly to the King, despite once being a rebel himself. A quality read, the author and translator have produced a very descriptive period thriller.
This is the first in a series to be translated from the French by Louise Lalaurie Rogers for Olivier Barde-Cabouchon. I believe more of his novels will be translated if his writing proves to be popular with English readers of this genre.
Certainly to be recommended for fans of historical thrillers looking for new authors to read.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
This is the first in a series to be translated from the French by Louise Lalaurie Rogers for Olivier Barde-Cabouchon. I believe more of his novels will be translated if his writing proves to be popular with English readers of this genre.
Certainly to be recommended for fans of historical thrillers looking for new authors to read.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
March 24, 2023
On suit Volnay le commissaire aux morts étrange on l'appelle comme ça parce qu'il résout les morts les plus étranges de tout Paris et c'est grâce en souvent le roi qu'il a pu avoir sa distinction en souvent Louis XV le roman se passe en 1759.
Alors on découvre une femme sans visage le visage comme si avait été arraché chirurgicalement qui a pu connaître ce crime aussi atroce ?
Alors je vais commencer par le tome 5 oui c'est bizarre je sais mais du coup j'ai pu commencer le tome 1 et je crois que je l'aimais autant que le tome 5 alors attention j'ai adoré le tome 5 mais dans cet homme-là il y a Louis XV la Pompadour Casanova et puis le commissaire volay est une personne tellement droite je pense qu'il y en a pas beaucoup de nos jours qui sont comme ça même à son époque de toute façon en tout cas je vous le recommande société secrète crime crapuleux qui en fait pour le premier c'est en spoil c'était assez inattendu vous verrez bien.
En tout cas je vous le recommande si vous aimez les policiers historiques il est génial ainsi que toute la saga du commissaire aux morts étrange.
Alors on découvre une femme sans visage le visage comme si avait été arraché chirurgicalement qui a pu connaître ce crime aussi atroce ?
Alors je vais commencer par le tome 5 oui c'est bizarre je sais mais du coup j'ai pu commencer le tome 1 et je crois que je l'aimais autant que le tome 5 alors attention j'ai adoré le tome 5 mais dans cet homme-là il y a Louis XV la Pompadour Casanova et puis le commissaire volay est une personne tellement droite je pense qu'il y en a pas beaucoup de nos jours qui sont comme ça même à son époque de toute façon en tout cas je vous le recommande société secrète crime crapuleux qui en fait pour le premier c'est en spoil c'était assez inattendu vous verrez bien.
En tout cas je vous le recommande si vous aimez les policiers historiques il est génial ainsi que toute la saga du commissaire aux morts étrange.
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