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Приключения Эраста Фандорина #9
He Lover of Death
Fandorin gegen die Herrscher der Moskauer Unterwelt
Moskau 1900: Senka schlägt sich als kleiner Dieb durch. Eines Tages findet er einen Schatz. Nun kann er sich viele seiner Träume erfüllen. Und auch die schönste Frau Moskaus, die Geliebte des Herrschers der Unterwelt, scheint sich ihm zuzuwenden. Doch sämtliche Gauner Moskaus sind hinter dem Schatz und Senkas schöner Angebeteten her.
Boris Akunin genießt in Rußland geradezu legendäre Popularität. Auch in Deutschland hat er Kultstatus. 2001 wurde er in Rußland zum Schriftsteller des Jahres gekürt, seine Bücher wurden bereits in 17 Sprachen übersetzt, weltweit wurden etwa 6 Millionen davon verkauft.
Moskau 1900: Senka schlägt sich als kleiner Dieb durch. Eines Tages findet er einen Schatz. Nun kann er sich viele seiner Träume erfüllen. Und auch die schönste Frau Moskaus, die Geliebte des Herrschers der Unterwelt, scheint sich ihm zuzuwenden. Doch sämtliche Gauner Moskaus sind hinter dem Schatz und Senkas schöner Angebeteten her.
Boris Akunin genießt in Rußland geradezu legendäre Popularität. Auch in Deutschland hat er Kultstatus. 2001 wurde er in Rußland zum Schriftsteller des Jahres gekürt, seine Bücher wurden bereits in 17 Sprachen übersetzt, weltweit wurden etwa 6 Millionen davon verkauft.
279 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2001
39 people are currently reading
641 people want to read
About the author
Boris Akunin
298 books1,630 followersReal name - Grigory Shalvovich Chkhartishvili (Russian: Борис Акунин; Georgian: გრიგორი შალვას ძე ჩხარტიშვილი; Аlso see Grigory Chkhartishvili, Григорий Чхартишвили), born in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1956. Since 1958 he lives in Moscow. Writer and translator from Japanese. Author of crime stories set in tsarist Russia. In 1998 he made his debut with novel Azazel (to English readers known as The Winter Queen), where he created Erast Pietrovich Fandorin.
B. Akunin refers to Mikhail Alexandrovich Bakunin and Akuna, home name of Anna Akhmatova, Russian poet.
In September of 2000, Akunin was named Russian Writer of the Year and won the "Antibooker" prize in 2000 for his Erast Fandorin novel Coronation, or the last of the Romanovs.
Akunin also created crime-solving Orthodox nun, sister Pelagia, and literary genres.
His pseudonyms are Анатолий Брусникин and Анна Борисова. In some Dutch editions he is also known as Boris Akoenin.
B. Akunin refers to Mikhail Alexandrovich Bakunin and Akuna, home name of Anna Akhmatova, Russian poet.
In September of 2000, Akunin was named Russian Writer of the Year and won the "Antibooker" prize in 2000 for his Erast Fandorin novel Coronation, or the last of the Romanovs.
Akunin also created crime-solving Orthodox nun, sister Pelagia, and literary genres.
His pseudonyms are Анатолий Брусникин and Анна Борисова. In some Dutch editions he is also known as Boris Akoenin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 7, 2018
Part of the Summer reading vibe 2018
Part 2 or if you like the immediate follow up to “she lover of death” which I should likely have read soon after, I did mean too..... good intentions n all that & jus over a year has passed...... But now I am back with my good friend Erast Fandorin
OR are we?
We start with a street urchin AND lady Death herself, both new characters not present from the prior in the series & it’s their tale we follow from the start with “guest” appearances by Erast Fandorin along the way, who doesn’t really enter the dialogue until well past the 50% mark. Its a somewhat familiar style to me by now, in that the author doesn’t necessarily feature the MC in the story/book. The street urchin called Semka is very engaging & acts far wiser than his years as first he joins a notorious gang before moving on in the world as an “entrepreneur” in his own right. Lady Death is very alluring to all that cross her path, her monika giving a tell to what happens to all that do. I must admit I wasn’t sure where the story was going at first as Fandorin normally makes an appearance early doors (even if only a brief one) to give clarity & direction to the story, not so here but it certainly doesn’t detract as he has created a superb character in Semka & his allies/foes which we encounter.
I can say no more for fear of revealing too much but if you like Sherlockian style sleuths, femme fatales, gangsters (Russian) of the early 1900’s, corruption, double dealings & tales of derring-do then this is a series for you.
A very worthy addition to the Erast Fandorin series which gets better with every read, onwards I go
4.5 stars for me rounded down to 4
Part 2 or if you like the immediate follow up to “she lover of death” which I should likely have read soon after, I did mean too..... good intentions n all that & jus over a year has passed...... But now I am back with my good friend Erast Fandorin
OR are we?
We start with a street urchin AND lady Death herself, both new characters not present from the prior in the series & it’s their tale we follow from the start with “guest” appearances by Erast Fandorin along the way, who doesn’t really enter the dialogue until well past the 50% mark. Its a somewhat familiar style to me by now, in that the author doesn’t necessarily feature the MC in the story/book. The street urchin called Semka is very engaging & acts far wiser than his years as first he joins a notorious gang before moving on in the world as an “entrepreneur” in his own right. Lady Death is very alluring to all that cross her path, her monika giving a tell to what happens to all that do. I must admit I wasn’t sure where the story was going at first as Fandorin normally makes an appearance early doors (even if only a brief one) to give clarity & direction to the story, not so here but it certainly doesn’t detract as he has created a superb character in Semka & his allies/foes which we encounter.
I can say no more for fear of revealing too much but if you like Sherlockian style sleuths, femme fatales, gangsters (Russian) of the early 1900’s, corruption, double dealings & tales of derring-do then this is a series for you.
A very worthy addition to the Erast Fandorin series which gets better with every read, onwards I go
4.5 stars for me rounded down to 4
October 28, 2018
Well, that was tremendous fun! Dickensian villains, fascinating historical detail, an exciting plot and a wonderfully tongue-in-cheek but slightly macabre sense of humour made this an absolute delight to read. Just what the doctor ordered!
June 1, 2023
Wow! 🥰👏👍 I’m really impressed with this book! What can I say about it? Usually, if there is a series of books, first one is interesting, and rest are getting worse and worse.. But not with Boris Akunin’s book! All of his books are amazing! And this one, I would say even more interesting then previous ones. Im already very excited about rest of the books about Erast Fandorin!
What surprised me, that half of the book wasn’t at all about Erast Fandorin! It was about Senka Skorikov, an orphan. Who was first raised with his evil uncle.. Later he runs away from him and goes to live in Khitrovka - the most criminal place of Moscow city.
He is really clever boy. First he learns how to steal. Later he falls in love with Death (it’s a beautiful lady, who brings death to everyone she is in relationship). Senka is a young, underage boy, that doesn’t even have mustache.. He doesn’t want to admit, that he is in love with her. She asks him to do something for her (she was into cocaine).. But he gives her a condition, that her lover (kind of mafia boss) will take him in his team. Finally she agrees to write a letter for him.
He gets into the gang.. But he was frightened by cruelty of this people. So he runs away from them.
Later he finds out a treasure. He becomes rich. But what he does - I think it was correct thing to do - is study. Study, how to behave, French language, little bit of martial arts, etc. What a clever boy.
Boris Akunin’s books are sometimes so funny, that I was laughing loud. Sometimes I was feeling sad. Sometimes wanted to cry. So many emotions!!!
Lastly wanted to say, that I’m completely in love with Masa character!!! ❤️❤️❤️ He is a friend of Erast Fandorin and more of that his servant. And he is from Japan! Such an adorable guy!!!
What surprised me, that half of the book wasn’t at all about Erast Fandorin! It was about Senka Skorikov, an orphan. Who was first raised with his evil uncle.. Later he runs away from him and goes to live in Khitrovka - the most criminal place of Moscow city.
He is really clever boy. First he learns how to steal. Later he falls in love with Death (it’s a beautiful lady, who brings death to everyone she is in relationship). Senka is a young, underage boy, that doesn’t even have mustache.. He doesn’t want to admit, that he is in love with her. She asks him to do something for her (she was into cocaine).. But he gives her a condition, that her lover (kind of mafia boss) will take him in his team. Finally she agrees to write a letter for him.
He gets into the gang.. But he was frightened by cruelty of this people. So he runs away from them.
Later he finds out a treasure. He becomes rich. But what he does - I think it was correct thing to do - is study. Study, how to behave, French language, little bit of martial arts, etc. What a clever boy.
Boris Akunin’s books are sometimes so funny, that I was laughing loud. Sometimes I was feeling sad. Sometimes wanted to cry. So many emotions!!!
Lastly wanted to say, that I’m completely in love with Masa character!!! ❤️❤️❤️ He is a friend of Erast Fandorin and more of that his servant. And he is from Japan! Such an adorable guy!!!
February 6, 2018
This and 'He Lover of Death' are two intertwined novels, as can be guessed from the names. While the two mysteries are separate, they happen at roughly the same time. When Fandorin disappears from one book for a few days, he's busy on the other case - while the other cast continue of their separate paths.
'She' is a bohemian, slightly absurd mystery of a death cult. 'He' is a tale of low-life criminals and gangs, an almost rags-to-riches treasure hunt. Both have their femme fatales, as well as plot twists.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
Assaph Mehr, author of Murder In Absentia: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
'She' is a bohemian, slightly absurd mystery of a death cult. 'He' is a tale of low-life criminals and gangs, an almost rags-to-riches treasure hunt. Both have their femme fatales, as well as plot twists.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
Assaph Mehr, author of Murder In Absentia: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
January 30, 2012
And now we've come to number nine in the Fandorin series. This time the story is told in a third-person narrative, as seen through the eyes and experiences of a member of Moscow's criminal underworld, Senka Spirodov. And FYI, whoever wrote the blurb for the dustjacket cover put his name as Skorikov. I noticed that on Amazon UK, one reviewer repeated that name ... is it just my copy that has him as Spirodov?
The action takes place at the same time as Fandorin's involvement in the suicide club investigation from She Lover of Death, and involves another young person infatuated with Death. However, in Senka's case, Death is the nickname of a living person, a beautiful young woman whose lovers all ended up dying -- not by her hand, but from different causes. After a while Death gained a reputation, leaving people who walked by her to cross themselves or to spit over their shoulders. Now she lives in the Khitrovka district of Moscow, where decent people don't venture and where the criminal organizations are pitted against each other in a struggle for control. Senka ended up here after family circumstances left him orphaned and with an uncle who used him for free labor and other abuses; a desire to do a good deed ultimately got him into trouble and he had to run away. Where better than Khitrovka, where no one would dare come to find him? It is there where he becomes infatuated with the woman called Death, whose intervention sends him into the employ of The Prince, the leader of one of the two top crime organizations in the area, and a lover of Death as well. On an errand of mercy for Death, Senka discovers the location of a treasure buried in the labyrinthine tunnels underneath the city -- and realizes that he has a ticket out of the criminal life. However, others who inhabit Khitrovka are not so lucky -- there are a series of ghastly murders occurring there. Enter Erast Fandorin, who must get to the bottom of these horrible crimes, and who knows that Death is the key to uncovering the truth.
He Lover of Death is much more of an adventure story than a mystery, although there is plenty of crime and a growing list of suspects as the novel progresses. There might possibly be more humor in this installment than in the others preceding it, as Fandorin and Senka team up for some crazy adventures and Senka is roped into helping to solve the crimes. Quite a bit of time is given over to Senka's character and his changing life before Fandorin actually gets involved. The reason: he's been very busy with events from She Lover of Death, and now and then the author references some of that story in this one.
It's a fun read that will keep you turning pages, not so much for the mystery but to find out what's going to happen to Senka next. It's almost like a rags-to-riches story where the hero finds himself in one desperate plight after another, but with the added interjection of humorous situations that you just know Akunin had a great time inventing.
Again, my suggestion is to read these books in order, but you can get by with this one as a standalone if you don't want to go back and read the books that came before. This one may be the most fun book in the series -- less mystery really, but all the same, a good time will be had by all who poke their noses into this novel.
The action takes place at the same time as Fandorin's involvement in the suicide club investigation from She Lover of Death, and involves another young person infatuated with Death. However, in Senka's case, Death is the nickname of a living person, a beautiful young woman whose lovers all ended up dying -- not by her hand, but from different causes. After a while Death gained a reputation, leaving people who walked by her to cross themselves or to spit over their shoulders. Now she lives in the Khitrovka district of Moscow, where decent people don't venture and where the criminal organizations are pitted against each other in a struggle for control. Senka ended up here after family circumstances left him orphaned and with an uncle who used him for free labor and other abuses; a desire to do a good deed ultimately got him into trouble and he had to run away. Where better than Khitrovka, where no one would dare come to find him? It is there where he becomes infatuated with the woman called Death, whose intervention sends him into the employ of The Prince, the leader of one of the two top crime organizations in the area, and a lover of Death as well. On an errand of mercy for Death, Senka discovers the location of a treasure buried in the labyrinthine tunnels underneath the city -- and realizes that he has a ticket out of the criminal life. However, others who inhabit Khitrovka are not so lucky -- there are a series of ghastly murders occurring there. Enter Erast Fandorin, who must get to the bottom of these horrible crimes, and who knows that Death is the key to uncovering the truth.
He Lover of Death is much more of an adventure story than a mystery, although there is plenty of crime and a growing list of suspects as the novel progresses. There might possibly be more humor in this installment than in the others preceding it, as Fandorin and Senka team up for some crazy adventures and Senka is roped into helping to solve the crimes. Quite a bit of time is given over to Senka's character and his changing life before Fandorin actually gets involved. The reason: he's been very busy with events from She Lover of Death, and now and then the author references some of that story in this one.
It's a fun read that will keep you turning pages, not so much for the mystery but to find out what's going to happen to Senka next. It's almost like a rags-to-riches story where the hero finds himself in one desperate plight after another, but with the added interjection of humorous situations that you just know Akunin had a great time inventing.
Again, my suggestion is to read these books in order, but you can get by with this one as a standalone if you don't want to go back and read the books that came before. This one may be the most fun book in the series -- less mystery really, but all the same, a good time will be had by all who poke their noses into this novel.
April 24, 2012
I have read every book I can by this man. He gets better and better.
The early ones were interesting because they gave an insight into Tsarist times, with an engaging hero along the lines of Sir Percy Blakeney.
This one is the best yet. It has a new dimension, as it introduces you to the Moscow underworld - which makes the behaviour of the mafia seem relatively genteel.
For me, one of the measures of a good book is whether it makes me want to know more about the world it describes. This had me prowling through the internet (with very little success so far).
Also it has a sexy, crazy heroine. Always good!
The early ones were interesting because they gave an insight into Tsarist times, with an engaging hero along the lines of Sir Percy Blakeney.
This one is the best yet. It has a new dimension, as it introduces you to the Moscow underworld - which makes the behaviour of the mafia seem relatively genteel.
For me, one of the measures of a good book is whether it makes me want to know more about the world it describes. This had me prowling through the internet (with very little success so far).
Also it has a sexy, crazy heroine. Always good!
July 24, 2011
I have really enjoyed Akunin's work from the outset, and in this case he hit has stride again. Exciting and adventurous, Akunin's ability to shift narrative voice between each novel (and in the Fadorin series his homage to style of authors of great detective fiction) is impressive. An excellent addition and a great way to spend a lazy day, immmersed in Moscow's early 20th century underworld.
December 7, 2022
Nav noslēpums, ka Akuņins ir meistarīgs stlists. Katram Fandorina sērijas romānam ir savs apakšžanrs. Šis ir "dikensiskais detektīvs", un tāds tas tiešām ir, jo ieved lasītāju 20. gadsimta sākuma Maskavas noziedzības un nabadzības zaņķī Hitrovkā, kur valda savi likumi un stingra hierarhija un puišeļi cīnās par vietu zem saules. Netrūkst arī piedzīvojumu, dramatisku likteņa pavērsienu un sentimentālas mīlestības. Dikenss, kas Dikenss, tikai nežēlīgāks un asiņaināks, kā jau mūsdienu lasītājam domāts.
January 18, 2015
Понравилось, местами шокировало. Любопытно, как тонко писатель переплел нынешнее приключение Фандорина с предыдущим. Фандорин - мой любимый книжный персонаж :)
September 3, 2020
Хоть эти части и парные, но все же эта мне понравилась меньше, чем Любовница смерти. И все равно было довольно неплохо, пусть и без моих любимых тропов. Просто история о преступном мире. Даже и детективного элемента мне показалось маловато.
May 30, 2020
**3.5**
February 19, 2018
На мой взгляд второй роман в подцикле, про взаимоотношения со смертью, получился интереснее первого именно за счёт декораций. Знаменитая Хитровка - место обитания воров, грабителей и прочих обитателей социального дна. Со своими правилами, кодексами и законами. Даже в бедности люди пытаются построить свой собственный социум, не зависящий от внешнего. Тут правят бал удачливые преступники и самые отчаянные бандиты. Фартовые и короли в бандах. Здесь обитают кроты – знатоки подвалов и подземных ходов, на которых построена Хитровка. В общем, свой собственный мир, со своими мифами и легендами.
Второе что радует - интересный медиум, он же главный герой чьими глазами мы следим за развитием событий. Простой мальчишка, выросший в бедных районах и стремящийся чего-то добиться в жизни. Богатство, известность – вот это все. В детали он не вдается, по молодости лет. Просто абстрактное величие. Это желание, кстати перекликается с героиней предыдущей книги. Та тоже хотела стать кем-то кем она не являлась, но хотела бы стать. Но почему-то в этого паренька веришь. Может быть потому, что у него более понятные причины для этого. Встретиться со своим младшим братом, отданным на воспитание в богатую семью и стать ему примером. Это лучше на мой взгляд, чем непонятное желание изменится от скуки, как это было в «Любовнице смерти».
Ну и все остальные герои здесь прописаны лучше и интереснее, чем герои декадентского детектива. Они более оригинальны, более понятны и более живые. У них есть какие-то причины поступать именно так. И мы узнаем о них сразу же, а не после того как их убивают. Большое и важное дело, на самом деле. Взять, например, Будочника – полицейского, который следит за порядком на Хитровке. Среди воров и бандитов, он умудряется выживать. Знает кого отпустить, кому отвесить подзатыльник, а кого стоит и арестовать. Даже воры его не трогают – по причине уважения к нему. Не слишком оригинальный, но все равно достаточно колоритный персонаж.
Детективная интрига тут конечно послабее. Есть парочка провалов в логике и легко раскрывающийся главный злодей. Но на самом деле, детективная составляющая здесь не важна. Гораздо интереснее следить за жизнью основного героя. Как он становится членом банды, как идёт к успеху. Именно жизнь простого паренька Сеньки Скорикова тут важна. А детектив и супермен Фандорин тут для галочки и принадлежности к циклу. Ну или опять-таки такой Бог из машины, появляющийся, берущий под свое опекунство героя и потом раздающий всем сестрам по серьгам.
Кстати, идея с двумя одновременными расследованиями меня порадовала именно во второй книге цикла. Если бы ещё автор смог её использовать более активно. А то получается, что пересечений между ними всего ничего. Типа встречи главных героев и ответ на вопрос, почему Фандорин пришел на решающую схватку без оружия. Мне кажется из такой прикольной идеи можно было выжать куда больше интересных вещей. А не только два отдельных мира, которые пересекаются в паре мест.
Короче говоря, для меня эта книга не история Фандорина, а история простого Сеньки в которую случайно затесался Эраст Петрович Фандорин. И если оценивать её именно с такой позиции, то она получилась очень неплохой, а вот как книга про Фандорина - не очень. Особенно если сравнивать её с первыми частями цикла. Мелковата она. Будь она крепче связана со своей «сестрой» (я про Любовницу смерти если что) было бы интереснее. Но этого нет и с этим ничего не поделать.
Второе что радует - интересный медиум, он же главный герой чьими глазами мы следим за развитием событий. Простой мальчишка, выросший в бедных районах и стремящийся чего-то добиться в жизни. Богатство, известность – вот это все. В детали он не вдается, по молодости лет. Просто абстрактное величие. Это желание, кстати перекликается с героиней предыдущей книги. Та тоже хотела стать кем-то кем она не являлась, но хотела бы стать. Но почему-то в этого паренька веришь. Может быть потому, что у него более понятные причины для этого. Встретиться со своим младшим братом, отданным на воспитание в богатую семью и стать ему примером. Это лучше на мой взгляд, чем непонятное желание изменится от скуки, как это было в «Любовнице смерти».
Ну и все остальные герои здесь прописаны лучше и интереснее, чем герои декадентского детектива. Они более оригинальны, более понятны и более живые. У них есть какие-то причины поступать именно так. И мы узнаем о них сразу же, а не после того как их убивают. Большое и важное дело, на самом деле. Взять, например, Будочника – полицейского, который следит за порядком на Хитровке. Среди воров и бандитов, он умудряется выживать. Знает кого отпустить, кому отвесить подзатыльник, а кого стоит и арестовать. Даже воры его не трогают – по причине уважения к нему. Не слишком оригинальный, но все равно достаточно колоритный персонаж.
Детективная интрига тут конечно послабее. Есть парочка провалов в логике и легко раскрывающийся главный злодей. Но на самом деле, детективная составляющая здесь не важна. Гораздо интереснее следить за жизнью основного героя. Как он становится членом банды, как идёт к успеху. Именно жизнь простого паренька Сеньки Скорикова тут важна. А детектив и супермен Фандорин тут для галочки и принадлежности к циклу. Ну или опять-таки такой Бог из машины, появляющийся, берущий под свое опекунство героя и потом раздающий всем сестрам по серьгам.
Кстати, идея с двумя одновременными расследованиями меня порадовала именно во второй книге цикла. Если бы ещё автор смог её использовать более активно. А то получается, что пересечений между ними всего ничего. Типа встречи главных героев и ответ на вопрос, почему Фандорин пришел на решающую схватку без оружия. Мне кажется из такой прикольной идеи можно было выжать куда больше интересных вещей. А не только два отдельных мира, которые пересекаются в паре мест.
Короче говоря, для меня эта книга не история Фандорина, а история простого Сеньки в которую случайно затесался Эраст Петрович Фандорин. И если оценивать её именно с такой позиции, то она получилась очень неплохой, а вот как книга про Фандорина - не очень. Особенно если сравнивать её с первыми частями цикла. Мелковата она. Будь она крепче связана со своей «сестрой» (я про Любовницу смерти если что) было бы интереснее. Но этого нет и с этим ничего не поделать.
August 15, 2018
The translation is suprisingly bad, or rather, full of unbelievably strange mistakes. I think the translator didn't like this book very much, tried to get rid of the job as soon as possible and never even read the translation. There is no other explanation. I can understand why he didn't like it - I don't (because of thieves and their slang, also because of overdoing the pity part).
There is the list of the most glaring mistakes.
1. They were on their way to the church to get married, she and her bridegroom, when suddenly these two black stallions, great huge brutes, darted right in front of their sleigh.
What stallions? They were great black dogs. No wonder they startled the horses; moreover, a black dog is connected with Devil.
2. Prokha legged it straight away, and Skorik and Filin never stuck their noses out of the gateway.
They were Speedy and the Night-Owl a minute ago. These are their Russian nicknames which were translated. I didn’t like Speedy and his full last name Spidorov – it sounds very bad in Russian. But I can hardly protest the necessity of translating meaningful names. Only please, translate them EVERY time.
3. the Chinee had caught one of his stupid sandals on a bottle and gone sprawling flat out.
Not on a bottle, but on a cobble, because it was a cobblestone pavement. Masa is not that clumsy.
4. The hand went back down, but the sleeper still didn’t turn towards them. Senka took off his cap and crossed himself - the wall was covered with icons
Missing: In the third room. Looks like the icons were in the room with the sleeping man or in the hallway.
There are also some other missing phrases, but at least they weren’t quite necessary for understanding what's going on.
5. And there was an ice-cream seller too, they ambushed his daughter, who was engaged
She wasn’t exactly engaged, she was simply of marrying age and quality, so to say. It’s a slightly archaic Russian expression – ‘doch’ nevesta’.
6. ‘Well, now what?’ the Prince asked. Then, turning to Yoshka: ‘Fire away, my little sharpshooter.
No, 'Fire away' - that’s what Deadeye said, not the Prince. It’s obvious – he liked to talk pompously. The Prince didn’t know words like ‘sharpshooter’ XD In Russian it’s clear enough. And there are some other episodes where who did what is mixed up, but I don’t remember them exactly.
So my overall impression of the translation is quite bad, I even checked if the translator was the same.
There is the list of the most glaring mistakes.
1. They were on their way to the church to get married, she and her bridegroom, when suddenly these two black stallions, great huge brutes, darted right in front of their sleigh.
What stallions? They were great black dogs. No wonder they startled the horses; moreover, a black dog is connected with Devil.
2. Prokha legged it straight away, and Skorik and Filin never stuck their noses out of the gateway.
They were Speedy and the Night-Owl a minute ago. These are their Russian nicknames which were translated. I didn’t like Speedy and his full last name Spidorov – it sounds very bad in Russian. But I can hardly protest the necessity of translating meaningful names. Only please, translate them EVERY time.
3. the Chinee had caught one of his stupid sandals on a bottle and gone sprawling flat out.
Not on a bottle, but on a cobble, because it was a cobblestone pavement. Masa is not that clumsy.
4. The hand went back down, but the sleeper still didn’t turn towards them. Senka took off his cap and crossed himself - the wall was covered with icons
Missing: In the third room. Looks like the icons were in the room with the sleeping man or in the hallway.
There are also some other missing phrases, but at least they weren’t quite necessary for understanding what's going on.
5. And there was an ice-cream seller too, they ambushed his daughter, who was engaged
She wasn’t exactly engaged, she was simply of marrying age and quality, so to say. It’s a slightly archaic Russian expression – ‘doch’ nevesta’.
6. ‘Well, now what?’ the Prince asked. Then, turning to Yoshka: ‘Fire away, my little sharpshooter.
No, 'Fire away' - that’s what Deadeye said, not the Prince. It’s obvious – he liked to talk pompously. The Prince didn’t know words like ‘sharpshooter’ XD In Russian it’s clear enough. And there are some other episodes where who did what is mixed up, but I don’t remember them exactly.
So my overall impression of the translation is quite bad, I even checked if the translator was the same.
July 11, 2009
This book took me a lot longer to engage with than the earlier Fandorin novels. This may be because my Russian proficiency has weakened somewhat, but despite that I think that the plot takes a particularly long time to develop in this novel. Once it did begin to develop it was an interesting story, but on the whole I don't think that this is the strongest of Akunin's writings. I would be interested to read it in English if it is ever translated, to see if I may have missed something.
March 21, 2018
Mosca, 1900. Il giovane Senka Spidorov, orfano e in fuga da uno zio che lo maltratta, trova rifugio in una delle aree più malfamate di Mosca, Chitrovka, e comincia a farsi strada come ladruncolo, fino ad entrare nella gang di uno dei criminali più temuti, il Principe, grazie all'intercessione dell'amante di lui, la bella e misteriosa Morte. La carriera di Senka ha vita breve: tra uno sgarbo al Principe, la scoperta di un antico tesoro nelle fondamenta di Chitrovka e dei brutali omicidi ad esso collegati, Senka sarà costretto a nascondersi e a fare affidamento su quelle che per il lettore saranno due vecchie e ben ritrovate conoscenze.
He Lover of Death è uno dei romanzi meno riusciti della serie, anche se decisamente superiore agli ultimi due. Nonostante trovi Senka snervante, devo ammettere di aver apprezzo molto l'adattamento di registro linguistico e ritmo al personaggio dal cui punto di vista viene raccontata la storia. Conseguenza di questa scelta è il ritrovare di nuovo Fandorin nell'angolo, sempre sfuggente, protagonista non protagonista, e non dipende solo dal fatto che questo romanzo e il precedente (She Lover of Death, per la cronaca) raccontino storie parallele, perché in entrambi subisce lo stesso destino. Bisogna aspettare almeno un centinaio di pagine prima che entri effettivamente in scena e solo allora la storia decolla davvero, anche se non molto.
Dei personaggi che animano la storia non ce ne sono di memorabili, temo, ma Morte merita una menzione speciale. Nessuno sa il vero nome di questa sfortunata ragazza a cui promessi sposi e amanti muoiono come mosche e che ha preso così seriamente il suo soprannome da decidere di circondarsi dei peggiori criminali ed essere la loro morte (literally). In teoria le carte in regola per essere interessante le ha, ma Akunin è sempre Akunin e Morte è l'ennesimo personaggio femminile-love interest sensazionale mal riuscito. Per quanto Fandorin possa essere affascinante, sia dentro che fuori, trovo surreale che tutte cadano ai suoi piedi come nulla fosse, ma ancor di più che lui si senta autorizzato a fare il moralista e dirle come vivere la sua vita, nonostante le buone intenzioni. Di positivo, forse, c'è che Morte ma va tutto in fumo quando
Infine, He Lover of Death è un libro mediocre: non imperdibile, ma neanche da buttare; godibile stilisticamente, ma carente di personaggi particolarmente carismatici o che non facciano alzare gli occhi al cielo davanti determinate uscite. Se siete alla prima lettura, consiglio di leggerlo subito dopo She Lover of Death, in modo da potervi almeno divertire a completare il puzzle.
He Lover of Death è uno dei romanzi meno riusciti della serie, anche se decisamente superiore agli ultimi due. Nonostante trovi Senka snervante, devo ammettere di aver apprezzo molto l'adattamento di registro linguistico e ritmo al personaggio dal cui punto di vista viene raccontata la storia. Conseguenza di questa scelta è il ritrovare di nuovo Fandorin nell'angolo, sempre sfuggente, protagonista non protagonista, e non dipende solo dal fatto che questo romanzo e il precedente (She Lover of Death, per la cronaca) raccontino storie parallele, perché in entrambi subisce lo stesso destino. Bisogna aspettare almeno un centinaio di pagine prima che entri effettivamente in scena e solo allora la storia decolla davvero, anche se non molto.
Dei personaggi che animano la storia non ce ne sono di memorabili, temo, ma Morte merita una menzione speciale. Nessuno sa il vero nome di questa sfortunata ragazza a cui promessi sposi e amanti muoiono come mosche e che ha preso così seriamente il suo soprannome da decidere di circondarsi dei peggiori criminali ed essere la loro morte (literally). In teoria le carte in regola per essere interessante le ha, ma Akunin è sempre Akunin e Morte è l'ennesimo personaggio femminile-love interest sensazionale mal riuscito. Per quanto Fandorin possa essere affascinante, sia dentro che fuori, trovo surreale che tutte cadano ai suoi piedi come nulla fosse, ma ancor di più che lui si senta autorizzato a fare il moralista e dirle come vivere la sua vita, nonostante le buone intenzioni. Di positivo, forse, c'è che Morte ma va tutto in fumo quando
Infine, He Lover of Death è un libro mediocre: non imperdibile, ma neanche da buttare; godibile stilisticamente, ma carente di personaggi particolarmente carismatici o che non facciano alzare gli occhi al cielo davanti determinate uscite. Se siete alla prima lettura, consiglio di leggerlo subito dopo She Lover of Death, in modo da potervi almeno divertire a completare il puzzle.
May 30, 2024
Диккенсовский детектив. На этот раз повествование идет от лица подростка, промышляющего мелким разбоем на Хитровке. Судьба у парня не из приятных, рано потеряв родителей, паренек сначала оказался у родственника, который использовал мальчика как слугу, а затем в бандитской среде Хитровки.
Действие этого романа происходит параллельно «Любовнице смерти», помню что, когда Фандорин читал Коломбине вырезки из газет он затрагивал тему что ни как не может поймать убийцу выреза��щую своим жертвам глаза, это как раз об этой истории. В этой истории Фандорина как всегда немного, в основном автор нас потчует историями из жизни бродяжки-мошенника, довольно симпатичного малого, не мудрено, помощники Фандорина удаются автору столь же хорошо, как и настоящие злодеи. Шепелявящий Сенька Скорик вышел весьма интересным персонажем и сам по себе заслуживает быть главным героем книги. Главное, потому что этот персонаж хоть порою глуп и не отёсан стремится все же к улучшению и в меру своих сил работает над собой.
Если в прошлой книге под смертью имелось в виду та самая старушка с косой, то в этой книге Смерть – это прозвище одной дамы, хотя можно сказать что получила она его за дело, ибо все ее женихи рано или поздно плохо заканчивали.
Злодеи, которые в остальных книгах были весьма харизматичны и по-настоящему опасны в последних двух книга вовсе не выглядят гениями зла, так заигравшимися в злодеев мелкими людишками. Хотя свой, определенный колорит в них все же есть.
В этой книге гораздо больше отсылок к предыдущей, завязок на сюжете, не знаю сразу ли автор решил, что действие двух романов со схожим названием будет происходить параллельно или он просто на всякий случай закинул в романы таких себе пасхальных зайчиков, заготовок для будущих проектов. Насчет схожести названия тоже интересно, если «любовница смерти» отсылала к самоубийцам и приверженца странного клуба, то «любовник смерти» это скорее шутливое прозвище главного героя – Сеньки Скорики, влюбленно в даму, у которой было прозвище - Смерть.
Не понравилась финальная сцена разборок со злодеями, идея в общем как бы хорошая, вот только с исполнением получилось смазано и не интересно, а могло получится живо, динамично и со страстями, а так как говориться срезались.
Действие этого романа происходит параллельно «Любовнице смерти», помню что, когда Фандорин читал Коломбине вырезки из газет он затрагивал тему что ни как не может поймать убийцу выреза��щую своим жертвам глаза, это как раз об этой истории. В этой истории Фандорина как всегда немного, в основном автор нас потчует историями из жизни бродяжки-мошенника, довольно симпатичного малого, не мудрено, помощники Фандорина удаются автору столь же хорошо, как и настоящие злодеи. Шепелявящий Сенька Скорик вышел весьма интересным персонажем и сам по себе заслуживает быть главным героем книги. Главное, потому что этот персонаж хоть порою глуп и не отёсан стремится все же к улучшению и в меру своих сил работает над собой.
Если в прошлой книге под смертью имелось в виду та самая старушка с косой, то в этой книге Смерть – это прозвище одной дамы, хотя можно сказать что получила она его за дело, ибо все ее женихи рано или поздно плохо заканчивали.
Злодеи, которые в остальных книгах были весьма харизматичны и по-настоящему опасны в последних двух книга вовсе не выглядят гениями зла, так заигравшимися в злодеев мелкими людишками. Хотя свой, определенный колорит в них все же есть.
В этой книге гораздо больше отсылок к предыдущей, завязок на сюжете, не знаю сразу ли автор решил, что действие двух романов со схожим названием будет происходить параллельно или он просто на всякий случай закинул в романы таких себе пасхальных зайчиков, заготовок для будущих проектов. Насчет схожести названия тоже интересно, если «любовница смерти» отсылала к самоубийцам и приверженца странного клуба, то «любовник смерти» это скорее шутливое прозвище главного героя – Сеньки Скорики, влюбленно в даму, у которой было прозвище - Смерть.
Не понравилась финальная сцена разборок со злодеями, идея в общем как бы хорошая, вот только с исполнением получилось смазано и не интересно, а могло получится живо, динамично и со страстями, а так как говориться срезались.
April 24, 2025
Страсти на Хитровке
Сегодняшний протагонист — Сенька Скориков, пятнадцатилетний паренёк, сбежавший на Хитровку от тираничного дяди. Сначала перебивался мелкими кражами, но встреча с женщиной по прозвищу Смерть круто изменила его судьбу. Сеньке предстоит участвовать в бандитских разборках, искать клад и — вместе с самим Эрастом Фандориным — выследить убийцу, который словно кровавая буря идёт по улицам Хитровки, оставляя за собой след из трупов.
Хитровка в цикле о Фандорине упоминалась не раз — район, где царят преступность, грабежи и убийства. Здесь всем заправляют банды, и живут по своим "понятиям". Теперь же Акунин посвящает ей целую книгу, перенося всё действие в этот мрачный угол Москвы. Для максимального погружения история рассказана от лица одного из местных — того самого Сеньки.
Как и всегда, Акунин уделяет особое внимание атмосфере. Повесть написана в стилистике Сенькиной речи — с уличным жаргоном и блатными выражениями: не «банда», а «колода», не «оружие», а «железо», не «везучий», а «фартовый» и т. д. Всё это придаёт истории колорит и самобытность. Порой даже создаётся ощущение, будто перед нами не классический детектив, а бандитская байка с юмористическим оттенком (особенно учитывая, какие необычные типажи здесь встречаются — например, бандит-интеллектуал, рассуждающий как профессор). Но стоит случиться первому убийству — и мы сразу вспоминаем, что это всё-таки роман Акунина. А это значит, что никого автор жалеть не будет — ни по возрасту, ни по полу, ни по симпатиям
Что касается детективной линии — она, как и в «Любовнице смерти», скорее на любителя. У нас есть тайна, есть гора трупов, круг подозреваемых… Но когда наконец раскрывается личность главного злодея, я на секунду завис — «А ты вообще кто такой?» Сенька в ходе повествования часто отвлекается на разные мелочи, и в этих ответвлениях легко потерять нить расследования.
Зато становится ясно, почему Фандорин в «Любовнице смерти» казался слегка рассеянным. Оказывается, события «Страстей на Хитровке» происходят параллельно, и он ведёт два запутанных дела одновременно. Да ещё и за двумя юбками ухитряется гоняться. Тут уж неудивительно, что голова идёт кругом.
За бандитский колорит — уверенные 4 из 5.
Сегодняшний протагонист — Сенька Скориков, пятнадцатилетний паренёк, сбежавший на Хитровку от тираничного дяди. Сначала перебивался мелкими кражами, но встреча с женщиной по прозвищу Смерть круто изменила его судьбу. Сеньке предстоит участвовать в бандитских разборках, искать клад и — вместе с самим Эрастом Фандориным — выследить убийцу, который словно кровавая буря идёт по улицам Хитровки, оставляя за собой след из трупов.
Хитровка в цикле о Фандорине упоминалась не раз — район, где царят преступность, грабежи и убийства. Здесь всем заправляют банды, и живут по своим "понятиям". Теперь же Акунин посвящает ей целую книгу, перенося всё действие в этот мрачный угол Москвы. Для максимального погружения история рассказана от лица одного из местных — того самого Сеньки.
Как и всегда, Акунин уделяет особое внимание атмосфере. Повесть написана в стилистике Сенькиной речи — с уличным жаргоном и блатными выражениями: не «банда», а «колода», не «оружие», а «железо», не «везучий», а «фартовый» и т. д. Всё это придаёт истории колорит и самобытность. Порой даже создаётся ощущение, будто перед нами не классический детектив, а бандитская байка с юмористическим оттенком (особенно учитывая, какие необычные типажи здесь встречаются — например, бандит-интеллектуал, рассуждающий как профессор). Но стоит случиться первому убийству — и мы сразу вспоминаем, что это всё-таки роман Акунина. А это значит, что никого автор жалеть не будет — ни по возрасту, ни по полу, ни по симпатиям
Что касается детективной линии — она, как и в «Любовнице смерти», скорее на любителя. У нас есть тайна, есть гора трупов, круг подозреваемых… Но когда наконец раскрывается личность главного злодея, я на секунду завис — «А ты вообще кто такой?» Сенька в ходе повествования часто отвлекается на разные мелочи, и в этих ответвлениях легко потерять нить расследования.
Зато становится ясно, почему Фандорин в «Любовнице смерти» казался слегка рассеянным. Оказывается, события «Страстей на Хитровке» происходят параллельно, и он ведёт два запутанных дела одновременно. Да ещё и за двумя юбками ухитряется гоняться. Тут уж неудивительно, что голова идёт кругом.
За бандитский колорит — уверенные 4 из 5.
June 22, 2020
Wow! Just wow!
Here I was so happy that I read it in Russian. Cannot imagine how it could be translated but, evidently, many reviewers here and elsewhere appreciated it as much in English.
I am not sure that translations could give justice to gazillions of allusions to Russian classics from "Van'ka Zhukov" by Chekhov, whose Van'ka wrote a semiliterate letter to his grandpa begging him to save him from his cruel employer like Vanya Skorik wrote to his brother Senya in this book - but what irony though.
Or deliberately mangled quote from Pushkin's poem "Kavkaz" to play on a character's nickname Kazbek. Also the auto race with it's clear references to "Golden Calf" by Ilf and Petrov. ("Ударим автопробегом по бездорожью и разгильдяйства"). At times Fandorin shows some characteristics of the beloved crook Ostap Bender from "Twelve Chairs" and "Golden Calf". Humor and irony are reminiscent of Ostap in several episodes from other books as well, e.g. the fake lottery in "Death of Achilles".
And numerous others.
The femme fatale in this novel nicknamed Death is alluring beyond control to every male who comes in contact with her, but the way she selects or rejects lovers is part of the mystery.
The language of thieves, prostitutes and killers of the underground (at times, literally, underground) world of Moscow late 1800s is so colorful and rich that it is another aspect of this book, which, IMHO, is delightful but looses tons in translation.
So far this is my favorite of the series, along with "Death of Achilles", and much better than "She-lover of death".
Here I was so happy that I read it in Russian. Cannot imagine how it could be translated but, evidently, many reviewers here and elsewhere appreciated it as much in English.
I am not sure that translations could give justice to gazillions of allusions to Russian classics from "Van'ka Zhukov" by Chekhov, whose Van'ka wrote a semiliterate letter to his grandpa begging him to save him from his cruel employer like Vanya Skorik wrote to his brother Senya in this book - but what irony though.
Or deliberately mangled quote from Pushkin's poem "Kavkaz" to play on a character's nickname Kazbek. Also the auto race with it's clear references to "Golden Calf" by Ilf and Petrov. ("Ударим автопробегом по бездорожью и разгильдяйства"). At times Fandorin shows some characteristics of the beloved crook Ostap Bender from "Twelve Chairs" and "Golden Calf". Humor and irony are reminiscent of Ostap in several episodes from other books as well, e.g. the fake lottery in "Death of Achilles".
And numerous others.
The femme fatale in this novel nicknamed Death is alluring beyond control to every male who comes in contact with her, but the way she selects or rejects lovers is part of the mystery.
The language of thieves, prostitutes and killers of the underground (at times, literally, underground) world of Moscow late 1800s is so colorful and rich that it is another aspect of this book, which, IMHO, is delightful but looses tons in translation.
So far this is my favorite of the series, along with "Death of Achilles", and much better than "She-lover of death".
December 5, 2017
A thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery novel. Seen through the eyes of a young boy, Akunin gives us a vibrant account of the Moscow underworld in 1900. As in She Lover of Death, Akunin's series character, Fandorin, is presented from the outside allowing us to see him at a distance. Happening concurrently with She Lover of Death, with Fandorin off stage in his other plot most of the time, this book focuses on Senka - the poor orphaned lad who struggles with the conflict between his inherent goodness and the evil and dishonest life he is forced to live. The story moves at a quick pace, giving us memorable characters including a femme fatale called Death and a more fleshed out look at Fandorin's Japanese assistant, Masa. A lively book and while it may not be the perfect book to start one's fascination with Akunin and Fandorin, it isn't necessary to have read any of Akunin's previous books to enjoy this one. (Murder on the Leviathan would be my recommendation for an entry into Fandorin's world.)
August 6, 2022
He Lover of Death is Volume 9 and needed to bounce back from a disappointing Volume 8. This one is the “Dickensian” one, so it’s all scamps and ne’er do wells and dark Moscow alleys, muggings and trying to climb the slippery pole in an attempt to better yourself. The hero this time is strangely not Fandorin, but Senka Skorikov, orphaned, broke, but sharp and with potential to do more than simply rob and fight and the story is told from his point of view. Fandorin is absent for most of the first half but he is busy in parallel with She Lover of Death. The plot hinges on finding some “treasure” which feels awfully convenient, and the role of the Book’s title character doesn’t quite ring true when it is finally explained. That all men fall hopelessly in love with her shows that this volume has its tongue firmly in its cheek. The finalé feels unnecessarily tense and risky, but that’s a minor quibble. It is rounded off and quite successfully too in fairly bloody fashion! So another rousing romp and a series that continues to delight anyone lucky enough to stumble across it.
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June 18, 2025Смерть - одна из героинь романа, получившая свое прозвище по двум причинам. Во-первых, она несколько раз была на волоске от гибели, но каждый раз оставалась жива и невредима. А во-вторых, все ее кавалеры погибали вскоре после того, как начинали за ней ухаживать. Девушка со страшным прозвищем Смерть так понравилась жителю Хитровки Сеньке Скорикову, что он решается на самые отчаянные поступки, чтобы завладеть ее вниманием. В итоге парень становится свидетелем и даже соучастником череды убийств, находит старинный клад, сам чуть не прощается с жизнью, и, наконец, знакомится с Эрастом Фандориным, который помогает ему выбраться из всех передряг.
January 19, 2022
Як і всі інші книжки Акуніна про Ераста Фандоріна, цю книжку я слухала в аудіо форматі під час тренувань в басейні. Можливо я надто розтягнула її, але слухати її було не цікаво, декілька разів перевіряла, чи багато ще залишилося до кінця.
Попередня книжка "Любовница смерти" мені здалась найгіршою книжкою серії. А зважаючи на те, що "Любовника смерти" я почала одразу ж після неї і зіштовхнулась з таким самим супер annoying головним персонажем, це могло негативно вплинути на її загальне сприйняття.
Була рада, коли вона закінчилась і я змогла перейти до наступної книжки в серії.
Попередня книжка "Любовница смерти" мені здалась найгіршою книжкою серії. А зважаючи на те, що "Любовника смерти" я почала одразу ж після неї і зіштовхнулась з таким самим супер annoying головним персонажем, це могло негативно вплинути на її загальне сприйняття.
Була рада, коли вона закінчилась і я змогла перейти до наступної книжки в серії.
February 9, 2019
Hell-for-leather criminal exposé with a nice literary conceit
Akunin intertwines this story with She Lover of Death masterfully and chooses a narrator who shines a light on various lower strata of society. It never stops in its breakneck pace and the duplicity (or even multiplicity) is delightful as it unfolds.
Akunin intertwines this story with She Lover of Death masterfully and chooses a narrator who shines a light on various lower strata of society. It never stops in its breakneck pace and the duplicity (or even multiplicity) is delightful as it unfolds.
March 2, 2019
Уже в этой книге становится откровенно заметной та черта повествования, что автор уходит от Фандорина к другим героям, не обязательно описывая жизнь главного героя через призму чьего-то взгляда... Приём бы сработал, если бы остальные элементы сюжета были на уровне...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2020
Каждый раз, когда берешь читать книгу про Фандорина, всегда знаешь, чего ожидать, и в этот раз Акунин не подвёл: великолепный слог, интересная история, читается легко и непринужденно. Как всегда хорошо!
February 2, 2021
Much better than the previous book, with a much more charismatic narrator, that gives fine Akunin humor. I've liked he gimmick that both the Death books are situated at the same time, and that both books gave Masa his time at the spotlight.
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December 18, 2021I wish I could read Russian. Since it is all through the perspective of a youth whose vocabulary changes from gangland slang to respectable and literate, the words matter, as well as the style of his narration. I could tell I was missing quite a bit by reading it in English.
January 9, 2022
He Lover of Death / Любовник смерти
Boris Akunin / Борис Акунин
“Любовник” is a great companion to “Любовница” - this ninth Fandorin novel runs parallel to the timeline of the eighth, and augments it wonderfully. The style is said to be “Dickensian mystery” and is full of wit, danger, and rollicking twists of plot! Such a page turner, but yikes - will poor Fandorin ever get a break in his tragic personal life?! (That was a rhetorical question. No spoilers please!)
Boris Akunin / Борис Акунин
“Любовник” is a great companion to “Любовница” - this ninth Fandorin novel runs parallel to the timeline of the eighth, and augments it wonderfully. The style is said to be “Dickensian mystery” and is full of wit, danger, and rollicking twists of plot! Such a page turner, but yikes - will poor Fandorin ever get a break in his tragic personal life?! (That was a rhetorical question. No spoilers please!)
April 9, 2022
Данная книга однозначно лучше своего женского аналога.
Хоть вначале повествования преобладает нецензурная лексика, она коренным образом меняется после середины. Интересен сам ход детектива, в отличие от «Любовницы», где очевиден был антагонист.
Хоть вначале повествования преобладает нецензурная лексика, она коренным образом меняется после середины. Интересен сам ход детектива, в отличие от «Любовницы», где очевиден был антагонист.
April 5, 2024
Gdy tylko umysł przywyknie do specyficznego stylu narracji, zatopisz się w lekturze. Świetnie oddane realia carskiej Rosji, ciekawy rozwój fabuły i rys psychologiczny postaci. Autor ma poczucie humoru🙂 Polecam. Bardzo miła lektura
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