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Historical novel set in France (a dark, wintery setting in the Belle Epoque)

25th December 2014

Sacred Ends by Lisa Appignanesi, historical novel set in France.

IMG_3280Sacred Ends, by Lisa Appignanesi is a good crime novel, set in the turn of last century, in a remote corner of bohemian France.  It is the second part of the Belle Époque Trilogy (the first being Paris Requiem), and, although it fails to recreate the same lyrical beauty of the first novel (and more often than not shows an overworked language), it captures the dark, wintery setting of Montoire, Troo and La Rochambert in a scary and unsettling way, perfect for bringing a chill to the spine as we imagine the ghastly crimes and passions that extended throughout the surrounding areas, engulfing locals and newcomers alike.

I have to admit I was disappointed at not finding the same psychological depth in the characters of this book, as it is so easily done in the first part.  Furthermore, many of the main cast show a great deal of psychological inconsistencies, all of which I will allow the reader to judge for themselves.  However, if it is the amount of insanity that these characters convey that makes them attractive for readers of grim tales, then those who disagree with me will be satisfied with this book.

As always, because I know that there are many tastes and partialities to be considered between readers, I could advise that although this book might make some feel queasy and upset, others might well find it appealing and exciting.

Sandra for the TripFiction Team

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For more books set all over France – across genres and time periods –  click here

 

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Comments

  1. User: Leila Benhamida

    Posted on: 28/12/2014 at 7:51 pm

    Interesting,

    Comment