Has anyone ever read Arturo Perez-Reverte, Spanish journalist and novelist whose fiction deals with art and antiquities in historical context usually with a mystery or mysteries attached? I have enjoyed:
EL CLUB DUMAS which deals with the murky often corrupt world of rare books and manuscripts.. the movie, Ninth Gate, was based on it..
THE FLANDERS PANEL about an art preservationist at a Paris museum who is asked to restore an unknown old master painting and uncovers a cryptic message hidden there
THE FENCING MASTER explores the world of weapons and swords in old and modern Spain
THE SEVILLE COMMUNION delves into Vatican secrets
THE NAUTICAL CHART shipwrecks and pirate treasure.. and
QUEEN OF THE SOUTH explores the violent dangerous world of a drug cartel whose leader is a mysterious diabolical resourceful woman. TV series here in America was based on this book.
His novels are fascinating, down to earth, earthy, gritty at times, all are compelling.
I've never read them? Are they really good books?I'm really late to this party, but in the category of "light reads" has anyone mentioned the figure skating mysteries of Alina Adams: Murder on Ice, On Thin Ice, Axel of Evil, Death Drop, and Skate Crime. I may need to reread one or two just to fill the skating void this year.
Skating fans who like cozy mysteries will probably enjoy them as I did. They aren't profound, life-changing novels but are just right for a light diversion. The author worked as a figure skating researcher and producer for televised skating events. It was fun to guess "Which well-known coach is this character supposed to be?" IIRC, a figure skating message board even played a role in one of the books!I've never read them? Are they really good books?
I second the nomination. I have listened to these as audio books. The two narrators who have recorded the series both do a fine job. These are not cozies, but they do have cozy elements including an emphasis on food and friendship. But each book also has thriller elements and action scenes, plus a touch of humor. This is one series that I pre-order to get the next installment as soon as possible.I highly recommend Louise Penny's Inspector Gamache series (starting with Still Life). The books are set in Quebec with many having a very wintry feel to them. Gamache is a really rich and compelling character; the books also pull in some really interesting historical material although are set in present day.