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A review by jennifermreads
Spectacle: A Historical Thriller in 19th Century Paris by Jodie Lynn Zdrok
3.0
Received advanced reader copy from publisher via Baker & Taylor book supplier
Nathalie’s job as the morgue reporter for the local Paris newspaper brings her into daily contact with those who die in the city’s streets. But, one day, she touches the glass that separates observers from the deceased and she relives the murder – in reverse through the eyes of the killer. As rumors spread that this is the start of a spree of murders, Nathalie struggles to understand what is happening to her and whether what she sees could possibly help the police catch the killer.
This murder mystery with a fantasy twist never completely gripped me. It was interesting, and it was intriguing enough to read to the end. I just never fully engaged with Nathalie and I was disappointed in the seemingly “other” feel of the mystery portion of the book. I think, if a reader goes into reading this novel knowing this is more a story of Nathalie and her discovery of her gift, the result may be more satisfying. I went in thinking I was going to get a good who-dun-it with a bit of grisly detail. Those bits were there but the murders were a subplot not the focus. Also, I hate that I saw coming a mile and a half away. It pained me still but it was not surprising.
As I read, I kept thinking of Kerri Maniscalco’s Stalking Jack the Ripper series. I think that, if you enjoy those books, this one will be right in your wheelhouse!
Nathalie’s job as the morgue reporter for the local Paris newspaper brings her into daily contact with those who die in the city’s streets. But, one day, she touches the glass that separates observers from the deceased and she relives the murder – in reverse through the eyes of the killer. As rumors spread that this is the start of a spree of murders, Nathalie struggles to understand what is happening to her and whether what she sees could possibly help the police catch the killer.
This murder mystery with a fantasy twist never completely gripped me. It was interesting, and it was intriguing enough to read to the end. I just never fully engaged with Nathalie and I was disappointed in the seemingly “other” feel of the mystery portion of the book. I think, if a reader goes into reading this novel knowing this is more a story of Nathalie and her discovery of her gift, the result may be more satisfying. I went in thinking I was going to get a good who-dun-it with a bit of grisly detail. Those bits were there but the murders were a subplot not the focus. Also, I hate that I saw
Spoiler
Agnes’ murderAs I read, I kept thinking of Kerri Maniscalco’s Stalking Jack the Ripper series. I think that, if you enjoy those books, this one will be right in your wheelhouse!