A stellar whodunit that will surely thrill armchair detective mysteries fans.
With a remarkable attention to detail and an authentic voice, Sproule’s latest foray into the world of mystery is a captivating saga of deceit and violence. When Swiss homicide detective Angeline Devereux arrives at the scene of a murder in the grim Lindenhof Park, the victim’s limp body is crammed into the oversized wooden chess box, normally home to lifeless pieces on the outdoor board. As Devereux delves deep into uncovering the slain man’s identity, she is led to a secluded Czech village where the case takes unexpected twists and turns. With each step, she unravels a vengeful plot between the victim and one of her suspects. But as she makes her way to a nearby monastery, she finds herself hunted by a group of bow-wielding monks. And amidst her pursuit to solve the murder, Devereux must also confront her own personal demons and a dark past that continues to haunt her. Devereux emerges as a compelling protagonist, defying the conventional archetype of the rough-edged detective. Unlike her counterparts, she doesn’t possess a facade of rugged charm or an overt display of humanity. Instead, she grapples with a darkness that lurks within her, a complexity that sets her apart.
At the core of Devereux’s character lies a profound struggle with guilt. However, her guilt is not rooted in remorse for her actions; rather, it stems from her inability to experience traditional feelings of regret. This nuanced portrayal adds depth to her character, painting her as a flawed yet intriguing figure. Despite her fatal flaw, Devereux captivates readers with her unwavering determination, resilience, and unyielding will. Her authenticity shines through, making it impossible not to root for her even in the face of her darkest moments. Another striking aspect of Sproule’s writing is the vividness with which his setting comes to life on the pages. From the Swiss town to the gloomy Lindenhof Park, from the quaint Czech village to the solemn monastery, each location is rendered with meticulous detail, immersing readers in the atmosphere of 1970s Europe. As the story progresses, it unravels a new shock, propelling readers through a whirlwind of discoveries. The ambiguous yet sharp ending delivers a gut-wrenching blow, leaving room for the possibility of a hopeful outcome.
 Narrated in a delectable third-person omniscient voice, the novel skillfully captures the uneasy sensation of guilt and humanity’s inescapable pull towards darkness. A captivating and enchanting mystery that refuses to simmer down. Outstanding!
Femme Devereux
Ray Sproule
FriesenPress
Pub date March 29, 2023
ISBN 978-1039175778
Price $27.57 (USD) Paperback, $28.99 Hardcover, $8.99 Kindle edition
