In Izzo’s novels, Marseilles is explosive, tragic, breathtakingly beautiful and deadly. Asked to explain the astounding success of his now legendary Marseilles trilogy, Izzo credits his beloved native city: “Essentially, I think I have been rewarded for having depicted the real beauty of Marseilles, its gusto, its passion for life, and the ability of its inhabitants to drink life down to the last drop.” (from the gatefold cover)
How does this sound to you? Makes you want to jump in and hold fast to your reading seat doesn’t it? I have four other books in progress and I don’t really want to start another book before finishing at least another of my books but I have no choice. I have to start Total Chaos by Jean-Claude Izzo.
Well aside from the fact that it does sound like a good story, this is my book selection for my reading group next week. Yes, I’ve done it again and waited too long to start my book. That’s ok, I’m looking forward to discovering a new author, finally reading some Mediterranean Noir. In case you don’t know this book is part of the World Noir collection by Europa Editions.
So if you’ve read this let me know what you think. Have you read some Mediterranean Noir? What other books can you recommend?
Once you start this reads really fast–I am reading it at the moment, too. I would spend almost all my reading time with it to be honest if I didn’t have a few other ‘obligation’ reads going at the moment. It is a little dark and broody but I am thoroughly into it. Marseilles is really vivid and comes off as almost another character. I think I need to check out more of Europa Editions World Noir list of books and most certainly will look for more Mediterranean Noir! I hope you enjoy it, too!
I recently read “The Rage” by Gene Kerrigan which was part of the World Noir series, but that was Ireland. I can’t say I’ve done any dabbling in the Mediterranean but I’m not against it. I love to travel.
Oh, I hope you enjoy it! Eager to hear your review.
This does sound good! I’ll be anxious to read your thoughts on it, Iliana. My husband is a big fan of noir and I’m sure would like this too.
Danielle – I am so in need of a fast read! Especially as I’ve waited too long to start this. I’m excited about it and like you, I want to look more into the Europa World Noir editions.
Sandy – Me too! I wish I could travel all the time but at least armchair traveling helps.
jenclair – I hope I can really make a big dent in it over the weekend. I am looking forward to the book discussion.
Literary Feline – Cool. I’ll definitely post about it. I am not a huge fan of noir but this I definitely had an interest in reading.