Novelish

Author: Fred Vargas
ISBN: 9780743284028

Many of Vargas’ novels involve a myth or legend that comes up in modern times, which seems to be a really effective way of adding to the atmosphere regardless of whether the myth or legend turns out to be real. I’ve seen it done by a number of other authors, and even New Moon (a book that could not be more unlike this one) had a little of that going for it.

In the case of Seeking Whom He May Devour, there are a series of sheep attacks in the French mountains, and one very large wolf - or, quite possibly, a werewolf - is the suspected culprit.

I thought the plot was very done well, even though I knew what was going to happen (owing to a friend’s less-than-subtle comment). The characters are developed and unique. The writing is perfect, but it goes beyond being perfect: it’s also quirky.

The thing separating it most from similar books, though, and making it so much more enjoyable to read, is that in addition to everything else I’ve mentioned it makes you laugh. And I’m not talking about one or two scenes - I mean every page.

I’ll wrap up by noting that this is a thriller/mystery - a genre that I don’t usually read but that I’m finding an increasing number of books I like in. It was translated from the original French by David Bellos.

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