The Winter Queen

Boris Akunin

Editions

Review

It is 1876 in Moscow, and Erast Fandorin, an orphan who has been unable to continue his studies for lack of money, works in the Criminal Investigation Department of the Police.  He is sent to investigate the suicide of a wealthy young law student, and embarks on a chase all over Europe, to London and back, to solve the sinister conspiracy he uncovers.

On the way we meet many extraordinary characters, in a tale full of amusing historical details, and there is a poignant love story to boot.

Full of suspense, humour and local colour, this is a promising and hugely entertaining introduction to a character who has already appeared in several books in Russia; more translations will soon be available in English. - review by Dan Fenton