Just So Stories

New South Books

Gallic Books

9781913547752 /  September 2024 / AUD$34.99, NZD$39.99

I’m a big fan of cosy murder mysteries. This is not one of those, though it is definitely a murder mystery. I wasn’t familiar with this acclaimed French author’s work but would certainly seek some more of it out.

This is a slick and witty suspenseful murder story and is very French, even in translation [do not ask me to explain that because I can’t – if you read it, you would know exactly what I mean!].

The narrative is basically a two character play in scenes [or that’s how I see it]. Nathalia Guitry is a young woman who has lost the creativity that has made her a successful professional photographer. She seeks help from therapist, Dr Faber. She tells him that she witnessed and caught on film a murder in the building opposite to her own and that it has stymied her usual abilities.

Faber quickly realises his new patient is reluctant to talk about experiences or what she has witnessed so suggests a more unusual method to express herself. He has her write a story about each of the people she sees in the building opposite, floor by floor, until she reaches the top floor, the scene of the murder.

Nathalia’s weekly fictional accounts of each neighbour are witty, well-observed and always contain some kernel of truth. But it is when she reaches the top floor and the murder that the reader begins to see the chilling truth.

While I wouldn’t think you would have many students interested in this, there would be some of sophisticated tastes and interested in more psychological ‘thrillers’ that might pick this up. It’s a very short book, less than 200 pages, so a quick read as well.

Certainly, if you are looking for something a little off the beaten track for yourself, I would give it a go. Like me, you may discover a new author whose work you appreciate. I’m giving it a 5 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪 rating.