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Phineas Fox #1
Death Notes
"Rayne, is launching a new series here, and if future installments are as gripping and intricately plotted as this one, it could have a long run"
Booklist
Introducing professional researcher Phineas Fox in the first of a brand-new series of chilling mysteries.
Phineas Fox has mixed feelings when he's asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881, Volf was a notorious criminal and womaniser, whose glittering talent was undermined by his scandalous private life. However, on uncovering evidence which suggests that Volf could not have been involved in the Tsar's murder, Phin's investigations lead him to the west coast of Ireland - and a series of intriguing, interlocking mysteries reaching from 1881 to the present day.
Was Roman Volf executed for something he didn't do? And what is his connection with the reclusive Maxim Volf now living in County Galway? Phin's enquiries will unearth a number of dark secrets which lurk below the surface of the quiet Irish village of Kilcarne.
Booklist
Introducing professional researcher Phineas Fox in the first of a brand-new series of chilling mysteries.
Phineas Fox has mixed feelings when he's asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881, Volf was a notorious criminal and womaniser, whose glittering talent was undermined by his scandalous private life. However, on uncovering evidence which suggests that Volf could not have been involved in the Tsar's murder, Phin's investigations lead him to the west coast of Ireland - and a series of intriguing, interlocking mysteries reaching from 1881 to the present day.
Was Roman Volf executed for something he didn't do? And what is his connection with the reclusive Maxim Volf now living in County Galway? Phin's enquiries will unearth a number of dark secrets which lurk below the surface of the quiet Irish village of Kilcarne.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
21 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Rayne
46 books305 followersAka Frances Gordon, Bridget Wood
After a convent education, which included writing plays for the Lower Third to perform, Sarah Rayne embarked on a variety of jobs, but - probably inevitably - returned again and again to writing. Her first novel appeared in 1982, and since then her books have also been published in America, Holland and Germany.
The daughter of an Irish comedy actor, she was for many years active in amateur theatre, and lists among her hobbies, theatre, history, music, and old houses - much of her inspiration comes from old buildings and their histories and atmospheres. To these interests, she adds ghosts and ghost stories, and - having grown up in the Sixties - good conversation around a well-stocked dinner table.
After a convent education, which included writing plays for the Lower Third to perform, Sarah Rayne embarked on a variety of jobs, but - probably inevitably - returned again and again to writing. Her first novel appeared in 1982, and since then her books have also been published in America, Holland and Germany.
The daughter of an Irish comedy actor, she was for many years active in amateur theatre, and lists among her hobbies, theatre, history, music, and old houses - much of her inspiration comes from old buildings and their histories and atmospheres. To these interests, she adds ghosts and ghost stories, and - having grown up in the Sixties - good conversation around a well-stocked dinner table.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 2, 2017
Phineas Fox is a professional researcher with a dwindling bank account. He is offered a hefty fee to investigate and present a well documented TV program on the life of 19th century Russian violinist Roman Volf, a gifted musician who was hanged in St. Petersburg for the assassination of Tzar Alexander ll. Did Roman Volf mastermind the assassination plot or was he a bit player in its implementation? Perhaps the Romanovs wanted a scapegoat? Phin foresees an excellent opportunity to re-enact the crime for TV audiences, if and only if, Roman is guilty.
Phin's pursuit takes him to an antiquarian bookshop where he uncovers a book entitled "Lost Buildings of Old Russia". The book contains a photo of the burned out Skomorkh Theatre with Roman Volf in the foreground. Under Roman's arm is a newspaper, The Golos, dated 13 March 1881. Evidence indicates that Roman could not have been complicit in the tzar's demise. An enigmatic journalist for The Golos, Feofil Markov, teams up with music hall performer Mortimer Quince. Quince is the illegitimate son of Roman Volf. Quince's diaries reveal memories of his father's final concert at Mikhailovsky Theatre. It is revealed, additionally, that Feofil Markov once lived in Ireland and owned a cottage called Tromloy meaning nightmare, from the Gaelic word tromlui. Nightmares and tragic occurrences affect the Drury family, current owners of Tromloy and the Cullens living in nearby Galway City.
"The Death Notes" by Sarah Rayne is the first book in a new series featuring researcher Phineas Fox. I enjoyed the book, however, there were many story lines to connect. As a result, it was a difficult tome to review. Phineas Fox was not as prominent as one would expect of a recurring character of a series. I would hope that his merits and shortcomings are more thoroughly fleshed out in subsequent books.
Thank you Severn House and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "The Death Notes".
Phin's pursuit takes him to an antiquarian bookshop where he uncovers a book entitled "Lost Buildings of Old Russia". The book contains a photo of the burned out Skomorkh Theatre with Roman Volf in the foreground. Under Roman's arm is a newspaper, The Golos, dated 13 March 1881. Evidence indicates that Roman could not have been complicit in the tzar's demise. An enigmatic journalist for The Golos, Feofil Markov, teams up with music hall performer Mortimer Quince. Quince is the illegitimate son of Roman Volf. Quince's diaries reveal memories of his father's final concert at Mikhailovsky Theatre. It is revealed, additionally, that Feofil Markov once lived in Ireland and owned a cottage called Tromloy meaning nightmare, from the Gaelic word tromlui. Nightmares and tragic occurrences affect the Drury family, current owners of Tromloy and the Cullens living in nearby Galway City.
"The Death Notes" by Sarah Rayne is the first book in a new series featuring researcher Phineas Fox. I enjoyed the book, however, there were many story lines to connect. As a result, it was a difficult tome to review. Phineas Fox was not as prominent as one would expect of a recurring character of a series. I would hope that his merits and shortcomings are more thoroughly fleshed out in subsequent books.
Thank you Severn House and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "The Death Notes".
November 20, 2024
2.2 "could have been excellent" stars !!
I do not know how this book landed on my tbr but I suspect it was the ties to both classical and traditional music.
The author has the most interesting premise (you can read about it in the description) but the tying in of all three stories felt forced, convenient and unbelievable. The historical parts were the most interesting to this reader and was full of both delicious melodrama, romance and some self-effacing humor. The contemporary storylines were full of grief and trauma but marred by histrionics and a very amateurish take on both psychology and neurology. There were slapstick antics and weak psychological congruence. Although at times I was enjoying a fair bit, much of the time I was rolling my eyes and wishing that the author had brought her brilliant ideas to a more coherent, consistent and plausible development and conclusion.
This was a poor to fair reading experience that held my attention but often for the wrong reasons.
I will not be moving forward in this series despite the promise that this book held (and broke).
I do not know how this book landed on my tbr but I suspect it was the ties to both classical and traditional music.
The author has the most interesting premise (you can read about it in the description) but the tying in of all three stories felt forced, convenient and unbelievable. The historical parts were the most interesting to this reader and was full of both delicious melodrama, romance and some self-effacing humor. The contemporary storylines were full of grief and trauma but marred by histrionics and a very amateurish take on both psychology and neurology. There were slapstick antics and weak psychological congruence. Although at times I was enjoying a fair bit, much of the time I was rolling my eyes and wishing that the author had brought her brilliant ideas to a more coherent, consistent and plausible development and conclusion.
This was a poor to fair reading experience that held my attention but often for the wrong reasons.
I will not be moving forward in this series despite the promise that this book held (and broke).
November 7, 2016
This is the first of a new series by Sarah Rayne, featuring researcher Phineas Fox. Phineas has recently moved into a new flat and, although not thrilled when he is offered a commission to investigate the life of a nineteenth century murderer, he knows that the money will more than come in handy. The musician, Roman Volf, was hung for murder – accused of being involved in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. With a television documentary being planned, Phineas Fox sets out to see if he can find something interesting about this elusive character. When he comes across a photograph in a second hand bookshop which suggests that Volf was far away on the day of the assassination, he wonders whether there was a miscarriage of justice.
Like all researchers, Fox is excited by new information and also by the possible discvery that Volf had an illegitimate son, music hall artist Mortimer Quince, who is linked to Ireland. When his new neighbours decide to hold a noisy party, it is enough to decide Fox to go to Ireland to investigate. Also on the way there is Beatrice Drury, who owns a remote cottage named Tromloy in the country that she has not returned to since her daughter, Abigail, and her husband, died two years previously. Still grieving, she puts down strange occurrences at the cottage down to her emotions, but it is obvious that all is not well.
This novel weaves Fox’s research and Bea’s story together, along with diary entries from Mortimer Quince and the stories of two other characters – Jessica Cullen and Maxim Volf. At times, there are so many intersecting storylines that it is a little confusing. I felt a little like Fox – trying to untangle the various threads. Also, although a little spooky in places, this is very much a tale of discovery, rather than anything else. I would have liked to have seen more of Phineas Fox, although hopefully he will appear in further novels. This is a series that I will persevere with, although it is still trying to find its feet. I received a copy of the book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
Like all researchers, Fox is excited by new information and also by the possible discvery that Volf had an illegitimate son, music hall artist Mortimer Quince, who is linked to Ireland. When his new neighbours decide to hold a noisy party, it is enough to decide Fox to go to Ireland to investigate. Also on the way there is Beatrice Drury, who owns a remote cottage named Tromloy in the country that she has not returned to since her daughter, Abigail, and her husband, died two years previously. Still grieving, she puts down strange occurrences at the cottage down to her emotions, but it is obvious that all is not well.
This novel weaves Fox’s research and Bea’s story together, along with diary entries from Mortimer Quince and the stories of two other characters – Jessica Cullen and Maxim Volf. At times, there are so many intersecting storylines that it is a little confusing. I felt a little like Fox – trying to untangle the various threads. Also, although a little spooky in places, this is very much a tale of discovery, rather than anything else. I would have liked to have seen more of Phineas Fox, although hopefully he will appear in further novels. This is a series that I will persevere with, although it is still trying to find its feet. I received a copy of the book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
November 26, 2016
Did I take for granted that this would be a paranormal mystery because it's a book by Sarah Rayne? Yes, I did! However, it turned out to be quite a good book, despite the absence of paranormal activity.
Death Notes is the first book in a new series that stars Phineas Fox a professional researcher who in this book is researching the 19th-century violinist Roman Volf who was hanged for participating in the murder of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. However, it seems that he may have been innocent and Phin's investigations take him to Galway where a reclusive Maxim Volf lives Could this Maxim Volf have any connection to Roman Volf? And what really happened two years ago when a car crashed and killed Beatrice Drury's husband and daughter?
I did spend a lot of time reading this book waiting for something paranormal to happen, some ghostly appearance. But, I was mistaken in believing that. Despite that did I come to like the book very much thanks to the interesting and tragic story. There were some predictable moments in the book, but they never really bothered me since I was enjoying the story.
There are several POV's in this book. This series may be about Phineas Fox, but other characters, young Jessica Cullen, Beatrice Drury who lost her family, the mysterious Maxim Volf and of course Mortimer Quince who is the reason for Phin to travel to Galway. They all share the limelight in this book. At first was it a bit puzzling to figure out what all the different storylines had in common, but as the story progressed did it all start to make sense, and there come a point when the different POV's started to blend together. It's quite a sad story, several of the characters in the book has been through hell, but I found myself loving the ending. It was such a hopeful ending, a perfect ending!
I look forward to reading the next book in the Phineas Fox series when it's released!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Death Notes is the first book in a new series that stars Phineas Fox a professional researcher who in this book is researching the 19th-century violinist Roman Volf who was hanged for participating in the murder of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. However, it seems that he may have been innocent and Phin's investigations take him to Galway where a reclusive Maxim Volf lives Could this Maxim Volf have any connection to Roman Volf? And what really happened two years ago when a car crashed and killed Beatrice Drury's husband and daughter?
I did spend a lot of time reading this book waiting for something paranormal to happen, some ghostly appearance. But, I was mistaken in believing that. Despite that did I come to like the book very much thanks to the interesting and tragic story. There were some predictable moments in the book, but they never really bothered me since I was enjoying the story.
There are several POV's in this book. This series may be about Phineas Fox, but other characters, young Jessica Cullen, Beatrice Drury who lost her family, the mysterious Maxim Volf and of course Mortimer Quince who is the reason for Phin to travel to Galway. They all share the limelight in this book. At first was it a bit puzzling to figure out what all the different storylines had in common, but as the story progressed did it all start to make sense, and there come a point when the different POV's started to blend together. It's quite a sad story, several of the characters in the book has been through hell, but I found myself loving the ending. It was such a hopeful ending, a perfect ending!
I look forward to reading the next book in the Phineas Fox series when it's released!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
March 27, 2017
Sarah Rayne is now batting 2 for 2 with me. Her new series, featuring professional researcher Phineas Fox, gets off to a good start with Death Notes. Here we have a mystery dating to the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1882 and tendrils that lead to present day West Ireland. Just who was Roman Volf, a noted 19th c. violinist and the alleged assassin? And what, if any, is his connection to the Maxim Volf living a life of virtual solitude in the Irish village of Kilcarne. Fox becomes involved in his role as researcher and potential presenter for a proposed television documentary on the original Volf's life. Contradictions begin to fly and what appears fairly cut and dry becomes anything but.
Unlike much of Rayne's other work, this story is grounded in the here and now and evidence. There are coincidences, to be sure, but the supernatural/paranormal does not come into play. But it remains an interesting read that kept my attention throughout.
If you enjoy historical fiction, interesting characters, and tricky plots, I believe this series will be for you. While this is not an historical fiction per se, much of what Fox unearths occurred deep in the past. So there is much to think about in that area. And of course, "past is prologue"--as many have said over the years and I will parrot out again. Perhaps one day we will live long enough to learn from it.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Unlike much of Rayne's other work, this story is grounded in the here and now and evidence. There are coincidences, to be sure, but the supernatural/paranormal does not come into play. But it remains an interesting read that kept my attention throughout.
If you enjoy historical fiction, interesting characters, and tricky plots, I believe this series will be for you. While this is not an historical fiction per se, much of what Fox unearths occurred deep in the past. So there is much to think about in that area. And of course, "past is prologue"--as many have said over the years and I will parrot out again. Perhaps one day we will live long enough to learn from it.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 22, 2019
Another totally absorbing Gothic-frissoned psychological horror from the extremely gifted author Sarah Rayne, DEATH NOTES is the first in a new musically-themed series starring music researcher Phineas Finn of London.
Phin is contracted to research late 19th century violinist Roman Volf, allegedly executed for the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. Throughout the novel, Ms. Rayne waves disparate time periods (1881, 1920, contemporary) and locales (Russia, London, Ireland) into a wildly adventurous ad heartrending psychological thriller.
Phin is contracted to research late 19th century violinist Roman Volf, allegedly executed for the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. Throughout the novel, Ms. Rayne waves disparate time periods (1881, 1920, contemporary) and locales (Russia, London, Ireland) into a wildly adventurous ad heartrending psychological thriller.
September 27, 2016
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley and Severn House Publishers.
I've read several other novels by Sarah Rayne and enjoyed them so requesting the galley for this first novel in a new series was a definite go from the beginning.
There are a lot of story lines going on in this novel, so many in fact that it took the final three chapters to tie them all up. Phineas Fox is the new main character who is the lynchpin of this series and yet even after reading the novel I don't think I know very much about Phin. Well, except that women seem to throw themselves at him every time the poor man turns around and his new next door neighbor specializes in singing very old bawdy songs. However, the main portion of the story where Phin appears is in his research work which is hopefully leading to a television documentary regarding a Russian violinist who was extremely popular but was hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II. Phin has uncovered what he hopes will be a blockbuster of historic proportions so he's off to the west of Ireland to track down clues. The two other main story threads take place in this same small Irish town with particular emphasis on one specific cottage. I must admit to finding myself slightly confused at times over the Russian violinist portions of the story. The novel is written from many perspectives.
Sarah Rayne does spooky really well, but this time there was so much going on that the spooky didn't work well for me. I may be tempted to read the next Phineas Fox adventure but I really can't say I'm looking forward to it with high expectations.
I've read several other novels by Sarah Rayne and enjoyed them so requesting the galley for this first novel in a new series was a definite go from the beginning.
There are a lot of story lines going on in this novel, so many in fact that it took the final three chapters to tie them all up. Phineas Fox is the new main character who is the lynchpin of this series and yet even after reading the novel I don't think I know very much about Phin. Well, except that women seem to throw themselves at him every time the poor man turns around and his new next door neighbor specializes in singing very old bawdy songs. However, the main portion of the story where Phin appears is in his research work which is hopefully leading to a television documentary regarding a Russian violinist who was extremely popular but was hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II. Phin has uncovered what he hopes will be a blockbuster of historic proportions so he's off to the west of Ireland to track down clues. The two other main story threads take place in this same small Irish town with particular emphasis on one specific cottage. I must admit to finding myself slightly confused at times over the Russian violinist portions of the story. The novel is written from many perspectives.
Sarah Rayne does spooky really well, but this time there was so much going on that the spooky didn't work well for me. I may be tempted to read the next Phineas Fox adventure but I really can't say I'm looking forward to it with high expectations.
August 3, 2017
Twists and turns galore and just so well written that I could hardly put it down. I stayed up way too late last night to finish it. I don't think I've ever read a Sarah Rayne book that I have disliked. One of my favourite authors.
September 15, 2016
Thank you Netgalley, Severn House and especially Sarah Rayne for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Death Notes is classic Sarah Rayne. The past seamlessly interweaves with the present to tell a fantastic story.
We're introduced to Phineas Fox as he is asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Volf was hung for assassinating Tsar Alexander II but Phineas realises quickly that a grave miscarriage of justice has tainted the reputation of a great musician and sets out to prove his innocence. The story then takes us to Ireland where we begin to follow the story to Jessica, Bea and a stranger to the village called Maxim Volf.
Sarah Rayne is so underrated. Not enough people know about her! I've told so many people to read her books and they've had no clue who I'm talking about. I'm glad to say I've converted a few people in my time. This novel has mystery, tragedy,skullduggery and a damn fine line in surprises. I can't recommend this and Sarah Raynes books enough. So what are you waiting for wasting time reading this review? Away to Amazon with you and order a Sarah Rayne novel right now. (Other book suppliers are available)
Are you still here? Go!!!
Death Notes is classic Sarah Rayne. The past seamlessly interweaves with the present to tell a fantastic story.
We're introduced to Phineas Fox as he is asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Volf was hung for assassinating Tsar Alexander II but Phineas realises quickly that a grave miscarriage of justice has tainted the reputation of a great musician and sets out to prove his innocence. The story then takes us to Ireland where we begin to follow the story to Jessica, Bea and a stranger to the village called Maxim Volf.
Sarah Rayne is so underrated. Not enough people know about her! I've told so many people to read her books and they've had no clue who I'm talking about. I'm glad to say I've converted a few people in my time. This novel has mystery, tragedy,skullduggery and a damn fine line in surprises. I can't recommend this and Sarah Raynes books enough. So what are you waiting for wasting time reading this review? Away to Amazon with you and order a Sarah Rayne novel right now. (Other book suppliers are available)
Are you still here? Go!!!
December 18, 2016
Death notes by sarah Rayne is a mystery and thriller and general fiction (adult) read.
Phineas Fox has mixed feelings when he’s asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881, Volf was a notorious criminal and womaniser, whose glittering talent was undermined by his scandalous private life. However, on uncovering evidence which suggests that Volf could not have been involved in the Tsar’s murder, Phin’s investigations lead him to the west coast of Ireland – and a series of intriguing, interlocking mysteries reaching from 1881 to the present day.
Was Roman Volf executed for something he didn’t do? And what is his connection with the reclusive Maxim Volf now living in County Galway? Phin’s enquiries will unearth a number of dark secrets which lurk below the surface of the quiet Irish village of Kilcarne.
This was a good read. I liked the story and the characters. I liked the ending too. Recommended. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
Phineas Fox has mixed feelings when he’s asked to research the infamous 19th-century violinist Roman Volf for a TV documentary. Hanged for his part in the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881, Volf was a notorious criminal and womaniser, whose glittering talent was undermined by his scandalous private life. However, on uncovering evidence which suggests that Volf could not have been involved in the Tsar’s murder, Phin’s investigations lead him to the west coast of Ireland – and a series of intriguing, interlocking mysteries reaching from 1881 to the present day.
Was Roman Volf executed for something he didn’t do? And what is his connection with the reclusive Maxim Volf now living in County Galway? Phin’s enquiries will unearth a number of dark secrets which lurk below the surface of the quiet Irish village of Kilcarne.
This was a good read. I liked the story and the characters. I liked the ending too. Recommended. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
December 19, 2016
Thanks to the publisher for an advance readers' copy.
The writing of this mystery is fine, but with four separate storylines, I found that I didn't care much about any of them very much. Plus, I'm fairly certain that there are two mistakes in logic in the first section (or at least some giant leaps from point A to point Z). After I got caught up in trying to figure those out, I had a hard time taking the rest of the book seriously.
The writing of this mystery is fine, but with four separate storylines, I found that I didn't care much about any of them very much. Plus, I'm fairly certain that there are two mistakes in logic in the first section (or at least some giant leaps from point A to point Z). After I got caught up in trying to figure those out, I had a hard time taking the rest of the book seriously.
April 23, 2018
Looking for an easy read? Skip "Death Notes."
However.
If you like the challenge of untangling complex plot twists, puzzling circumstances and characters that seem unrelated, flips from first to third person description in out of time chronology using words that send you scrambling for a dictionary, then shelve this book.
Open it.
Turn the pages.
Savor the masterful storytelling power of Sarah Rayne's mix of horror and mystery surrounding the ghastly execution of a Russian maestro, the lie his son lived in London exile, and the fatal accident on an Irish roadway that reveals connections to guarded, dark and sinister family secrets.
Phineas Fox nearly turns down a commission to research the life and death of violinist Roman Volf. For Fox, the subject of the television documentary is an open and shut case of a murderer convicted and hanged in 1880s Russia for plotting to kill tsar Alexander II years before the Revolution that wiped out the tsar's family Romanov. But Phineas needs the money to pay for his expensive London flat. He accepts the offer and sets off on the hunt for facts that puts him on an intercept course with children's book illustrator Beatrice Drury, a widow living in London whose husband Niall and daughter Abigail died in a fiery car crash near Tromloy, their country home in the west of Ireland.
Phineas follows the trail of clues from London to Tromloy searching for details on the life of Mortimer Quince, the name taken by Roman's son Maxim from the day of his father's execution to Quince's death in 1955. He befriends a burn-scarred recluse, also named Maxim Volf, who lives near Tromloy. Maxim tells Phineas he took the name from a tombstone in the cemetery he tends since suffering from traumatic amnesia caused by an accident he vaguely recalls witnessing. Their investigative teamwork, and the buried history of Tromloy, inadvertently uncovers the sins of a priest against his cousin and the link of that sin to the Drury family tragedy.
The differences between American English and the language of Britain are apparent and might discourage to the point of putting off the reader. But don't let that minor point stop you from enjoying this Goodread through to the satisfying, loose end-tying conclusion!
However.
If you like the challenge of untangling complex plot twists, puzzling circumstances and characters that seem unrelated, flips from first to third person description in out of time chronology using words that send you scrambling for a dictionary, then shelve this book.
Open it.
Turn the pages.
Savor the masterful storytelling power of Sarah Rayne's mix of horror and mystery surrounding the ghastly execution of a Russian maestro, the lie his son lived in London exile, and the fatal accident on an Irish roadway that reveals connections to guarded, dark and sinister family secrets.
Phineas Fox nearly turns down a commission to research the life and death of violinist Roman Volf. For Fox, the subject of the television documentary is an open and shut case of a murderer convicted and hanged in 1880s Russia for plotting to kill tsar Alexander II years before the Revolution that wiped out the tsar's family Romanov. But Phineas needs the money to pay for his expensive London flat. He accepts the offer and sets off on the hunt for facts that puts him on an intercept course with children's book illustrator Beatrice Drury, a widow living in London whose husband Niall and daughter Abigail died in a fiery car crash near Tromloy, their country home in the west of Ireland.
Phineas follows the trail of clues from London to Tromloy searching for details on the life of Mortimer Quince, the name taken by Roman's son Maxim from the day of his father's execution to Quince's death in 1955. He befriends a burn-scarred recluse, also named Maxim Volf, who lives near Tromloy. Maxim tells Phineas he took the name from a tombstone in the cemetery he tends since suffering from traumatic amnesia caused by an accident he vaguely recalls witnessing. Their investigative teamwork, and the buried history of Tromloy, inadvertently uncovers the sins of a priest against his cousin and the link of that sin to the Drury family tragedy.
The differences between American English and the language of Britain are apparent and might discourage to the point of putting off the reader. But don't let that minor point stop you from enjoying this Goodread through to the satisfying, loose end-tying conclusion!
February 4, 2021
Phin is hired to research the life of famous Russian violinist who was hanged for plotting the assassination of tsar Nicholas for a TV program. But Phin questions Roman Volf's involvement and his investigation into the truth leads him to Kilcarne Ireland. Also traveling to Oil a the is Bea Drury whose husband and daughter burned to death two years prior in a car accident. Bea is ready to face her pain at their family home. Living near Bears house is teenager Jessica Cullen who has lost her memories of the past two years. She lives with her aunts and fire and damnation grandfather who has suffered a few strokes. She is drawn to Tromloy, Bea's house, and it is there she remembers the horrible events that led her to repress her memories.
There are some difficult themes in this mystery. Overall, I enjoyed it. The series is called "Phineas Fox, although he seemed to revive less airtime than other character arcs. As it is the first of the series, I am willing to read the next book and see how it continues.
There are some difficult themes in this mystery. Overall, I enjoyed it. The series is called "Phineas Fox, although he seemed to revive less airtime than other character arcs. As it is the first of the series, I am willing to read the next book and see how it continues.
February 14, 2021
As somebody once sagely observed (who?), there is no hatred so great as the hatred that replaces adoration"
- Mortimer Quince
This was a delightful, short read full of twists and turns which the authoress brings to a conclusion like a wonderfully wrapped gift.
The suspense and mystery keeps a comfortable pace. The book is set in Ireland and flips back to 1881 Russia; at a time of upheaval after the assassination of Tsar Alexander II. It opens with the main character, a music researcher, getting a commission for a project and embarking a journey to find out about Roman Volf, an outstanding performer who was hung after being falsely accused of taking part in the Tsar's assassination.
A romp through the beautiful countryside of Ireland leads to gothic type manor full of secrets and a community of colorful and sinister characters. If anything, the side characters are really well written and overshadows Phineas. I sometimes forget he is the main character.
Charming twists and mysteries that are all resolved with a bittersweet note at the end.
- Mortimer Quince
This was a delightful, short read full of twists and turns which the authoress brings to a conclusion like a wonderfully wrapped gift.
The suspense and mystery keeps a comfortable pace. The book is set in Ireland and flips back to 1881 Russia; at a time of upheaval after the assassination of Tsar Alexander II. It opens with the main character, a music researcher, getting a commission for a project and embarking a journey to find out about Roman Volf, an outstanding performer who was hung after being falsely accused of taking part in the Tsar's assassination.
A romp through the beautiful countryside of Ireland leads to gothic type manor full of secrets and a community of colorful and sinister characters. If anything, the side characters are really well written and overshadows Phineas. I sometimes forget he is the main character.
Charming twists and mysteries that are all resolved with a bittersweet note at the end.
June 1, 2018
Delightful
This book was just plain fun. When everything comes together at the end, I almost couldn't stop myself from skimming the pages, so eager was I to find the answers to the mysteries. However, Sarah Raynes's writing is excellent (as always), and I forced myself to read at a normal pace (and I almost succeeded;)). Speed reading was tempting, but I hate to squander good writing.
At first, it felt like a lot of characters and a lot of different time periods but this added to its fun... lots of characters mixed with real historic figures ... and it all came together about a third of the way into the book. From this point on it was just a pure delight.
I highly recommend this as a vacation book... plenty long, intriguing, colorful... like I said... just FUN!
This book was just plain fun. When everything comes together at the end, I almost couldn't stop myself from skimming the pages, so eager was I to find the answers to the mysteries. However, Sarah Raynes's writing is excellent (as always), and I forced myself to read at a normal pace (and I almost succeeded;)). Speed reading was tempting, but I hate to squander good writing.
At first, it felt like a lot of characters and a lot of different time periods but this added to its fun... lots of characters mixed with real historic figures ... and it all came together about a third of the way into the book. From this point on it was just a pure delight.
I highly recommend this as a vacation book... plenty long, intriguing, colorful... like I said... just FUN!
March 16, 2019
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars! That's how good it is! It begins with main character, Phineas Fox, being contracted to do research for a TV documentary on a 19th century, Russian violinist who was executed for being part of the plot that assassinated Tsar Alexander II in 1881. The story moves between his discoveries and the stories of several others in different time periods. All are neatly brought together in the magnificent ending. I don't often wax this eloquent about a book, but this one definitely deserves it - it is outstanding!!
September 2, 2018
The start is very slow, building the background for the interlocking storylines. Once it gets moving, however, the characters turn out to be quite interesting, and I didn't quite guess until just before the truth was revealed. I did find it a tiny bit unbelievable that three characters would suffer complete memory loss of the trauma in their past, and that's the main reason for the three-star rating.
April 4, 2021
Rayne likes to have various stories with in one novel.
You have the mystery of Roman Volf a talented violist
in the 1880’s in St Petersburg, Russia. He accused of killing the Tsar.
There is the story of his son Maxim and how his life
plays out. Phineas Fox is introduced in this mystery.
And Bea who moves back to Tromloy two years after the death
of her husband and daughter. Sarah Rayne definitely gets
how to write page turning novels.
You have the mystery of Roman Volf a talented violist
in the 1880’s in St Petersburg, Russia. He accused of killing the Tsar.
There is the story of his son Maxim and how his life
plays out. Phineas Fox is introduced in this mystery.
And Bea who moves back to Tromloy two years after the death
of her husband and daughter. Sarah Rayne definitely gets
how to write page turning novels.
February 12, 2022
Maybe 4.5. The first half was slow and somewhat confusing, with characters that appeared to have no relationship to one another, and several timelines. I was confused and not really getting into it. However, the last third of the book made up for all that. All became clear, and what a pulse pounding, nerve wracking climax! Well done again, Sarah Rayne!
April 4, 2019
Not my favorite by her, but full of twists and turns that you won't see coming. It was a little confusing at times, and I found Antoinette's letters to be ridiculously eloquent. Again, not my favorite, but a satisfying read at times.
March 22, 2020
Two plot lines of varied quality, one interesting and under explored while the other a rich mix of fictional cliches. First Rayne novel I’ve read. I’m game for one more just hoping the inventive writer will tell the story and leave the other at home.
January 24, 2017
I adore Sarah Rayne's trademark mix of past/present, mysterious people/stories, and survivors of tragedy who maintain a sense of hope. Plus Irish guys :)
February 19, 2017
Really good mystery that kept me guessing until the end.
Excellent writer with beautifully descriptive language.
I'm going to look for her other books!
Excellent writer with beautifully descriptive language.
I'm going to look for her other books!
March 3, 2017
Death Notes introduces Phineas Fox, a professional music researcher. When offered a commission researching the life of gifted musician Roman Volf, for a TV documentary, Phineas is unenthusiastic. Despite his agent’s entreaty of ‘Highly Prestigious’ Phineas doesn’t want it. Roman Volf, says Phineas, may have been a gifted musician but he was also a villain, a womanizer, and he was hanged for helping to assassinate a Russian tsar. But the mention of a generous fee has Phineas musing on his recent move to a large and expensive flat and reluctantly he agrees to take the commission.
His initial investigations turn up an article by Russian journalist Feofil Marknov stating that Roman Volf was a virtuoso violinist, charismatic and brilliant. It refer to his Pied Piper style exultant midnight march of the rebels across the Pevchesky bridge, two days after the Tsar’s death. But most of the references he finds focus on Roman’s part in the assassination in March 1881. Mindful of the TV element Phineas feels this Pied Piper march would make a dramatic reconstruction and consults many books to try and track down more of this exploit and eventually finds further reference in another article by Marknov. After burrowing through many dusty bookshops and equally dusty tomes Phineas finds Lost Buildings of Old Russia and there he strikes gold. His discovery sends him seeking the Skomorokh Theatre and its exact location.
As Phineas pursues his investigations he begins to believe that Roman Volf could have been innocent and was executed for something he didn't do. And what of Roman’s descendants, if any?
Following the trail takes him to the west coast of Ireland and the quiet village of Kilcarne, where he finds mystery upon mystery, reaching from 1881 to the present day.
There are multiple strands and interesting characters: Beatrice still grieving for her daughter and husband and living in an isolated cottage; The reclusive Maxim Volf; and interspersed throughout the narrative extracts from music hall entertainer Mortimer Quince’s diary.
In this fascinating multi-layered novel, Sarah Rayne weaves a fascinating tale with many twists and turns that had me eagerly turning the pages to see how the story would unravel. I loved this enthralling book and look forward to the next in the series.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
His initial investigations turn up an article by Russian journalist Feofil Marknov stating that Roman Volf was a virtuoso violinist, charismatic and brilliant. It refer to his Pied Piper style exultant midnight march of the rebels across the Pevchesky bridge, two days after the Tsar’s death. But most of the references he finds focus on Roman’s part in the assassination in March 1881. Mindful of the TV element Phineas feels this Pied Piper march would make a dramatic reconstruction and consults many books to try and track down more of this exploit and eventually finds further reference in another article by Marknov. After burrowing through many dusty bookshops and equally dusty tomes Phineas finds Lost Buildings of Old Russia and there he strikes gold. His discovery sends him seeking the Skomorokh Theatre and its exact location.
As Phineas pursues his investigations he begins to believe that Roman Volf could have been innocent and was executed for something he didn't do. And what of Roman’s descendants, if any?
Following the trail takes him to the west coast of Ireland and the quiet village of Kilcarne, where he finds mystery upon mystery, reaching from 1881 to the present day.
There are multiple strands and interesting characters: Beatrice still grieving for her daughter and husband and living in an isolated cottage; The reclusive Maxim Volf; and interspersed throughout the narrative extracts from music hall entertainer Mortimer Quince’s diary.
In this fascinating multi-layered novel, Sarah Rayne weaves a fascinating tale with many twists and turns that had me eagerly turning the pages to see how the story would unravel. I loved this enthralling book and look forward to the next in the series.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
September 19, 2017
A great start to a new series, can't wait to read more!
Check out my review here: http://www.gksihat.com/review-death-n...
Check out my review here: http://www.gksihat.com/review-death-n...
April 2, 2018
Sarah Rayne does an excellent job, I love her writing and the way she weaves music, literature and suspense into a great story.
June 22, 2019
A nice start for the first book. This series has potential.
September 10, 2019
Excellent
January 1, 2020
This author really keeps you guessing and her mysteries are unique. The content is a little morbid and intense, but a good read for sure.
January 9, 2020
A great start to a new series Sarah Rayne delivers as usual
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