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The Belle-Époque Mysteries #1
Murder on the Champs-Élysées: A Belle-Époque Mystery
“Mandon creates a gay lead character in a mainstream mystery, with refreshing and ingenious insight!…[The] characters are so human and absorbing they will follow you past the solution of this compelling and cleverly unique detective novel. This book consumed me, and though I read it weeks ago, I am still unable to let it go.”
—Kathryn Lynn Davis, New York Times bestselling author
“Alex Mandon sets this forward-thinking mystery in a lush historical setting that unveils all the opulence of the era. Tightly plotted and evocative!”
—Tanya Anne Crosby, New York Times bestselling author
Paris, 1900. The height of the Belle-Époque: decadence, wealth, hedonism…and murder.
Homicide investigator Guillaume Devré stands for the silenced victims, bound to seek justice as he makes his way from the wide boulevards frequented by the tout-Paris to the narrow byways of Montmartre, to the shadow of the Tour Eiffel and the lush elegance of Maxim’s.
When the most famous courtesan in Paris becomes the prime suspect in the death of a wealthy young man, Inspector Devré is reluctantly drawn into the opulent parlors and witty manners of high society. As the investigation unfolds, he must contend with a bloodthirsty press and the outrageous behavior of his suspect…as well as his own prejudices and unfulfilled needs.
As the case unfolds, Devré realizes that solving this murder could expose him and his darkest secret.
Murder on the Champs-Élysées is the first in a new series featuring Inspector Guillaume Devré, a homicide detective from la Sûreté who lives a secret life on the fringes of respectable society, the powerful courtesan known as La Balise—with secrets of her own—and the gruff but brilliant American pathologist Dr. Jackson.
—Kathryn Lynn Davis, New York Times bestselling author
“Alex Mandon sets this forward-thinking mystery in a lush historical setting that unveils all the opulence of the era. Tightly plotted and evocative!”
—Tanya Anne Crosby, New York Times bestselling author
Paris, 1900. The height of the Belle-Époque: decadence, wealth, hedonism…and murder.
Homicide investigator Guillaume Devré stands for the silenced victims, bound to seek justice as he makes his way from the wide boulevards frequented by the tout-Paris to the narrow byways of Montmartre, to the shadow of the Tour Eiffel and the lush elegance of Maxim’s.
When the most famous courtesan in Paris becomes the prime suspect in the death of a wealthy young man, Inspector Devré is reluctantly drawn into the opulent parlors and witty manners of high society. As the investigation unfolds, he must contend with a bloodthirsty press and the outrageous behavior of his suspect…as well as his own prejudices and unfulfilled needs.
As the case unfolds, Devré realizes that solving this murder could expose him and his darkest secret.
Murder on the Champs-Élysées is the first in a new series featuring Inspector Guillaume Devré, a homicide detective from la Sûreté who lives a secret life on the fringes of respectable society, the powerful courtesan known as La Balise—with secrets of her own—and the gruff but brilliant American pathologist Dr. Jackson.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2017
105 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
About the author
Alex Mandon
1 book23 followersAlex Mandon is the pen name for an award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who has written more than forty novels. Alex lives in the Midwest United States and is currently working on the next Devré and Lucie novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 23, 2017
See that blurb? Wanna know how much of it I read before I had my hand in the air all 'MEMEMEMEMEME'?
"Paris, 1900."
The end. REQUESTED! That + the title = done deal. I'm really glad I did too because this is a fantastic book. It's lush with vibrant characters and a mystery plot line that's absorbing. If an author can get my thoughts to churn over a book when I'm not reading the book, that's the mark of a good read and an invested reader.
Before I forget, this isn't a romance. There are romantic elements that may evolve into something as the series progresses, but this is gay lit/fiction. The blurb (that I only read two words of) doesn't really indicate that and I admit I was expecting there to be some romance, but I have to tell you I got so engrossed in this story that I... forgot. I looked down at the percentage read and was at almost 90% when I realized, 'hey! this isn't a romance!'. Clearly, I don't feel shortchanged in the slightest, but if you need sex and romance in your reads, you'll likely be disappointed.
The central "relationship" in this novel is between Devré and Lucie and the best way to describe their relationship is adversarial. He's investigating the murder of Paul Bacard and she is his prime suspect. They are worthy adversaries. Both are clever, astute, observant and perceptive. They don't like each other but it's clear they respect each other. Their quipping and maneuvering was entertaining and is what endeared both to me. I don't know whether I liked their interplay better or Dr. Jackson with either of them.
Dr. Jackson is a GR-HAAAAAA-UMP and a pathologist. He make me laugh so hard a few times that I had my face in my hands trying to stifle my cackling. AND he's American! An American outgrumped the original grumps! Priceless!
Devré is an inspector with La Sûreté. He's also a dandy. Can we just pause for a moment of dandy appreciation? Go ahead and conjure up your favorite image, I'll wait. *stares into the distance* He's gay and all that that implies in 1900. The fact that he's a law enforcement officer further complicates matters for him. He's got some self-loathing going on due to his sexuality which pulled at my heartstrings. I'm hoping he can find some peace and happiness before this thing is said and done. Maybe with Huvet? *hopeful eyes*
La Balise a.k.a. Lucie-Genviève Madeleine is the most famous courtesan in all of Paris. Can I just say how much I love the French? I LOVE THE FRENCH!!!!!! They revere her so much that they've elevated her into the rarified stratosphere of celebrity. Of course she's beautiful and charming, but anyone that underestimates her because of her gender does so at their own peril. I do love a strong, quick witted female character and Mandon has created one with Lucie.
Truth be told, I loved all three of these characters. They, as well as the secondary characters, all are expertly drawn with unique voices. Mandon's prose is strong and sumptuous, flowing like the Seine on a summer day with its rich imagery. It's also so very, very FRENCH! Mandon didn't just capture the ethos and decadence of the bourgeoise of this era, but the mindset that makes the French so... well, French.
First and foremost, this novel is a mystery full of twists and turns, multiple suspicious characters and subterfuge. The way the case evolves is smart, slowly revealing a breadcrumb trail of clues for the reader to follow. There are no explosions or grandiose antics to cheapen the narrative. It stays true to the time and is truly an investigation, some aspects of which can be mundane, but I'll tell you, Mandon gave me a run for my money. That's a win in my book.
The weaving of the historical aspects into the fabric of this narrative so seamlessly lends further credence to Mandon being an accomplished writer. It's clearly well researched from the language to the attitudes to the class differences to the societal expectations of the time. All are top-notch. Never once did I get pulled out of the story by a careless lapse in continuity.
I loved a lot about this book but how Paris is integral, almost like another character in the story made it special for me. I always get a thrill when I've been to the places in my reads especially when I loved the place and I love Paris. Cliché or no, tis true.
Gorgeous writing, likable characters that are fully realized and an engrossing mystery have ensured that I'll be back for The Belle Époque Mysteries part deux.
Recommend to mystery fans.
A review copy was provided.
"Paris, 1900."
The end. REQUESTED! That + the title = done deal. I'm really glad I did too because this is a fantastic book. It's lush with vibrant characters and a mystery plot line that's absorbing. If an author can get my thoughts to churn over a book when I'm not reading the book, that's the mark of a good read and an invested reader.
Before I forget, this isn't a romance. There are romantic elements that may evolve into something as the series progresses, but this is gay lit/fiction. The blurb (that I only read two words of) doesn't really indicate that and I admit I was expecting there to be some romance, but I have to tell you I got so engrossed in this story that I... forgot. I looked down at the percentage read and was at almost 90% when I realized, 'hey! this isn't a romance!'. Clearly, I don't feel shortchanged in the slightest, but if you need sex and romance in your reads, you'll likely be disappointed.
The central "relationship" in this novel is between Devré and Lucie and the best way to describe their relationship is adversarial. He's investigating the murder of Paul Bacard and she is his prime suspect. They are worthy adversaries. Both are clever, astute, observant and perceptive. They don't like each other but it's clear they respect each other. Their quipping and maneuvering was entertaining and is what endeared both to me. I don't know whether I liked their interplay better or Dr. Jackson with either of them.
Dr. Jackson is a GR-HAAAAAA-UMP and a pathologist. He make me laugh so hard a few times that I had my face in my hands trying to stifle my cackling. AND he's American! An American outgrumped the original grumps! Priceless!
Devré is an inspector with La Sûreté. He's also a dandy. Can we just pause for a moment of dandy appreciation? Go ahead and conjure up your favorite image, I'll wait. *stares into the distance* He's gay and all that that implies in 1900. The fact that he's a law enforcement officer further complicates matters for him. He's got some self-loathing going on due to his sexuality which pulled at my heartstrings. I'm hoping he can find some peace and happiness before this thing is said and done. Maybe with Huvet? *hopeful eyes*
His was a life of subterfuge and dishonesty juxtaposed with a vocation spent uncovering truth and promoting justice.
La Balise a.k.a. Lucie-Genviève Madeleine is the most famous courtesan in all of Paris. Can I just say how much I love the French? I LOVE THE FRENCH!!!!!! They revere her so much that they've elevated her into the rarified stratosphere of celebrity. Of course she's beautiful and charming, but anyone that underestimates her because of her gender does so at their own peril. I do love a strong, quick witted female character and Mandon has created one with Lucie.
Truth be told, I loved all three of these characters. They, as well as the secondary characters, all are expertly drawn with unique voices. Mandon's prose is strong and sumptuous, flowing like the Seine on a summer day with its rich imagery. It's also so very, very FRENCH! Mandon didn't just capture the ethos and decadence of the bourgeoise of this era, but the mindset that makes the French so... well, French.
First and foremost, this novel is a mystery full of twists and turns, multiple suspicious characters and subterfuge. The way the case evolves is smart, slowly revealing a breadcrumb trail of clues for the reader to follow. There are no explosions or grandiose antics to cheapen the narrative. It stays true to the time and is truly an investigation, some aspects of which can be mundane, but I'll tell you, Mandon gave me a run for my money. That's a win in my book.
The weaving of the historical aspects into the fabric of this narrative so seamlessly lends further credence to Mandon being an accomplished writer. It's clearly well researched from the language to the attitudes to the class differences to the societal expectations of the time. All are top-notch. Never once did I get pulled out of the story by a careless lapse in continuity.
I loved a lot about this book but how Paris is integral, almost like another character in the story made it special for me. I always get a thrill when I've been to the places in my reads especially when I loved the place and I love Paris. Cliché or no, tis true.
Gorgeous writing, likable characters that are fully realized and an engrossing mystery have ensured that I'll be back for The Belle Époque Mysteries part deux.
Recommend to mystery fans.
A review copy was provided.
March 5, 2017
Lovely characters in that they are people I'd like to read more about. I'd like to discover more about them and their stories.Plotting wise - yep that worked too, a plot which ramped up as we paced along to the twisty finale.Writing - Crisp, clean with a certain nonchalance dotted with very interesting bits as can by seen from my updates and my websearches during reading. Very well researched and it drew me in very well in the atmosphere of the Belle Epoque.
A great read with Lena - one of those books I feel sad is finished as I could have easily enjoyed spending the weekend as well with them.
Fits into slot 38 of my book challange - A book set around a holiday other than Christmas - At the beginning of the 20th century, it became tradition in France to sell lily of the valley on international labour day, 1 May (also called La Fête du Muguet (Lily of the Valley Day) by labour organisations and private persons without paying sales tax (on that day only) as a symbol of spring.
March 6, 2017
Murder on the Champs-Élysées is set in 1900 Paris - a Paris just opening its Exposition Universelle, with the Paris Metro scheduled to open later in the year, the Eiffel Tower (built about 10 years prior) is begrudgingly tolerated by Parisians, and Maxim's with its Art Nouveau decor is the place to see and be seen. This is the story of two individuals who are "walking carefully on a line balancing the light and dark sides of [their lives]" - homicide detective Guillaume Devré, an inverti or pédéraste (the most common term gay men used to describe themselves at the time) and Mme. Lucie-Geneviève Madeleine, an upper-crust courtesan or les grands horizontals known as La Balaise (the "beacon" of femininity) who is the 1900 equivalent of perhaps Princess Diana as far as celebrity and press scrutiny.
They are brought together by a murder that is slowly and cleverly unfurled throughout the book along with a cast of memorable secondary characters such as Dr. Jackson, a brilliantly eccentric police pathologist, Doctor Émile Huvet, M. Hélène, Lucie's former lover Christophe Calmette, Aloysius (Lucie's huge Moorish half-brother), etc. Small glimpses of Lucie's past are tantalizingly revealed bit by bit (Kyoto? Jail? Murder?) while Inspector Devré must always keep his own truth hidden while endeavoring to unearth other's secrets and solve his case.
I don't want to give away anything about the murder because the author does such a wonderful job of keeping the interest and suspense going. My only quibble is that the ending seemed very rushed and focused only on Lucie. Overall, I was absolutely fascinated by the story and especially the main characters and felt it beautifully introduces Paris of the time (with just enough details and background) while giving us the start to a series of mysteries featuring La Balaise and Devré. 4.5 stars!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 10, 2017
Quite enjoyable and very atmospheric
As always it is difficult to review a mystery novel without giving something away, and I really don’t want to spoil you a pleasure of an exciting guessing game, but you have to be in the first place a lover of a historical mystery, because, in spite of presence of a love affair that has a huge potential to grow into a serious love relationship, The Belle-Époque Mysteries, is not MM romance but an accurately researched historical mystery.
Alex Mandon offers not only a well-written entertaining plot, but also a wonderful feeling of the time and the setting. With so many lovely details and interesting insights into society’s norms of Paris at the end of the nineteenth century.
When Monsieur Paul Bacard, a wealthy young man, has been found dead in a hired fiacre – though men of his standing had their own modes of transport -carriages (often multiple ones) -there is no doubt that he was murdered. But who could benefit from his death and why?
If you enjoy old fashioned mystery novels where normally there are many suspects in the beginning of the investigation and which circle is reduced to a single one toward the end, and where with an unexpected last twist of the story all your brilliantly thought-out theories collapse like a house of cards, you will like this series.
I can’t wait for the next sequel, I look forward to meeting these great characters again:
Inspector Guillaume Devrè from la Suretè, the Parisian detective bureau – which has been started by a reformed criminal named Eugene Vidocq during the Napoleonic era – was the oldest and most respected one in the world. Our leading gay character, deep in the closet of course, considering the period of time
But Devrè’s special knowledge could be very useful for some case.
Dr. Thomas Jackson, the American pathologist, the best in the whole Paris, eccentric workaholic who is more comfortable with corpses within the walls of his laboratory than among real people. He made me laugh, but he should learn to keep his mouth shut, mostly in regard to his job.
Èmile Huvet, the attractive family physician of a grande horizontale, a high society courtesan La Balise and her three female tenants and friends.
And of course La Balise herself, her mysterious past full of dark secrets.
I have a feeling, we’are going to have a lot of fun with this series!
Highly recommended.
A wonderful BR with my Sofia, as always :)
***ARC provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
As always it is difficult to review a mystery novel without giving something away, and I really don’t want to spoil you a pleasure of an exciting guessing game, but you have to be in the first place a lover of a historical mystery, because, in spite of presence of a love affair that has a huge potential to grow into a serious love relationship, The Belle-Époque Mysteries, is not MM romance but an accurately researched historical mystery.
Alex Mandon offers not only a well-written entertaining plot, but also a wonderful feeling of the time and the setting. With so many lovely details and interesting insights into society’s norms of Paris at the end of the nineteenth century.
When Monsieur Paul Bacard, a wealthy young man, has been found dead in a hired fiacre – though men of his standing had their own modes of transport -carriages (often multiple ones) -there is no doubt that he was murdered. But who could benefit from his death and why?
If you enjoy old fashioned mystery novels where normally there are many suspects in the beginning of the investigation and which circle is reduced to a single one toward the end, and where with an unexpected last twist of the story all your brilliantly thought-out theories collapse like a house of cards, you will like this series.
I can’t wait for the next sequel, I look forward to meeting these great characters again:
Inspector Guillaume Devrè from la Suretè, the Parisian detective bureau – which has been started by a reformed criminal named Eugene Vidocq during the Napoleonic era – was the oldest and most respected one in the world. Our leading gay character, deep in the closet of course, considering the period of time
though sodomy wasn’t illegal and it occurred far more than most people would believe, inverts were seen as deviants and as having an inherent criminal nature.
But Devrè’s special knowledge could be very useful for some case.
Dr. Thomas Jackson, the American pathologist, the best in the whole Paris, eccentric workaholic who is more comfortable with corpses within the walls of his laboratory than among real people. He made me laugh, but he should learn to keep his mouth shut, mostly in regard to his job.
Èmile Huvet, the attractive family physician of a grande horizontale, a high society courtesan La Balise and her three female tenants and friends.
And of course La Balise herself, her mysterious past full of dark secrets.
I have a feeling, we’are going to have a lot of fun with this series!
Highly recommended.
A wonderful BR with my Sofia, as always :)
***ARC provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
dnf-but-may-try-again
May 18, 2023(dnf at 7%)
i genuinely have no idea why i can't get into this one, i can't pinpoint it at all. i've been in a very weird reading mood lately (some sort of slump, i think), so that's probably why; i'll shelve it for now but there's a good chance i'll pick it up again when i'm feeling in the mood for this genre!
i genuinely have no idea why i can't get into this one, i can't pinpoint it at all. i've been in a very weird reading mood lately (some sort of slump, i think), so that's probably why; i'll shelve it for now but there's a good chance i'll pick it up again when i'm feeling in the mood for this genre!
January 23, 2017
Loved the setting in Paris in 1900. This book has nicely developed characters and a good plot. It provides an interesting look at the Parisian demi monde. Alex Mandon does his research, but he doesn't let it get in the way of his story. All in all a pleasant read. If you like this book, try The Prince's Boy by Paul Bailey, The book of Salt by Monique Truong, and The Unreal Life of Sergey Nabokov by Paul Russell. All four novels have strong, believable gay male characters in belle epoch Paris. I'm looking forward to the next Devre' and Lucie Mystery.
March 1, 2017
I was given this book for free in exchange for a honest review.
First off, just . . .WOW. I loved this book unreservedly. I am a huge sucker for historical mysteries, and also for well-written, interesting, unique characters and this book hit all the high points on pretty much every I-love-this-trope list.
Guillaume Devré is a fascinating main character, and an exceptional detective with the Paris police force. He's called to investigate one of les grandes horizontals (which is pretty much the most awesome name ever), basically really really famous courtesans who unlike many of the women of the time, were free to dictate their own paths and manage their own affairs. And Lucie, our other main characters, does exactly that. She takes no shit from ANYONE and it is glorious.
The setting is also glorious (I MEAN BELLE EPOQUE PARIS), and the details were swoony. The writing was subtle and it wasn't over-written. Characters focus when they need to. Guillaume lets him get distracted, and understandably, but there is no "let me hit pause on this murder investigation so I can conveniently shag my love interest."
I didn't really care who murdered who, that's how much I enjoyed the book. I can see some foreshadowing setup for the next books, and I appreciate so much that not every mystery was solved. We know tiny tantalizing glimpses of Lucie's past, along with her half-brother. The book, while solving the actual mystery at hand, was brilliant at revealing just enough of everyone's history. There are clearly many more mysteries to solve, and I am 10000000% there. Just tell me where and when.
First off, just . . .WOW. I loved this book unreservedly. I am a huge sucker for historical mysteries, and also for well-written, interesting, unique characters and this book hit all the high points on pretty much every I-love-this-trope list.
Guillaume Devré is a fascinating main character, and an exceptional detective with the Paris police force. He's called to investigate one of les grandes horizontals (which is pretty much the most awesome name ever), basically really really famous courtesans who unlike many of the women of the time, were free to dictate their own paths and manage their own affairs. And Lucie, our other main characters, does exactly that. She takes no shit from ANYONE and it is glorious.
The setting is also glorious (I MEAN BELLE EPOQUE PARIS), and the details were swoony. The writing was subtle and it wasn't over-written. Characters focus when they need to. Guillaume lets him get distracted, and understandably, but there is no "let me hit pause on this murder investigation so I can conveniently shag my love interest."
I didn't really care who murdered who, that's how much I enjoyed the book. I can see some foreshadowing setup for the next books, and I appreciate so much that not every mystery was solved. We know tiny tantalizing glimpses of Lucie's past, along with her half-brother. The book, while solving the actual mystery at hand, was brilliant at revealing just enough of everyone's history. There are clearly many more mysteries to solve, and I am 10000000% there. Just tell me where and when.
March 29, 2017
** 4.5 Stars **
It's a blend of two of my favorite genres, historical fiction and murder-mystery. How can I not be drawn to this book!
Murder on the Champs-Élysées takes place in Paris à la Belle Époque. The author obviously did a great deal of research on the city at the turn of the 20th Century and it shows! This novel perfectly evokes the spirit and flavor of the era.
It's first and foremost a murder-mystery investigation and a great one! Inspector Guillaume Devré is the efficient inspector to boot, a character I rather enjoyed. When he finds a clue he's like a dog with a bone. There's a no-nonsense strong woman, the courtesan called La Balise, Lucie-Geneviève, who never takes no for an answer. And there's also the American pathologist Dr. Jackson who behaves like a caveman. There is something fascinating about watching the police attempting to solve crime without the use of all the modern techniques. I definitely want to know more about all of these characters!
As someone whose native language is French I find that to pepper the story with french words and expressions was a great idea, my problem is that there are all kinds of little mistakes and it was rather distracting!
In spite of that I really enjoyed this introduction to Inspector Guillaume Devré and I will be following up the series. Recommended!
It's a blend of two of my favorite genres, historical fiction and murder-mystery. How can I not be drawn to this book!
Murder on the Champs-Élysées takes place in Paris à la Belle Époque. The author obviously did a great deal of research on the city at the turn of the 20th Century and it shows! This novel perfectly evokes the spirit and flavor of the era.
It's first and foremost a murder-mystery investigation and a great one! Inspector Guillaume Devré is the efficient inspector to boot, a character I rather enjoyed. When he finds a clue he's like a dog with a bone. There's a no-nonsense strong woman, the courtesan called La Balise, Lucie-Geneviève, who never takes no for an answer. And there's also the American pathologist Dr. Jackson who behaves like a caveman. There is something fascinating about watching the police attempting to solve crime without the use of all the modern techniques. I definitely want to know more about all of these characters!
As someone whose native language is French I find that to pepper the story with french words and expressions was a great idea, my problem is that there are all kinds of little mistakes and it was rather distracting!
In spite of that I really enjoyed this introduction to Inspector Guillaume Devré and I will be following up the series. Recommended!
March 24, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
It’s odd to have so enjoyed a book that I found on some levels to be maddeningly frustrating. Murder on the Champs-Elysees is the first in a new mystery series by Alex Mandon. It is safe to say this is truly a mystery first and foremost and, at least in this first book, Devre’s sexuality took a distant second place. Devre is no Holmes or Nero Wolfe. He is dogged and determined and all too human. Which is why I adore him. He’s tenacious and while he tends to jump to conclusions, he works the puzzle wherever it takes him. He just a good policeman and it’s easy to enjoy his work.
The author has done an amazing job of capturing the essence of Paris at the turn of the 20th century. There is something so very unique about Paris and much of that comes through the page. If you’re looking for a romance, don’t expect to find it here. Devre is very much a man in conflict with his sexuality and, while there is a potential love interest set up for future books, it never really amounts to much here.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
It’s odd to have so enjoyed a book that I found on some levels to be maddeningly frustrating. Murder on the Champs-Elysees is the first in a new mystery series by Alex Mandon. It is safe to say this is truly a mystery first and foremost and, at least in this first book, Devre’s sexuality took a distant second place. Devre is no Holmes or Nero Wolfe. He is dogged and determined and all too human. Which is why I adore him. He’s tenacious and while he tends to jump to conclusions, he works the puzzle wherever it takes him. He just a good policeman and it’s easy to enjoy his work.
The author has done an amazing job of capturing the essence of Paris at the turn of the 20th century. There is something so very unique about Paris and much of that comes through the page. If you’re looking for a romance, don’t expect to find it here. Devre is very much a man in conflict with his sexuality and, while there is a potential love interest set up for future books, it never really amounts to much here.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
September 21, 2020
4 stars
An excellent start to what appears to be the beginning of a new favourite series (although I don't see a forthcoming novel anywhere *sad*). M/m historicals are my catnip and even more so when they feature murder mysteries and smart, flawed detectives. This could be a standalone as there is no cliff-hanger but it's obvious there are more stories to be told so I hope that turns out to be the case. Still, don't let that stop you from enjoying this one in the meantime.
An excellent start to what appears to be the beginning of a new favourite series (although I don't see a forthcoming novel anywhere *sad*). M/m historicals are my catnip and even more so when they feature murder mysteries and smart, flawed detectives. This could be a standalone as there is no cliff-hanger but it's obvious there are more stories to be told so I hope that turns out to be the case. Still, don't let that stop you from enjoying this one in the meantime.
February 12, 2017
This book was an excellent mystery. It does a great job of atmosphere, fascinating characters, knows where to put the right clues for you, and takes its time with the material. Absolutely worth a read.
June 18, 2018
Alex Mandon has written an interesting and well-researched mystery. The author captures the atmosphere of 1900's Paris - both it's underbelly and poverty alongside the life of the upper crust. The lead character is an obsessive investigator who also happens to be gay. The cast of characters also include an infamous and mysterious subsidized woman and an American doctor who is focused and socially inept. While this book was an enjoyable read, it was tiresome to trudge through yet another detailed description of waistcoats and the like. That said, I would read other books in the series.
May 5, 2018
It started off slow, but definitely picked up.
May 14, 2023
1900 Paris. The body of Paul Bacard is discovered not long after leaving the home of famous courtesan La Balise. Soon it is found that he was poisoned. But by whom and why. Then there is another death. Inspector Guillaume Devre investigates while battling with his own personal demons.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery.
August 22, 2021
Cela faisait un petit moment que je ne n’avais pas lu un roman de style policier, et je voulais un peu m’éloigner de la fantaisie et du fantastique. Meurtre sur les Champs-Élysées était depuis un moment dans ma pile à lire et je me suis que c’était l’occasion parfaite de le sortir enfin.
Dans l’ensemble, Meurtre sur les Champs-Élysées a été une lecture que je qualifierai de sympathique. Elle ne restera pas dans les mémoires, même si le roman a plusieurs qualités qui font qu’il sort de l’ordinaire. Mais cela n’aura pas suffi pour moi. L’enquête ne m’a pas transportée. Elle est assez lente, en partie parce que nous suivons deux personnages et donc deux points de vue, et elle n’a pas eu ce petit quelque chose d’émoustillant. Les états d’âme des deux héros, bien qu’intéressants, sabotent à certains moments la dynamique. On nous vend aussi le héros comme un fin limier qui ne s’arrête pas à l’évidence et pourtant à plusieurs reprises, c’est ce qu’il fait alors que les preuves ne sont pas là. Quant au meurtrier… j’ai trouvé la solution assez facile et le coupable manque de développement.
Cependant Meurtre sur les Champs-Élysées a d’autres atouts. Déjà les personnages. Il est facile de s’attacher à Guillaume, Lucie et Jackson. Des héros riches avec chacun une particularité qui font d’eux des êtres à part. Guillaume est un inspecteur très compétent qui a un sens du détail et qui ne se focalise pas sur les premières impressions. Lucie est une courtisane de luxe. Une femme émancipée qui veut vivre sa vie comme elle l’entend et qui ne veut pas d’un homme pour la posséder. Jackson est un médecin légiste américain très doué mais aux manières rustres. Un trio qui fonctionne et on sent vite tout le potentiel qu’ils pourraient avoir dans de prochaines enquêtent. Un fait qui pourrait me tenter si un tome deux sortait un jour.
Alex Mandon utilise aussi des éléments que je trouve super intéressants. On voit aussi qu’il y a eu un temps de recherche vis-à-vis de l’époque, le Paris de 1900, alors que l’auteur est américain (je n’ai pas pu savoir si c’était une femme ou un homme, très peu de détails circulent sur Alex). Je trouve toujours super de voir une part de réalisme dans ce genre de romans. L’auteur traite donc des courtisanes. Des femmes offrant leur compagnie et parfois leurs corps en toute légalité. Un univers que j’ai peu exploré et je trouve que l’auteur les dépeint d’une façon neutre, sans jugement, mettant même en avant leur soif de liberté. Il y a aussi la sexualité. L’homosexualité était un péché, une déviance qui pouvait vous conduire à la prison, voire pire. L’un des protagonistes l’est. On y voit combien sa vie est dangereuse, en un sens, marchant sur une ligne fine qu’il ne faut pas franchir. La solitude, l’angoisse et pourtant ce désir d’avoir une vie heureuse. C’est déchirant, mais explorer ce côté-là de l’histoire donne clairement une autre dimension au roman.
L’enquête navigue donc dans ces deux univers, tout en récoltant des indices par-ci, par-là. La vie privée des héros prenne parfois le dessus, ce qui permettra une suite avec plus de développement, j’en suis certaine, mais qui ici freine l’intrigue. Je me suis sentie ballottée, revenant parfois au point zéro, mais ne voyant pas se dessiner quelque chose de concret. On se focalise même sur un coupable qui n’est pas du tout crédible durant tout le processus, tout en pointant du doigt un comportement malsain d’un autre personnage mais ne fouillant pas cette hypothèse. Une petite déception donc à ce niveau-là.
Dans l’ensemble, Meurtre sur les Champs-Élysées a été une lecture que je qualifierai de sympathique. Elle ne restera pas dans les mémoires, même si le roman a plusieurs qualités qui font qu’il sort de l’ordinaire. Mais cela n’aura pas suffi pour moi. L’enquête ne m’a pas transportée. Elle est assez lente, en partie parce que nous suivons deux personnages et donc deux points de vue, et elle n’a pas eu ce petit quelque chose d’émoustillant. Les états d’âme des deux héros, bien qu’intéressants, sabotent à certains moments la dynamique. On nous vend aussi le héros comme un fin limier qui ne s’arrête pas à l’évidence et pourtant à plusieurs reprises, c’est ce qu’il fait alors que les preuves ne sont pas là. Quant au meurtrier… j’ai trouvé la solution assez facile et le coupable manque de développement.
Cependant Meurtre sur les Champs-Élysées a d’autres atouts. Déjà les personnages. Il est facile de s’attacher à Guillaume, Lucie et Jackson. Des héros riches avec chacun une particularité qui font d’eux des êtres à part. Guillaume est un inspecteur très compétent qui a un sens du détail et qui ne se focalise pas sur les premières impressions. Lucie est une courtisane de luxe. Une femme émancipée qui veut vivre sa vie comme elle l’entend et qui ne veut pas d’un homme pour la posséder. Jackson est un médecin légiste américain très doué mais aux manières rustres. Un trio qui fonctionne et on sent vite tout le potentiel qu’ils pourraient avoir dans de prochaines enquêtent. Un fait qui pourrait me tenter si un tome deux sortait un jour.
Alex Mandon utilise aussi des éléments que je trouve super intéressants. On voit aussi qu’il y a eu un temps de recherche vis-à-vis de l’époque, le Paris de 1900, alors que l’auteur est américain (je n’ai pas pu savoir si c’était une femme ou un homme, très peu de détails circulent sur Alex). Je trouve toujours super de voir une part de réalisme dans ce genre de romans. L’auteur traite donc des courtisanes. Des femmes offrant leur compagnie et parfois leurs corps en toute légalité. Un univers que j’ai peu exploré et je trouve que l’auteur les dépeint d’une façon neutre, sans jugement, mettant même en avant leur soif de liberté. Il y a aussi la sexualité. L’homosexualité était un péché, une déviance qui pouvait vous conduire à la prison, voire pire. L’un des protagonistes l’est. On y voit combien sa vie est dangereuse, en un sens, marchant sur une ligne fine qu’il ne faut pas franchir. La solitude, l’angoisse et pourtant ce désir d’avoir une vie heureuse. C’est déchirant, mais explorer ce côté-là de l’histoire donne clairement une autre dimension au roman.
L’enquête navigue donc dans ces deux univers, tout en récoltant des indices par-ci, par-là. La vie privée des héros prenne parfois le dessus, ce qui permettra une suite avec plus de développement, j’en suis certaine, mais qui ici freine l’intrigue. Je me suis sentie ballottée, revenant parfois au point zéro, mais ne voyant pas se dessiner quelque chose de concret. On se focalise même sur un coupable qui n’est pas du tout crédible durant tout le processus, tout en pointant du doigt un comportement malsain d’un autre personnage mais ne fouillant pas cette hypothèse. Une petite déception donc à ce niveau-là.
January 16, 2017
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. What an incredible journey through Paris in 1900. From mystery to romance, well developed and well rounded characters, an interesting plot, this book has it all.
This book stands as a love letter to Paris. Fantastic world building, incorporating plenty of intriguing historical trivia about the city and the times - such as medicine, the morgues and photography.
Most importantly are the characters. It is so refreshing to read such dynamic characters who don't "fit in" to society's norms at the time. There's a lot going on in this book - plot-wise and with the characters. I loved Inspector Devre and the demons he has to face and the secrets he has to keep solely because of his sexuality in a time where he could be jailed or murdered for living his true life . He truly was a breath of fresh air. Lucie, La Balise, the courtesan was also multi-layered (and I can't wait to learn more about her past, so fingers crossed there will be another book in this series.)
The plot moved forward very quickly and kept me guessing as to who the murderer was. I'll be honest, I didn't see it coming, but when it was revealed it made total sense.
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this book. The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat, the romantic edge was bitter, heartbreaking, and so well done.
This book stands as a love letter to Paris. Fantastic world building, incorporating plenty of intriguing historical trivia about the city and the times - such as medicine, the morgues and photography.
Most importantly are the characters. It is so refreshing to read such dynamic characters who don't "fit in" to society's norms at the time. There's a lot going on in this book - plot-wise and with the characters. I loved Inspector Devre and the demons he has to face and the secrets he has to keep solely because of his sexuality in a time where he could be jailed or murdered for living his true life . He truly was a breath of fresh air. Lucie, La Balise, the courtesan was also multi-layered (and I can't wait to learn more about her past, so fingers crossed there will be another book in this series.)
The plot moved forward very quickly and kept me guessing as to who the murderer was. I'll be honest, I didn't see it coming, but when it was revealed it made total sense.
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this book. The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat, the romantic edge was bitter, heartbreaking, and so well done.
February 2, 2020
Je vais évacuer tout de suite ce qui m’a fait un peu grimacer… disons que c’est un livre « français » écrit par une américaine du Middle-West et qui m’expliquera ce qu’est un flic de la Sûreté, notera consciencieusement mais avec envie tout de que notre détective va pouvoir manger (avec excès), ou encore s’adressera au médecin légiste avec des « Monsieur le Docteur », soit des informations qui auraient pu être en bas de page, et quelques maladresses d’expression… mais très honnêtement, c’est vraiment tout ce que je peux reprocher à cet excellent premier tome, et excellent à plus d’un titre !
Déjà, c’est un polar très réussi. Le roman est principalement axé sur l’enquête, qui tient vraiment la première place ici, avec quelques rebondissements bien trouvés et astucieux. Accessoirement, l’autrice brosse le portrait d’un policier introverti, d’une élégance froide et distante. Homosexuel et très malheureux de l’être, enfoui dans son placard (pour ne pas perdre tout ce qu’il a obtenu dans sa vie), il tente de trouver un équilibre entre des rencontres furtives dans les toilettes des cafés (aucune scène de sexe ici) et son métier de policier qu’il adore.
Parallèlement, l’autrice créé une « cocotte » flamboyante, une des grandes « horizontales » d’un Paris qui brille des lumières de l’Exposition Universelle… principale suspecte qui n’a pourtant pas commis le meurtre et qui doit prouver son innocence. Mais notre belle héroïne dissimule des secrets vraiment inavouables. Enfin, nous avons un médecin légiste américain excentrique et peu asocial, venu à Paris, alors leader dans le domaine de la médecine légale scientifique, pour effectuer et continuer ses expérimentations.
J’ai été passionnée autant par l’enquête que par ces personnages à la forte personnalité, tous les trois tourmentés, évolutifs, ce qui laisse présager de nouvelles enquêtes intéressantes. En effet, plusieurs pistes « personnelles » restent ouvertes (et secrètes) à la fin du roman, et je suis impatiente de connaître les futures explications et méandres concoctées par cette autrice pleine d’idées… qui sait effectuer les recherches nécessaires pour créer un arrière-plan très vivant, en gardant juste le nécessaire (et quelques détails piquants) pour apporter des petites touches d’authenticité tout à fait hautes en couleur !
Déjà, c’est un polar très réussi. Le roman est principalement axé sur l’enquête, qui tient vraiment la première place ici, avec quelques rebondissements bien trouvés et astucieux. Accessoirement, l’autrice brosse le portrait d’un policier introverti, d’une élégance froide et distante. Homosexuel et très malheureux de l’être, enfoui dans son placard (pour ne pas perdre tout ce qu’il a obtenu dans sa vie), il tente de trouver un équilibre entre des rencontres furtives dans les toilettes des cafés (aucune scène de sexe ici) et son métier de policier qu’il adore.
Parallèlement, l’autrice créé une « cocotte » flamboyante, une des grandes « horizontales » d’un Paris qui brille des lumières de l’Exposition Universelle… principale suspecte qui n’a pourtant pas commis le meurtre et qui doit prouver son innocence. Mais notre belle héroïne dissimule des secrets vraiment inavouables. Enfin, nous avons un médecin légiste américain excentrique et peu asocial, venu à Paris, alors leader dans le domaine de la médecine légale scientifique, pour effectuer et continuer ses expérimentations.
J’ai été passionnée autant par l’enquête que par ces personnages à la forte personnalité, tous les trois tourmentés, évolutifs, ce qui laisse présager de nouvelles enquêtes intéressantes. En effet, plusieurs pistes « personnelles » restent ouvertes (et secrètes) à la fin du roman, et je suis impatiente de connaître les futures explications et méandres concoctées par cette autrice pleine d’idées… qui sait effectuer les recherches nécessaires pour créer un arrière-plan très vivant, en gardant juste le nécessaire (et quelques détails piquants) pour apporter des petites touches d’authenticité tout à fait hautes en couleur !
October 7, 2024
I enjoyed this book and would continue reading the series but it seems that the author has abandoned it since it has been several years without a new addition. Inspector Devre investigates the death of a man in a carriage who appears to have been poisoned and further inspection indicates that he had been having relations with a man before his death. Devre is especially attuned to such evidence since he also has the same tendencies. So he is surprised to learn that the last place that he was seen alive was in a high end brothel. Helene says that she was pregnant with his child and that they were engaged to be married. The house is very secure so Devre's first instinct is that he had to be poisoned by someone in the household and his prime suspect is Lucie, the owner of the house and the most sought after mistress in Paris who graces the newspapers on a daily basis for her high end fashion as much as for the company that she keeps. She has some secret in her past that is not disclosed and was left on a cliffhanger at the end of the book that seems to indicate that perhaps she has killed before. But Lucie is determined to clear her name and that of her household. Devre works with Jackson, an American coroner, who is a grump but who aids the investigation with his innovative medical techniques and chemical tests that allow him to identify the poison and test other bottles of liquid from Lucie's house. He finds that the only bottles that contained poison were from Helene and Lucie's rooms. Were the real targets Lucie and Helene and was the man's death just an accident? When another man is found dead from hanging and poison is found in his room the assumption is that he poisoned his friend and killed himself because of the guilt. But Devre isn't so sure. He begins to have a relationship with the brothel's doctor, Emile, and he discovers that Emile had a sexual relationship with the man before his death. They would secretly meet in the brothel's greenhouse. Helene found out and used it to blackmail the man into proposing to her. But then he changed his mind and said that his parents would cut him off if he married her so she killed him. This was a smart, engaging story with an intelligent and interesting inspector and I am disappointed that there aren't any more books to continue the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
I gave this book a chance because it was among the mystery book freebies that occur with some authors every now and then. I knew nothing about it and didn’t read any reviews since it was a freebie. It’s the first book in a series and introduces us to Homicide investigator Guillaume Devré of La Surete in 1900 Paris. He is a man with many talents and secrets, and he sets out to investigate a murder that involves a well known courtesan, La Balise, and her house. The murder mystery is an interesting one that takes some unexpected twists, with several red herrings thrown in. Through it all, Devre stays on the trail, with the help of an American pathologist, Dr. Johnson, and in her own way, La Balise who wants to clear her name of any connection to the murder.
I enjoyed the story but there were several times when I skimmed the pages. I appreciate that the author was working on character development and setting the scene, but some pages could be skipped entirely without losing anything from the story. Sometimes a little less detail is preferable IMHO. The author has written several other books and series so this is not a new venture. I’ve not read any other works by this author, so perhaps this is just the author’s style. She wrote this originally under a pen name that could be masculine or feminine. Not that it matters, I just found it interesting that she would use a pen name when she was established.
One other thing that I didn’t really care for was the frequent use of actual French, usually just a sentence or two. I suppose that was to remind us that this story takes place in Paris, but I didn’t need the reminder (it was nice to brush up a little on my high school French, though). It’s not like Duvre or any other character was going to actually switch back and forth between French and English while talking IRL. It’s a minor point, but I have read many novels set in countries where English is not the primary language, but the characters speak in English because the book is in English. Oh well.
I might give another book in the series a try, simply because this was a good story and I like books set in the late 1800s/early 1900s. Perhaps the writing is a little more concise in future tales.
I enjoyed the story but there were several times when I skimmed the pages. I appreciate that the author was working on character development and setting the scene, but some pages could be skipped entirely without losing anything from the story. Sometimes a little less detail is preferable IMHO. The author has written several other books and series so this is not a new venture. I’ve not read any other works by this author, so perhaps this is just the author’s style. She wrote this originally under a pen name that could be masculine or feminine. Not that it matters, I just found it interesting that she would use a pen name when she was established.
One other thing that I didn’t really care for was the frequent use of actual French, usually just a sentence or two. I suppose that was to remind us that this story takes place in Paris, but I didn’t need the reminder (it was nice to brush up a little on my high school French, though). It’s not like Duvre or any other character was going to actually switch back and forth between French and English while talking IRL. It’s a minor point, but I have read many novels set in countries where English is not the primary language, but the characters speak in English because the book is in English. Oh well.
I might give another book in the series a try, simply because this was a good story and I like books set in the late 1800s/early 1900s. Perhaps the writing is a little more concise in future tales.
June 25, 2017
I purchased this book while on vacation in Paris but decided not to read it until later since there was an incident on Champs-Elysees the day I visited the famous strip. I thought since it was a murder mystery, it might scare me but I started it on the plane trip home and finished it the next day.
Wow. I loved this book. About halfway through I thought I had it figured out. Ten percent later, I decided I had no idea where this was going and right up until almost the end, I still was not straight on who did it. Either the murder mysteries that I have been reading have been way too easy lately (which is quite possible) and/or this was a better-crafted story.
The characters were interesting and well developed. The novel follows a French detective as he investigates the murder of a single gentleman of the well-to-do sort; La Balise an upper class courtesan of sorts and a person of interest in the investigation; and also includes some very eccentric characters including an American medical examiner with anti-social tendencies.
I don’t know how realistic the information on the locations in Paris were but as someone who has visited just once for a time period of two weeks, it fit with what I know of the city. The time circa turn of the twentieth century I found to be interesting as I have not read a lot of stories from this time period. I will definitely read further Belle-Epoque Mysteries should this mysterious author, whoever they are, write them.
Wow. I loved this book. About halfway through I thought I had it figured out. Ten percent later, I decided I had no idea where this was going and right up until almost the end, I still was not straight on who did it. Either the murder mysteries that I have been reading have been way too easy lately (which is quite possible) and/or this was a better-crafted story.
The characters were interesting and well developed. The novel follows a French detective as he investigates the murder of a single gentleman of the well-to-do sort; La Balise an upper class courtesan of sorts and a person of interest in the investigation; and also includes some very eccentric characters including an American medical examiner with anti-social tendencies.
I don’t know how realistic the information on the locations in Paris were but as someone who has visited just once for a time period of two weeks, it fit with what I know of the city. The time circa turn of the twentieth century I found to be interesting as I have not read a lot of stories from this time period. I will definitely read further Belle-Epoque Mysteries should this mysterious author, whoever they are, write them.
May 24, 2025
Set against the glittering backdrop of Belle Époque Paris, Murder on the Champs-Élysées is an evocative historical mystery that weaves rich atmosphere with intelligent plotting.
Colleen Cambridge introduces readers to Inspector Guillaume Devré, a sharp-eyed and layered detective investigating the suspicious death of wealthy socialite Paul Bacard.
The star of the novel, however, is La Balise, Lucie-Geneviève Madeleine, an intelligent and enigmatic courtesan whose charisma and complexity steal every scene.
The writing style is elegant and immersive, balancing lush period detail with brisk, purposeful narrative momentum.
Cambridge’s dialogue sparkles, especially in the verbal sparring between Devré and Lucie, and her world-building of turn-of-the-century Paris is both vivid and meticulous in its research.
The plot is fascinating from the outset, blending murder mystery with social commentary. The interplay of gender, class, and hidden identities adds depth without overwhelming the core mystery.
However, occasional exposition-heavy passages slow the momentum, particularly around Lucie’s background and the structure of her household.
However, these moments are brief and add richness.
Engaging, stylish, and so well plotted, this is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries and character-driven crime fiction.
Colleen Cambridge introduces readers to Inspector Guillaume Devré, a sharp-eyed and layered detective investigating the suspicious death of wealthy socialite Paul Bacard.
The star of the novel, however, is La Balise, Lucie-Geneviève Madeleine, an intelligent and enigmatic courtesan whose charisma and complexity steal every scene.
The writing style is elegant and immersive, balancing lush period detail with brisk, purposeful narrative momentum.
Cambridge’s dialogue sparkles, especially in the verbal sparring between Devré and Lucie, and her world-building of turn-of-the-century Paris is both vivid and meticulous in its research.
The plot is fascinating from the outset, blending murder mystery with social commentary. The interplay of gender, class, and hidden identities adds depth without overwhelming the core mystery.
However, occasional exposition-heavy passages slow the momentum, particularly around Lucie’s background and the structure of her household.
However, these moments are brief and add richness.
Engaging, stylish, and so well plotted, this is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries and character-driven crime fiction.
November 27, 2017
Murder on the Champs-Elysees is a great first book in what I hope will be a historical mystery series set in 1900's Paris featuring Inspector Devre. The mystery is well done and kept me guessing throughout and I won't recap it here for fear of spoiling it, but the characters are even more of a draw. Devre lives in fear that fellow members of la Surete will discover his secret - that he is attracted to members of his own sex. The book does a great job portraying the conflict Devre faces as he goes about his job and his desire for companionship and a long term relationship. The description of Paris society of the time and how a select group of courtesans were the celebrities of their day was fascinating and depicted a part of history that I wasn't familiar with. Lucie-Geneviveve Madeline offers hints of a past just waiting to catch up with her that I can't wait to find out more about. Add in a well rounded supporting cast and descriptions of Paris of the time that make the reader feel like they are there, and you have a book that is hard to put down. I read this in about a day, and hope to see additional entries in this series in the very near future.
December 26, 2017
It shouldn't have taken me so long to read this facinating mystery set in the Belle Epoch era in Paris. I got caught up in holiday activities and barely got newspapers read for a couple of weeks!
The protagonist, Guilliame, is a homicide detective in the Surité. He is also gay which would have been cause for instant dismissal and humiliation if discovered. The other main character is Lucie, a high class madam in an exclusive brothel. She is quite wealthy but her occupation, while tolerated, puts her on the fringes of society. A man is found dead in the brothel and is discovered to have been poisoned. At first suspicion falls on Lucie, but she is as determined to find the murderer as Guilliame. Their interactions, as well as theirs with the American-born pathologist/medical examiner Jackson, are the heart of the story. I enjoyed the book, and did not guess the solution to the murder (or murders?) in advance. The author clearly researched the historical period, from the sexual mores to the details of fashion and society. This is the 1st in a planned series and I very much look forward to the next one.
The protagonist, Guilliame, is a homicide detective in the Surité. He is also gay which would have been cause for instant dismissal and humiliation if discovered. The other main character is Lucie, a high class madam in an exclusive brothel. She is quite wealthy but her occupation, while tolerated, puts her on the fringes of society. A man is found dead in the brothel and is discovered to have been poisoned. At first suspicion falls on Lucie, but she is as determined to find the murderer as Guilliame. Their interactions, as well as theirs with the American-born pathologist/medical examiner Jackson, are the heart of the story. I enjoyed the book, and did not guess the solution to the murder (or murders?) in advance. The author clearly researched the historical period, from the sexual mores to the details of fashion and society. This is the 1st in a planned series and I very much look forward to the next one.
December 4, 2017
A slow simmer, that kept on roiling all the way to the end. 3* start working its way up to 4* at the end.
A grand adventure into the world of the Belle Epoch and the grandes horizontales. Lots of true references and people, so I spent much time googling!
Guillaume is a great fictional detective - has his own issues, can spot a clue, can miss a clue, methodical, charming, stern.
Lucie is a mystery - was she the villain, a non-sidekick sidekick, a victim, what was her history.
Thomas Jackson - lots to learn here yet.
And then the cast of Huvet, Aloysius, Guillaume’s family, la Lisette’s staff.
Lots of potential victims, lots of potential villains, twists and turns, murders, attempted murder.
An enjoyable romp. I’m still not sure that Jackson could be the man for Guillaume, still an undecided race between he and Emile for me. Lucie looks like she’ll be key in further stories. Will be interested if more are published.
A grand adventure into the world of the Belle Epoch and the grandes horizontales. Lots of true references and people, so I spent much time googling!
Guillaume is a great fictional detective - has his own issues, can spot a clue, can miss a clue, methodical, charming, stern.
Lucie is a mystery - was she the villain, a non-sidekick sidekick, a victim, what was her history.
Thomas Jackson - lots to learn here yet.
And then the cast of Huvet, Aloysius, Guillaume’s family, la Lisette’s staff.
Lots of potential victims, lots of potential villains, twists and turns, murders, attempted murder.
An enjoyable romp. I’m still not sure that Jackson could be the man for Guillaume, still an undecided race between he and Emile for me. Lucie looks like she’ll be key in further stories. Will be interested if more are published.
January 23, 2018
This mystery takes place in 1900 in Paris. The main character is Detective Inspecter Guillaume Devri, a very good detective with a very secret life as a homosexual in turn-of-the-century Paris. The book begins with the death of a wealthy young man after he leaves the home of the infamous and celebrated Parisian courtesan, La Balise or Lucie-Genevieve Madeleine. It appears the young man was poisoned and his death is followed by the hanging of yet another young man. La Balise is considered a suspect and she is soon very involved in the search for answers..........either to clear her name or cover her involvement. Historically very interesting although it did drag a bit in the middle. I kept wondering why Lucie was allowed so much freedom in the investigation, however, an author's note at the end said that he was working on another "Lucie and Devri" mystery so it made sense that this was an introduction to a new detective duo. I would be interested to see how this goes.
July 15, 2018
Sadly, the changing view points and overall writing style kept me from caring much about the characters and since I'm not a naturally curious person (in the sense that murder mysteries are mostly enjoyable for me when I know who the murderer was because I just don't care about the whole finding out process), it took me an awfully long time to get into this book.
I liked the overall story, though the characters were a little exhausting and there were just too many side characters of no great importance that all had French names (not easy to remember for someone who doesn't know any French besides 'merci' and 'Bonjour') and like I said, the overall writing style made it difficult to keep everything in mind and also stay interested.
The inclusion of queer characters was done quite well and the feminist, sex positive aspect was also nicely done.
The ending was a good, solid, kind-of-cliffhanger that makes you think about picking up the next book, but I'm not wholly convinced.
I liked the overall story, though the characters were a little exhausting and there were just too many side characters of no great importance that all had French names (not easy to remember for someone who doesn't know any French besides 'merci' and 'Bonjour') and like I said, the overall writing style made it difficult to keep everything in mind and also stay interested.
The inclusion of queer characters was done quite well and the feminist, sex positive aspect was also nicely done.
The ending was a good, solid, kind-of-cliffhanger that makes you think about picking up the next book, but I'm not wholly convinced.
December 3, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical crime story set in Paris at the turn of the 20th century.
Murder on the Champs-Elysees was well researched and very well written.
Guillaume Devre (please excuse the lack of accents etc but I don't know how to type them on my Australian computer) is investigating the murder of Paul Bacard. This investigation leads him to the home of La Balise, the most famous courtesan in Paris.
Everyone in the book as secrets and Guillaume's is that he is gay but he has to live in the closet. To be open about his sexuality would mean the end of his career and his position in society.
Murder on the Champs-Elysees is not a romance. It is an historical murder mystery which features a couple of gay characters.
I have already signed up for Alex Mandon's newsletter as I don't want to miss the next book in the series.
Highly recommended.
Murder on the Champs-Elysees was well researched and very well written.
Guillaume Devre (please excuse the lack of accents etc but I don't know how to type them on my Australian computer) is investigating the murder of Paul Bacard. This investigation leads him to the home of La Balise, the most famous courtesan in Paris.
Everyone in the book as secrets and Guillaume's is that he is gay but he has to live in the closet. To be open about his sexuality would mean the end of his career and his position in society.
Murder on the Champs-Elysees is not a romance. It is an historical murder mystery which features a couple of gay characters.
I have already signed up for Alex Mandon's newsletter as I don't want to miss the next book in the series.
Highly recommended.
October 8, 2020
Fascinating, intriguing read
Having been a huge fan of this author for years, I happily stumbled upon this story under her pen name. Such a powerhouse story with fantastic depth, characters and use of history. There isn't a story such as this that I can use as comparison. Wherein she had written about Regency, Victorian and Roaring 20s in her most famous sagas, Manson (Gleason) uses such an under used time frame (1900s) in this story to a beneficial and poignant degree, leaving the reader in a position to compare and contrast mores of then vs now. Will stick in my mind for a long time. Even though this was written in 2016, I do hope a follow up comes.
Having been a huge fan of this author for years, I happily stumbled upon this story under her pen name. Such a powerhouse story with fantastic depth, characters and use of history. There isn't a story such as this that I can use as comparison. Wherein she had written about Regency, Victorian and Roaring 20s in her most famous sagas, Manson (Gleason) uses such an under used time frame (1900s) in this story to a beneficial and poignant degree, leaving the reader in a position to compare and contrast mores of then vs now. Will stick in my mind for a long time. Even though this was written in 2016, I do hope a follow up comes.
November 26, 2017
A Quandry
I enjoyed Mr. Mandon's mystery, and other than the seemingly requisite sex scenes, which, compared to the rest of the story, seemed out of place. Throughout the book intimacy was implied and inferred but not explicit. I would rather have had those scenes written in the same manner. I liked the character development, the process of discovery, and the general forward movement. And, I had only begun to suspect the murderer when both Lucie and Devre' realized which person. For those who enjoy reading puzzling mysteries, you'll enjoy this one.
I enjoyed Mr. Mandon's mystery, and other than the seemingly requisite sex scenes, which, compared to the rest of the story, seemed out of place. Throughout the book intimacy was implied and inferred but not explicit. I would rather have had those scenes written in the same manner. I liked the character development, the process of discovery, and the general forward movement. And, I had only begun to suspect the murderer when both Lucie and Devre' realized which person. For those who enjoy reading puzzling mysteries, you'll enjoy this one.
May 6, 2023
Paris and the surrounds of the Surete are beautifully described. I particularly related to descriptions of San Chapelle which is indeed stunning. The mystery unravels logically - it is not one of those books where you are frantically turning the page to find out whodunit, but meanders slowly and methodically through a well plotted story. Lucie's involvement in the investigation is seamless and unforced. Characters are well drawn and varied. I received this as an advance copy from the author and voluntarily write leave this review.
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