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Winemaker Detective Mysteries #13
Requiem in Yquem
One of those rare breaks in the daily hubbub, offering a relaxing journey through French wine country peppered with reflexions on greed, remorse, and friendship.
In the mist-covered hills of Sauternes, where the wine is luscious and the landscape beguiling, the brutal murder of an elderly couple intrigues the wine expert Benjamin Cooker and awakens memories for his dashing assistant Virgile Lanssien. Drawn into the investigation, the two journey through the storied Sauternes countryside, where the Château d’Yquem has reigned for centuries. Will the murder go unexplained and the killer remain free? The Winemaker Detective’s discernment and incessant curiosity push investigators to look deeper, while Virgile rekindles memories of his days at school and questions the meaning of his life.
In another satisfying wine novel with a French flair, authors Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noël Balen give readers a perfectly intoxicating combination of French wine, gourmet meals, and mystery in the gloriously described Sauternes wine region with all the scenery, scents, and sounds of France. This light, fun mystery combines amateur sleuths, food, and wine in a wonderfully French mystery novel that doubles as a travel guide. It is a new kind of read on the international mystery and crime scene: a pitch-perfect, wine-infused, French-style cozy mystery.
In the mist-covered hills of Sauternes, where the wine is luscious and the landscape beguiling, the brutal murder of an elderly couple intrigues the wine expert Benjamin Cooker and awakens memories for his dashing assistant Virgile Lanssien. Drawn into the investigation, the two journey through the storied Sauternes countryside, where the Château d’Yquem has reigned for centuries. Will the murder go unexplained and the killer remain free? The Winemaker Detective’s discernment and incessant curiosity push investigators to look deeper, while Virgile rekindles memories of his days at school and questions the meaning of his life.
In another satisfying wine novel with a French flair, authors Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noël Balen give readers a perfectly intoxicating combination of French wine, gourmet meals, and mystery in the gloriously described Sauternes wine region with all the scenery, scents, and sounds of France. This light, fun mystery combines amateur sleuths, food, and wine in a wonderfully French mystery novel that doubles as a travel guide. It is a new kind of read on the international mystery and crime scene: a pitch-perfect, wine-infused, French-style cozy mystery.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2017
56 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 15, 2017
This delightful mystery series keeps getting better and better. This time around, the action evolves around wine expert, Benjamin Cooker's assistant, Virgile. When an elderly couple turn up brutally murdered in their bed, Virgile, with the help of his employer are determined to find out why they were murdered and who did it. En route to this wine region, Virgile encounters a mystery woman and old school chums. Why does this beautiful stranger lie to Virgile?
What I especially liked about this entry, was the wine, that is produced in this area, Chateau d'Yquem, one of the most expensive dessert wines. We learn a little about how it is produced. It's production has much in common with a wine produced, in the region, where I live, ice wine.
For a fun way to learn about the wine regions of France, pick up some books in the series! You just might become addicted!
What I especially liked about this entry, was the wine, that is produced in this area, Chateau d'Yquem, one of the most expensive dessert wines. We learn a little about how it is produced. It's production has much in common with a wine produced, in the region, where I live, ice wine.
For a fun way to learn about the wine regions of France, pick up some books in the series! You just might become addicted!
September 14, 2017
Just a bit dull
Apparently, the Winemaker Detective series has quite a following, although I have never come across it before. If they are all of a similar standard to this novel I shall not be rushing to read any more of them. Each is based in a famous French wine region.
It had all the makings of a good read. I love wine and good food and find myself on holiday in the heart of the Bourgogne. What better place to read a crime mystery centring around Chateau Yquem? Well, I guess the answer to that would be Bordeaux but that’s being picky.
It was a great shame therefore that I didn’t enjoy the book. Let’s first start with the translation. I have had the luck to read three excellent translations from the original Italian, Icelandic and Norwegian over the past month and have given full credit to the translators in each case. Maybe it’s being a little unfair to criticise the translator, Sally Pane, in this case as the original material might not have been as good but there were errors which jarred and spoiled the flow as they appeared throughout the book.
The amateur detectives, on which the series is based, are Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile. Cooker is a winemaker and also publishes a very successful blog on wine. They both have a half-decent relationship with the police who are investigating the cold-blooded murder of the Lacombes, an elderly couple, who seemed to have no enemies. Inevitably, it is our dynamic duo with their connections in the wine world who eventually solve the case.
The first two pages were excellent and described the murdered couple, thus setting the scene for the unfolding of the mystery. Unfortunately, it was all downhill from there. Any humour was forced and not very funny in the first place. The dialogue was clunky and unoriginal. The characterisation was uninspired. I need to be drawn in and involved but could not relate to any of the characters in this novel. Worse than that, I couldn’t care less what happened to them which didn’t really matter as no-one was under threat or in any danger at any time throughout the story.
The plot itself was standard stuff although pretty uninspiring as there were no twists and turns and, frankly, much of it seemed to be contrived to demonstrate the authors’ knowledge of wine. In short, there was no drama or light and shade or change of pace. It was very much like trying to solve a jigsaw and being handed the right piece as you needed it which is not very exciting.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
Apparently, the Winemaker Detective series has quite a following, although I have never come across it before. If they are all of a similar standard to this novel I shall not be rushing to read any more of them. Each is based in a famous French wine region.
It had all the makings of a good read. I love wine and good food and find myself on holiday in the heart of the Bourgogne. What better place to read a crime mystery centring around Chateau Yquem? Well, I guess the answer to that would be Bordeaux but that’s being picky.
It was a great shame therefore that I didn’t enjoy the book. Let’s first start with the translation. I have had the luck to read three excellent translations from the original Italian, Icelandic and Norwegian over the past month and have given full credit to the translators in each case. Maybe it’s being a little unfair to criticise the translator, Sally Pane, in this case as the original material might not have been as good but there were errors which jarred and spoiled the flow as they appeared throughout the book.
The amateur detectives, on which the series is based, are Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile. Cooker is a winemaker and also publishes a very successful blog on wine. They both have a half-decent relationship with the police who are investigating the cold-blooded murder of the Lacombes, an elderly couple, who seemed to have no enemies. Inevitably, it is our dynamic duo with their connections in the wine world who eventually solve the case.
The first two pages were excellent and described the murdered couple, thus setting the scene for the unfolding of the mystery. Unfortunately, it was all downhill from there. Any humour was forced and not very funny in the first place. The dialogue was clunky and unoriginal. The characterisation was uninspired. I need to be drawn in and involved but could not relate to any of the characters in this novel. Worse than that, I couldn’t care less what happened to them which didn’t really matter as no-one was under threat or in any danger at any time throughout the story.
The plot itself was standard stuff although pretty uninspiring as there were no twists and turns and, frankly, much of it seemed to be contrived to demonstrate the authors’ knowledge of wine. In short, there was no drama or light and shade or change of pace. It was very much like trying to solve a jigsaw and being handed the right piece as you needed it which is not very exciting.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
September 26, 2017
Requiem in Yquem has me planning a wine-tasting tour through the South of France for my next vacation and I just returned from vacation a week ago. It is the latest in the WineMaker Detective Series and the series really gets better and better. Admittedly, I have missed a few in between Treachery in Bordeaux and Requiem in Yquem, but, this book has me eager to go back and pick up the ones I missed. I received a copy from Le French in exchange for an honest review. Requiem in Yquem follows Benjamin and Virgile as they take interest in the double murder of an older couple that lived in the Sauternes region of wine country in France. The couple did not appear to have much money and what money they had most of the neighbors thought went right to their granddaughter, Cecile. A granddaughter that left home and went to Paris to become an actress and whom most neighbors thought was a selfish, ingrate, especially after the grandparents loved her and did all they could for her.
But, things are not always as they seem, especially to neighbors that see things from the outside looking in, even those closest to the couple. Not much appears to be missing and the police appear to be grasping at straws to try and find the murderer. Benjamin has his own thoughts on the case and he has taken enough interest that he is starting to step on a few toes. This case is a bit more important because it strikes close to home for Virgile who studied in the Sauternes region and has a friend who was very close to the couple, so close that the police might just start looking in his direction. Requiem in Yquem is a great mystery. The characters are engaging and the best part of this book is how the author makes the region, wine and food read like another character. I was so enamored of what I read that I kept taking breaks to look up the towns mentioned and the wine mentioned. I even started reading blurbs of things I liked to family members. It is a great addition to the series which makes me really happy that I have a few to go back and read before the next one is released. Review can also be seen at LadyTechie's Book Musings http://ladytechiesbookmusings.blogspo....
But, things are not always as they seem, especially to neighbors that see things from the outside looking in, even those closest to the couple. Not much appears to be missing and the police appear to be grasping at straws to try and find the murderer. Benjamin has his own thoughts on the case and he has taken enough interest that he is starting to step on a few toes. This case is a bit more important because it strikes close to home for Virgile who studied in the Sauternes region and has a friend who was very close to the couple, so close that the police might just start looking in his direction. Requiem in Yquem is a great mystery. The characters are engaging and the best part of this book is how the author makes the region, wine and food read like another character. I was so enamored of what I read that I kept taking breaks to look up the towns mentioned and the wine mentioned. I even started reading blurbs of things I liked to family members. It is a great addition to the series which makes me really happy that I have a few to go back and read before the next one is released. Review can also be seen at LadyTechie's Book Musings http://ladytechiesbookmusings.blogspo....
September 12, 2017
The latest case of the Winemaker Detective takes us into the Sauternais region in Bordeaux, where the legendary sweet wine, Sauternes, is produced. Benjamin Cooker should be busy revising his most current wine guide, but when he reads of the murder of a seemingly blameless retired couple in their bed, he decides that autumn is just the time to visit the region. Luckily Benjamin and his assistant, charming Virgile Lanissen, have many connections there. The more they learn, the more they want to uncover the murderer of the old couple. The police arrest a local homeless youth, but Cooker thinks the answer lies elsewhere, perhaps the old couple's grand-daughter or some old enemy.
Requiem in Yquem is another short and entertaining novel in this series, upon which a long-running French TV show is based. The sometimes irascible but kind Cooker and his sidekick, Virgile, use all their contacts and knowledge of wine to solve their cases. I have read the books out of order, but this is the first time I remember them actually seeking out a case to solve. As always, the descriptions of wine, wine making, and food are drool worthy. I always learn a little about wines and how they are made along the way. The characterizations are excellent with even familiar characters adding new dimensions. All of the novels offer a pleasant evening's reading along with an engaging puzzle to solve.
Thanks to Le French Book for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
Requiem in Yquem is another short and entertaining novel in this series, upon which a long-running French TV show is based. The sometimes irascible but kind Cooker and his sidekick, Virgile, use all their contacts and knowledge of wine to solve their cases. I have read the books out of order, but this is the first time I remember them actually seeking out a case to solve. As always, the descriptions of wine, wine making, and food are drool worthy. I always learn a little about wines and how they are made along the way. The characterizations are excellent with even familiar characters adding new dimensions. All of the novels offer a pleasant evening's reading along with an engaging puzzle to solve.
Thanks to Le French Book for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
September 7, 2017
Note - I thank France Book Tours and the publishers for this review copy via Net Galley.
The Story Line - A double Homicide. An old couple in a quaint little wine making village are murdered. At the outset, there are no pointers leading to the motive or the culprit. However, all eyes are trained on their only grand daughter Cecile due to her hippy life style and shady boy friends. Enter our amateur detectives - Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile. They end up uncovering the mystery and help the cop catch the killer
What started out as a plain double homicide without a proper motive morphed to robbery related homicide. What treasure can a simple old couple own which could lead them to their death?! This part of the story perplexed me and when the twist was revealed, it was mind boggling and did sound a bit comical.
The plot was like a good wine, it got better as it progress (metaphorically as it aged may be?). It is apparent that the writers know their wine well. Either that or they have done immense research. I'm inclined to the former as one of the writer has a solid wine making background.
The translation - The writing never felt like it was a work of translation. Having read a book before from this series, I knew for a fact that, the story would be a fine mystery, to be savored slowly like fine wine (Pun Intended!) France can't possibly sound more romantic to me. I fell in love with nyquem from the description in this book!
Characters - Given that the series is well developed, it was interesting to note that the characterization was fit for a new reader. The writers managed to throw in interesting shades of characterization for the recurring characters.
In short, the book was one thoroughly enjoyable read!
The Story Line - A double Homicide. An old couple in a quaint little wine making village are murdered. At the outset, there are no pointers leading to the motive or the culprit. However, all eyes are trained on their only grand daughter Cecile due to her hippy life style and shady boy friends. Enter our amateur detectives - Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile. They end up uncovering the mystery and help the cop catch the killer
What started out as a plain double homicide without a proper motive morphed to robbery related homicide. What treasure can a simple old couple own which could lead them to their death?! This part of the story perplexed me and when the twist was revealed, it was mind boggling and did sound a bit comical.
The plot was like a good wine, it got better as it progress (metaphorically as it aged may be?). It is apparent that the writers know their wine well. Either that or they have done immense research. I'm inclined to the former as one of the writer has a solid wine making background.
The translation - The writing never felt like it was a work of translation. Having read a book before from this series, I knew for a fact that, the story would be a fine mystery, to be savored slowly like fine wine (Pun Intended!) France can't possibly sound more romantic to me. I fell in love with nyquem from the description in this book!
Characters - Given that the series is well developed, it was interesting to note that the characterization was fit for a new reader. The writers managed to throw in interesting shades of characterization for the recurring characters.
In short, the book was one thoroughly enjoyable read!
September 22, 2017
4.5 stars
Thanks to this series I spent some nice hours discovering great wines and visiting some beautiful French locations, increasing my list of places to visit absolutely.
Husband and wife are killed in their double bed hand in hand. They did not notice anything. In their house there were no signs of eviction, nothing was stolen and they were not so rich to justify such a crime. The region where they lived was famous for Yquem, a very expensive dessert wine. Benjamin Cooker is France's preeminent wine expert but also an excellent amateur detective. Along with his assistant Virgile has solved many intricate cases. Will they also solve this one?
In this episode, Virgile's role is very important, it was very nice to know him better. He's a nice, funny, not very loyal man, especially if his girlfriend lives in New York.
It was a fast, easy, engaging, fast-paced reading. Descriptions of landscapes are really fascinating. The notions about Yquem's characteristics and its production are added here and there enriching the story without annoying the reader.
You do not have to read the series in order but once you discover Benjamin and Virgile you want to read all their adventures.
This series is perfect for lovers of cozy mystery genre but especially for those who love a good glass of French wine.
Thanks to this series I spent some nice hours discovering great wines and visiting some beautiful French locations, increasing my list of places to visit absolutely.
Husband and wife are killed in their double bed hand in hand. They did not notice anything. In their house there were no signs of eviction, nothing was stolen and they were not so rich to justify such a crime. The region where they lived was famous for Yquem, a very expensive dessert wine. Benjamin Cooker is France's preeminent wine expert but also an excellent amateur detective. Along with his assistant Virgile has solved many intricate cases. Will they also solve this one?
In this episode, Virgile's role is very important, it was very nice to know him better. He's a nice, funny, not very loyal man, especially if his girlfriend lives in New York.
It was a fast, easy, engaging, fast-paced reading. Descriptions of landscapes are really fascinating. The notions about Yquem's characteristics and its production are added here and there enriching the story without annoying the reader.
You do not have to read the series in order but once you discover Benjamin and Virgile you want to read all their adventures.
This series is perfect for lovers of cozy mystery genre but especially for those who love a good glass of French wine.
September 12, 2017
Reading this novel was a pleasant change for me. It is a different kind of mystery, almost like taking a tour of the French wine country. The setting is Sauternes, home of one of the finest sweet wines, Yquem. An old couple is found murdered in their bed. Amateur sleuth and wine expert, Benjamin Cooker is intrigued by the seemingly senseless crime. His assistant, Virgile Lanssien, helps with the discoveries.
I liked how the authors described the French countryside. At times I felt like I was looking at a painting, the descriptions were so good. I also liked all the information about how wines are made, particularly Sauternes. They are allowed to rot on the vine! But it is a refined technique, enhancing the sweetness of the grapes. The descriptions of the aromas of a freshly opened bottle of wine almost made me want to go out a buy a bottle so I could detect the subtle fragrances. And the food described sounded delicious too.
I liked how the authors portrayed the characters. That really gave me a sense of being in the country. The characters may not have been as developed as I would like but I think it was sufficient for this length novel.
This is a great book for mystery lovers and wine connoisseurs alike. You'll enjoy a decent mystery while you bask in the wine country of Sauternes. It is a good novel on both accounts. The translation is good too, flowing nicely.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I liked how the authors described the French countryside. At times I felt like I was looking at a painting, the descriptions were so good. I also liked all the information about how wines are made, particularly Sauternes. They are allowed to rot on the vine! But it is a refined technique, enhancing the sweetness of the grapes. The descriptions of the aromas of a freshly opened bottle of wine almost made me want to go out a buy a bottle so I could detect the subtle fragrances. And the food described sounded delicious too.
I liked how the authors portrayed the characters. That really gave me a sense of being in the country. The characters may not have been as developed as I would like but I think it was sufficient for this length novel.
This is a great book for mystery lovers and wine connoisseurs alike. You'll enjoy a decent mystery while you bask in the wine country of Sauternes. It is a good novel on both accounts. The translation is good too, flowing nicely.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
September 28, 2017
[I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.]
"What through youth gave love and roses, Age still leaves us friends and wine. —Thomas Moore"
This quote opens Requiem in Yquem, the thirteenth and newest in the Wine Detective series by Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noel Balen. I have had the pleasure of reading the greater part of this set of well written books and have enjoyed every one.
I am particularly pleased with this one, as I am a fan of back story, and this one gives us a look into Virgile's family growing up, and another look at pages in Benjamin's life, both past and present. However, it is a book that can "stand alone" without familiarity of the rest of the series.
In this selection, an older couple meets death during a burglary in their home. This means little to Cooker and Company until Virgile reconnects with his viniculture classmate and finds that he may be involved and turns to him for help. With the request comes memories and gossip from the time they were both schoolmates at La Tour Blanche, where they studied for their vocational training certificates in enology ( the study of wine).
Can Virgile help Jeremy? Does he need Benjamin to figure things out, or does his own past hold the answers? Read this beautifully written story, and find out why. Highly recommended.
"What through youth gave love and roses, Age still leaves us friends and wine. —Thomas Moore"
This quote opens Requiem in Yquem, the thirteenth and newest in the Wine Detective series by Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noel Balen. I have had the pleasure of reading the greater part of this set of well written books and have enjoyed every one.
I am particularly pleased with this one, as I am a fan of back story, and this one gives us a look into Virgile's family growing up, and another look at pages in Benjamin's life, both past and present. However, it is a book that can "stand alone" without familiarity of the rest of the series.
In this selection, an older couple meets death during a burglary in their home. This means little to Cooker and Company until Virgile reconnects with his viniculture classmate and finds that he may be involved and turns to him for help. With the request comes memories and gossip from the time they were both schoolmates at La Tour Blanche, where they studied for their vocational training certificates in enology ( the study of wine).
Can Virgile help Jeremy? Does he need Benjamin to figure things out, or does his own past hold the answers? Read this beautifully written story, and find out why. Highly recommended.
September 12, 2017
The Winemaker Detective, is a substantial series of cosy mysteries, by the writing team of Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noël Balen. M. Alaux, is a journalist, grandson of a winemaker and a passionate food enthusiast who won the Prix Antonin Carme for a cookbook. His co-author is Paris based musician, who, as well as this series, also writes novels and short stories about music.
From their auspicious beginnings over a bottle of Château Gaudou, 1996 a red wine from Cahors with smooth tannins and a balanced nose, the team has produced 24 titles to date and is the basis of a hit TV series in France. So far 10 of these have been translated into English. Requiem in Yquem, is the latest. As they draw from a recurring cast of characters, picking up a new volume in the series is like returning to a group of old friends.
Leader of the group is Benjamin Cooker, this half-English gastronome is France’s preeminent wine expert and author of the influential Cooker Guide to wine. The preparation of the annual guide finds him travelling all over France to taste each year’s vintages, an activity which frequently puts him directly in the path of criminals playing fast and loose with his beloved wines and the people who produce them.
In this he is assisted by Virgile Lanssien, a graduate of the Viticulture School of La Tour Blanche, who is his foil and sometimes alter ego. Rigorously correct in his assessment of the wines they taste, he is also dangerously attractive to many women but far too enveloped in his career to settle down.
This Wine detectives adventure begins when Benjamin happens upon an article in the newspaper about a double murder in the village of Bommes, one of the five communes that comprise the Sauternes wine appellation. Near this village is the prestigious estate that produces the exquisite nectar known as Chateau d’Yquem. Just the mention of the village name sets Benjamin off on a reverie of his first tasting of this extraordinary wine.
Inspired by the his memories, the article providing just the right extra stimulus Benjamin decides to take a trip to the Gironde. He and Virgile are soon on their way to Bommes. If I seem to be going on at excessive length about this it is because I too can remember every nuance of my first tasting of Yquem when I was a catering manager back in London, many years ago.
This quite clever novel elaborates two intertwined themes. Benjamin becomes determined to discover who would kill such an inoffensive old couple and why. In the service of this Virgile is sent to visit a dear friend from his school days and between them they are forced to explore the effects of choices – both those they made and those that were made for them. I need to be honest here. These are books for readers who love good food and wine passionately. The actions and denouements of these stories will be almost incomprehensible to people who do not share the authors passion for the gastronomic pleasures of France.
How these, interspersed with a number of delicious sounding meals and tastings, combine to bring a solution to the murder mystery and reclaim a life or two along the way, make up the body of this very interesting tale. I’m happy to give it 5*****. Now if I could only get the recipes for some of the dishes.
From their auspicious beginnings over a bottle of Château Gaudou, 1996 a red wine from Cahors with smooth tannins and a balanced nose, the team has produced 24 titles to date and is the basis of a hit TV series in France. So far 10 of these have been translated into English. Requiem in Yquem, is the latest. As they draw from a recurring cast of characters, picking up a new volume in the series is like returning to a group of old friends.
Leader of the group is Benjamin Cooker, this half-English gastronome is France’s preeminent wine expert and author of the influential Cooker Guide to wine. The preparation of the annual guide finds him travelling all over France to taste each year’s vintages, an activity which frequently puts him directly in the path of criminals playing fast and loose with his beloved wines and the people who produce them.
In this he is assisted by Virgile Lanssien, a graduate of the Viticulture School of La Tour Blanche, who is his foil and sometimes alter ego. Rigorously correct in his assessment of the wines they taste, he is also dangerously attractive to many women but far too enveloped in his career to settle down.
This Wine detectives adventure begins when Benjamin happens upon an article in the newspaper about a double murder in the village of Bommes, one of the five communes that comprise the Sauternes wine appellation. Near this village is the prestigious estate that produces the exquisite nectar known as Chateau d’Yquem. Just the mention of the village name sets Benjamin off on a reverie of his first tasting of this extraordinary wine.
Inspired by the his memories, the article providing just the right extra stimulus Benjamin decides to take a trip to the Gironde. He and Virgile are soon on their way to Bommes. If I seem to be going on at excessive length about this it is because I too can remember every nuance of my first tasting of Yquem when I was a catering manager back in London, many years ago.
This quite clever novel elaborates two intertwined themes. Benjamin becomes determined to discover who would kill such an inoffensive old couple and why. In the service of this Virgile is sent to visit a dear friend from his school days and between them they are forced to explore the effects of choices – both those they made and those that were made for them. I need to be honest here. These are books for readers who love good food and wine passionately. The actions and denouements of these stories will be almost incomprehensible to people who do not share the authors passion for the gastronomic pleasures of France.
How these, interspersed with a number of delicious sounding meals and tastings, combine to bring a solution to the murder mystery and reclaim a life or two along the way, make up the body of this very interesting tale. I’m happy to give it 5*****. Now if I could only get the recipes for some of the dishes.
March 13, 2018
Requiem in Yquem, by Jean-Pierre Alaux and Nδel Balen, translated by Sally Pane. This novel is not only a great murder mystery, but a virtual catalogue of French wine, winemakers, and vineyards. There is so much knowledge of French wine packed into this little book that you can virtually taste the vintages as you read.
To North American readers it must seem more like a gastronomic tour of the Sauternes region, where the classic wine has been produced for centuries. That is because the authors of this book are true wine connoisseurs, as well as musicians and writers. Jean-Pierre Alaux and Nδel Balen are journalists who, over what must have been several glasses of wine, decided to create the Winemaker Detectives Series, of which this book is a sample.
It's the story of an elderly couple, grape harvesters at the Chateau d'Yquem vineyard, who are murdered for no apparent reason. The heroes of this novel as well as other books in the series, Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile Lannssien, not only solve the murders, but determine the motive for this seemingly motiveless crime.
Along the way they eat, drink, and smoke (rare cigars) their way through the countryside of southwest France and paint a vivid portrait of the ancient wine country landscape--names that rebound from our North American liquor store shelves today. It's a fascinating story, made all the more interesting by the constant references to the wines of the region. If you are a wine lover, you will love this book.
I can't pass up the opportunity, in this review, to say how much I also appreciated the translation work of Sally Pane, Without her painstaking and brilliant translation this book would never have reached audiences on this side of the Atlantic.
To North American readers it must seem more like a gastronomic tour of the Sauternes region, where the classic wine has been produced for centuries. That is because the authors of this book are true wine connoisseurs, as well as musicians and writers. Jean-Pierre Alaux and Nδel Balen are journalists who, over what must have been several glasses of wine, decided to create the Winemaker Detectives Series, of which this book is a sample.
It's the story of an elderly couple, grape harvesters at the Chateau d'Yquem vineyard, who are murdered for no apparent reason. The heroes of this novel as well as other books in the series, Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile Lannssien, not only solve the murders, but determine the motive for this seemingly motiveless crime.
Along the way they eat, drink, and smoke (rare cigars) their way through the countryside of southwest France and paint a vivid portrait of the ancient wine country landscape--names that rebound from our North American liquor store shelves today. It's a fascinating story, made all the more interesting by the constant references to the wines of the region. If you are a wine lover, you will love this book.
I can't pass up the opportunity, in this review, to say how much I also appreciated the translation work of Sally Pane, Without her painstaking and brilliant translation this book would never have reached audiences on this side of the Atlantic.
September 12, 2017
A Double Murder in the French Wine Country
An old couple is found shot to death in their cottage near the famous Chateau Yquem. Benjamin Cooker, wine expert and amateur detective, is intrigued by the double homicide, particularly because it reminds him of the famous sauternes produced by the Chateau.
Virgilie, Cooker’s assistant, has a long term friend managing his wife’s family vineyards in the area. Cooker has him contact the friend to learn more about the tragedy. With the scent of a mystery and the promise of memorable wines to sample, Benjamin and Vergilie set off for the Sauternes wine region.
As with the other books in this series, the descriptions of the wine and the countryside are magnificent. They draw you into the setting and make it real.
The mystery in this book is much more a typical mystery than some of the earlier books. Benjamin and Vergilie are caught up in the search for the killer. I was pleased to see Vergilie getting a much larger role. With a beautiful girl, the granddaughter of the murdered couple, and his friend, who has more than a passing connection to the mystery, Virgilie has a major part in this novel.
Benjamin, Elizabeth, his wife, and Virgilie are wonderful characters. I particularly love hearing about the feasts Elizabeth prepares. Benjamin is a source of information about the wine country, and Virgilie adds a light touch with his romantic escapades.
I highly recommend this book if you love wine, or just like a good mystery.
I received this book from Le French Book for this review.
An old couple is found shot to death in their cottage near the famous Chateau Yquem. Benjamin Cooker, wine expert and amateur detective, is intrigued by the double homicide, particularly because it reminds him of the famous sauternes produced by the Chateau.
Virgilie, Cooker’s assistant, has a long term friend managing his wife’s family vineyards in the area. Cooker has him contact the friend to learn more about the tragedy. With the scent of a mystery and the promise of memorable wines to sample, Benjamin and Vergilie set off for the Sauternes wine region.
As with the other books in this series, the descriptions of the wine and the countryside are magnificent. They draw you into the setting and make it real.
The mystery in this book is much more a typical mystery than some of the earlier books. Benjamin and Vergilie are caught up in the search for the killer. I was pleased to see Vergilie getting a much larger role. With a beautiful girl, the granddaughter of the murdered couple, and his friend, who has more than a passing connection to the mystery, Virgilie has a major part in this novel.
Benjamin, Elizabeth, his wife, and Virgilie are wonderful characters. I particularly love hearing about the feasts Elizabeth prepares. Benjamin is a source of information about the wine country, and Virgilie adds a light touch with his romantic escapades.
I highly recommend this book if you love wine, or just like a good mystery.
I received this book from Le French Book for this review.
September 13, 2017
I said this in one of my earliest Winemaker Detective reviews, and it still holds true: Don’t read these books while you’re hungry!
The food, the wine, the landscapes, the people. The authors of the Winemaker Detective series have an almost unreal ability to bring their books to life, to pull on all of the reader’s senses and plunge them deep into the story. It’s simply amazing.
Requiem is an amazing Winemaker Detective book. Granted, they all are, but this one stands out. It feels like the very first of the series – the banter, the emphasis on the food, the wine, and just the fun of reading. I loved seeing Paul William again, and many other characters from previous works. There were many subtle references to previous adventures, to whet the appetite of those who may just be joining the series, and it all tied the work together well.
Add in a plot that keeps twisting on the reader, just when they think they’ve figured it out, Benjamin’s always trusty one-liners (“Don’t forget your wife’s birthday”), and the relationships that make this group so much fun, and it all creates a book I can’t wait for everyone to pick up!
I received a review copy of this work from the publisher
The food, the wine, the landscapes, the people. The authors of the Winemaker Detective series have an almost unreal ability to bring their books to life, to pull on all of the reader’s senses and plunge them deep into the story. It’s simply amazing.
Requiem is an amazing Winemaker Detective book. Granted, they all are, but this one stands out. It feels like the very first of the series – the banter, the emphasis on the food, the wine, and just the fun of reading. I loved seeing Paul William again, and many other characters from previous works. There were many subtle references to previous adventures, to whet the appetite of those who may just be joining the series, and it all tied the work together well.
Add in a plot that keeps twisting on the reader, just when they think they’ve figured it out, Benjamin’s always trusty one-liners (“Don’t forget your wife’s birthday”), and the relationships that make this group so much fun, and it all creates a book I can’t wait for everyone to pick up!
I received a review copy of this work from the publisher
August 22, 2017
I wasn’t quite sure about this book as I started to read it. It’s not like the mysteries I’m used to. It’s quiet, delicious, informative, historical, thoughtful. Now, that’s not a good take on “normal” mysteries, the kind we in the States think of when we say we read a good mystery. But in the end I liked what this was.
Wine expert Benjamin Cooker, author of Cooker guides to wine in France, and his assistant Virgile Lanssien are in the Sauterne countryside and involved in solving the murder of an elderly couple who live near and worked on the historical Chateau d’Yquem. The house of Yquem has produced some of the most famous sauternes ever. This area holds memories of younger years for Virgile and the rekindling of friendships makes the solving of this murder even more important than just a procedural investigation.
I was concerned about the quiet nature of this story but realized once the mystery was solved this was just a delight. If you’re a Francophile, if you love a glass of wine, a good meal, a journey through the French countryside, some thoughtful contemplation instead of car chases, then give this story a go.
Wine expert Benjamin Cooker, author of Cooker guides to wine in France, and his assistant Virgile Lanssien are in the Sauterne countryside and involved in solving the murder of an elderly couple who live near and worked on the historical Chateau d’Yquem. The house of Yquem has produced some of the most famous sauternes ever. This area holds memories of younger years for Virgile and the rekindling of friendships makes the solving of this murder even more important than just a procedural investigation.
I was concerned about the quiet nature of this story but realized once the mystery was solved this was just a delight. If you’re a Francophile, if you love a glass of wine, a good meal, a journey through the French countryside, some thoughtful contemplation instead of car chases, then give this story a go.
September 13, 2017
Another solid mystery in the Winemaker Detective series. Benjamin Cooker is awaiting the final prepublication copy of his guide to wine, when he hears that an elderly couple associated with one of the vineyards has been murdered. The book forgotten, Cooker goes in pursuit of the criminal with the help of his fearless assistant, Virgile. Much of the unfolding mystery is seen through Virgile’s perspective as he revisits old friends and is brought into contact with others from his past.
There are questions of morality and friendship that weave in and out of the mystery. Should someone return to an old flame after discovering their spouse has cheated on them? When is suicide an option? And what would you go through in order to be there for a friend? There is surprising depth found in these pages. While I don’t agree with all of the sentiments expressed in these pages, they made me think. And, from any book, that is a gift. I recommend this to anyone who loves a good story and good people. Benjamin and Virgile are some of the good ones and we need more books with people like that.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There are questions of morality and friendship that weave in and out of the mystery. Should someone return to an old flame after discovering their spouse has cheated on them? When is suicide an option? And what would you go through in order to be there for a friend? There is surprising depth found in these pages. While I don’t agree with all of the sentiments expressed in these pages, they made me think. And, from any book, that is a gift. I recommend this to anyone who loves a good story and good people. Benjamin and Virgile are some of the good ones and we need more books with people like that.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2017
This is the latest entry in the Winemaker Detective series by Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noel Balen, who will transport you to the Sauternes wine region for a story of greed, murder and renewed friendships.
When an elderly couple is murdered, it arouses the curiosity of wine expert Benjamin Cooper. His assistant, Virgile, went to school in the area and contacts an old friend to learn more about the couple. They were respected by their neighbors, lived a simple life and helped out their granddaughter, a young actress, when they could. The big question remains what the reason was for the murder.
With Cooper's connections in the wine industry and Virgile's personal connections to the area they begin to uncover the reason for the shocking crime. Along the way there is good food, delicious wines and scenery that will place you right in France and make you look forward to the next adventure.
I received a copy of this book from Le French Books in exchange for an honest review.
When an elderly couple is murdered, it arouses the curiosity of wine expert Benjamin Cooper. His assistant, Virgile, went to school in the area and contacts an old friend to learn more about the couple. They were respected by their neighbors, lived a simple life and helped out their granddaughter, a young actress, when they could. The big question remains what the reason was for the murder.
With Cooper's connections in the wine industry and Virgile's personal connections to the area they begin to uncover the reason for the shocking crime. Along the way there is good food, delicious wines and scenery that will place you right in France and make you look forward to the next adventure.
I received a copy of this book from Le French Books in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2017
Requiem in Yquem is the thirteenth installment from the Winemaker Detective series. It is my first introduction to the Winemaker Detective series, as well as, to the writings of Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noel Balen. This book is not very long at just a little over 200 pages long. But do not let that fool you, because it is packed full of suspense and mystery. I was hooked from page one and I did not want to put the book down until I read all the way to the last page. The "who done it" was not obvious to me and I was completely surprised at how it all played out in the end.
I found the book to be a delightful and compelling read. I can not wait to get my hands on more of these stories and look forward to reading more of the Winemaker Detective series.
I recommend this book for those who love good, suspense-filled mysteries.
4 1/2 stars.
I received this book from France Book Tours. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I found the book to be a delightful and compelling read. I can not wait to get my hands on more of these stories and look forward to reading more of the Winemaker Detective series.
I recommend this book for those who love good, suspense-filled mysteries.
4 1/2 stars.
I received this book from France Book Tours. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
November 1, 2017
Requiem in Yquem sees Benjamin Cooker and assistant Virgile back in action in this newest wine-centred cozy mystery. This time we are in Sauternes region, where a brutal murder of an elderly couple has shattered the locality. Virgile has some history in the area, which comes in handy, and this together with a wine connection and Benjamin’s tenacity soon has them on the trail of the killer.
As always with this series, there is plenty of good food and wine to relieve the dramatic tension, and also superb descriptive writing, and our two imperfect heroes with their problems and quirks keep these stories realistic and totally absorbing.
As always with this series, there is plenty of good food and wine to relieve the dramatic tension, and also superb descriptive writing, and our two imperfect heroes with their problems and quirks keep these stories realistic and totally absorbing.
September 12, 2017
The winemaker detective sends Virgile back to an old friend for information on a crime and a variety of problems emerge before they discover a hidden collection of rare sauterne was the trigger for a double murder. Cooker continues his indulgence in fine food, cigars, and wine while the reader is educated on the secrets of the sauternes. The crime and its solution are a little contrived, but the meat of the story is the issues Virgile and his old friend are dealing with. This series is never disappointing as it exposes human nature, detective work, and the esoterics of wine-making.
September 12, 2017
This is a fascinating book combining a very well penned mystery with believable quirky characters and lots of fascinating wine making background information. It has a real French feel to it which makes it stand out and gives it very much it's own character, and lots of Gallic reflections on life, ageing, honesty and friendship.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this book as a relaxing, easy, read which can provide an escape from busy life.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers and voluntarily wrote this honest review.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this book as a relaxing, easy, read which can provide an escape from busy life.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers and voluntarily wrote this honest review.
October 5, 2017
The language, oh, my god, the language! It's so beautiful! The descriptions are vivid and evocative, and you can almost smell the grapes ... For that only, this would be a book worthy of being read.
But then, of course, we have the mystery... a very well thought mystery, in which even more intriguing than the who, is the why. The characters are interesting, which is in itself surprising in a book that is not really that long.
This is a must-read for those who love a beautifully written mystery.
But then, of course, we have the mystery... a very well thought mystery, in which even more intriguing than the who, is the why. The characters are interesting, which is in itself surprising in a book that is not really that long.
This is a must-read for those who love a beautifully written mystery.
September 2, 2017
*ARC
This series is such fun to read. There is just enough suspense to keep you interested without making you crazy. I feel like I am traveling around France with Cooker and Co. as well. It would be great if this book came with the wine and food to taste along with Mr. Cooker. The character development of Virgil has been interesting throughout the series and it is nice to see that he is taking a more central role in this book. I am looking forward to the next installment.
This series is such fun to read. There is just enough suspense to keep you interested without making you crazy. I feel like I am traveling around France with Cooker and Co. as well. It would be great if this book came with the wine and food to taste along with Mr. Cooker. The character development of Virgil has been interesting throughout the series and it is nice to see that he is taking a more central role in this book. I am looking forward to the next installment.
October 29, 2018
Received a free copy for a review. Interesting and enjoyable story. I am enjoying Jean-Pierre's characters and series of stories.
October 7, 2019
Wine, food, and murder combine in an entertaining read. Great way to spend an afternoon.
July 31, 2021
Liked it but keep swearing out.
Improve reading great stories without adding swearings we do not need to know. Thank you very much. That is all.
Improve reading great stories without adding swearings we do not need to know. Thank you very much. That is all.
November 6, 2017
Always a good read with interesting wine information.
September 10, 2017
Benjamin Cooker is well-known and respected as a wine expert. His annual Cooker's Guide rates wines and is the go-to book of it's kind in France. He has a little sideline he's gotten noticed for as well: if a mystery or murder happens in the vicinity, his insatiable curiosity often leads him into the role of "winemaker detective" and often helps the local police find the culprit.
This part I've said in a previous review but holds true for the series: The discussions of the estates, the regions of wine-growing, the lengthy tasting notes on a wine, or the quick summary of the character of a good cigar all unfold while the mysteries add intrigue; together, these elements of the stories remain lively and quick-to-read with a light touch and satisfying finish for the reader.
This part I've said in a previous review but holds true for the series: The discussions of the estates, the regions of wine-growing, the lengthy tasting notes on a wine, or the quick summary of the character of a good cigar all unfold while the mysteries add intrigue; together, these elements of the stories remain lively and quick-to-read with a light touch and satisfying finish for the reader.
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