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袩褉懈泻谢褞褔械薪懈褟 协褉邪褋褌邪 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪邪 #6
小褌邪褌褋泻懈泄 褋芯胁械褌薪懈泻
Russian
288 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
123 people are currently reading
989 people want to read
About the author
Boris Akunin
291听books1,599听followersReal name - Grigory Shalvovich Chkhartishvili (Russian: 袘芯褉懈褋 袗泻褍薪懈薪; Georgian: 醿掅儬醿樶儝醿濁儬醿� 醿ㄡ儛醿氠儠醿愥儭 醿償 醿┽儺醿愥儬醿⑨儤醿ㄡ儠醿樶儦醿�; 袗lso see Grigory Chkhartishvili, 袚褉懈谐芯褉懈泄 效褏邪褉褌懈褕胁懈谢懈), born in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1956. Since 1958 he lives in Moscow. Writer and translator from Japanese. Author of crime stories set in tsarist Russia. In 1998 he made his debut with novel Azazel (to English readers known as The Winter Queen), where he created Erast Pietrovich Fandorin.
B. Akunin refers to Mikhail Alexandrovich Bakunin and Akuna, home name of Anna Akhmatova, Russian poet.
In September of 2000, Akunin was named Russian Writer of the Year and won the "Antibooker" prize in 2000 for his Erast Fandorin novel Coronation, or the last of the Romanovs.
Akunin also created crime-solving Orthodox nun, sister Pelagia, and literary genres.
His pseudonyms are 袗薪邪褌芯谢懈泄 袘褉褍褋薪懈泻懈薪 and 袗薪薪邪 袘芯褉懈褋芯胁邪. In some Dutch editions he is also known as Boris Akoenin.
B. Akunin refers to Mikhail Alexandrovich Bakunin and Akuna, home name of Anna Akhmatova, Russian poet.
In September of 2000, Akunin was named Russian Writer of the Year and won the "Antibooker" prize in 2000 for his Erast Fandorin novel Coronation, or the last of the Romanovs.
Akunin also created crime-solving Orthodox nun, sister Pelagia, and literary genres.
His pseudonyms are 袗薪邪褌芯谢懈泄 袘褉褍褋薪懈泻懈薪 and 袗薪薪邪 袘芯褉懈褋芯胁邪. In some Dutch editions he is also known as Boris Akoenin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
June 18, 2017
Action packed smoothness complete with complicated interesting characters, yes Green and Erast Petrovich, I am talking about you. But not only about you but all the others as well. In this story which could have easily been superficially presented as a good vs bad story, we get instead the shades of grey which all sides of a story have. And so we get character driven writing. With people who even in their 'baddest' moments make us connect to their humanness.
Akunin's plot is enjoyably labyrinthine which pressed a lot of my like buttons. We get a continuous cause and effect and hidden human agendas abound. Intelligently written and delicious to read.
My first Fandorin has turned out to be a great read which has created a need in me to see both the earlier and the later Fandorin. I want to know about Erast.
This being my first of this series I cannot compare to it's predecessors so my rating is going to be free, based only upon my reading enjoyment.
Fits slot 9 of my reading challenge -an espionage thriller.
an ARC gently given by author/publisher via Netgalley
Akunin's plot is enjoyably labyrinthine which pressed a lot of my like buttons. We get a continuous cause and effect and hidden human agendas abound. Intelligently written and delicious to read.
My first Fandorin has turned out to be a great read which has created a need in me to see both the earlier and the later Fandorin. I want to know about Erast.
This being my first of this series I cannot compare to it's predecessors so my rating is going to be free, based only upon my reading enjoyment.
Fits slot 9 of my reading challenge -an espionage thriller.
an ARC gently given by author/publisher via Netgalley
February 6, 2018
In this political-thriller type mystery, Fandorin is trying to clear his name from an attempted-murder charge by catching the real culprit. One of the better mysteries in the series, it is also notable for听Oleg Menshikov movie performance as Fandorin. One cannot imagine the character to look any other way.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword听 is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably听hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by听Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
, author of : A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword听 is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably听hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by听Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
, author of : A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
April 25, 2017
A brilliant historical mystery set in Imperial Russia.
If I had done it properly 鈥� started not from the book #6- I would have opened my review with
鈥淎 great start for a very promising historical mystery series with one of the most interesting characters鈥� But I read it unfortunately(or as very often) not in the right order. So I'll keep this opening for my next Fandorin's book.
The good news鈥攜ou can read this book as a stand-alone.
Of course, I am going to read this series from the very beginning. Though, even if I know that , the book#6, is not the last one, I鈥檒l decide later if I鈥檒l go on with the next, the N掳7, installment.
Because the ending HERE was a perfection pure.
Besides, to tell the truth, I鈥檓 a bit afraid that the books after this one could ruin the feeling, or that I鈥檒l get tired and bored with our State Counsellor Erast Fandorin.
gives a great historical feel of the era, but he choose to tell a story that is free from any ideological system. He created the Fandorin series following the real historical facts and events, without being political or fictional, remaining very accurate in his research but trying to give his idea of what HAPPENED in Russian two centuries ago, and why.
It is an adventures, entertaining and very thrilling mixture out of a murder mystery, a sarcastic spy thriller, the most exciting action movie and a relationship drama in the most authentic historical setting.
I am always surprised(positively), when I see other readers, without any connection to Russia or its history, who enjoy and understand Russian classic literature or Russian historical fiction.
Yes...the enigmatic Russian soul, with its passion for suffering, pain and grief and the overall mood for melancholy..bla-bla-bla鈥lich茅 but true, but I totally got the rating here.
The plot is great, Fandorin is not only attractive and smart, but he also embodies the ideal of a nobleman of the nineteenth century: high morals, dedication and honesty, loyalty, courage and chivalry, intelligence and faithful to his own principles.
Is his counterpart Green so much different from Fandorin? No, actually not, but he has other methods. Don鈥檛 ask me though what side I took for. I am still torn between鈥�(you鈥檒l understand when you read it).
My tiny worry: There are many secondary characters that are fantastic, but they have maybe unusual names for someone without a Russian background, and I hope a lot that all readers will get along well with it. :)
Highly recommended for all fans of historical fiction and historical mystery!
**Copy provided by Mysterious Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
If I had done it properly 鈥� started not from the book #6- I would have opened my review with
鈥淎 great start for a very promising historical mystery series with one of the most interesting characters鈥� But I read it unfortunately(or as very often) not in the right order. So I'll keep this opening for my next Fandorin's book.
The good news鈥攜ou can read this book as a stand-alone.
Of course, I am going to read this series from the very beginning. Though, even if I know that , the book#6, is not the last one, I鈥檒l decide later if I鈥檒l go on with the next, the N掳7, installment.
Because the ending HERE was a perfection pure.
Besides, to tell the truth, I鈥檓 a bit afraid that the books after this one could ruin the feeling, or that I鈥檒l get tired and bored with our State Counsellor Erast Fandorin.
gives a great historical feel of the era, but he choose to tell a story that is free from any ideological system. He created the Fandorin series following the real historical facts and events, without being political or fictional, remaining very accurate in his research but trying to give his idea of what HAPPENED in Russian two centuries ago, and why.
It is an adventures, entertaining and very thrilling mixture out of a murder mystery, a sarcastic spy thriller, the most exciting action movie and a relationship drama in the most authentic historical setting.
I am always surprised(positively), when I see other readers, without any connection to Russia or its history, who enjoy and understand Russian classic literature or Russian historical fiction.
Yes...the enigmatic Russian soul, with its passion for suffering, pain and grief and the overall mood for melancholy..bla-bla-bla鈥lich茅 but true, but I totally got the rating here.
The plot is great, Fandorin is not only attractive and smart, but he also embodies the ideal of a nobleman of the nineteenth century: high morals, dedication and honesty, loyalty, courage and chivalry, intelligence and faithful to his own principles.
Is his counterpart Green so much different from Fandorin? No, actually not, but he has other methods. Don鈥檛 ask me though what side I took for. I am still torn between鈥�(you鈥檒l understand when you read it).
My tiny worry: There are many secondary characters that are fantastic, but they have maybe unusual names for someone without a Russian background, and I hope a lot that all readers will get along well with it. :)
Highly recommended for all fans of historical fiction and historical mystery!
**Copy provided by Mysterious Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
October 20, 2019
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December 28, 2014
YES 5 Stars - You are reading correctly, is is NOT sunstroke.....
Another Arch-nemesis for Erast Fandorin to deal with in a very Sherlock Holmes style of read set across Moscow C1860's or thereabouts. Revolutionaries, pseudo-intelligentsia(i), ideologist students of rich families, orshika (secret police) & double agents throughout for Erast to battle & form alliances with as the case(s) unfold.
The villian (Muuuuuulhahahahahahahah) is as engaging as our hero & for me receives equal star billing. plenny of near scrapes as usual with "The flight of the Hawk" being an alltime favourite from now on & mystery to keep yous entertained.
A very good read for a historical fiction, mystery or crime reader & if you like all three like me, bonus! If you've not tried Boris Akunin before then yer missing out on summit I say! Go'on you know you want to??
Another Arch-nemesis for Erast Fandorin to deal with in a very Sherlock Holmes style of read set across Moscow C1860's or thereabouts. Revolutionaries, pseudo-intelligentsia(i), ideologist students of rich families, orshika (secret police) & double agents throughout for Erast to battle & form alliances with as the case(s) unfold.
The villian (Muuuuuulhahahahahahahah) is as engaging as our hero & for me receives equal star billing. plenny of near scrapes as usual with "The flight of the Hawk" being an alltime favourite from now on & mystery to keep yous entertained.
A very good read for a historical fiction, mystery or crime reader & if you like all three like me, bonus! If you've not tried Boris Akunin before then yer missing out on summit I say! Go'on you know you want to??
February 13, 2015
I would even give it 2 and half stars - this is the worst one in the Fandorin series so far.
February 25, 2017
A masterpiece of the historical novel,grabs you attention from the opening page and never lets up,i absolutely would recommend this to anyone
February 6, 2018
In this political-thriller type mystery, Fandorin is trying to clear his name from an attempted-murder charge by catching the real culprit. One of the better mysteries in the series, it is also notable for听Oleg Menshikov movie performance as Fandorin. One cannot imagine the character to look any other way.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword听 is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably听hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by听Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
, author of : A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
What to Expect
Each novel is written as a different type of mystery. Akunin set out to rectify the low-brow reputation of the mystery genre in post-USSR Russia by writing worthy literature and exploring the wide gamut of sub-genres. Each novel is therefore excellently written as a different type of detective case. While there is continuity in the protagonist's life between the novels, each is very different in themes and tones.
I've written a condensed review of the whole series on my website.
What I liked
I like the writing style. The prose is intelligent and flowing, the mysteries are complex, and the cast is varied (though those that make repeat appearances tend to die). Fandorin himself is a great character, even though as a main character he still remains an enigma - a tantalising mystery in itself that keeps readers engaged and clamouring to know more.
I love the historical background. Akunin has done his research into Russian culture, mannerisms, environment, personalities, etc. of the late 19th century / early 20th century. Most of the stories take place around Moscow, and Fandorin gets to meet and associate with the people of the times (from the low-life criminals of Khitrovka, to the grand-dukes of the imperial family). In a few cases, Akunin also has Fandorin active around notable events of the era, at times filling in details where history has left us stumped.
Akunin is also a Japanophile, and has Fandorin spend a few years in Japan. While details are sketchy (and we want more! More!), it is clear that he has a great love and deep knowledge of that culture and times.
What to be aware of
Be aware that each of the novel is told in a different style. Besides the obvious (something new and different in each volume), one keyword听 is 'told'. They are almost all in 3rd person perspective, and quite often not from the point of view of Erast Fandorin (which is both tantalising and frustrating at times). It's this distance that keeps Fandorin an enigma, and keeps us coming back to learn more.
Fandorin has a Sherlockian intellect and impressive physical prowess. He is not without his faults (most notably听hubris), but as a hero he is certainly a cut above the rest. He also tends to get involved with a different femme fatale in each book. This suits the detective genre perfectly, regardless of modern sensibilities.
While the books are not really related and have few continuing characters, I'd still strongly recommend to read them in order.
Lastly, and this has nothing to do with Fandorin, since these are professional translations (amazingly done by听Andrew Bromfield) via a traditional publisher, the price of ebooks and hardcovers is almost the same. The ebooks are also missing some of the illustrations and other typographical effects that are present in the print. I'd definitely recommend reading the print edition, where possible.
Summary
Should you read these novels? Yes! By all means, if you love historical mysteries these novels are a must read. It is an intelligent, engaging, and just different enough series to be in a class of its own. It's not surprising that in his home country of Russia, Akunin out-sells JK Rowling. In fact, since it's been a few years since I've read them, I think I'll go back and re-read my favourites (Winter Queen, State Counsellor, and The Coronation).
--
, author of : A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
September 2, 2015
I happily turned to Erast Fandorin after too long an absence. I discovered him when I lived in Kent and loved him. An unusual detective in Czarist (Tsarist?) Russia, he has a stutter, a Japanese manservant, and is forever unlucky in love.
In this entry, he has to deal not just with the always dangerous politics of the government service in Moscow, but also a band of dangerous revolutionaries (terrorists).
Erast is very like Sherlock in his deductions, but a much more sympathetic character in that he is not perfect.
Unfortunately, these mysteries are not available on Kindle, so I have a hard time finding them. Oh, well, that's why they have interlibrary loans, right?
In this entry, he has to deal not just with the always dangerous politics of the government service in Moscow, but also a band of dangerous revolutionaries (terrorists).
Erast is very like Sherlock in his deductions, but a much more sympathetic character in that he is not perfect.
Unfortunately, these mysteries are not available on Kindle, so I have a hard time finding them. Oh, well, that's why they have interlibrary loans, right?
January 6, 2014
The sixth in the series, I think that this is (thus far) his best: reactionary autocrats, revolutionary terrorists, murky plots, sinister schemes and a heavy political edge I really enjoyed this bleak tale!
I particularly enjoyed the vivid painting of the key revolutionary 'Green'. Fashioned by a cruel world, Akunin has done a great job in constructing a beautiful example of the sympathetic villain. This book has it all, assassinations, bomb-making, bank heists, love trysts, and scores of bodies piling up as the stakes are raised every page. I loved it.
I particularly enjoyed the vivid painting of the key revolutionary 'Green'. Fashioned by a cruel world, Akunin has done a great job in constructing a beautiful example of the sympathetic villain. This book has it all, assassinations, bomb-making, bank heists, love trysts, and scores of bodies piling up as the stakes are raised every page. I loved it.
August 9, 2018
Not liking "Special Assignments" much I expected the worst and to begin with I thought I was right. Green the terrorist didn't hold any interest for me and a large cast equipped with first names and patronymics as well as last names (and all Russian at that) made me mightily confused. But about a hundred pages in it all changed.
A new "sheriff" comes in from Saint Petersburg and all of a sudden Fandorin is jolted into action for real. Being out staged by a man even more charismatic and possibly smarter than himself doesn't suit our hero one little bit! So... High time to pull his sleeves up. Metaphorically speaking of course. He would never willingly crease his fancy clothing. And the story turns tighter and more exciting. The pace heightens. The rivalry between the two crime fighting geniuses is fun to follow and their shaky cooperation kind of sweet and Erast's new more-than-a-handful girlfriend sure is a feisty one. And what do you know?! For the rest of the book I was copiously entertained! By the twists and the turns. By the action. By the humour and the characters.
4,5 big smiling stars to a Boris Akunin at his best. You really don't want to miss this!
A new "sheriff" comes in from Saint Petersburg and all of a sudden Fandorin is jolted into action for real. Being out staged by a man even more charismatic and possibly smarter than himself doesn't suit our hero one little bit! So... High time to pull his sleeves up. Metaphorically speaking of course. He would never willingly crease his fancy clothing. And the story turns tighter and more exciting. The pace heightens. The rivalry between the two crime fighting geniuses is fun to follow and their shaky cooperation kind of sweet and Erast's new more-than-a-handful girlfriend sure is a feisty one. And what do you know?! For the rest of the book I was copiously entertained! By the twists and the turns. By the action. By the humour and the characters.
4,5 big smiling stars to a Boris Akunin at his best. You really don't want to miss this!
February 5, 2017
Since Russian is my mother tongue I have the advantage to read the original without the wait for a translation and and the danger of losing some book charm in a different language.
So far the best fandorin book for me, not because of the criminal plot but of the fascinating and rare medley of the Japanese and tsarist Russian intrigues in the late 19 th century.
For those fond of Japanese culture it is captivating to read about early Yokohama (back then a small expat village and a small port), samurais, ninjas, Geishas and transition and opening of Japan to the Western world
Again akunin is not the best criminal writer compared to Christie and all the pros but I love the evolution of his Novels, The improvement of plots and fascinating historical settings
So far the best fandorin book for me, not because of the criminal plot but of the fascinating and rare medley of the Japanese and tsarist Russian intrigues in the late 19 th century.
For those fond of Japanese culture it is captivating to read about early Yokohama (back then a small expat village and a small port), samurais, ninjas, Geishas and transition and opening of Japan to the Western world
Again akunin is not the best criminal writer compared to Christie and all the pros but I love the evolution of his Novels, The improvement of plots and fascinating historical settings
September 10, 2016
I wish they'd translate more of Akunin's work. I'm spinning these out for as long as I can - and given my desire to devour them in one marathon session it's hard - but I'm going to run out before long and there won't be anything to take their place. I can't think of another writer who can spend half a book in the mind of the adversary (I use that word loosely given the devilish complexities of the Tsarist bureaucracy and the uncertainties of who the real adversary is) and leave you feeling that you don't care if you ever get back to the protagonist no matter how delightful he is (and he is).
January 26, 2018
All the books in this series have been excellent. set in the years before the Russian Revolution, it's easy to see the battle between haves and have-nots. Erast Fandorin, a really great (although kind of misty in appearance as Akunin never describes him) protagonist, and the secondary characters are each very unique. Action is also unique (loved Fandorin's naked leap into the night) and surprising. Overall, a terrific series. Best read in order, no way can you read just one.
April 4, 2018
I think it might be my favorite! So, so great.
I read it for the longest time (read many books in between), but I鈥檓 actually quite glad - it gave me some time to think about it and cherish everything in it.
I read it for the longest time (read many books in between), but I鈥檓 actually quite glad - it gave me some time to think about it and cherish everything in it.
June 29, 2018
The most recently translated in this series about an unconventional Russian detective. This is the author who first turned me on to police novels. He remains my favorite.
January 11, 2018
E' inutile che cominci questo commento facendo mille giri di parole, possono aspettare, perci貌 andr貌 subito al sodo: Il consigliere di stato 猫, insieme a Incoronazione uno dei migliori romanzi della serie dedicata alle avventure di Fandorin. Seguono, a breve distanza, La regina d'inverno (Azazel'), La morte di Achille e Il marchio del fuoco. Gli altri arrancano o semplicemente non riescono a competere. E ora, per spiegare perch茅 tengo Il consigliere di stato sul gradino pi霉 alto, occorre addentrarsi nei dettagli. Spoilers ahead ovviamente.
La storia si svolge nei primi gelidi mesi del 1891, con l'omicidio di un generale malvisto dai rivoluzionari e della cui morte Fandorin viene brevemente e ingiustamente accusato. Quanto basta, insomma, per coinvolgere il nostro eroe nelle indagini e portarlo sulle orme del gruppo di terroristi rivoluzionari guidati dall'enigmatico e pericoloso Green.
L'apertura del romanzo, con Green che si traveste da Fandorin per potersi avvicinare a Chrapov e compiere la missione, anticipa, in un certo senso, il modo in cui si struttura: la narrazione, infatti, segue sia Fandorin che Green a capitoli alterni e offre al lettore la possibilit脿 di seguire la storia dal punto di vista di entrambi, scelta che permette di non perdersi nessun dettaglio e di poter entrare meglio nelle vicende. Protagonista e antagonista corrono su due binari diversi ma paralleli, si "incontrano" per caso ed entrambi sono sulle tracce della stessa persona, che per Fandorin 猫 il traditore che sabota il lavoro delle forze dell'ordine e per Green l'informatore che permette al suo gruppo di lasciare indisturbato la sua scia di terrore.
Green, probabilmente, 猫 anche una delle nemesi pi霉 intriganti e meglio riuscite ad Akunin, cos矛 come Needle 猫 uno dei suoi pochissimi personaggi femminili che non mettono alla prova i miei nervi. Chi ha dato uno sguardo agli altri commenti che ho lasciato ai libri di questa saga sapr脿 sicuramente che ho qualche problema con le donne che la popolano e che le ritengo essere il punto debole di Akunin. Molte sono esageratamente teatrali o esagitate, altre, con la scusa del doverle rendere "originali", finiscono col risultarmi fastidiose (e altre ancora sembrano piazzate l矛 perch茅 non sia mai che manchi il love interest di turno per Fandorin eh), ma con Needle - incredibile ma vero - ha compiuto il miracolo che non mi sarei mai aspettata. La sua backstory 猫 solo accennata nel corso della storia, ma riesce comunque a dire molto sul personaggio, non ci dir脿 cosa l'ha fatta avvicinare di preciso alla causa rivoluzionaria, ma ci spiega perch茅 ha un carattere spigoloso e ci fa capire che sotto, alla fin fine, c'猫 sempre un essere umano con un cuore ancora in grado di amare.
Il nostro Fandorin, invece, viene a trovarsi in una fase importante della sua carriera e della sua vita. Siamo in un momento di transizione, col vecchio principe Dolgorukoj, suo protettore, che sta per giungere al termine della sua carriera, ma anche con una Russia che sta per entrare in una nuova e turbolenta fase storica. Siamo anche davanti a un Fandorin trentacinquenne che ha raggiunto il grado di consigliere di stato e potrebbe arrivare pi霉 in alto, a capo della polizia, ma pur sempre davanti a un Fandorin coi suoi scrupoli morali e il suo amor proprio che nel corso del romanzo viene ripetutamente stuzzicato e ferito. L'arrivo dell'ambiguo Pozharskij, in certo senso, fa da forza scatenante: non sconvolge solo gli equilibri moscoviti, ma d脿 anche inizio a quel processo che porter脿 Fandorin a prendere la sua grande decisione finale lasciando attonito il granduca Simeon Aleksandrovich. Non si tratta solo di vanit脿 e orgoglio feriti, dietro c'猫 anche qualcosa di pi霉 profondo che tocca la coscienza e ci fa chiedere se valga davvero la pena compromettersi e mettere in discussione i propri valori in nome della carriera e dell'effimero successo.
Ovviamente, non mancano dei punti deboli, che sono poi il motivo per cui non posso dare cinque stelle belle piene a questo romanzo. Come accennavo sopra, Akunin non ce la fa coi personaggi femminili e neanche questa volta di risparmia il love interest temporaneo, che in questo caso prende il nome di Esfir. Esfir 猫 quella che potremmo tranquillamente definire una bored rich kid: il padre 猫 un banchiere impacchettato di soldi che, pur di sentirsi accettato in societ脿, ha abbandonato la religione ebraica per quella ortodossa e lei, vuoi per noia vuoi perch茅 deve trovarsi qualcosa di scandaloso da fare, si avvicina ai circoli rivoluzionari ripetendo a pappetta discorsi pre impostati, neanche fosse un pappagallino. Fa bene a sottolineare le ingiustizie di cui purtroppo la societ脿 猫 piena, ma l'avrei trovata pi霉 credibile se avesse almeno riconosciuto anche la sua ipocrisia, che in parte emerge grazie alla frittelle di Dolgorukoj. C'猫 da dire che, oltre a fare la figlia ribelle, Esfir, come anche il padre che indossa le decorazioni per salutare di sfuggita Fandorin, prova un certo gusto nell'apparire e far parlare di s茅 (alla soir茅e di Dolgorukoj ci va perch茅 sa che sar脿 l'attrazione della serata e si divertir脿 a scandalizzare la societ脿 da bene, Fandorin le offre solo l'occasione per poterlo fare in tutta tranquillit脿). Eppure questa rilettura mi ha fatto spezzare una minuscola lancia in suo favore. Esfir 猫 sempre stata un'outsider, l'antisemitismo dilagante l'ha costretta a tirar fuori il carattere e a farsi rispettare e questo suo essere in bilico potrebbe averla spinta a cercare risposte nelle nuove idee (come lei, ricordo lo 猫 anche Green) e nella giustizia sociale urlata a gran voce. Fin qui nulla di male, ma ad Akunin non interessa renderla un personaggio tridimensionale e ad approfondire la sua caratterizzazione perch茅 tanto a fine romanzo saluti e baci, hasta nunca, e quello che viene fuori 猫 una ragazzina viziata, esagitata e arrogante (c'猫 una bella differenza tra l'avere un carattere forte ed essere invadenti e pronti a scattare come una molla per un nulla). La sua relazione con Fandorin, poi, sembra buttata l矛 perch茅 lui doveva in qualche modo toccare con mano i circoli rivoluzionari e avere una donna (Akunin, non 猫 una regola eh, just sayin'). Non riesco neanche a giustificarmela come un'attrazione fisica, perch茅 lui mi sembra buttarsi nella storia a mo' di "oh, me tocca pure 'sta volta, ma chissene" mentre lei, che ne so, avr脿 bisogno di qualcuno a cui urlare e di una casa altrui in cui piazzarsi senza invito pur di non vedere la sua.
Insomma, pecche a parte, il romanzo 猫 talmente ben scritto e strutturato che mi 猫 impossibile farmi influenzare pi霉 di tanto dai difetti, per quanto irritanti siano, arrivata all'assegnazione di un giudizio in stelline. Akunin, quando vuole, sa essere un gran narratore e ci regala dei libri e un Fandorin in piena forma e Il consigliere di stato ne 猫 la prova.
La storia si svolge nei primi gelidi mesi del 1891, con l'omicidio di un generale malvisto dai rivoluzionari e della cui morte Fandorin viene brevemente e ingiustamente accusato. Quanto basta, insomma, per coinvolgere il nostro eroe nelle indagini e portarlo sulle orme del gruppo di terroristi rivoluzionari guidati dall'enigmatico e pericoloso Green.
L'apertura del romanzo, con Green che si traveste da Fandorin per potersi avvicinare a Chrapov e compiere la missione, anticipa, in un certo senso, il modo in cui si struttura: la narrazione, infatti, segue sia Fandorin che Green a capitoli alterni e offre al lettore la possibilit脿 di seguire la storia dal punto di vista di entrambi, scelta che permette di non perdersi nessun dettaglio e di poter entrare meglio nelle vicende. Protagonista e antagonista corrono su due binari diversi ma paralleli, si "incontrano" per caso ed entrambi sono sulle tracce della stessa persona, che per Fandorin 猫 il traditore che sabota il lavoro delle forze dell'ordine e per Green l'informatore che permette al suo gruppo di lasciare indisturbato la sua scia di terrore.
Green, probabilmente, 猫 anche una delle nemesi pi霉 intriganti e meglio riuscite ad Akunin, cos矛 come Needle 猫 uno dei suoi pochissimi personaggi femminili che non mettono alla prova i miei nervi. Chi ha dato uno sguardo agli altri commenti che ho lasciato ai libri di questa saga sapr脿 sicuramente che ho qualche problema con le donne che la popolano e che le ritengo essere il punto debole di Akunin. Molte sono esageratamente teatrali o esagitate, altre, con la scusa del doverle rendere "originali", finiscono col risultarmi fastidiose (e altre ancora sembrano piazzate l矛 perch茅 non sia mai che manchi il love interest di turno per Fandorin eh), ma con Needle - incredibile ma vero - ha compiuto il miracolo che non mi sarei mai aspettata. La sua backstory 猫 solo accennata nel corso della storia, ma riesce comunque a dire molto sul personaggio, non ci dir脿 cosa l'ha fatta avvicinare di preciso alla causa rivoluzionaria, ma ci spiega perch茅 ha un carattere spigoloso e ci fa capire che sotto, alla fin fine, c'猫 sempre un essere umano con un cuore ancora in grado di amare.
Il nostro Fandorin, invece, viene a trovarsi in una fase importante della sua carriera e della sua vita. Siamo in un momento di transizione, col vecchio principe Dolgorukoj, suo protettore, che sta per giungere al termine della sua carriera, ma anche con una Russia che sta per entrare in una nuova e turbolenta fase storica. Siamo anche davanti a un Fandorin trentacinquenne che ha raggiunto il grado di consigliere di stato e potrebbe arrivare pi霉 in alto, a capo della polizia, ma pur sempre davanti a un Fandorin coi suoi scrupoli morali e il suo amor proprio che nel corso del romanzo viene ripetutamente stuzzicato e ferito. L'arrivo dell'ambiguo Pozharskij, in certo senso, fa da forza scatenante: non sconvolge solo gli equilibri moscoviti, ma d脿 anche inizio a quel processo che porter脿 Fandorin a prendere la sua grande decisione finale lasciando attonito il granduca Simeon Aleksandrovich. Non si tratta solo di vanit脿 e orgoglio feriti, dietro c'猫 anche qualcosa di pi霉 profondo che tocca la coscienza e ci fa chiedere se valga davvero la pena compromettersi e mettere in discussione i propri valori in nome della carriera e dell'effimero successo.
Ovviamente, non mancano dei punti deboli, che sono poi il motivo per cui non posso dare cinque stelle belle piene a questo romanzo. Come accennavo sopra, Akunin non ce la fa coi personaggi femminili e neanche questa volta di risparmia il love interest temporaneo, che in questo caso prende il nome di Esfir. Esfir 猫 quella che potremmo tranquillamente definire una bored rich kid: il padre 猫 un banchiere impacchettato di soldi che, pur di sentirsi accettato in societ脿, ha abbandonato la religione ebraica per quella ortodossa e lei, vuoi per noia vuoi perch茅 deve trovarsi qualcosa di scandaloso da fare, si avvicina ai circoli rivoluzionari ripetendo a pappetta discorsi pre impostati, neanche fosse un pappagallino. Fa bene a sottolineare le ingiustizie di cui purtroppo la societ脿 猫 piena, ma l'avrei trovata pi霉 credibile se avesse almeno riconosciuto anche la sua ipocrisia, che in parte emerge grazie alla frittelle di Dolgorukoj. C'猫 da dire che, oltre a fare la figlia ribelle, Esfir, come anche il padre che indossa le decorazioni per salutare di sfuggita Fandorin, prova un certo gusto nell'apparire e far parlare di s茅 (alla soir茅e di Dolgorukoj ci va perch茅 sa che sar脿 l'attrazione della serata e si divertir脿 a scandalizzare la societ脿 da bene, Fandorin le offre solo l'occasione per poterlo fare in tutta tranquillit脿). Eppure questa rilettura mi ha fatto spezzare una minuscola lancia in suo favore. Esfir 猫 sempre stata un'outsider, l'antisemitismo dilagante l'ha costretta a tirar fuori il carattere e a farsi rispettare e questo suo essere in bilico potrebbe averla spinta a cercare risposte nelle nuove idee (come lei, ricordo lo 猫 anche Green) e nella giustizia sociale urlata a gran voce. Fin qui nulla di male, ma ad Akunin non interessa renderla un personaggio tridimensionale e ad approfondire la sua caratterizzazione perch茅 tanto a fine romanzo saluti e baci, hasta nunca, e quello che viene fuori 猫 una ragazzina viziata, esagitata e arrogante (c'猫 una bella differenza tra l'avere un carattere forte ed essere invadenti e pronti a scattare come una molla per un nulla). La sua relazione con Fandorin, poi, sembra buttata l矛 perch茅 lui doveva in qualche modo toccare con mano i circoli rivoluzionari e avere una donna (Akunin, non 猫 una regola eh, just sayin'). Non riesco neanche a giustificarmela come un'attrazione fisica, perch茅 lui mi sembra buttarsi nella storia a mo' di "oh, me tocca pure 'sta volta, ma chissene" mentre lei, che ne so, avr脿 bisogno di qualcuno a cui urlare e di una casa altrui in cui piazzarsi senza invito pur di non vedere la sua.
Insomma, pecche a parte, il romanzo 猫 talmente ben scritto e strutturato che mi 猫 impossibile farmi influenzare pi霉 di tanto dai difetti, per quanto irritanti siano, arrivata all'assegnazione di un giudizio in stelline. Akunin, quando vuole, sa essere un gran narratore e ci regala dei libri e un Fandorin in piena forma e Il consigliere di stato ne 猫 la prova.
March 14, 2022
协褉邪褋褌 袩械褌褉芯胁懈褔 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪 胁褋褢 斜芯谢褜褕械 锌褉芯斜懈褉邪械褌褋褟 胁 屑芯褢 褋械褉写褑械 懈 褍 薪械谐芯 械褋褌褜 胁褋械 褕邪薪褋褘 芯褋褌邪褌褜褋褟 褌邪屑 薪邪胁褋械谐写邪) 屑芯懈 芦锌芯写褉芯褋褌泻芯胁褘械禄 谢褞斜懈屑褘械 谐械褉芯懈 懈蟹 泻薪懈谐 袣邪褋褋邪薪写褉褘 袣谢褝褉 褋屑械薪褟褞褌褋褟 斜芯谢械械 蟹褉械谢褘屑懈, 芯锌褘褌薪褘屑懈 屑褍卸褔懈薪邪屑懈. 袧褍 褔褌芯 卸, 锌芯褋屑芯褌褉懈屑, 泻 褔械屑褍 褝褌芯 锌褉懈胁械写褢褌.
小褌邪褌褋泻懈泄 褋芯胁械褌薪懈泻 - 锌褉芯懈蟹胁械写械薪懈械 芯 褉械胁芯谢褞褑懈芯薪械褉邪褏. 袨 褌械褏 谢褞写褟褏, 泻芯褌芯褉褘械 屑械薪褟褞褌 懈褋褌芯褉懈褞 懈谢懈 卸械 锌褘褌邪褞褌褋褟 械褢 锌芯屑械薪褟褌褜. 协褉邪褋褌 袩械褌褉芯胁懈褔 褌邪泻 写芯 泻芯薪褑邪 懈 薪械 芯锌褉械写械谢懈谢褋褟 (薪邪 屑芯泄 胁蟹谐谢褟写) 薪邪 泻邪泻芯泄 芯薪 褋褌芯褉芯薪械. 携 褋泻谢芯薪薪邪 褋褔懈褌邪褌褜, 褔褌芯 芯薪 蟹邪薪懈屑邪械褌 褌褉械褌褜褞 锌芯蟹懈褑懈褞, 薪械泻芯泄 芦楔胁械泄褑邪褉懈懈禄, 褋 泻芯褌芯褉芯泄 褍写芯斜薪芯 褋芯蟹械褉褑邪褌褜 蟹邪 锌褉芯懈褋褏芯写褟褖懈屑 懈 锌芯褌懈褏芯薪褜泻褍 写芯斜邪胁谢褟褌褜 懈 褋胁芯褞 谢械锌褌褍.
袩械褉褋芯薪邪卸懈 谐芯褋锌芯写 褉械胁芯谢褞褑懈芯薪械褉芯胁 锌械褉械写邪薪褘 芯褔械薪褜 蟹薪邪褌薪芯: 谢褞写懈 芯褌褔邪褟薪薪褘械, 写械褉蟹泻懈械 懈 褔械褉械褋褔褍褉 褌邪懈薪褋褌胁械薪薪褘械. 袩械褉褋芯薪邪卸懈 芯褉谐邪薪芯胁 芦胁谢邪褋褌懈禄 薪械芯斜褘褔邪泄薪芯 褉邪蟹薪芯芯斜褉邪蟹薪褘: 褌褍褌 械褋褌褜 懈 褏褉邪斜褉褘械 蟹邪褖懈褌薪懈泻懈, 懈 芯斜褘褔薪褘械 褋谢褍卸邪泻懈, 懈 楔锌懈芯薪褘 褋 斜芯谢褜褕芯泄 斜褍泻胁褘.
袩芯褋谢械 蟹邪胁械褉褕械薪懈褟 泻薪懈谐懈, 锌芯褋屑芯褌褉械谢邪 褝泻褉邪薪懈蟹邪褑懈褞 褋 袦懈褏邪谢泻芯胁褘屑. 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪 褌褍褌 褌邪泻芯泄-褌芯 芯褔械薪褜 褍卸 褔芯锌芯褉薪褘泄 懈 薪邪写屑械薪薪褘泄. 袝谐芯褉 袘械褉芯械胁 - 胁芯褌 芯薪, 屑芯泄 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪)
小褌邪褌褋泻懈泄 褋芯胁械褌薪懈泻 - 锌褉芯懈蟹胁械写械薪懈械 芯 褉械胁芯谢褞褑懈芯薪械褉邪褏. 袨 褌械褏 谢褞写褟褏, 泻芯褌芯褉褘械 屑械薪褟褞褌 懈褋褌芯褉懈褞 懈谢懈 卸械 锌褘褌邪褞褌褋褟 械褢 锌芯屑械薪褟褌褜. 协褉邪褋褌 袩械褌褉芯胁懈褔 褌邪泻 写芯 泻芯薪褑邪 懈 薪械 芯锌褉械写械谢懈谢褋褟 (薪邪 屑芯泄 胁蟹谐谢褟写) 薪邪 泻邪泻芯泄 芯薪 褋褌芯褉芯薪械. 携 褋泻谢芯薪薪邪 褋褔懈褌邪褌褜, 褔褌芯 芯薪 蟹邪薪懈屑邪械褌 褌褉械褌褜褞 锌芯蟹懈褑懈褞, 薪械泻芯泄 芦楔胁械泄褑邪褉懈懈禄, 褋 泻芯褌芯褉芯泄 褍写芯斜薪芯 褋芯蟹械褉褑邪褌褜 蟹邪 锌褉芯懈褋褏芯写褟褖懈屑 懈 锌芯褌懈褏芯薪褜泻褍 写芯斜邪胁谢褟褌褜 懈 褋胁芯褞 谢械锌褌褍.
袩械褉褋芯薪邪卸懈 谐芯褋锌芯写 褉械胁芯谢褞褑懈芯薪械褉芯胁 锌械褉械写邪薪褘 芯褔械薪褜 蟹薪邪褌薪芯: 谢褞写懈 芯褌褔邪褟薪薪褘械, 写械褉蟹泻懈械 懈 褔械褉械褋褔褍褉 褌邪懈薪褋褌胁械薪薪褘械. 袩械褉褋芯薪邪卸懈 芯褉谐邪薪芯胁 芦胁谢邪褋褌懈禄 薪械芯斜褘褔邪泄薪芯 褉邪蟹薪芯芯斜褉邪蟹薪褘: 褌褍褌 械褋褌褜 懈 褏褉邪斜褉褘械 蟹邪褖懈褌薪懈泻懈, 懈 芯斜褘褔薪褘械 褋谢褍卸邪泻懈, 懈 楔锌懈芯薪褘 褋 斜芯谢褜褕芯泄 斜褍泻胁褘.
袩芯褋谢械 蟹邪胁械褉褕械薪懈褟 泻薪懈谐懈, 锌芯褋屑芯褌褉械谢邪 褝泻褉邪薪懈蟹邪褑懈褞 褋 袦懈褏邪谢泻芯胁褘屑. 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪 褌褍褌 褌邪泻芯泄-褌芯 芯褔械薪褜 褍卸 褔芯锌芯褉薪褘泄 懈 薪邪写屑械薪薪褘泄. 袝谐芯褉 袘械褉芯械胁 - 胁芯褌 芯薪, 屑芯泄 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪)
May 9, 2021
3.5 讻讜讻讘讬诐.
讝讛讜 讛住驻专 讛砖讬砖讬 讘住讚专转 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 讛谞讛讚专转 讜讛讗讛讜讘讛 注诇讬讬, 讗讘诇 诇讟注诪讬 讝讛讜 讗讞讚 讛住驻专讬诐 讛讬讜转专 讞诇砖讬诐 讘住讚专讛, 诇诪专讜转 砖讘诪拽专讛 砖诇 讛住讚专讛 讛讝讜, 讙诐 住驻专 讬讞住讬转 讞诇砖 讛讜讗 注讚讬讬谉 讟讜讘...
讘住驻专 讝讛 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 诪谞住讛 诇讙诇讜转 讙诐 诪讬 专爪讞 讗转 讛讙谞专诇 讞专讗驻讜讘 讜讙诐 诪讬讛讜 讛讘讜讙讚 讘砖讬专讜转 讛诪砖讟专讛/讛讘讜诇砖转/讛诪诪砖诇 砖诪讚诇讬祝 诇诪讛驻讻谞讬诐. 讛住驻专 诪讜爪诇讞 讜讬砖 讘讜 讗拽砖谉, 讗讘诇 讛转注诇讜诪讛 讛讬讬转讛 讘注讬谞讬讬 诪注讟 诪砖注诪诪转 讘讛砖讜讜讗讛 诇住驻专讬诐 拽讜讚诪讬诐 讘住讚专讛. 讘讛转讞诇讛 讞砖讘转讬 诇转转 诇住驻专 砖诇讜砖讛 讻讜讻讘讬诐, 讗讘诇 讗讛讘转讬 讗转 讛专讜讘讚 讛谞讜住祝 砖诪注诪讬讚 诇讚讬讜谉 讗转 讛砖诇讟讜谉 讛诪诇讜讻谞讬 诇注讜诪转 专讜讞讜转 讛诪讛驻讻讛, 讜讘讝讗转 诪转讻转讘 注诐 讛讛讬住讟讜专讬讛 讛专讜住讬转 讜讙诐 诪注诇讛 砖讗诇讜转 诪讗讜讚 诪注谞讬讬谞讜转, 讻诪讜 诪讛 讙讘讜诇讜转 讛驻注诇转 讛讻讜讞, 讛讗诐 讛诪讟专讛 诪拽讚砖转 讗转 讻诇 讛讗诪爪注讬诐, 讛讗诐 讛讬讛 谞讬转谉 诇诪谞讜注 讗转 讛诪讛驻讻讛, 讜注讜讚.
讝讛讜 讛住驻专 讛砖讬砖讬 讘住讚专转 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 讛谞讛讚专转 讜讛讗讛讜讘讛 注诇讬讬, 讗讘诇 诇讟注诪讬 讝讛讜 讗讞讚 讛住驻专讬诐 讛讬讜转专 讞诇砖讬诐 讘住讚专讛, 诇诪专讜转 砖讘诪拽专讛 砖诇 讛住讚专讛 讛讝讜, 讙诐 住驻专 讬讞住讬转 讞诇砖 讛讜讗 注讚讬讬谉 讟讜讘...
讘住驻专 讝讛 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 诪谞住讛 诇讙诇讜转 讙诐 诪讬 专爪讞 讗转 讛讙谞专诇 讞专讗驻讜讘 讜讙诐 诪讬讛讜 讛讘讜讙讚 讘砖讬专讜转 讛诪砖讟专讛/讛讘讜诇砖转/讛诪诪砖诇 砖诪讚诇讬祝 诇诪讛驻讻谞讬诐. 讛住驻专 诪讜爪诇讞 讜讬砖 讘讜 讗拽砖谉, 讗讘诇 讛转注诇讜诪讛 讛讬讬转讛 讘注讬谞讬讬 诪注讟 诪砖注诪诪转 讘讛砖讜讜讗讛 诇住驻专讬诐 拽讜讚诪讬诐 讘住讚专讛. 讘讛转讞诇讛 讞砖讘转讬 诇转转 诇住驻专 砖诇讜砖讛 讻讜讻讘讬诐, 讗讘诇 讗讛讘转讬 讗转 讛专讜讘讚 讛谞讜住祝 砖诪注诪讬讚 诇讚讬讜谉 讗转 讛砖诇讟讜谉 讛诪诇讜讻谞讬 诇注讜诪转 专讜讞讜转 讛诪讛驻讻讛, 讜讘讝讗转 诪转讻转讘 注诐 讛讛讬住讟讜专讬讛 讛专讜住讬转 讜讙诐 诪注诇讛 砖讗诇讜转 诪讗讜讚 诪注谞讬讬谞讜转, 讻诪讜 诪讛 讙讘讜诇讜转 讛驻注诇转 讛讻讜讞, 讛讗诐 讛诪讟专讛 诪拽讚砖转 讗转 讻诇 讛讗诪爪注讬诐, 讛讗诐 讛讬讛 谞讬转谉 诇诪谞讜注 讗转 讛诪讛驻讻讛, 讜注讜讚.
March 5, 2017
Fandorin returns in an exciting new adventure! The State Counsellor sees him chasing after a band of communist terrorists following the assassination of a leading figure in the Tsarist hierarchy - for which the terrorists impersonate Fandorin himself.
A rollicking good story, with a good number of plot twists, Imperial Court intrigues, and femme fatales, this is Akunin back to form in an engrossing new title.
Reason for four stars, and not five? There are a few story devices that annoyed me as a reader a bit - an action takes place, and then the story rewinds to play the same thing through another person's viewpoint. While this is used to advance the story somewhat, and adds to some of the plot twists, I feel that perhaps some of these could have been executed in a slightly more expedient way.
Secondly, there were a few anachronisms with the translation, such as the use of Flying Squad and turnpike, which bugged me. Both are cultural impositions from the UK and US respectively, and are out of place in the book. While the title of the Okhranka (Tsarist spy agency) is left untranslated, why were these translated so clumsily? For turnpike at least, perhaps tollbooth would be a better word - and one that is more universal in English?
Those are two small points really, but overall a thoroughly enjoyable read. Well worth a go.
A rollicking good story, with a good number of plot twists, Imperial Court intrigues, and femme fatales, this is Akunin back to form in an engrossing new title.
Reason for four stars, and not five? There are a few story devices that annoyed me as a reader a bit - an action takes place, and then the story rewinds to play the same thing through another person's viewpoint. While this is used to advance the story somewhat, and adds to some of the plot twists, I feel that perhaps some of these could have been executed in a slightly more expedient way.
Secondly, there were a few anachronisms with the translation, such as the use of Flying Squad and turnpike, which bugged me. Both are cultural impositions from the UK and US respectively, and are out of place in the book. While the title of the Okhranka (Tsarist spy agency) is left untranslated, why were these translated so clumsily? For turnpike at least, perhaps tollbooth would be a better word - and one that is more universal in English?
Those are two small points really, but overall a thoroughly enjoyable read. Well worth a go.
November 6, 2017
The usually twisty world of Erast Fandorin becomes impenetrable an mystery (adventure? intrigue? ) that I think assumes more than an average non-Russian's understanding of Russian history, especially the role of insurgents in the 1890s. I, for one, got super lost and gave up trying to place who was where and why about 2/3 of the way through. Not a recommend here, even though it's been a long while between English language Fandorin novels.
I received an ecopy from the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ecopy from the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
讘谞讬讙讜讚 诇住驻专讬诐 讛拽讜讚诪讬诐 讘住讬讚专讛, 讛驻注诐 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 诪讜讘诇 诇讗讜专讱 讛讞拽讬专讛 讜诇讗 诪讜讘讬诇 讗讬转讛.
驻谞讚讜专讬谉 诪谞住讛 诇讞砖讜祝 转讗 讟专讜专讬住讟讬 砖诇 诪讛驻讻谞讬诐 砖讘讬爪注 专爪讞 驻讜诇讬讟讬, 讗讘诇 诪讛专 诪讗讜讚 讛讜讗 讛讜驻讱 诇住讟讟讬住讟 讘讞拽讬专讛, 讻砖讛讜讗 爪讜驻讛 诪讛爪讚 讘诪讗诪爪讬 3 讘讻讬专讬诐 砖讜谞讬诐 诇讞砖讜祝 讗转 讞讘专讬 讛转讗. 讛注讜讘讚讛 砖讚诪讜转讜 砖诇 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 讚讬 讚讛讜讬讛 诇讗讜专讱 讛住驻专, 讛讜驻讻转 讗讜转讜 诇驻讞讜转 诪讜爪诇讞 讘注讬谞讬.
驻谞讚讜专讬谉 诪谞住讛 诇讞砖讜祝 转讗 讟专讜专讬住讟讬 砖诇 诪讛驻讻谞讬诐 砖讘讬爪注 专爪讞 驻讜诇讬讟讬, 讗讘诇 诪讛专 诪讗讜讚 讛讜讗 讛讜驻讱 诇住讟讟讬住讟 讘讞拽讬专讛, 讻砖讛讜讗 爪讜驻讛 诪讛爪讚 讘诪讗诪爪讬 3 讘讻讬专讬诐 砖讜谞讬诐 诇讞砖讜祝 讗转 讞讘专讬 讛转讗. 讛注讜讘讚讛 砖讚诪讜转讜 砖诇 驻谞讚讜专讬谉 讚讬 讚讛讜讬讛 诇讗讜专讱 讛住驻专, 讛讜驻讻转 讗讜转讜 诇驻讞讜转 诪讜爪诇讞 讘注讬谞讬.
April 10, 2018
While at the start and middle of this book I was going to give it three stars but as I worked my way through the rest of the novel I was more and more impressed. Beautifully crafted with, as one other reviewer has said, showing many shades of grey, the political intrigue twisting and turning up until the very end. I can't wait to get my hands on the next in the series.
November 17, 2015
袧械 写芯褌褟谐懈胁邪械褌 写芯 写械褌械泻褌懈胁邪. 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪 蟹写械褋褜 泻邪泻芯泄-褌芯 薪懈泻邪泻芯泄, 泻邪褉褌芯薪薪褘泄, 褕邪斜谢芯薪薪褘泄, 斜械蟹 薪褞邪薪褋芯胁, 泻邪泻 薪械卸懈胁芯泄. 袧懈泻邪泻芯泄 写械写褍泻褑懈懈, 胁褋械 写械褌邪谢懈 锌褉芯屑芯褉谐邪谢. 袣褍写邪 斜芯谢械械 懈薪褌械褉械褋薪褘泄 懈 写邪卸械 懈薪芯谐写邪 胁褘蟹褘胁邪褞褖懈泄 褋芯褔褍胁褋褌胁懈械 - 邪薪褌邪谐芯薪懈褋褌 懈褋褌芯褉懈懈.
February 14, 2009
The novel is much better than the Russian TV movie.
August 21, 2009
袨褌谢懈褔薪邪褟 泻薪懈谐邪
April 30, 2012
小 褝褌芯泄 泻薪懈谐懈 薪邪褔邪谢邪褋褜 屑芯褟 谢褞斜芯胁褜 泻 肖邪薪写芯褉懈薪褍. 袨褌谢懈褔薪褘泄 褉芯屑邪薪, 懈蟹褟褖薪褘泄 褋谢芯谐, 芯斜邪褟褌械谢褜薪褘泄 谐谢邪胁薪褘泄 谐械褉芯泄.
December 21, 2012
The best one in the series!!!
December 18, 2019
Five stars for this book, five stars for the series.
Marvelously Russian, exquisitely written, gorgeously translated. I'm always a little intimidated at the beginning of one of Akunin's dense, complex stories but once I get into the Russian spirit I can never put it down. It's well worth slowing down -- & I'm not even getting half of what is in there.
The double names! Impossible names -- Tikhon Bogoyavlensky! I studied Russian briefly in college so it delights me to pronounce them -- out loud, it must be out loud --听imagining the true, Cyrillic spelling. Then, as in life, of course, characters are sometimes called by last names (Burlyaev, Smolyaninov), or nicknames (names made longer by adding -oshka, -ushka, even Green becomes Greenich)... To top it all off, the "villians" have code names, fantastic code names like Needle, Bullfinch, Julie... Somehow they keep themselves straight because the story is ...听intuited, like a Gaudi staircase, or tango. It's ever so complex, serious, Russian! Class, honour, a well-ordered world, so foreign. The author & his translator are so brilliant that it's approachable (maybe not easy). Like Hilary Mantel, Dorothy Dunnett, Norman Rush, I feel kinda smart just getting enough of it to enjoy it so much.
The characters are so rich that our main hero, Fandorin (Erast Petrovich, State Counselor) almost blends into the background, without losing his integrity one bit. The villain Green (whom we kinda love, & who sees people as colours: himself a steely grey, an ally has "that dense ochre colour that comes from great internal strength and unshakeable belief." p94) counts his heartbeats so constantly that "sometimes he would wake in the middle of the night with a four-figure number in his mind and realize that he hadn't stopped counting even in his sleep." (p35)
made heavy use of my book darts...
p38
If society was not to become overgrown with scum like a stagnant pond, it needed the periodical shaking-up known as revolution.
p95
In America they call it lobbying. We don't have a parliament, so you use terrorists to put pressure on the government.
p99
He knew the way he spoke wasn't right, but it was the only way the words came. The thoughts in his head were precise and clear, their meaning was absolutely obvious. But when they emerged in the form of phrases, the superfluous husk simply fell away of its own accord and only the essential idea was left. Probably sometimes rather more fell away than ought to.
p104
There was still a risk, of course. But it was better to trust a traitor than to spurn a comrade.
p128
She had broken his steely will and iron discipline with ease. She was life itself, and everyone knew that life was stronger than any rules or dogmas. Grass grew through asphalt, water wore holes in rocks, a woman could soften the hardest of hearts. Especially a woman like that.
Marvelously Russian, exquisitely written, gorgeously translated. I'm always a little intimidated at the beginning of one of Akunin's dense, complex stories but once I get into the Russian spirit I can never put it down. It's well worth slowing down -- & I'm not even getting half of what is in there.
The double names! Impossible names -- Tikhon Bogoyavlensky! I studied Russian briefly in college so it delights me to pronounce them -- out loud, it must be out loud --听imagining the true, Cyrillic spelling. Then, as in life, of course, characters are sometimes called by last names (Burlyaev, Smolyaninov), or nicknames (names made longer by adding -oshka, -ushka, even Green becomes Greenich)... To top it all off, the "villians" have code names, fantastic code names like Needle, Bullfinch, Julie... Somehow they keep themselves straight because the story is ...听intuited, like a Gaudi staircase, or tango. It's ever so complex, serious, Russian! Class, honour, a well-ordered world, so foreign. The author & his translator are so brilliant that it's approachable (maybe not easy). Like Hilary Mantel, Dorothy Dunnett, Norman Rush, I feel kinda smart just getting enough of it to enjoy it so much.
The characters are so rich that our main hero, Fandorin (Erast Petrovich, State Counselor) almost blends into the background, without losing his integrity one bit. The villain Green (whom we kinda love, & who sees people as colours: himself a steely grey, an ally has "that dense ochre colour that comes from great internal strength and unshakeable belief." p94) counts his heartbeats so constantly that "sometimes he would wake in the middle of the night with a four-figure number in his mind and realize that he hadn't stopped counting even in his sleep." (p35)
made heavy use of my book darts...
p38
If society was not to become overgrown with scum like a stagnant pond, it needed the periodical shaking-up known as revolution.
p95
In America they call it lobbying. We don't have a parliament, so you use terrorists to put pressure on the government.
p99
He knew the way he spoke wasn't right, but it was the only way the words came. The thoughts in his head were precise and clear, their meaning was absolutely obvious. But when they emerged in the form of phrases, the superfluous husk simply fell away of its own accord and only the essential idea was left. Probably sometimes rather more fell away than ought to.
p104
There was still a risk, of course. But it was better to trust a traitor than to spurn a comrade.
p128
She had broken his steely will and iron discipline with ease. She was life itself, and everyone knew that life was stronger than any rules or dogmas. Grass grew through asphalt, water wore holes in rocks, a woman could soften the hardest of hearts. Especially a woman like that.
May 25, 2020
This was my first Fandorin book. Out of sequence, but since I choose to listen rather than read, and to download audiobooks from libraries free of charge, I take what I can.
I am a native Russian speaker, and was concerned about getting this in English first, but what a trip!
The author is very popular in Russia and in Europe, I was just a bit late to the party.
Apparently, he had the idea to write mysteries in styles of various famous authors, and to make them close to intellectual literature rather than "genre" trashy books. This idea is similar to contemporary American writers attempting to elevate "genre".
Well, IMO, Akunin succeeded beyond expectations.
Another point is that a lot of this book takes place in Moscow, where I was born, was another plus. Unfortunately, I left at the age of 20, and traveled mostly by subway, so I could not truly appreciate Akunin's amazing erudition and minute knowledge of Moscow, it's geography and history. I even googled many place names to confirm whether the reader was pronouncing them correctly (he was!), as well as actual locations. The translation and performance were superb! Who but a Russian could say "Sortirovochnaya station" :)
The story is summarized in many places, so suffice is to say that the hero is a Sherlockian supersleuth, amazingly cunning, intelligent, competent etc etc. And a sensualist. Ladies fall all over him. A crack shot too. Fantastically agile and string. How not to be charmed?
Story is fast, action packed Running, hiring sleigh cabs, fast rides in snowy Moscow, hand to hand combat, attending formal events for highest circles of nobility, clandestine assignations in a bath house, working along members of the Imperial family. All if this with the goal to discover and eliminate a super secret Revolutionary group.
See, Russian literature is not all complex and dark. They can do action and humor too!
I am a native Russian speaker, and was concerned about getting this in English first, but what a trip!
The author is very popular in Russia and in Europe, I was just a bit late to the party.
Apparently, he had the idea to write mysteries in styles of various famous authors, and to make them close to intellectual literature rather than "genre" trashy books. This idea is similar to contemporary American writers attempting to elevate "genre".
Well, IMO, Akunin succeeded beyond expectations.
Another point is that a lot of this book takes place in Moscow, where I was born, was another plus. Unfortunately, I left at the age of 20, and traveled mostly by subway, so I could not truly appreciate Akunin's amazing erudition and minute knowledge of Moscow, it's geography and history. I even googled many place names to confirm whether the reader was pronouncing them correctly (he was!), as well as actual locations. The translation and performance were superb! Who but a Russian could say "Sortirovochnaya station" :)
The story is summarized in many places, so suffice is to say that the hero is a Sherlockian supersleuth, amazingly cunning, intelligent, competent etc etc. And a sensualist. Ladies fall all over him. A crack shot too. Fantastically agile and string. How not to be charmed?
Story is fast, action packed Running, hiring sleigh cabs, fast rides in snowy Moscow, hand to hand combat, attending formal events for highest circles of nobility, clandestine assignations in a bath house, working along members of the Imperial family. All if this with the goal to discover and eliminate a super secret Revolutionary group.
See, Russian literature is not all complex and dark. They can do action and humor too!
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