Today, we scare each other but we also go back in time and believe me historical thrillers it is a difficult exercise. There can be better and worse. And there, because I am nice, I offer you the best with “The second sleep” by Robert Harris at Belfond Noir.
The story takes place in England in 1468. We meet a pastor Christopher Fairfax who is in his twenties and who goes to a small isolated village to celebrate the funeral of the one who has officiated in this humble parish for 30 years. Problem: This one didn’t seem very conventional.
Christopher will therefore delve into the personal affairs of the deceased. A trunk contains illicit objects, loaded with curse. Could its content be linked to his death? Christopher, who thought he was going to leave soon, will therefore spend some time in Exmoor the small village and will meet its inhabitants. Between investigation and questioning, what will he find?
It’s very dark, we can’t say the opposite. But that’s not the main point of this story… There is an incredible switch that will leave you hanging in your seat. And this is where we understand that the calendars are only indicative.
In short it’s difficult to tell you more without spoiler but know that the historical novel can without warning give way to science fiction … Well, to tempt you more without revealing too much, I will quote thehe American master of the black novel Stephen King which says of the second sleep: “In two words: compulsive reading. In three words: buy it now. In four words: tonight, if possible.” Ah yes anyway. And what about these words of the Evening standard English daily “A totally surprising future story thriller. Simply fabulous ”.
So you understand what you have to do! Robert Harris’ “The Second Sleep” at Belfond Noir is an unclassifiable, unstoppable slap novel.