Crime fiction does not speak too often Spanish. Corylus Books is breaking again the silence promoting crime stories from countries that rarely make it into the big predominantly English-speaking market.
This time, they published an intriguing crime novella Skin Deep (Llevar en la piel) by Antonia Lassa - the pen name of Luisa Etxenike, translated from Spanish by Jacky Collins. A gem of a novel that made me feel guilty though for not searching too seriously other crime fiction writers outside the English realm.
Although written in Spanish - the author herself lives in Paris -, the action of the story takes place in France, in Biarritz and Paris. Following the murder of a wealthy lady, a criminal is apparently found and is about to spend time in prison. But is he really the one who committed the crime? Intrepid Inspector Canonne dares to differ and is challenging the institutional truth to find out the true killer, a dangerous journey taking him to the darkest corners of the French underworld.
Very precise and building up suspense with the highest care, Skin Deep plays both on the society and human dimensions, revealing and playing with both weaknesses and sense of responsibility. The author has an acute sense of observation, using human behaviors and social contexts to nurture a contemporary story.
I am definitely interested to read more by Lassa, and until a new translation will be available, I am decided to upgrade my Spanish as much as it is needed to be able to enjoy another delightful crime fiction experience.
Noteworthy to mention the outstanding black-and-white book cover, which perfectly resonates with the story.
Rating: 5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered as part of the book tour but the opinions are, as usual, my own
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