Boris Akunin, The Death of Achilles

The Death of Achilles

Boris Akunin

Random House, Apr 2006, $12.95

ISBN: 0812966808

Renowned Russian war hero General Sobolev is found dead in his room at Moscow's Dusseaux Hotel, a victim of a heart attack. Prince Fandorin, just back from six years of diplomatic duty in Japan to take the job of Deputy for Special Assignments, is stunned to learn of the death of his friend.

Even more shocking is that he learns that the "Russian Achilles," as the General was affectionately known, had not died in the room where the body was found, and he was in the throes of passion so had not been alone. Fandorin obtains reluctant permission from his superior the Governor of Moscow Prince Vladimir Andreevich Dolgoruski to investigate. With his Japanese manservant Maso assisting him, Fandorin makes enquires into the final days of his mentor, only to find himself pitted against a diabolical opponent with no scruples and the strong backing of the leaderships of government, the military and the underworld to stonewall him.

THE DEATH OF ACHILLES is a fabulous Russian historical police procedural, that besides entertaining the reader, will stun fans as the key viewpoint shifts from Fandorin to the killer about half way into the exciting storyline. The mystery is first rate, and the deep look at late nineteenth century Moscow is superb. Fandorin is his usual amusing aside self and the killer first rate. The translation of Boris Akunin's excellent thriller is a winner.