Repentance

Repentance is a crime thriller set in Argentina during the country's brutal military dictatorship in the 1980s. The novel follows Inspector Joaquín Alzada, who is forced to confront his own involvement in one of the darkest periods in Argentinian history when a dead body lands in a skip behind the morgue and a woman from one of the city's wealthiest families goes missing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Repentance is an accomplished and inventive detective novel that captivates readers with its intense tension and family secrets. Written by Sanaë Lemoine, the novel delves into the lives of two families, the Affair and the Lemoine, as they navigate the complexities of love, loyalty, and betrayal.

The story unfolds in the backdrop of 1980s Argentina, a country grappling with political unrest and economic crisis. Inspector Joaquín Alzada, the protagonist, is a skilled and dedicated police officer who works for the Buenos Aires police force. His job exposes him to the many realities of life under a repressive regime, where desperate people, terrified people, and, worst of all, missing people are a daily occurrence.

Personally, Alzada prefers to stay out of politics and lead a simple life with his wife, Paula. However, when his revolutionary brother, Jorge, is mysteriously disappeared, Alzada is compelled to embark on a dangerous mission to rescue him. As he delves deeper into the case, Alzada uncovers a web of family secrets and lies that threaten to tear the Affair family apart.

The novel is a masterfully crafted blend of mystery, suspense, and historical fiction. Lemoine skillfully weaves together the threads of the story, creating a rich and complex narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with their flaws, strengths, and motivations making them feel like real people.

One of the standout aspects of Repentance is its portrayal of the darkest period in Argentina's modern history. The military dictatorship that ruled the country during the 1980s was a time of collective horror and personal suffering. Lemoine does not shy away from depicting the brutalities and injustices that occurred during this time, providing a powerful and emotional depiction of a country and a period that still simmers between the pages of history books and the crime novel is a perfect way of lancing the boil.

The novel also explores the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of memory. Alzada, who has carried the weight of his brother's disappearance for decades, must confront his own involvement in the events that led to Jorge's disappearance. Through his journey, Alzada learns to forgive himself and find closure, while also coming to terms with the painful memories of his past.

Repentance is an impressive debut novel that showcases Lemoine's talent as a writer. The novel is well-researched, with a deep understanding of the historical context and the social and political issues that shaped Argentina during the 1980s. The writing is elegant and evocative, with vivid descriptions that bring the characters and the setting to life.

In conclusion, Repentance is a must-read for anyone who enjoys crime novels that delve into the darker aspects of history. The novel is a powerful exploration of family secrets, political unrest, and the human cost of violence. With its likeable protagonist, well-developed characters, and compelling narrative, Repentance is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474613859