The
Figaro Murders by Laura Lebow
Set
amidst the splendor and decadence of 18th century Vienna, where conflict arises
between an enlightened emperor bent on societal improvements that are opposed
by entrenched traditions of toadyism, and general resistance to change, the
Figaro Murders easily reminds readers of the 1984 classic movie Amadeus.
Lorenzo
Da Ponte, favored court-appointed opera poet, visits his barber for a shave and
becomes embroiled in a mystery that could topple the Austrian emperor with
suspected treachery from the Prussians.
The
mystery thrives with interaction of historical personalities and fictitious
characters. Da Ponte, already involved in the barber mystery, soon finds
himself accused of murder while trying to maintain his professional reputation
as a librettist working with Wolfgang Mozart by others trying to ruin him
professionally.
Lebow
writes a riveting whodunit leaving the reader guessing to the very end and very
satisfied with the opulence of 1787 Vienna.
Highly recommended for those who love history, music, and mayhem.
