The Crime of the Boulevard   By: Jules Claretie (1840-1913)

In Jules Claretie's The Crime of the Boulevard, readers are transported to the bustling streets of 19th century Paris, where a gripping and mysterious tale unfolds. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing city, the novel entices readers with its blend of crime, love, and redemption.

The story follows the life of Maurice Boissard, a young and ambitious lawyer who finds himself inexplicably linked to a crime committed on one of Paris' most famous boulevards. As Maurice becomes more deeply entangled in the case, he discovers a web of secrets, deceit, and unexpected alliances that challenge his own sense of justice.

Claretie's writing style is immersive and captivating, skillfully evoking the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the era. From the lavish salons of the bourgeois to the gritty underbelly of the criminal world, the author brings the Parisian landscape to life with vivid descriptions and rich historical details. The book serves as a window into a bygone era, allowing readers to lose themselves in the allure and intrigue of 19th century France.

The characters in The Crime of the Boulevard are well-drawn and multi-dimensional, each with their own ambitions, flaws, and motivations. Maurice, the determined protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation throughout the story, grappling with his own moral compass and haunted by the consequences of his choices. Supporting characters, such as the enigmatic femme fatale, add depth and complexity to the narrative, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

One aspect of the novel that stands out is Claretie's exploration of the societal changes happening in Paris during the time period. The author subtly examines the tensions between the old and the new, as Paris modernizes and traditional values clash with the emerging industrial age. This backdrop adds another layer of depth to the plot, making it as much a commentary on the changing times as it is a thrilling crime novel.

The pacing in The Crime of the Boulevard is steady, with twists and turns that keep readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth. Claretie masterfully balances suspense and character development, weaving a complex narrative that rewards readers with a satisfying resolution. The themes of justice, redemption, and the complexities of human nature are thoughtfully explored throughout the book, inviting readers to reflect on their own notions of morality and justice.

Overall, The Crime of the Boulevard is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that effortlessly transports readers to the romantic and turbulent streets of 19th century Paris. With its masterful storytelling, rich historical backdrop, and memorable characters, Jules Claretie's work of fiction offers an enthralling reading experience that will leave readers both entertained and intellectually stimulated.

First Page:

The man to whom a passer by had given this information hurried away in the direction pointed out; although gasping for breath, he tried to run, in order to more quickly reach the little house at the end of the passage of the Elysée des Beaux Arts. This passage, a sort of cul de sac, on either side of which were black buildings, strange old houses, and dilapidated storehouses, opened upon a boulevard filled with life and movement; with people promenading; with the noise of tramways; with gaiety and light... Continue reading book >>