The Readers’ Room by Antoine Laurain has an intriguing premise that mixes mystery with a literary twist. Set in a cozy Parisian publishing house, the story kicks off with a debut crime novel that grabs everyone’s attention in the readers’ room and even catches the eye of the Prix Goncourt committee. Things get really interesting when the editor, Violaine Lepage, realizes she has no clue who the author is, and then a bunch of real-life murders start to mimic the book.
Laurain’s writing pulls you in, and he’s great at mixing mystery with the charm of the literary world. The book has a bunch of cool characters and suspenseful moments that keep you hooked. But, some parts of the plot feel a bit forced, and the pacing can be a bit all over the place.
Violaine’s memory issues after a plane crash add a unique twist, but it can feel a bit overdone as a plot point. The mystery itself is gripping, though the ending might leave some readers wanting a bit more depth and clarity.
All in all, it is an enjoyable read with a fascinating concept, but it falls short of being a standout in the mystery genre. It’s a good pick for anyone who loves literary-themed mysteries and wants something light and entertaining.