First
Sentence: The dead child was standing motionless at the
intersection between Santa Teresa and the museum.
Commissario
Luigi Alfredo Riciardi is cursed by being able to see and
hear the last few seconds of those who have died violently.
He is called to Naples’ San Carlo Theater. The world’s
greatest tenor, Maestro Arnaldo Vezzi, has been found murdered
in his dressing room. He sees the shadow of the victim dressed
in clown costume singing part of the aria from Pagliacii,
“…I will have vengeance…” Although
Vezzi had millions of adoring fans, he was generally hated
by those who knew him. However, many depended upon him for
their very livelihood. So who hated him enough to kill him?
What
a fascinating, yet heart-rending, introduction to the character
of Ricciardi. The description truly paints a picture so vivid,
you are grateful the character has his colleague, Brigadier
Raffaele Maione. Maione death of his son in a tavern fight
ensured Maione’s strong loyalty to Ricciardi. Women
are attracted to Riciardi, but the only woman in his life
is Tata Rosa, who looks after him and his house. Ricciardi
is a man who doesn’t make assumptions, but seeks out
the proof before making an arrest.
The setting
is wonderful. This isn’t the Naples of tourists. It
is the Naples during the early years of Mussolini. It is the
Naples of those who live there; of the wealthy and the poor
and the superstitious.
This
is a book about opera. Through the character of an opera-loving
priest, we are provided information on the two operas being
performed and the workings behind the scenes. This information
is fascinating and will be enjoyed and appreciated by those
who are opera fans, as well as those who are not. Even aside
from the world of opera, the story points out the impact the
death of a star can have on those who work for them.
There
is a wonderful wistfulness to the story in the relationship
between Ricciardi and a woman he has never met, but that he
sees every day through a window across the way. There is a
sub-theme about dreams unable to be realized.
When
reading the book, do not ignore the excellent notes from the
translator. They certainly answered one question I had.
I
Will Have Vengeance is different, unusual and unique;
all in very positive ways. The story is completely intriguing.
This is an author from whom you’ll want to read more.
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