In “Death in Brittany”, Jean-Luc Bannalec plunges us into the enigmatic world of Pont-Aven, a Breton village with undeniable charms but disturbing shadows. Following the shocking murder of Pierre-Louis Pennec, a respected businessman with a passion for art, Commissaire Dupin is called in to solve a mystery that threatens the harmony of this community.
The plot revolves around the secrets buried beneath the peaceful exterior. The victim, found lifeless, leaves behind a troubled legacy, mingled with rumours about a famous painting by Gauguin. As the investigation unfolds, Dupin questions those close to him, revealing fragile relationships and carefully woven lies. The dead man’s wife, Catherine, and her half-brother André seem to harbour dark motives, while the whole village is in turmoil, torn between fear and the desire to preserve its traditions.
Bannalec excels at depicting the Breton setting, combining natural beauty with underlying anxieties. The sea, the port and the narrow streets of Pont-Aven become characters in their own right, adding to the atmosphere of the story. Themes such as identity, family heritage and the intricacies of art are skilfully interwoven, inviting the reader to reflect on the value of truth in a world where appearances are sometimes deceptive.
“Death in Brittany” is a gripping, energetic thriller that combines masterful suspense with nuanced psychological portraits. A true tribute to Breton culture, it also offers a plot worthy of the greatest mysteries. Through his investigation, Dupin reminds us that the darkest secrets are often hidden behind the most enchanting facades.
Key locations where the action takes place :
- Pont-Aven: The central town in the plot, where the murder is discovered and Dupin conducts most of his investigation.
- The Art Galleries: Various galleries in Pont-Aven, which play an important role due to the victim’s connections to the art world.
- The Bois d’Amour: A place for walks and reflection for Dupin, important for understanding the artistic context of the town.
- The River Aven: Along which Dupin discovers clues and carries out his investigations.
- The Central Hotel: A fictitious hotel where Dupin stays and which serves as a base of operations for his investigation.
- The Trémalo chapel in Nizon: A site linked to the history of the Pont-Aven School, where crucial clues are discovered.
- The port of Doëlan: A place visited by Dupin as part of his investigation.
- The Pont-Aven museum: A key place for understanding the victim’s links with art and artists.
- The forest of Carnoët: An area of research and reflection for Dupin, where he explores important leads.
- Concarneau: A nearby town where Dupin goes to question witnesses and obtain further information.
- Quimper: The capital of Brittany’s Cornouaille region, visited by Dupin to consult experts and obtain administrative information.
These locations form the backdrop to Dupin’s investigation, each bringing its own mysteries and revelations, while offering a total immersion in the beauty and complexity of Brittany.
