The Crimson Rivers — Jean-Christophe Grangé

In the French Alps, in the prestigious university town of Hernon, a librarian’s body is found. The murder was committed with incredible brutality: the victim is mutilated, and in his eyes, instead of tears, there is clear spring water. The investigation is led by the legendary Commissioner Pierre Niemann, a man with a difficult temperament and a sharp mind.

Meanwhile, in another town, the young and daring Inspector Max Kerkerian is investigating a minor case of vandalism at a cemetery: someone has dug up the grave of a child who died twenty years ago.

The paths of the two police officers cross when they realize that these two cases are part of a single terrifying scheme. They will have to delve into the secrets of a closed-off university elite, where dangerous genetic experiments have been conducted for decades.

Key features of the book:

Atmosphere: The cold peaks of the Alps, insular communities, and a sense of constant threat create the perfect backdrop for a noir detective story.

Dynamic duo: The contrast between the experienced, brooding Nieman and the young, energetic Kerkerian adds a special drive to the story.

Scientific foundation: Grange skillfully weaves themes of eugenics, biology, and the human quest to create a “superhuman” into the plot.