Bruno Menetrier, blogger and contributor to the 20 Minutes Books reading group, recommends “Leo” by Deon Meyer, published on September 10, 2024 by Éditions Gallimard.
His favorite quote:
« It is therefore imperative that the operation succeeds. A lot of things can go wrong along the way. At least if the deal fails, it will still be a wild ride. Very wild. […] – Okay. Well, why did you get into this, Christina Jaeger? – Because of Heracles. – Heracles? – Damn, there’s nothing more exciting than standing in front of the lion charging at you, Igen. Nothing. » »
Why this book?
- Because opening a thriller like Leo it’s like sitting watching a good action movie. We are assured of an exotic exoticism (it’s South Africa), an original scenario with actors that we like (Benny Griessel and the mixed race Vaughn Cupido, two South Africans), and it is one of our favorite directors who is directing (Deon Meyer, a South African). Leo is the most “cinematic” thriller of the series with ultra-precise timing and perfectly mastered by an adrenaline-fueled screenwriter!
- Because the author renews himself and after taking us to Bordeaux (The Prey), after getting us interested in painting (The Woman in the Blue Coat) – Dutch painting, of course – here he is trying his hand at the heist scenario, downright . And watch your eyes: one heist can hide another and they are led by an actress like Lara Croft, as pretty as Angelina!
- Because just like in the last episodes, Deon Meyer does not hesitate to denounce the corruption and “state capture” practiced by the mafiosi who governed the country: Jacob Zuma and the Indian Gupta brothers (presented in the book under the name of Joe Zaca and Chanda family !). Corruption bullion and millions are at the heart of the plot and you will be very surprised to learn where they come from…
The essentials in 2 minutes
The plot. A carefully timed heist carried out by professionals: it’s going to go wrong, that’s for sure! While Griessel and Cupido investigate a somewhat suspicious death. And soon a second robbery is being organized! Will the two cops complete their investigation in time to recover the ingots?
The characters. Our two favorite investigators: Benny Griessel and the mixed race Vaughn Cupido. The band of robbers (former Special Forces commandos) with Christina Jaeger, known as Chrissie.
The places. South Africa in Stellenbosch near Capetown. With a trip or two to Joburg.
The era. Nowadays, after the impeachment of President Jacob Zuma in 2018.
The author. With his thrillers which he rewards us with every year or every two years (a rhythm that makes us happy to see him again), the Afrikaaner Deon Meyer is a sure bet of “thriller sudaf” and thrillers in general. This is an episode of the series “Griessel and Cupido”, the two cops from the “Hawks”.
This book was read with quiet confidence in the talent of Deon Meyer to serve us a thriller in his own way. We sit comfortably in our armchair, … but very quickly we cling to it because the spectacular scenario is built for Hollywood: the blood, the millions and the adrenaline will flow freely!
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