Chasing Cezanne

I've been "hooked" on Peter Mayle since I read Hotel Pastis, and Chasing Cezanne is another rare treat. I can't resist the combination of French scenery, French food, a little intrigue, and lighthearted fun that Mayle combines in his works of fiction. And of course, for those who prefer nonfiction, all of his Provence books (A year in...; Toujours ...; Encore...etc.) are also delightful.

I thought this book was really fun and entertaining. It's been a few years since I've read it (I have all of Peter Mayle's books), and I think I'm going to reread it and enjoy it all over again. Those who think it's clumsily written are missing out on its sheer entertainment value. I thought it was great. I'd write something more specific, but don't remember enough details. Maybe I'll come back after the reread! But I would definitely recommend this as a fun departure from Mayle's typical "here's what I did with those silly French people" approach.

Chasing Cezanne isn't Mayle's best book, but it's still vintage Mayle--a fun romp through the French countryside. And, as usual, Mayle brings his special brand of magic to this book as well--he captures the essence of Provence and somehow manages to convey it with crystal clarity and lots of laughs.

Read this book for a good relaxing romp through the French countryside. It's a good time

Chasing Cezanne illustrates the concept of doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Too often people ignore the small details. If you've ever read the play Trifles by Susan Glaspell, you know the motivation for murder was covered up because people overlooked the small details. In Chasing Cezanne, Andre is unwilling to overlook the trifles he believes are out of sync with the world as he perceives it. It is this unwillingness to ignore the details that leads him to uncover a conspiracy to conceal art forgeries. Along the way, he discovers the importance of relationships in business and love. The author, Peter Mayle, doesn't slow the dialogue down with metaphorical language. His people move just as easily from one continent to another. So, if you're interested in mystery, intrigue, romance, and art, this is the book for you. It's Lawrence Sanders' McNally without the use of affectation; a grown up hero who can make decisions on his own without consulting pater or relying on alcohol to sustain him.