Karolina, or the Torn Curtain (UK) / Karolina and the Torn Curtain (US)
Cracow, 1895. When Mrs Zofia Turbotyska returns home from the Easter celebrations, she finds to her absolute horror that her maid, Karolina, has handed in her notice to the cook and left without warning! Things go from bad to worse as Karolina’s body is discovered. She has been stabbed and violated. Zofia, not satisfied with the police investigation, decides to investigate, but her actions have consequences as she tears open the invisible curtain that cloaks the town and the respectable middle classes. The investigation uncovers a web of gang crime, sex trafficking and corruption, with links throughout polite society.
Maryla Szymiczkowa is the pen name for author duo Jacek Dehnel and Piotr Tarczynski. This is the second book featuring Zofia, and it is so much more than a crime story. It is an evocative and vivid portrayal of the culture and social mores of turn-of-the-century Polish manners and behaviour. With a strong plot and characters, the novel provides an enjoyable and intriguing read. Zofia is a well-rounded, if slightly comic character, with strong will, and a backbone of steel. An excellent read. Pour yourself your favourite tipple, put your feet up and enjoy! More please. Recommended.
