FORGOTTEN BOOKS #139: ACT OF PASSION By Georges Simenon

Roger Ebert, in his laudatory Introduction, admits that he’s read more of Georges Simenon’s work than any other author. Of course, Simenon wrote hundreds of novels. Act of Passion, just published in a new edition by New York Review Books (translated by Louise Varese), was first published in 1947. A doctor seemingly has the perfect life: a beautiful wife, two lovely daughters, a devoted mother, and a thriving practice. But, while on trip, the doctor meets a woman he completely falls in love with. And, the more time he spends with her, the stronger his obsessions become. Simenon can out-do most writers with his noirishness. Act of Passion will stay with you long after you read the final pages. Drongo was kind enough to point out that the October 10th issue of The New Yorker includes Joan Acocella’s essay on Georges Simenon which gives a fine overview of his entire writing career.

11 thoughts on “FORGOTTEN BOOKS #139: ACT OF PASSION By Georges Simenon

  1. Richard R.

    Sounds quite good, and I like Simenon. Also I’ll have to look up that New Yorker issue, if the library still has it. Might have to go downtown to the main branch for it.

    Reply
  2. Drongo

    George, glad you liked it. I thought it interesting, and Ms. Acocella doesn’t hesitate to point out some of the less flattering aspects of Simenon’s life and work.

    Reply
  3. Jeff Meyerson

    I can say the same as Ebert: I’ve read more books by Simenon (over 100, including all the Magrets) than any other author, although not many in the last few years. I read this one back in 1974, among the first group of non-Maigrets I read.

    Good stuff.

    Reply
    1. george Post author

      I’ve read a few dozen Simenon novels, both Maigrets and non-Maigrets, Jeff. I have dozens more on hand that should provide reading material for years.

      Reply
    1. george Post author

      According to Ebert, ACT OF PASSION is the only book Simenon wrote in the first person, Paul. When I was reading ACT OF PASSION, I could not put it down.

      Reply

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