A Guide to Marseille: Literature Inspired by the City

For those who find joy in the rustle of pages and the allure of a well-told story, a curated selection of books awaits to transport you to the heart of Marseille. This collection, rich with narratives set against the backdrop of this iconic city, offers both fiction that wanders through Marseille’s vibrant streets and non-fiction that explores its rich history and culture. Each title is accompanied by a succinct summary, often provided by the publishers, to help you choose the perfect companion for your exploration and to deepen your connection with Marseille before your visit.

For those interested in delving deeper into Marseille’s history, the accompanying article provides an in-depth examination.

Exploring Marseille Through Literature

Literature has a unique way of transporting readers to different locales, and Marseille, with its vibrant culture and storied past, serves as a compelling setting for a variety of narratives. Our exploration of Marseille-centric literature spans three genres: crime fiction, historical tales, and a diverse array of other stories that encapsulate the essence of this French city.

Crime Fiction: Marseille’s Dark Underbelly

Marseille’s gritty atmosphere is perfectly captured in the realm of crime fiction, where the city’s complexities are explored through thrilling narratives and intriguing characters.

Jean-Claude Izzo

Jean-Claude Izzo, a celebrated author from Marseille, emerged as a leading figure in the genre often referred to as “Marseille Noir,” a subset of the murder mystery novel that places a strong emphasis on the vibrant, gritty urban landscape of Marseille. His narratives are distinguished by the city’s transformation into a living, breathing character, rather than merely serving as a backdrop for the unfolding drama. After his passing in 2000, his acclaimed “Marseille Trilogy” gained international recognition with English translations.

Fabio Montale

The “Marseille Trilogy” introduces readers to Fabio Montale, a jaded former police officer and the child of immigrants, who navigates the murky waters of Marseille’s criminal underworld. Montale, a man of varied tastes – from gastronomy and poetry to jazz, fishing, and romantic encounters – draws readers into a complex web of characters. This web includes drug traffickers, extremists, organized crime figures, radical Islamists, investigative reporters, and more, all set against the backdrop of Marseille’s unique urban tapestry.

The trilogy comprises “Total Chaos,” “Chourmo,” and “Solea,” each installment further entrenching the reader in the entangled lives of Marseille’s denizens. Beyond the trilogy, “The Lost Sailors” shifts focus to a crew marooned in Marseille due to their ship being seized over an unpaid debt, highlighting the dynamic between the captain and his first mate amidst their unexpected shore leave.

“A Sun for the Dying” deviates from the Marseille-centric narrative to explore themes of return and belonging as it follows a journey back to Marseille. Though not set within the same context as his trilogy, this novel embodies the thematic essence of Izzo’s work, making it an integral part of his oeuvre that captivates with tales of humanity, struggle, and the search for meaning within the shadowed corners of Marseille.

Martin O’Brien

Martin O’Brien’s Daniel Jacquot series introduces readers to the compelling world of Chief Inspector Daniel Jacquot, a figure steeped in the rich culture and history of France. This protagonist, a former French rugby star known for his pivotal role in a victory against England, has transitioned from the rugby field to the intricacies of crime-solving with the Cavaillon Regional Crime Squad. Jacquot’s distinctive long ponytail and his appreciation for the finer things in life, like exquisite food and wine, set him apart in the crime fiction genre.

• Confession unveils Jacquot embarking on a tense investigation in Paris, spurred by the abduction of a Marseille magistrate’s niece. A complex web of violence and corruption draws him back to Marseille, where an unexpected murder thrusts him into an undercover operation, challenging his skills and resolve;
• Jacquot and the Master finds Jacquot at a secluded luxury hotel, unraveling the mystery of a young woman’s apparent murder amid a baffling absence of her body. Trapped by a storm and faced with mounting tensions and multiple corpses, Jacquot navigates through a labyrinth of secrets and lies;
• Jacquot and the Angel presents a case where Jacquot, doubting the guilt of a gardener accused of killing a wealthy German, allies with a psychic from Alsace. Together, they dig deep into the past, uncovering secrets spanning over fifty years that shake the foundation of their present;
• Blood Counts delves into the perilous life of a Marseille cop, where threats of violence are commonplace. However, when these threats escalate into the deaths of friends and colleagues, Jacquot finds himself in a race against time to unravel a vendetta before it claims more lives;
• Jacquot and the Waterman follows a chilling series of crimes against women, leading Jacquot on a hunt for a perpetrator identified only by a cryptic tattoo. His meticulous pursuit unveils a predator lurking in the shadows of Marseille;
• Jacquot and the Fifteen celebrates the legacy of camaraderie and competition, marking the anniversary of a historic rugby victory with a reunion that takes a dark turn. The supposed suicide of a team member reignites old rivalries, compelling Jacquot to confront the complexities of his past;
• The Dying Minutes intertwines Jacquot’s path with the remnants of a decades-old heist, as mysterious gifts to him and a Marseille lawyer from figures of their pasts unravel a tale of crime, loyalty, and redemption.

Each installment in the series not only showcases Jacquot’s evolution as a detective but also enriches the tapestry of French crime fiction with its intricate plots, deep character studies, and vivid portrayal of France’s landscapes and cultural heritage. Martin O’Brien crafts a saga where each novel not only advances the narrative but also deepens the reader’s connection with its charismatic protagonist and the captivating world he inhabits.

Xavier-Marie Bonnot

Xavier-Marie Bonnot introduces a compelling narrative through the lens of Commandant Michel “the Baron” De Palma, a seasoned officer of the Marseille Murder squad. Bonnot’s storytelling transcends the conventional police procedural, weaving intricate tales that delve into the depths of Marseille’s complex society and its criminal underbelly, alongside rich historical and cultural elements.

• The First Fingerprint unveils a gripping mystery set against the backdrop of Marseille, where a string of enigmatic murders is connected by the unusual signature of a three-fingered hand. This narrative thread ties the ancient art of the prehistoric Grotte Cosquer caves, located southeast of Marseille, to the contemporary scholarly world of Aix-en-Provence. Bonnot masterfully blends historical intrigue with modern-day detective work, challenging De Palma to unravel a mystery that spans millennia;
• The Beast of the Camargue propels De Palma into the heart of the Camargue, where the discovery of a body at the base of an effigy of the Tarasque—a legendary creature depicted on the coat of arms of Tarascon—stirs the waters of mystery. The victim’s injuries eerily suggest an attack by the mythical beast itself, prompting an investigation that draws De Palma into the rich tapestry of local lore and legend. This story not only highlights the detective’s prowess but also immerses readers in the unique cultural and natural landscape of the Camargue, blending myth with murder in a tale that tests the boundaries of reality.

Bonnot’s work stands out for its deep immersion into the soul of Marseille and its surroundings, portraying a world where the past and present, myth and reality, converge in the pursuit of justice. Through the eyes of Michel De Palma, readers are invited into a realm where the mysteries are as profound and multifaceted as the region itself, offering a narrative rich with complexity, intrigue, and the enduring human quest for truth.

Léo Malet

Léo Malet, the renowned French crime author, is primarily associated with his gritty detective Nestor Burma, whose adventures typically unfold amidst the streets of Paris. However, Malet occasionally steered his protagonist southward, delving into crime-fighting escapades set in Marseille, showcased in a few of his novels.

• One such tale is “Mission to Marseille,” which thrusts private detective Nestor Burma into the tumultuous landscape of wartime Marseille. Amidst the chaos, Burma finds himself ensnared in a treacherous web woven by local criminals and the Gestapo alike. His quest? Unraveling the enigma surrounding the elusive Formula 5, a clandestine secret that holds significant intrigue and danger;
• In “Death of a Marseille Man,” private investigator Nestor Burma finds himself embroiled in a puzzling case while traveling. During his journey, Burma faces an assault but successfully repels his attacker, who is pushed from the train. However, the intrigue deepens when Burma uncovers a startling connection: a year prior, a young woman met a similar fate, being thrown from the very same train. This discovery sets the stage for a gripping mystery, as Burma delves into the circumstances surrounding these unsettling events.

Peter Mayle

In “The Marseille Caper” by Peter Mayle, the story unfolds with the clever detective Sam Levitt and the sophisticated insurance agent Elena Morales embarking on an adventurous journey to Marseille. Their quest soon entangles them in a complex web of mystery, centered around a high-stakes real estate scheme that becomes increasingly perilous.

William Hughes

William Hughes’ “Marseille Contract” offers a gripping narrative where a U.S. agent takes on the mission to dismantle the empire of a notorious drug lord. The strategy involves engaging a contract killer from the criminal underworld, leading to an unexpected twist when the hitman is revealed to be a long-lost comrade. This tale of suspense and alliances is also brought to life in a cinematic adaptation.

Historical Fiction

Marseille’s rich maritime heritage has inspired numerous historical novels, offering vivid glimpses into its past. From ancient times to more recent eras, these captivating narratives delve into the city’s dynamic history as a bustling port.

• “Last Seen in Massilia” by Steven Saylor plunges into ancient Marseille with Gordianus the Finder, unraveling mysteries in a historical context as part of the Roma Sub Rosa series;
• “Little Dorrit” by Charles Dickens, primarily situated in London, embarks with a glimpse into 1820s Marseille, unfolding as a historical narrative enriched with Dickens’s signature descriptive prowess;
• “The Arrow of Gold” by Joseph Conrad explores the adventurous life of a young sea captain entangled in love, espionage, and political upheaval, with Marseille in the 1870s serving as the backdrop for significant portions of the narrative;
• “Banjo” by Claude McKay, a Harlem Renaissance luminary, captures the life of Lincoln Agrippa Daily, aka ‘Banjo’, in 1920s Marseille. It delves into themes of camaraderie, identity, and cultural reconnection amidst the bustling Vieux-Port;
• “Transit” by Anna Seghers narrates the journey of a refugee’s serendipitous quest in Marseille, weaving through encounters with fellow exiles and the haunting legacy of a deceased writer, set against the backdrop of World War II;
• “Black Docker” by Sembene Ousmane portrays Diaw Falla’s dual life in 1950s Marseille, balancing the toil of dockwork with a passion for writing, amidst the stark realities faced by the dockworkers;
• “Seven Victims In Marseille” by Michael T. Hertz unfolds in 1962, tracing the story of an American with deep roots in Marseille, caught in the whirlwind of terrorism linked to the French departure from Algeria.

Each novel offers a unique lens on Marseille, reflecting its historical depth, cultural richness, and the complex web of human experiences within its confines.

Diverse Narratives of Marseille

The concluding category encompasses works that prominently highlight Marseille, yet transcend the confines of the crime and historical genres previously discussed.

• “Marseille Mix” by William Firebrace masterfully traverses through the multifaceted essence of Marseille in seven chapters, echoing the city’s geographical embrace by seven hills. It employs a rich tapestry of literary forms, including essays, narratives, descriptive passages, lists, recipes, glossaries, and dialogues, to provide a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the city;
• “Marseille Taxi” by Peter Child delivers an engaging glimpse into the bustling life of Michel Ronay, a taxi driver navigating the vibrant streets of Marseille over the course of ten dynamic days.

A Tapestry of Marseille in Literature

For those seeking a broader literary encounter with Marseille or its surrounding Provence region, here is a collection that, while not exclusively centered on Marseille, weaves the city or its environs into their narratives in varied and compelling ways.

Marcel Pagnol

Marcel Pagnol captures the essence of a Provençal childhood through his works that resonate with the warmth and charm of the countryside near Marseille. His tales, rooted in his own experiences in Aubagne and La Treille, and his professional and personal life in Marseille, offer a vibrant portrayal of the region.

• “Jean De Florette / Manon Des Sources” unfolds an engrossing drama of secrets, tragedy, and vengeance in the picturesque Provençal countryside, highlighting the vital and often contentious role of water in rural life;
• “La Gloire de Mon Pere” and “Le Chateau de Ma Mere” are two autobiographical tales by Pagnol, sharing heartfelt memories of family life and youthful adventures against the backdrop of the Provençal landscape.

Alexandre Dumas

• “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas, while not predominantly set in Marseille, crucially involves the infamous Château d’If, situated off the city’s coast, in its thrilling narrative of betrayal, imprisonment, and revenge.

Émile Zola

Zola spent most of his early life in Aix-en-Provence, which is near to Marseille. Marseille itself however only makes an appearance in two of his works.

• Émile Zola, known for his vivid depictions of life in France, only occasionally brings Marseille into his extensive body of work. “The Mysteries of Marseille” and “Naïs Micoulin” stand out as stories that touch upon the city and its surroundings.

J. M. G. Le Clezio

“Desert” by J. M. G. Le Clezio intricately weaves together two compelling narratives spanning different time periods and locales. One thread delves into the historical backdrop of an uprising against French colonization in North Africa during 1910–1912, offering insight into the tumultuous dynamics of resistance and colonial power. Parallel to this, the novel unfolds a poignant tale set in the 1970s, following the journey of a courageous woman who escapes the confines of an arranged marriage in North Africa, embarking on a harrowing odyssey to Marseille, where she confronts the challenges and trials of immigrant life.

Sebastien Japrisot

“The 10:30 from Marseille” immerses readers in a thrilling mystery aboard a night train hurtling from Marseille to Paris. As a captivating young woman is discovered murdered in her sleeping car berth, the task of unraveling the enigma falls upon the shoulders of Pierre Emile Grazziano, a seasoned yet weary police detective affectionately known as Grazzi. Amidst the backdrop of a frantic investigation, Grazzi grapples with personal dilemmas, torn between his duty to pursue justice and his longing for familial connection, epitomized by the playful moments with his young son. The subsequent novelization, “The Sleeping-Car Murders,” further delves into the intricacies of the case, offering readers a deeper exploration of the tangled web of intrigue and suspense.

Stephen C. Norton 

“The Marseille Scrolls” unfolds a riveting tale of discovery and intrigue when ancient manuscripts dating back to the 1st century are unearthed near Marseille. Jeanne-Marie de Nord, a determined Canadian translator, finds herself thrust into a whirlwind of mystery as she unravels the cryptic contents of the scrolls, which unveil the clandestine journal of an unknown woman. However, Jeanne’s pursuit of truth is threatened by shadowy forces intent on concealing the scrolls’ secrets, raising questions about the motives behind their suppression for over two millennia. As Jeanne races against time to safeguard the truth, she finds herself embroiled in a perilous struggle against those who seek to bury history once more.

J. P. Smith 

In “The Man From Marseille,” Alexander Ostroff, a struggling writer residing in London, embarks on a quest to unravel the mysteries shrouding his family’s past. Haunted by the specter of his Russian expatriate parents who fled to southern France in the aftermath of World War I, Alexander becomes consumed by an obsession to uncover the truth. His journey leads him to confront a shadowy figure known as the man from Marseille, whose enigmatic presence holds the key to unlocking the secrets of Alexander’s lineage. As truths and deceptions intertwine, Alexander delves deeper into the labyrinth of his ancestry, grappling with the complexities of identity and heritage amidst the backdrop of historical tumult and personal reckoning.

Non-fiction and Reference Works on Marseille

For those with a keen interest in factual insights over narrative fiction, here is an expanded selection of non-fiction literature focusing on various facets of Marseille.

• Marcelline Block’s “Cinematic Marseille: A Filmic Journey” dives into the rich film history of Marseille, France’s oldest city. The work showcases its pivotal role in the birth of cinema, notably with the Lumiere brothers’ pioneering films in the 1890s. The book is a treasure trove of film scene maps, contemporary images, and high-quality stills that bridge the past and present of Marseille’s cinematic landscape;
• “Escape to Freedom: The Varian Fry Story and Marseille’s Villa Air-Bel During WWII” by Rosemary Sullivan narrates the efforts of the Emergency Rescue Committee, initiated by Varian Fry in New York during World War II, aimed at rescuing 200 individuals from Vichy-controlled Marseille. Central to this narrative is Villa Air-Bel in the La Pomme district, which served as a refuge for those fleeing persecution;
• Alban Janson and Carsten Krohn’s “Architectural Marvel: Le Corbusier’s Unité d’Habitation” delves into the architectural significance of La cité radieuse de Le Corbusier in Marseille. Although it doesn’t exclusively focus on Marseille, it sheds light on one of its most iconic structures. The book is available in an English-German bilingual edition, offering insights into this architectural masterpiece;
• “Mediterranean Intersections: Marseille Between Crown and Commerce” by Junko Thérèse Takeda explores the complex interplay between French royal ambitions, mercantile interests, and civic republicanism against the backdrop of the early modern Mediterranean’s globalizing economy. It particularly focuses on Marseille’s crucial role in these dynamics;
• “The Shadow of Communism in Marseille: Simon Sabiani’s Era” by Paul Jankowski is a historical account based on Simon Sabiani’s tenure as a Corsican neighborhood leader in Marseille from the 1920s to the end of the German occupation in 1944. It offers a deep dive into the political landscape of Marseille during this tumultuous period;
• Daniel Young’s “Marseille on a Plate: Culinary Traditions of France’s Mediterranean Seaport” presents Marseille through its culinary scene. New York restaurant critic and food commentator Daniel Young paints a vivid portrait of the city’s gastronomic delights and their cultural significance;
• “Journey Through Provence: Insights and Reflections” by Nicholas Woodsworth combines autobiography and travelogue, offering personal reflections from a seasoned travel writer. While it encompasses Provence broadly, it includes an insightful chapter on Marseille, capturing the essence of the city and its place within Provence.

 Travel Guidebooks for Explorers

For those seeking comprehensive insights beyond our guide, consider carrying along one of these detailed guidebooks. These selections cover a range of interests, from cultural deep-dives to design-focused tours.

• “Cultural Journeys into Marseille: An In-Depth Exploration” within the Innercities Cultural Guides series offers a rich exploration of Marseille’s history, culture, and traditions. This guide stands out for its thorough research, making it an excellent companion for background reading while journeying from Paris to Marseille or for delving into the city’s deep cultural roots;
• “Marseille and Western Provence: A Compact Discovery” by Footprint Focus Guide is a slim, travel-friendly book that provides a concise overview of Marseille and its surrounding areas in Western Provence. Its compact design ensures it can be easily carried, offering practical advice and insights for travelers on the go;
• “Design and Discovery in Marseille: Wallpaper City Guides”* caters to those with an eye for design, suggesting not only places to stay, eat, and drink but also highlighting must-see landmarks and design hotspots. It’s tailored for tourists with a keen interest in the creative and architectural elements that define Marseille;
• “Marseille on a Budget: CitySpot Guides” is designed for city breakers looking to maximize their experience in France’s oldest city without breaking the bank. This pocket guide focuses on affordable accommodations, dining, and nightlife options, along with a selection of activities that offer more bang for your buck;
• “Marseille Highlights: Pocket Guides” zeroes in on the must-see attractions for visitors with limited time. It guides you through shopping, sightseeing, and dining experiences, with special tips for those looking to make the most of their budget;
• “Personalized Travel to Marseille: OffBeat Guides (Kindle Edition)” leverages search technology and contributions from both amateur and professional travel experts to offer a personalized, up-to-date guide. Ideal for the tech-savvy traveler, it provides tailored advice for exploring Marseille’s unique facets.

Additional Miscellaneous Items

This section encompasses a variety of items beyond books, serving as a catch-all for diverse topics and products. Whether unconventional or unique, these items find their place here.

• “A deck of Tarot cards”: A deck of fifty-six Marseille Tarot cards

Conclusion

Whether you’re a bibliophile, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a traveler seeking a unique experience, Marseille has something for you. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and artistic heritage provide a broad spectrum of experiences for every taste. This Marseille Guide Book is your passport to experiencing the city like a local, ensuring your journey in Marseille is as enriching as it is unforgettable.