Last summer, we embarked on a photography project in Avignon, the picturesque city on the Rhône known for its iconic landmarks like the Papal Palace and the Pont Saint-Bénézet. Our goal was to capture these monuments during the Blue Hour in a stunning reflection on the Rhône's surface.
The day started with scouting the perfect location. We chose a spot by the riverbank that offered an unobstructed view of both landmarks and their potential reflections. As the Blue Hour approached, suspense grew: Would the weather cooperate? Rain or wind could have disrupted the calm, reflective surface of the Rhône. Fortunately, everything aligned perfectly – the clouds added a dramatic touch, the sky turned deep blue, and Avignon’s lights illuminated the scene beautifully.
With our Nikon Z9 set up in time, the meticulous planning paid off. The resulting photo not only highlights the architectural beauty of the city but also captures its enchanting atmosphere. This magic did not go unnoticed: Winrich Clasen, the director of cmz Verlag, was so captivated by the image that he selected it as the cover for Paul Schaffrath’s Provence crime novel, "Der Säbel von Roussillon" (The Saber of Roussillon).
About the Book
Paul Schaffrath’s novel is a thrilling crime story set against the backdrop of the Provence. It begins with the murder of a popular antiques dealer in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, followed by a second murder in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
The story intertwines suspense and personal reckoning as Bonn-based detective Krüger, vacationing in the area with his girlfriend, becomes entangled in the investigation. Together with Judge Bertrand Bonnefoy from Avignon and the unexpected support of Detective Chief Inspector John Blackmore from Oxford, Krüger embarks on a fast-paced hunt for the killer. The pursuit, involving cars, speedboats, and foot chases, forces the investigators to confront secrets from their own pasts as they race to solve the case.
The book combines the beauty of the Provence with a gripping narrative, making it a must-read for fans of crime novels and the region alike.
Details
- Publisher: cmz Verlag
- ISBN: 978-3-87062-371-5
- Available at major bookstores and online retailers, including Thalia and Buecher.de.
Our photo perfectly complements the novel’s theme, offering readers a visual gateway to the Provence’s captivating ambiance. The mirrored image of the Papal Palace symbolizes the bridge between fiction and reality, enriching the reader's experience.
The collaboration between photography, literature, and history exemplifies the seamless blend of art forms, creating a unique and immersive storytelling experience.
