Jacques Ravenne and Éric Giacometti have released a new esoteric thriller titled "L'Ultime porte," featuring a secret, dark version of Venice [1].
The novel continues the saga of Commissaire Antoine Marcas, a recurring protagonist known for navigating the intersection of crime and the occult. By blending historical mystery with contemporary suspense, the authors aim to explore themes of darkness and esoteric secrets [5].
The plot centers on two parallel investigations that span the years 1810 to 2025 [1]. This dual timeline connects the Napoleonic era to a modern-day mystery, forcing the hero to confront elements of heaven and hell within the Venetian landscape [2]. The narrative utilizes the unique geography of Venice to create a hidden world that exists alongside the historic city [3].
Publicity for the book began in early 2026, with initial announcements appearing on April 26 [1] and May 8 [1]. The work is identified by ISBN 9782709672665 [3].
Ravenne and Giacometti have built a reputation for integrating meticulous historical research with supernatural elements. In this latest installment, they use the setting of 1810 Venice to anchor the story's more fantastical elements, creating a bridge between the physical city and a metaphysical shadow version [1].
The authors said they were motivated by a fascination with darkness and the enduring mysteries of the esoteric. This drive led them to return to the character of Antoine Marcas, placing him in a setting that allows for both police procedural elements and occult exploration [5].
“The novel continues the saga of Commissaire Antoine Marcas”
The release of 'L'Ultime porte' signals a continued market appetite for 'esoteric thrillers' that blend rigorous historical settings with supernatural themes. By linking the Napoleonic era to the present day, the authors are leveraging the enduring cultural mystique of Venice to expand the lore of the Antoine Marcas series, moving the character beyond traditional detective work into metaphysical territory.
