The Ludwig Conspiracy

By: Oliver Pötzsch

Narrated by: Simon Vance

Length: 13 hrs and 14 mins

Publisher's summary

In 1886, King Ludwig II, the King of Bavaria, was deposed on grounds of mental incapacity without any medical examination. His "diagnosis" remains controversial among historians to this day. Soon after his fall from power, Ludwig died under mysterious circumstances, leaving the eccentric and beautiful "fairytale" castles he had built as his only remaining legacy.

While putting away books from an estate sale purchase, rare book-dealer Steven Lukas finds a box he's never seen before wedged between books on a high shelf. In it he discovers what looks to be a small diary written entirely in code, a lock of hair, and old photographs of the Fairytale King. It isn't long however, before his excitement turns to fear as he realizes that mysterious others want the diary too - and will apparently kill to get it. Suspecting that his find may contain the secret truth behind Ludwig's death, Steven consults with art historian Sara Lengfeld. Soon they find themselves on the run together, investigating each of Ludwig's three castles for clues as to just what in that ancient diary could be so explosive as to be worth killing - and even dying - for.

©2011 Oliver Pötzsch. English Translation © 2013 Anthea Bell. Recorded by arrangement with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. (P)2013 HighBridge Company

Critic reviews

"Pötzsch’s sophisticated plotting and good use of a real-lifehistorical puzzle place this far ahead of most Da Vinci Code wannabes." ( Publishers Weekly starred review)

way too long

although the story is intriguing, it was a bit too long. I felt that I was in a maze and couldn't find my way out. the story took me down rabbit holes.

Brilliant

I cannot emphasize enough how much this novel captivated me. It is one of those stories that you tend to find yourself thinking about while at work or walking around the grocery store. Oliver Pötzsch writing style is brilliant. Also, I'm not sure if there could be a better voice actor for this novel other than Simon Vance.

Pötzsch drops red herrings and surprises throughout the story. The descriptive settings he paints makes the reader/listener feel as though they are right beside the characters. I wish the story had not ended. It was that good. On a side note, I fell in love with the story so much that I just purchased the hardcover for my personal library.

Kind of a watered-down DaVinci Code vibe

Would you try another book from Oliver Pötzsch and/or Simon Vance?

I am hesitant about other books by Potzsch. I was so excited by the book description, but felt let down. The story was just meh.

As for Simon Vance, his narration was great. I would definitely listen to another book narrated by him, so long as the book sounded interesting.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

I think it would take a lot of changes to make this one more enjoyable, but the biggest thing would be to strengthen the plot.

Which character – as performed by Simon Vance – was your favorite?

I think he did them all well.

Was The Ludwig Conspiracy worth the listening time?

It depends on the listener. For me, the story was a let down.

A pleasant suprise, not what I expected :-)

What made the experience of listening to The Ludwig Conspiracy the most enjoyable?

It was a good story, had great flow, just enough historical fact to make it interesting, the relationships worked well, and the storyline kept you listening.

What did you like best about this story?

Everything

Have you listened to any of Simon Vance’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, I it was a pleasant voice, and his interperation was great.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When reality hitted the main character.

Loved it

Absolutely enjoyed this book. It’s not my normal kind of book but my husband and I are about to walk “The King Ludwig way” about 90 miles in Bavaria and wanted to know more about the legendary king as well as the area. I am very glad I listen to this book definitely would recommend it to anyone who likes adventures, historical fiction as well as treasure hunting books.

Fascinating tour of Bavaria

The characters were intriguing, the history unknown to me, and the tongue in cheek derision towards Dan Brown funny.

Disappointed

I love the Hangman series and was excited to see this book on Ludwig. I knew very little about King Ludwig other than he was crazy and built beautiful castles. I found the story disappointing. I never developed a relationship (other than annoyance) with any of the characters, past or present. They seemed very flat. In addition, I figured out clues much faster than the characters, which made the book drag. It was also difficult to believe an "art detective" would have such disregard for a valuable, antique diary, as to turn its pages with chocolate on her fingers. The bookseller was spineless beyond belief. If you are a huge fan of Ludwig conspiracies, read the book. If not, save your time and credit for the Hangman series.

If it hadn’t been for the epilogue…

This book was silly in my opinion if I hadn’t heard the epilogue where the author tells of the truths in the story. It was interesting to me as I had lived in Kornwestheim, Germany in the late 1960’s and visited the three castles mentioned in the book. Worth a listen.

Great writer

I’ve read the hangman’s daughter series and fell in love with Oliver’s writing and his ability to draw the reader right into the story. He sure didn’t let me down with this one.

Mystery resolved?

An interesting interpretation of King Leopold’s death. An enjoyable story, very engaging and plausible. Who knows…