St Cross Student publishes debut novel and announces new classical album

murder in constantinople

St Cross College is delighted to celebrate the success of Aron E. Goldin, who began his Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) studies at the College in October 2024. Aron has not only made a remarkable entry into the literary world with his debut novel, Murder in Constantinople, but is also set to release his second album as a classical pianist on 28 February 2025. 

Aron's debut novel, Murder in Constantinople, is a historical murder mystery set on the eve of the Crimean War. The narrative follows young Jewish detective Ben Canaan as he investigates a series of grisly murders against the backdrop of 19th-century political upheaval. The manuscript was acquired by Pushkin Press in a two-book deal, with the hardback edition published in the UK in September 2024. The paperback is set for release in the UK in summer 2025 and in North America in autumn 2025. Aron is currently writing its sequel, Death on the Pearl River, which is expected to be published in spring 2026. 

The novel has received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and rich historical context. A review in the Financial Times highlighted it among notable new thrillers, stating: 

Impressive... Enthralling... From the tenements of London's Jewish East End, to the lush costumes of the slowly declining Ottoman Empire, Goldin brings a long-lost era to life in vivid, evocative detail

aron goldin

In addition to his literary success, Aron has collaborated with acclaimed South African soprano Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha—winner of the Herbert von Karajan Prize 2024 and the Song Prize at the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition 2021—on an upcoming album Masabane Cecilia. The collection features a diverse repertoire, including opera arias, gospel, spirituals, Broadway show tunes, classical European Lieder, and traditional South African art songs. 

Recorded over five days in February 2024 at London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios, the album was produced by Simon Kiln with the participation of Steinway & Sons and is set for release by the Rubicon Classics label on 28 February 2025.  

For more information on Aron’s book and album head to his official website.