My Review (5 stars out of 5)
Étienne de Vaurain – Gentleman of the Bedchamber to Louis XIV – has spent years developing his role as the right hand of the Sun King. But his ambition and sharp wit are about to be interrupted. The fountains of Versailles fall silent and something unseen and mysterious makes itself known to him. But what is it, and what does it want with Étienne?
This is Stephen Wiseman’s first book and it’s a good one. The historical setting is well drawn and rich in detail. The dialogue is entertaining and clever and the writing, for the most part, is delightful. What sets the book apart from other novels set during such an interesting period in history is the strange entity which begins to make gentle demands on the hero’s time – demands that place Étienne in a difficult position. A position that could end in his death.
A fascinating read and a highly enjoyable book. I look forward to the next instalment with great relish.
