Treason’s Spring
Paris, 1792. The Revolution is entering its bloodiest phase. The mob rampages through the streets of Paris; the wrong word, or even a look, can have deadly consequences. Into this maelstrom of senseless violence, a stranger arrives to meet a friend, only to find that he has disappeared. Amidst the chaos and political jockeying for power, the spies of England, France, and Prussia are fighting their own deadly war. Somewhere in Paris there is a hidden trove of royal secrets which all sides are desperate to find for their own use—whether destruction or political gain—while others look to take advantage of the chaos to enrich themselves. The stranger finds himself at the centre of a web of conspiracy, a player who has no idea of the deadly games being played.
Readers looking for a modern version of The Scarlet Pimpernel will be disappointed; this is much darker and dangerous. Historical characters such as Fouche and Danton figure prominently along with the main fictional characters. This is a story of political intrigue, self-aggrandisement, murder, espionage, self-sacrifice and simple survival. The multiple plot lines and characters are strong, and the actual political machinations form an effective backdrop to the action. This is quality, and very enjoyable, historical fiction. Highly recommended.
