London caught up in the feverish excitement of the South Sea Bubble and Paris under the licentious influence of the Duc D'Orleans make a glittering background for Koen's first novel.
Much of the plot - young noblewoman in love with and married to charismatic older man enters society and is disillusioned and many of the characters willful, innocent heroine; adored, autocratic grandmother; and loveable, reckless brother are standard fare. Historic detail, though abundant and accurate, is often marred by didactic presentation. Still, there is action and intrigue enough to win a following who will demand this and further volumes in what is sure to become another sweeping saga.