"As historical mysteries go, Victorian England has its charms; but dirty, pestilential eighteenth-century France really promises a walk on the wild side. Jean-Francois Parot delivers on that pledge with gusto."-Marilyn Stasio, The New York Times Book Review

"Suspenseful. . . . This intelligent page-turner doesn't sacrifice detail for plot or visa-versa."-Publishers Weekly

Paris, 1774. Commissioner Le Floch's stormy love affair with socialite Julie de Lasterieux has run its course. But before Nicolas can formally end the relationship, Julie is found murdered in her bed, a victim of poisoning.Nicolas is accused and put on trial.