What do you think?
Rate this book
For the King
From the author of the critically acclaimed Mistress of the Revolution comes a spellbinding historical thriller set in post- revolutionary Paris.
For her first novel, Mistress of the Revolution, which the Associated Press dubbed one of the "best reads of the year," Catherine Delors earned comparisons to Tracy Chevalier and Philippa Gregory. In For the King, she again demonstrates her matchless ability to illuminate key turning points in history while weaving a gripping story about a man caught between his heart and his integrity.
The Reign of Terror has ended, and Napoléon Bonaparte has seized power, but shifting political loyalties still tear apart families and lovers. On Christmas Eve 1800, a bomb explodes along Bonaparte's route, narrowly missing him but striking dozens of bystanders. Chief Inspector Roch Miquel, a young policeman with a bright future and a beautiful mistress, must arrest the assassins before they attack again. Complicating Miquel's investigation are the maneuverings of his superior, the redoubtable Fouché, the indiscretions of his own father, a former Jacobin, and two intriguing women.
Based on real events and characters and rich with historical detail, For the King takes readers through the dark alleys and glittering salons of post-revolutionary Paris and is a timeless epic of love, betrayal, and redemption.
For her first novel, Mistress of the Revolution, which the Associated Press dubbed one of the "best reads of the year," Catherine Delors earned comparisons to Tracy Chevalier and Philippa Gregory. In For the King, she again demonstrates her matchless ability to illuminate key turning points in history while weaving a gripping story about a man caught between his heart and his integrity.
The Reign of Terror has ended, and Napoléon Bonaparte has seized power, but shifting political loyalties still tear apart families and lovers. On Christmas Eve 1800, a bomb explodes along Bonaparte's route, narrowly missing him but striking dozens of bystanders. Chief Inspector Roch Miquel, a young policeman with a bright future and a beautiful mistress, must arrest the assassins before they attack again. Complicating Miquel's investigation are the maneuverings of his superior, the redoubtable Fouché, the indiscretions of his own father, a former Jacobin, and two intriguing women.
Based on real events and characters and rich with historical detail, For the King takes readers through the dark alleys and glittering salons of post-revolutionary Paris and is a timeless epic of love, betrayal, and redemption.
329 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
15 people are currently reading
1528 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Delors
7 books145 followersAuthor of Gabrielle ou les infortunes de la vertu (in French), Mistress of the Revolution and For the King. All are historical novels set in Paris around the time of the French Revolution.
Catherine was born and raised in France. She is also an attorney with an international practice, and splits her time between Paris and Los Angeles.
Catherine was born and raised in France. She is also an attorney with an international practice, and splits her time between Paris and Los Angeles.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 22, 2010
I am the author, so I will go ahead and give it my very best rating!
More info at
http://catherinedelors.com/for-the-ki...
More info at
http://catherinedelors.com/for-the-ki...
March 6, 2010
Napoleonic Paris comes to life in this fascinating account of a conflicted man determined to uncover the truth. Masterfully written, FOR THE KING offers a vivid portrait of a city caught between its violent past and treacherous present, combining the pulse-pounding suspense of a thriller with the glamour of superbly researched historical fiction.
Read
December 17, 2014I loved Delors' last book, but this one isn't holding my interest. It's not that's it's bad, I'm just losing interest with the who's who in the police force and the political groups suspected of trying to blow up Napoleon. Maybe at another time I'll be more interested.
August 26, 2018
"FOR THE KING" is based on a true story rooted in an attempted political assassination that happened more than 200 years ago. The opening scene takes place on Rue Saint-Nicaise near the intersection with Rue Saint-Honoré, on Napoleon’s route to the opera in Paris. It is Christmas Eve 1800. A bitterly cold evening. A plot is afoot to kill Napoleon, the First Consul, and with his death, restore the monarchy. The conspirators have brought a horse and cart bearing a wine cask loaded with shrapnel and gunpowder and set it on Rue Saint-Nicaise, close enough to the route the First Consul and entourage would take to the opera. One of the conspirators, caught the attention of a 14 year old girl (Marianne Peusol), whose mother sold buns nearby, and paid her 12 sous to hold the horse and guard the cart while he stood off at what he deemed to be a safe, discreet distance, poised to set off the "infernal machine" (i.e. the wine cask) and kill the First Consul.
However, things did not go according to plan. It had been anticipated that the First Consul would have a cavalry escort that would precede his carriage on the route to the opera. This would give the conspirators the time they felt they needed to kill the First Consul and wreak as much havoc as possible. But there was no escort as such. The First Consul's carriage suddenly appeared, speeding down the street. As it came into view, the conspirator with the fuse was frustrated from carrying out the plan by a grenadier on horseback, who forced him against a nearby wall. As quickly as possible, he dashed over to the "infernal machine" and set fire to it. The fire was slow to catch, and thus precious seconds were lost. So, when the explosion took place, Napoleon's carriage was well out of harm's way. But young Marianne, the horse, and a dozen bystanders were instantly killed, some other people nearby were wounded, and several buildings sustained varying degrees of damage.
Enter Chief Inspector Roch Miquel, who is tasked by his superiors to find the assassins in a timely fashion, lest they strike again. Not an easy task, given that Paris is a city of a million inhabitants, rife with intrigue, as well as various Royalist and revolutionary elements (foreign and domestic) eager to kill the First Consul.
The novel, with Chief Inspector Miquel occupying a large part of a very expansive stage peopled with a variety of fascinating characters, takes on the attributes of a quasi-modern, heartstopping, gripping detective thriller . I thoroughly enjoyed the way "FOR THE KING" was played out and would recommend it for anyone who loves a good detective story or has a deep-set fascination with the Napoleonic Era.
However, things did not go according to plan. It had been anticipated that the First Consul would have a cavalry escort that would precede his carriage on the route to the opera. This would give the conspirators the time they felt they needed to kill the First Consul and wreak as much havoc as possible. But there was no escort as such. The First Consul's carriage suddenly appeared, speeding down the street. As it came into view, the conspirator with the fuse was frustrated from carrying out the plan by a grenadier on horseback, who forced him against a nearby wall. As quickly as possible, he dashed over to the "infernal machine" and set fire to it. The fire was slow to catch, and thus precious seconds were lost. So, when the explosion took place, Napoleon's carriage was well out of harm's way. But young Marianne, the horse, and a dozen bystanders were instantly killed, some other people nearby were wounded, and several buildings sustained varying degrees of damage.
Enter Chief Inspector Roch Miquel, who is tasked by his superiors to find the assassins in a timely fashion, lest they strike again. Not an easy task, given that Paris is a city of a million inhabitants, rife with intrigue, as well as various Royalist and revolutionary elements (foreign and domestic) eager to kill the First Consul.
The novel, with Chief Inspector Miquel occupying a large part of a very expansive stage peopled with a variety of fascinating characters, takes on the attributes of a quasi-modern, heartstopping, gripping detective thriller . I thoroughly enjoyed the way "FOR THE KING" was played out and would recommend it for anyone who loves a good detective story or has a deep-set fascination with the Napoleonic Era.
March 28, 2012
I have been excited about this book’s release ever since I first read mention of it on Delors’ Versailles and More blog, awhile back. What could be more appealing to me than a book set in France during the Revolution- with a sneak peak at both Josephine and Bonaparte, and involving characters such as Fouché- well-Obviously I couldn’t wait to devour this!
I was ready to escape to a time filled with intriguing history, some romance...the usual? No way! This one involves a full-fledged mystery to boot! I was delighted by this unexpectedly captivating ride! Chief Inspector Miquel Roch is on a mission to uncover the truth behind the resulting massacre in the attempt to blow away First Consul himself, Bonaparte. Who masterminded this failed operation? The suspects are on the run, but the clues are numerous. One mystery person works behind the scene to help move the whole operation forward...For The King....
Jacobites, Chouans, Royalists- typically anyone of these groups would have had motive to want do away with Napoloen, the Usurper...This is a mystery with more at stake than Inspector Roch could have ever imagined; For one, his father’s life depends on it.
Truth be told, no matter how good the mystery, I always need a heroine in my stories to keep me hooked. And so, just to make it that more appealing, For The King, has a variety of entertaining French ladies; especially, one particularly tempting Blanche, who happens to be keeper of quite a few heartbeats...literally.
For The King is an intriguing tale spun around actual history. The time frame, setting, plotted assassination, the accused, as well as many of the characters encountered in this read- all real. This made the story that more attractive to me. Delors’ attention to detail and impeccable historical accuracy is remarkable. I was truly delighted to embark in this unexpected mystery that fulfilled more than the promise of another entertaining French historical fiction.
If you are fascinated by the French Revolution and the tumultuous changes of the times, you will absolutely want to read this- it's so interesting! Splendid!
I was ready to escape to a time filled with intriguing history, some romance...the usual? No way! This one involves a full-fledged mystery to boot! I was delighted by this unexpectedly captivating ride! Chief Inspector Miquel Roch is on a mission to uncover the truth behind the resulting massacre in the attempt to blow away First Consul himself, Bonaparte. Who masterminded this failed operation? The suspects are on the run, but the clues are numerous. One mystery person works behind the scene to help move the whole operation forward...For The King....
Jacobites, Chouans, Royalists- typically anyone of these groups would have had motive to want do away with Napoloen, the Usurper...This is a mystery with more at stake than Inspector Roch could have ever imagined; For one, his father’s life depends on it.
Truth be told, no matter how good the mystery, I always need a heroine in my stories to keep me hooked. And so, just to make it that more appealing, For The King, has a variety of entertaining French ladies; especially, one particularly tempting Blanche, who happens to be keeper of quite a few heartbeats...literally.
For The King is an intriguing tale spun around actual history. The time frame, setting, plotted assassination, the accused, as well as many of the characters encountered in this read- all real. This made the story that more attractive to me. Delors’ attention to detail and impeccable historical accuracy is remarkable. I was truly delighted to embark in this unexpected mystery that fulfilled more than the promise of another entertaining French historical fiction.
If you are fascinated by the French Revolution and the tumultuous changes of the times, you will absolutely want to read this- it's so interesting! Splendid!
June 16, 2010
I loved this book. Post-Revolutionary Paris comes to life in every character of this novel. A thriller that leads the reader on a chase not just through crime but through history...a gem of a novel.
July 8, 2010
It has been a real treat for me this month to read and review not only this upcoming novel by Catherine Delors, but also her debut novel Mistress of the Revolution. Although the two are not members of a series, For the King does pick up time period-wise where Mistress of the Revolution left off. In that sense, I did feel like there was some continuity between the two books, even though the tone of one is vastly different from that of the other. They are also different in historical fiction sub-genre, as this time Catherine Delors has written a historical mystery/political thriller. For the King is a gripping joy ride through the first modern police investigation, which took place following the explosion of an "infernal machine" on Rue Saint-Nicaise on Christmas Eve of 1800 during a failed attempt to assassinate Napoléon, who was then the First Consul of France. The blast was set off by a group of Royalists or "Chouans" who wished to restore the monarchy and oust Napoléon and his supporters from power (this happens right in the very beginning of the book so I'm not giving away any spoilers here).
There is a lot of dramatic irony in this book from the very beginning; we as readers learn truths behind the investigation long before our protagonist Chief Inspector Roch Miquel himself discovers the identities of the would-be assassins or which characters are secretly Royalist agents working for "the cause." Events begin to take a very interesting turn halfway through the book, as we find out more details of the private lives of many of the key characters.
At first I didn't feel much of a real connection to Roch, but as the book went on I found his character more likable, and I enjoyed reading about the father/son relationship between Roch and Old Miquel, which for me also added sentimental value to these characters. There were flashbacks to his childhood throughout the book and I felt I really got to know Roch a lot better by learning his past and finding out how he came to be in his current position of Chief Inspector at the Paris Prefecture of Police. Because he came from a poor family, his promotion to such a high-ranking office illustrates for readers the differences in levels of respect displayed towards the common people pre- and post- Revolution. The newfound equality rights experienced by the Average Joe after the fall of the aristocracy were dramatic. Under the Ancien Régime, someone with Roch's background would never have even been considered for a position that that wielded any significant authority.
Though this is by no means a historical romance, there is a romantic thread that continues throughout the book between Roch and his beautiful mistress Blanche. The two are very much in love despite the fact that Old Miquel wishes Roch to marry his wealthy childhood friend Alexandrine. I wish I had gotten to know these two women a bit more in the book, as they both play important roles in Roch's life by the end of the story. I found the characters directly involved with the events on Rue Nicaise and those responsible for investigating the crime to be the most fully developed. Each had distinctive personalities that made them stand apart. I particularly enjoyed the desciption of the Prefect of Police, Citizen Dubois, Roch's immediate superior and sometimes foe:
"During all the years of the Revolution, he had never expressed any political opinion, defended any noteworthy cause, been a member of any club, participated in any event of any import. He had simply avoided being noticed. Absent some extraordinary mishap, men of such stubborn, deliberate mediocrity survived the stormiest of times (page 44)."
My favorite character from the book was Joseph Fouché, Minister of Police (a very real figure from history). One never quite knows what he is thinking in that fickle head of his and this ambiguity made me eager to learn more about his life. While Roch is considered somewhat of a protégé to the Minister, Fouché keeps Roch on his toes throughout the story, and his hunger for power (and the actions he took in order to maintain his power) heightened the drama of the book. My only real complaint with the book would be its final chapter, which felt a bit abrupt to me. I've recently discovered how much I enjoy historical thrillers and For the King is a perfect example of how, when they are are done right, they can be utterly un-put-down-able. All the clues and nuances of the conspiracy were cleverly woven into the plot and none of the situations felt contrived. Multiple cliff-hangers left me anxious to know what would happen next. If this story sounds like it might be something you, too, would enjoy, be sure to enter my giveaway for a chance to win your very own copy of For the King, in stores July 8th.
There is a lot of dramatic irony in this book from the very beginning; we as readers learn truths behind the investigation long before our protagonist Chief Inspector Roch Miquel himself discovers the identities of the would-be assassins or which characters are secretly Royalist agents working for "the cause." Events begin to take a very interesting turn halfway through the book, as we find out more details of the private lives of many of the key characters.
At first I didn't feel much of a real connection to Roch, but as the book went on I found his character more likable, and I enjoyed reading about the father/son relationship between Roch and Old Miquel, which for me also added sentimental value to these characters. There were flashbacks to his childhood throughout the book and I felt I really got to know Roch a lot better by learning his past and finding out how he came to be in his current position of Chief Inspector at the Paris Prefecture of Police. Because he came from a poor family, his promotion to such a high-ranking office illustrates for readers the differences in levels of respect displayed towards the common people pre- and post- Revolution. The newfound equality rights experienced by the Average Joe after the fall of the aristocracy were dramatic. Under the Ancien Régime, someone with Roch's background would never have even been considered for a position that that wielded any significant authority.
Though this is by no means a historical romance, there is a romantic thread that continues throughout the book between Roch and his beautiful mistress Blanche. The two are very much in love despite the fact that Old Miquel wishes Roch to marry his wealthy childhood friend Alexandrine. I wish I had gotten to know these two women a bit more in the book, as they both play important roles in Roch's life by the end of the story. I found the characters directly involved with the events on Rue Nicaise and those responsible for investigating the crime to be the most fully developed. Each had distinctive personalities that made them stand apart. I particularly enjoyed the desciption of the Prefect of Police, Citizen Dubois, Roch's immediate superior and sometimes foe:
"During all the years of the Revolution, he had never expressed any political opinion, defended any noteworthy cause, been a member of any club, participated in any event of any import. He had simply avoided being noticed. Absent some extraordinary mishap, men of such stubborn, deliberate mediocrity survived the stormiest of times (page 44)."
My favorite character from the book was Joseph Fouché, Minister of Police (a very real figure from history). One never quite knows what he is thinking in that fickle head of his and this ambiguity made me eager to learn more about his life. While Roch is considered somewhat of a protégé to the Minister, Fouché keeps Roch on his toes throughout the story, and his hunger for power (and the actions he took in order to maintain his power) heightened the drama of the book. My only real complaint with the book would be its final chapter, which felt a bit abrupt to me. I've recently discovered how much I enjoy historical thrillers and For the King is a perfect example of how, when they are are done right, they can be utterly un-put-down-able. All the clues and nuances of the conspiracy were cleverly woven into the plot and none of the situations felt contrived. Multiple cliff-hangers left me anxious to know what would happen next. If this story sounds like it might be something you, too, would enjoy, be sure to enter my giveaway for a chance to win your very own copy of For the King, in stores July 8th.
December 1, 2018
This book disappointed me — the waste of language, the lack of any real sense, the tedious characters, the historical errors.
July 1, 2010
My thoughts: For the King is a novel based on a real assassination attempt that took place on Christmas Eve in 1800 on Napoleon Bonarparte. Napoleon escaped by the hair on his chiny, chin chin , however many innocent Parisians died. Roch Miquel is on the case, but finding the truth is turning difficult with the intrusion of corrupt superiors in the police force and with his father falsely arrested as being part of the conspiracy. The novel centers on Roch trying to save his father quickly and find out what group was behind the assassination plot.
Being a fan of mysteries and historical fiction I had high hopes for this book and while I liked it okay, for me it wasn’t a page turner. For one, it was tough for me to feel connected to the main character Roch, sometimes I liked him and sometimes I didn’t, though I did feel for his predicament and thought him a good and loyal person. He just didn’t resonate with me. There was also some confusion on my part for the scenes where Roch is at the police station - too many people to keep track of. But, what I did like about For the King was the fabulous descriptions and the insight into the charged atmosphere of post-Revolutionary Paris. The struggle between the warring factions, the Jacobites, the Royalists and the Chouans and also the battle amongst the members of the police were fascinating and I liked how Catherine provided both perspectives for a more well-rounded view of the conflict.
All in all For the King was a good read, especially if you enjoy detective stories with a historical spin! I enjoyed learning about this event in France’s history and am now on a mission to read more about this exciting time period. Delors is an amazing writer and for me, she’s one of the ones that whenever they release a new book you are super excited and can’t wait to dive in! I LOVED and highly recommend her first book, Mistress of the Revolution and look forward to more great reads by Delors in the future!
Being a fan of mysteries and historical fiction I had high hopes for this book and while I liked it okay, for me it wasn’t a page turner. For one, it was tough for me to feel connected to the main character Roch, sometimes I liked him and sometimes I didn’t, though I did feel for his predicament and thought him a good and loyal person. He just didn’t resonate with me. There was also some confusion on my part for the scenes where Roch is at the police station - too many people to keep track of. But, what I did like about For the King was the fabulous descriptions and the insight into the charged atmosphere of post-Revolutionary Paris. The struggle between the warring factions, the Jacobites, the Royalists and the Chouans and also the battle amongst the members of the police were fascinating and I liked how Catherine provided both perspectives for a more well-rounded view of the conflict.
All in all For the King was a good read, especially if you enjoy detective stories with a historical spin! I enjoyed learning about this event in France’s history and am now on a mission to read more about this exciting time period. Delors is an amazing writer and for me, she’s one of the ones that whenever they release a new book you are super excited and can’t wait to dive in! I LOVED and highly recommend her first book, Mistress of the Revolution and look forward to more great reads by Delors in the future!
July 12, 2010
All historical fiction is about today. That goes for works old and new. The old works are being experienced by contemporary readers, and the material filters through a modern mindset. Conversely, and more to the point here, a contemporary work such as For the King by Catherine Delors was conceived in her unarguably modern mind. (Ignore the fact that this charming author is so steeped in French history she can blog about little else.) More on my blog
Boychik Lit
August 9, 2010
On Christmas Eve 1800, a devastating explosion by “machine infernale” on rue Saint-Nicaise in Paris kills twenty-two citizens, wounds fifty-six others and destroys dozens of surrounding buildings. Napoleon Bonaparte the newly self-appointed First Consul of France continues by carriage on his route to an evening at the Opera unharmed. This failed assassinated attempt angers many people, but who is responsible?
Napoleon has numerous enemies including his own countrymen. Could it be the Jacobin forces responsible for the French Revolution nine years prior who want their overthrown constitutional government reinstated, or the Chouans, loyal to the Catholic monarchy intent on the restoration of a deposed King? Napoleon is convinced that the Jacobins are to blame and immediately orders the arrest over a hundred known insurgents. The powerful Minister of Police Joseph Fouché is determined to prove to Napoleon that the Royalist’s are at fault requesting Chief Inspector Roch Miguel to investigate two known Chouans, Pierre de Saint-Régent and Francois Carbon. To cover his bet the Minister has also offered a reward of 2,000 gold louis for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the Jacobins who “committed the atrocity.”
Suspicious of Fouché’s speed in delivering these two names, Miguel begins the investigation into the assassins of the rue Saint-Nicaise from evidence and eye witness accounts. Miguel’s superior Prefect of Police Louis-Nicolas Dubois influenced by his boss Fouché also believes the Jacobins are to blame. From the description of the suspects Miguel is not convinced the assassins are any known Jacobins. His boss points out the similarity to the “Conspiracy of Daggers” assassination plot by the Jacobins against Napoleon only two months prior. Miguel suggests they do not know enough yet and should not ignore clues that would lead to the Chouans. Dubois accuses Miguel of favoritism to the Jacobins because of his father’s allegiance and blames him for not knowing of the assassination plot and preventing it. When Miguel’s aged father Old Miguel is arrested as a suspect, Dubois gives Roch one month to prove that the Royalists indeed are behind the plot or his father will be deported as a traitor. Interestingly, the two suspects supplied by Minister of Police Joseph Fouché are quickly linked to the crime, but failing to find the elusive third man with gold spectacles may be Roch’s undoing and his father’s eminent death.
Based on the “Plot of the Rue Saint-Nicaise” author Catherine Delors has crafted a thriller from historical fact; – a police procedural in its infancy. Meticulously researched at the archives of the Ministry and Prefecture of Police in Pairs, the events surrounding the bombing and the eventual investigation give the reader an inside view of the political atmosphere of post-Revolutionary France and Napoleon’s struggle to rule a country manipulated away from the new Republic and the old Royalty.
Psychologically, the conspiracy is viewed from the perspective of the two main male characters, young, honorable Chief Inspector Rouch Miguel and the revengeful mastermind behind the plot Joseph de Limoëlan. Each represent opposite sides of the struggle: Limoëlan a former aristocrat who watched his family guillotined and his property confiscated by the Republic and Miguel, a Jacobin peasant and citizen of the street who rose socially by education and hard work. Both working for their own France. Napoleon on the other hand is working for his own corrupt vision France.
Steeped in incredible detail, I recommend For the King to readers who love to be engulfed in an era and swept away in suspense and intrigue. Since we know the perpetrators of the plot from the beginning, this is not a mystery, but it plays out like one as the main character CI Roch Miguel must solve the crime to save his father and the Jacobin dignity. Those who like a good thriller will be pleased with the plot twists, double dealings and political machinations, however, those looking for emotional depth will be unmoved and short sheeted on the romance.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
Napoleon has numerous enemies including his own countrymen. Could it be the Jacobin forces responsible for the French Revolution nine years prior who want their overthrown constitutional government reinstated, or the Chouans, loyal to the Catholic monarchy intent on the restoration of a deposed King? Napoleon is convinced that the Jacobins are to blame and immediately orders the arrest over a hundred known insurgents. The powerful Minister of Police Joseph Fouché is determined to prove to Napoleon that the Royalist’s are at fault requesting Chief Inspector Roch Miguel to investigate two known Chouans, Pierre de Saint-Régent and Francois Carbon. To cover his bet the Minister has also offered a reward of 2,000 gold louis for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the Jacobins who “committed the atrocity.”
Suspicious of Fouché’s speed in delivering these two names, Miguel begins the investigation into the assassins of the rue Saint-Nicaise from evidence and eye witness accounts. Miguel’s superior Prefect of Police Louis-Nicolas Dubois influenced by his boss Fouché also believes the Jacobins are to blame. From the description of the suspects Miguel is not convinced the assassins are any known Jacobins. His boss points out the similarity to the “Conspiracy of Daggers” assassination plot by the Jacobins against Napoleon only two months prior. Miguel suggests they do not know enough yet and should not ignore clues that would lead to the Chouans. Dubois accuses Miguel of favoritism to the Jacobins because of his father’s allegiance and blames him for not knowing of the assassination plot and preventing it. When Miguel’s aged father Old Miguel is arrested as a suspect, Dubois gives Roch one month to prove that the Royalists indeed are behind the plot or his father will be deported as a traitor. Interestingly, the two suspects supplied by Minister of Police Joseph Fouché are quickly linked to the crime, but failing to find the elusive third man with gold spectacles may be Roch’s undoing and his father’s eminent death.
Based on the “Plot of the Rue Saint-Nicaise” author Catherine Delors has crafted a thriller from historical fact; – a police procedural in its infancy. Meticulously researched at the archives of the Ministry and Prefecture of Police in Pairs, the events surrounding the bombing and the eventual investigation give the reader an inside view of the political atmosphere of post-Revolutionary France and Napoleon’s struggle to rule a country manipulated away from the new Republic and the old Royalty.
Psychologically, the conspiracy is viewed from the perspective of the two main male characters, young, honorable Chief Inspector Rouch Miguel and the revengeful mastermind behind the plot Joseph de Limoëlan. Each represent opposite sides of the struggle: Limoëlan a former aristocrat who watched his family guillotined and his property confiscated by the Republic and Miguel, a Jacobin peasant and citizen of the street who rose socially by education and hard work. Both working for their own France. Napoleon on the other hand is working for his own corrupt vision France.
Steeped in incredible detail, I recommend For the King to readers who love to be engulfed in an era and swept away in suspense and intrigue. Since we know the perpetrators of the plot from the beginning, this is not a mystery, but it plays out like one as the main character CI Roch Miguel must solve the crime to save his father and the Jacobin dignity. Those who like a good thriller will be pleased with the plot twists, double dealings and political machinations, however, those looking for emotional depth will be unmoved and short sheeted on the romance.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
July 10, 2010
Today marks the release of Catherine Delors' new book For The King. I was fortunate enough to receive a review copy from the author and I am very glad to say that I really enjoyed it.
After tackling the French Revolution in her first book, Catherine Delors now uses an attempt on Napoleon's life to show the police force's investigative methods, while portraying the new society that emerged after the end of the monarchy.
In Roch Miquel, the son of a skin man turned tavern owner, she presents us with a hero whose worth is based on his convictions and abilities instead of his birth. And he is a man who believes in method, investigation and patience to discover the truth instead of the torture his colleagues use. In such precarious times though, his past and the lives of his loved ones are also connected with his relationship with Fouché, the powerful minister of Police, and Fouché's ability to stay in Napoleon's good graces.
The story opens with the description of the attack and it is not difficult to feel disgust and anger towards an action that takes as first sacrifices an impoverished child and an animal. We first get to know the perpetrators and then Roch Miquel, the policeman charged with the investigation.
It is not easy to navigate in this world where there seems to be more shades of gray than black and white. If justice for all was one of the Revolution's demands then things don't seem to be going well. People are still convicted on weak evidence just because a scapegoat is needed and if the aristocracy of previous years is now reduced to a precarious position or living in exile, the newly rich seem to behave in much the same way and social injustice seems as common as before. Not to mention that Napoleon, who is not yet emperor but is already paving the way to power by calling former aristocrats to his court and having famous artists paint his portrait and glorify him.
In the course of his investigation Miquel interviews a great number of people of different social status and motivations. He is eager to find the culprits to please Fouché but his favouritism with the Minister means he is not trusted by his superior. Fouché has his own reasons to want the men brought to justice and even leads Miquel in the right direction at first. But he has his own agenda and is not above blackmailing Miquel with his father's imprisonment to get the results he wants. The attack of the Rue Nicaise, as this event would become known, is considered the first scientific criminal investigation and at least some of the perpetrators were eventually brought to justice.
As most of the characters, Miquel is not exactly likeable in the beginning, he is too devoted to his work and has a strained relationship with his father who wants him to settle down with a friend's daughter. Miquel has his own ideas about it, and believes himself already in love with someone else. As the story progresses he will have quite a few surprises about said woman and he starts to feel more vulnerable he will also become more interesting and complex. The romantic intrigue that Delors adds to the story was nice but I felt sorry not to read more about Alexandrine, we just have a glimpse of who she was and I thought she seemed very interesting.
One of my favourite things about the story was how well Delors portrays the common people - nobody seems too surprised by having to able to account for who they are and what they are doing or by having the police knocking on their doors at all times. I was also surprised by how well organised the Royalists were, how wide were their connections and how determined they were to restore the monarchy. Then the story is populated with real people and it was really interesting to read the author's note and then going on a "googling expedition" to find out more about them. For The King is not an easy and quick read but it is definitely worth the time you spend with it.
Grade: 4.5/5
After tackling the French Revolution in her first book, Catherine Delors now uses an attempt on Napoleon's life to show the police force's investigative methods, while portraying the new society that emerged after the end of the monarchy.
In Roch Miquel, the son of a skin man turned tavern owner, she presents us with a hero whose worth is based on his convictions and abilities instead of his birth. And he is a man who believes in method, investigation and patience to discover the truth instead of the torture his colleagues use. In such precarious times though, his past and the lives of his loved ones are also connected with his relationship with Fouché, the powerful minister of Police, and Fouché's ability to stay in Napoleon's good graces.
The story opens with the description of the attack and it is not difficult to feel disgust and anger towards an action that takes as first sacrifices an impoverished child and an animal. We first get to know the perpetrators and then Roch Miquel, the policeman charged with the investigation.
It is not easy to navigate in this world where there seems to be more shades of gray than black and white. If justice for all was one of the Revolution's demands then things don't seem to be going well. People are still convicted on weak evidence just because a scapegoat is needed and if the aristocracy of previous years is now reduced to a precarious position or living in exile, the newly rich seem to behave in much the same way and social injustice seems as common as before. Not to mention that Napoleon, who is not yet emperor but is already paving the way to power by calling former aristocrats to his court and having famous artists paint his portrait and glorify him.
In the course of his investigation Miquel interviews a great number of people of different social status and motivations. He is eager to find the culprits to please Fouché but his favouritism with the Minister means he is not trusted by his superior. Fouché has his own reasons to want the men brought to justice and even leads Miquel in the right direction at first. But he has his own agenda and is not above blackmailing Miquel with his father's imprisonment to get the results he wants. The attack of the Rue Nicaise, as this event would become known, is considered the first scientific criminal investigation and at least some of the perpetrators were eventually brought to justice.
As most of the characters, Miquel is not exactly likeable in the beginning, he is too devoted to his work and has a strained relationship with his father who wants him to settle down with a friend's daughter. Miquel has his own ideas about it, and believes himself already in love with someone else. As the story progresses he will have quite a few surprises about said woman and he starts to feel more vulnerable he will also become more interesting and complex. The romantic intrigue that Delors adds to the story was nice but I felt sorry not to read more about Alexandrine, we just have a glimpse of who she was and I thought she seemed very interesting.
One of my favourite things about the story was how well Delors portrays the common people - nobody seems too surprised by having to able to account for who they are and what they are doing or by having the police knocking on their doors at all times. I was also surprised by how well organised the Royalists were, how wide were their connections and how determined they were to restore the monarchy. Then the story is populated with real people and it was really interesting to read the author's note and then going on a "googling expedition" to find out more about them. For The King is not an easy and quick read but it is definitely worth the time you spend with it.
Grade: 4.5/5
June 22, 2010
Enter for giveaway at www.theburtonreview.com
I am not as historically in tune to French politics as I am with Tudor politics. With Catherine Delors' newest novel that is focused on French politics, there is no preamble to the upheaval that France is facing after the pacification set in place by Bonaparte. The French Revolution had just ended and the novel begins in 1800 with a police officer called Roch Miguel who is investigating a bombing on the streets of Paris that was a failed assassination attempt on Napoleon Bonaparte. There were several police agencies or ministries that were at odds with each other who were slightly hard to follow; along with who was Royalist, Jacobin or Chouan. If I had previously read a novel that dealt with the Republic and the aftermath of the French revolution I would probably have felt a bit less lost, but the writing of Catherine Delors pulled me through the story itself very quickly.
Written to be a historical mystery, the focus of the story is the investigation of the bombing in the Rue Nicaise. Roch, the investigator, is the main protagonist and is portrayed as a strong man with morals, and gets put in a bad situation when his father, affectionately known as Old Miguel, is suddenly arrested. Was he arrested to spur Roch's investigation in another direction? Between the several different factions of the police government it is hard to tell if Roch should trust anyone in the fearsome political times. And he has to move fast otherwise his father will meet a torturous fate meant for traitors.
Napoleon crossing the Alps (1800)~Jaques Louis David
One of the mentions in the novel is of a painter known as Jaques Louis David, who painted the famous portrait of Napoleon on the magnificent white horse. I loved how Delors included these small details of history into her novel which helped me experience France and their culture more than I ever have. And I took five years of French! Catherine Delors helped to reawaken in me the spirit of France for which I had fallen in love with long ago as a child. She surrounds the novel in historic details that really help shape the atmosphere and the turmoil of France at that time.
Catherine Delors' previous novel, Mistress of the Revolution (2008), was written in memoir fashion telling of a Frenchwoman exiled in England. For The King departs from that point of view as it is told in third person allowing for multiple views to be presented. Using this narrative allows the reader to get an entire circumspective view from all parties involved which is very helpful in this thriller/mystery setting. It also helps to lend a greater understanding of a complicated period of time that could easily befuddle the unaware reader, like I was at first.
I found the story to be fast paced and I felt empathy for the character of the investigator Roch Miguel, and Delors was subtle with the added romantic undercurrents that we are treated to. Some of the other characters shifted over time, becoming more ominous as the story wore on and the mystery of who was behind the attack unfolded. Although the reader knows the names of the three who are responsible for the attack from the very beginning, the unfolding of the multiple aspects that lead to the attack and their hopeful apprehension was expertly presented. Lovers of France and those eager to immerse themselves in its historic setting following the revolution will definitely love this book. I love the fact that Delors is focusing her next novel on another mystery setting and I will definitely be reading that one as well.
I am not as historically in tune to French politics as I am with Tudor politics. With Catherine Delors' newest novel that is focused on French politics, there is no preamble to the upheaval that France is facing after the pacification set in place by Bonaparte. The French Revolution had just ended and the novel begins in 1800 with a police officer called Roch Miguel who is investigating a bombing on the streets of Paris that was a failed assassination attempt on Napoleon Bonaparte. There were several police agencies or ministries that were at odds with each other who were slightly hard to follow; along with who was Royalist, Jacobin or Chouan. If I had previously read a novel that dealt with the Republic and the aftermath of the French revolution I would probably have felt a bit less lost, but the writing of Catherine Delors pulled me through the story itself very quickly.
Written to be a historical mystery, the focus of the story is the investigation of the bombing in the Rue Nicaise. Roch, the investigator, is the main protagonist and is portrayed as a strong man with morals, and gets put in a bad situation when his father, affectionately known as Old Miguel, is suddenly arrested. Was he arrested to spur Roch's investigation in another direction? Between the several different factions of the police government it is hard to tell if Roch should trust anyone in the fearsome political times. And he has to move fast otherwise his father will meet a torturous fate meant for traitors.
Napoleon crossing the Alps (1800)~Jaques Louis David
One of the mentions in the novel is of a painter known as Jaques Louis David, who painted the famous portrait of Napoleon on the magnificent white horse. I loved how Delors included these small details of history into her novel which helped me experience France and their culture more than I ever have. And I took five years of French! Catherine Delors helped to reawaken in me the spirit of France for which I had fallen in love with long ago as a child. She surrounds the novel in historic details that really help shape the atmosphere and the turmoil of France at that time.
Catherine Delors' previous novel, Mistress of the Revolution (2008), was written in memoir fashion telling of a Frenchwoman exiled in England. For The King departs from that point of view as it is told in third person allowing for multiple views to be presented. Using this narrative allows the reader to get an entire circumspective view from all parties involved which is very helpful in this thriller/mystery setting. It also helps to lend a greater understanding of a complicated period of time that could easily befuddle the unaware reader, like I was at first.
I found the story to be fast paced and I felt empathy for the character of the investigator Roch Miguel, and Delors was subtle with the added romantic undercurrents that we are treated to. Some of the other characters shifted over time, becoming more ominous as the story wore on and the mystery of who was behind the attack unfolded. Although the reader knows the names of the three who are responsible for the attack from the very beginning, the unfolding of the multiple aspects that lead to the attack and their hopeful apprehension was expertly presented. Lovers of France and those eager to immerse themselves in its historic setting following the revolution will definitely love this book. I love the fact that Delors is focusing her next novel on another mystery setting and I will definitely be reading that one as well.
August 13, 2010
It is Christmas Eve, the year 1800, in post-revolutionary France. Paris’ unsuspecting citizens go about their business casually, unaware of conspirators plotting against the First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte. When a crude but powerful bomb rips through the streets, Citizen Inspector Miquel searches for the assassins, knowing that they will never stop the vicious quest for France’s return to its monarchical past.
The French republic bolstered by its revolutionary ideals permitted Miquel’s meteoric rise from humble beginnings. Now, his father’s rhetoric against Napoleon’s corrupt government lands him in jail. Miquel suddenly discovers his father’s fate is contingent on his innate skills and speed. He races against time to discover the truth. Ties to the present also hinder his abilities, with his beautiful mistress Blanche Coudert as a persistent distraction. I never doubted that he would expose the assassins and capture the elusive conspirator, code-named For the King. His deft handling of each new obstacle always gave me with intense relief, only to have my heart full of fear whenever an unforeseen threat immediately arose.
Catherine Delors first wowed me with her portrayal of revolutionary France in her debut title, Mistress of the Revolution. I have come to admire her most for her passion for France of the 18th and 19th centuries. It is always evident in the history she reveals, and the mannerisms and attitudes of her characters, details that only a dedicated writer who has immersed herself in the period can bring to life. She has also impressed me with the multifaceted personalities of the individuals on the page, each unique and memorable. Miquel has high ideals, but he can be brutally purposeful when the excesses of the past threaten to misdirect his moral compass. His father has a hard edge to him, but he is invariably committed to his friends and proud of his son’s accomplishments. Blanche proved the biggest surprise, more than just a pretty face in silken dresses. If you want principled but conflicted heroes, passionate and determined heroines, and cold-blooded, tireless villains, read For the King. Perhaps you will find yourself, like I was, transported to a turbulent time, rife with political upheaval and intrigue. Very few authors have that effect on me, but Catherine accomplishes it with unerring talent and tireless dedication to illuminating the past.
The French republic bolstered by its revolutionary ideals permitted Miquel’s meteoric rise from humble beginnings. Now, his father’s rhetoric against Napoleon’s corrupt government lands him in jail. Miquel suddenly discovers his father’s fate is contingent on his innate skills and speed. He races against time to discover the truth. Ties to the present also hinder his abilities, with his beautiful mistress Blanche Coudert as a persistent distraction. I never doubted that he would expose the assassins and capture the elusive conspirator, code-named For the King. His deft handling of each new obstacle always gave me with intense relief, only to have my heart full of fear whenever an unforeseen threat immediately arose.
Catherine Delors first wowed me with her portrayal of revolutionary France in her debut title, Mistress of the Revolution. I have come to admire her most for her passion for France of the 18th and 19th centuries. It is always evident in the history she reveals, and the mannerisms and attitudes of her characters, details that only a dedicated writer who has immersed herself in the period can bring to life. She has also impressed me with the multifaceted personalities of the individuals on the page, each unique and memorable. Miquel has high ideals, but he can be brutally purposeful when the excesses of the past threaten to misdirect his moral compass. His father has a hard edge to him, but he is invariably committed to his friends and proud of his son’s accomplishments. Blanche proved the biggest surprise, more than just a pretty face in silken dresses. If you want principled but conflicted heroes, passionate and determined heroines, and cold-blooded, tireless villains, read For the King. Perhaps you will find yourself, like I was, transported to a turbulent time, rife with political upheaval and intrigue. Very few authors have that effect on me, but Catherine accomplishes it with unerring talent and tireless dedication to illuminating the past.
October 28, 2010
I knew I would enjoy this book for the very reason that it is historical fiction, and I love historical fiction. Especially historical fiction that is well-researched.
I was first taken in by this book because of the time period. I have always been fascinated by the French Revolution, but I was not too familiar with what happened after the French Revolution in Paris. Talk about it being the worst of times, maybe Charles Dickens should have written a book during that time period! It was horrid! I knew Napoleon was bad, but he made things worse than I imagined.
After the first few chapters, my interest waned. Delors is a fantastic authoress, but for the second quarter of the book, I was not as enthralled. I don't know why. I guess I just didn't care so much about the characters. Maybe the intrigue just didn't draw me in.
I remember that about a week ago, the plot took a twist that I wasn't expecting. That is when I was so drawn to the book that I did not want to put it down. I won't add any spoilers, but it concerns the character Blanche. And as I read on, the plot become even more intriguing. I now cared about what happened to Roch, the main character. I did not know if the ending would be happy or sad or a mix of both.
The best part of the book for me was when Delors described the historical authenticity of the book. Although she took artistic liberty, much of what she wrote was based on actual fact. The event around which the book is centered really happened. If you do decide to read the book, do not hesitate to read that section. There is even a United States tie-in that I never would have guessed.
In conclusion, I would recommend this book to most people with a taste for historical fiction. While I found a portion of it dry, the last half of the book made it very worth reading. The sex scenes are not graphic, for the most part. And profanity is very rare--I appreciated that. I think Delors has the power to write in such a way that you feel as though you are transported back in time and are living the events of the lives of the characters right along with them. Or at least you are watching from a safe spot close by. While it is not the best book I have ever read, it is well worth your time.
I was first taken in by this book because of the time period. I have always been fascinated by the French Revolution, but I was not too familiar with what happened after the French Revolution in Paris. Talk about it being the worst of times, maybe Charles Dickens should have written a book during that time period! It was horrid! I knew Napoleon was bad, but he made things worse than I imagined.
After the first few chapters, my interest waned. Delors is a fantastic authoress, but for the second quarter of the book, I was not as enthralled. I don't know why. I guess I just didn't care so much about the characters. Maybe the intrigue just didn't draw me in.
I remember that about a week ago, the plot took a twist that I wasn't expecting. That is when I was so drawn to the book that I did not want to put it down. I won't add any spoilers, but it concerns the character Blanche. And as I read on, the plot become even more intriguing. I now cared about what happened to Roch, the main character. I did not know if the ending would be happy or sad or a mix of both.
The best part of the book for me was when Delors described the historical authenticity of the book. Although she took artistic liberty, much of what she wrote was based on actual fact. The event around which the book is centered really happened. If you do decide to read the book, do not hesitate to read that section. There is even a United States tie-in that I never would have guessed.
In conclusion, I would recommend this book to most people with a taste for historical fiction. While I found a portion of it dry, the last half of the book made it very worth reading. The sex scenes are not graphic, for the most part. And profanity is very rare--I appreciated that. I think Delors has the power to write in such a way that you feel as though you are transported back in time and are living the events of the lives of the characters right along with them. Or at least you are watching from a safe spot close by. While it is not the best book I have ever read, it is well worth your time.
June 27, 2010
On the surface For the King tells the story of the investigation into the attack on Napoleon Bonaparte, but deep down it tells a tale about the politics of Paris after the revolution. There was constant speculation as to who had carried out the bombing and which side was to blame. There were also the internal political games that were played within the police department – who owed a favor to who and what they could hold over the heads of someone to make them do what they want. The political aspect was very interesting to me because I had not read anything set during the reign of Napoleon and really didn’t have much knowledge of the period either.
I did enjoy how this was similar to a police procedural. I always enjoy watching these types of shows on t.v. and I was a criminal justice major in college, which made it that much more interesting to me. I had not really thought about how crimes were investigated in the past – especially with the limited technology that was available at that time. I would classify this as more of a procedural rather than a mystery because you get to see the perspective of both the bad guys and the good guys. The reader is aware of who the perpetrators are and their motives, while the police are out of the loop – you are able to watch the investigation start to come together while knowing what is going on. That isn’t to say that there are not some secrets kept from the reader and twists along the way.
My complaint with this book comes with the ending. While I really liked the main character, Roch, I didn’t really feel connected enough with the other characters to really care what happened with them in the ending. I also felt that the ending was a little abrupt. As a whole bunch of things happened, it then just ended – I would have liked to have a little bit more in the end.
3.5 stars
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
I did enjoy how this was similar to a police procedural. I always enjoy watching these types of shows on t.v. and I was a criminal justice major in college, which made it that much more interesting to me. I had not really thought about how crimes were investigated in the past – especially with the limited technology that was available at that time. I would classify this as more of a procedural rather than a mystery because you get to see the perspective of both the bad guys and the good guys. The reader is aware of who the perpetrators are and their motives, while the police are out of the loop – you are able to watch the investigation start to come together while knowing what is going on. That isn’t to say that there are not some secrets kept from the reader and twists along the way.
My complaint with this book comes with the ending. While I really liked the main character, Roch, I didn’t really feel connected enough with the other characters to really care what happened with them in the ending. I also felt that the ending was a little abrupt. As a whole bunch of things happened, it then just ended – I would have liked to have a little bit more in the end.
3.5 stars
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
August 8, 2010
I loved Catherine Delors's debut novel, Mistress of the Revolution, so my expectations for For the King were high, and I’m delighted to say that the book did not disappoint. An historical thriller, it deals with the failed assassination attempt on Napoleon in Paris on Christmas Eve 1800 – or, in French Revolutionary parlance, the 3rd of the month of Nivose (translation: Frosty) of Year Nine of the Republic.
For the King follows the investigation after the attack, which, although it failed to harm Napoleon, killed and maimed many other people. The central character is Roch Miquel, the son of a tavern owner who has risen to be Chief of Police. Roch is convinced from the start that the Royalist faction is behind the plot, but unfortunately his patron and superior, the untrustworthy Fouché, is anxious to assign the blame to the ex-Jacobins who also want to see Bonaparte fall – among them Roch’s father.
And the lady on the cover? Roch is involved with Blanche Coudert, the beautiful young wife of a newly-rich banker. But his relationship to her comes under strain in the course of the investigation. You may notice that the cover image is from later in the 19th century, so the dress has been digitally altered to conform to the high waistline fashionable in 1800!
Although the cover highlights the romantic subplot, the main drive of the book is the chase after the assassins. This is a fast-paced read which never sacrifices atmosphere and is rich with details gleaned from archival research.
A very accomplished second novel and a wonderful read.
I received an ARC of For the King from the author. Read my full review and Q&A with Catherine Delors here:
http://misadventuresofmoppet.wordpres...
For the King follows the investigation after the attack, which, although it failed to harm Napoleon, killed and maimed many other people. The central character is Roch Miquel, the son of a tavern owner who has risen to be Chief of Police. Roch is convinced from the start that the Royalist faction is behind the plot, but unfortunately his patron and superior, the untrustworthy Fouché, is anxious to assign the blame to the ex-Jacobins who also want to see Bonaparte fall – among them Roch’s father.
And the lady on the cover? Roch is involved with Blanche Coudert, the beautiful young wife of a newly-rich banker. But his relationship to her comes under strain in the course of the investigation. You may notice that the cover image is from later in the 19th century, so the dress has been digitally altered to conform to the high waistline fashionable in 1800!
Although the cover highlights the romantic subplot, the main drive of the book is the chase after the assassins. This is a fast-paced read which never sacrifices atmosphere and is rich with details gleaned from archival research.
A very accomplished second novel and a wonderful read.
I received an ARC of For the King from the author. Read my full review and Q&A with Catherine Delors here:
http://misadventuresofmoppet.wordpres...
September 18, 2011
For the King retells the assassination attempt on Napoleon Bonaparte using a homemade bomb in the streets of Paris. Though Napoleon escaped unscathed, many others were killed or permanently maimed. I enjoyed the historical aspect of this novel, in addition to the assassination attempt we are informed about the political atmosphere of the time and learn just how easily an innocent person could be sent to the guillotine. I give it only 2 stars though because the drama, romance, and suspense that I had been expecting were largely missing. You know from page 1 (even if you didn't know your history already) who the assassins were, where they were staying, and who they were working with. That made following Roch, our hero Chief Inspector, a little anticlimatic. It was too easy to predict who the female co-conspiritor was before it was spelled right out for us. And the sex scenes (thankfully they are few) were just weird and I could have done without them altogether. I had already purchased Delors other novel, Mistress of the Revolution, before reading this one, so I hope it is better. If you're looking for French historical fiction, you may want to stick to Dumas.
September 8, 2010
Another winner from Catherine Delors! I just loved her first book, Mistress of the Revolution, and was so excited to dive into For the King!
For the King can be described as a historical mystery with hints of romance. It tells the story of Chief Detective Roch Miquel who is investigating the attempted assassination of Napoleon Bonaparte that occurred on Christmas Eve 1800. The attempt failed, but dozens of innocent people were either killed or maimed.
Road blocks, such as spies, shady characters and the threat of the deportation of his father are constantly getting in his way of finding the suspects.
For the King was vastly different from Mistress of the Revolution, but I enjoyed it all the same. I loved the detective work and the action. Early 19th century Paris came alive. A golden historical fiction book; highly recommended.
For the King can be described as a historical mystery with hints of romance. It tells the story of Chief Detective Roch Miquel who is investigating the attempted assassination of Napoleon Bonaparte that occurred on Christmas Eve 1800. The attempt failed, but dozens of innocent people were either killed or maimed.
Road blocks, such as spies, shady characters and the threat of the deportation of his father are constantly getting in his way of finding the suspects.
For the King was vastly different from Mistress of the Revolution, but I enjoyed it all the same. I loved the detective work and the action. Early 19th century Paris came alive. A golden historical fiction book; highly recommended.
July 10, 2010
An unexpectedly good historical novel about the first main royalist plot against Napoleon in 1800 when an "infernal" device just missed his coach, while killing lots of people in the middle of Paris; for political purposes Napoleon needed the Jacobins as villains and executed and exiled lots, but finally the truth outed and the royalist agents were brought to justice in large part too, though their main leader Georges Cadoudal escaped to plot more
This book introduces an inspector who investigates the case and who may have divided loyalties with a Jacobin father and a royalist mistress; very good pace, great characters and excellent atmosphere
This book introduces an inspector who investigates the case and who may have divided loyalties with a Jacobin father and a royalist mistress; very good pace, great characters and excellent atmosphere
August 18, 2010
I've been in a French reading mood since my visit to Paris last year and I must say that my visit to Paris helped immensely in my enjoyment of this book. It was almost like the city of Paris was a character in this book. I found it an interesting literary device to take an actual assassination attempt upon Napoleon and have it serve as the focal point of the novel. I cared for Roch, the fictional detective and main character, and liked seeing his life as Citizen Chief Inspector and his private life and how the two entwined as he raced to solve the crime. I am painlessly learning more about French history while pleasantly reading historical fiction.
August 11, 2010
A knockout of a second novel. Tightly paced, smart writing and a real sense of tension as Roch, a policeman in 1800's Paris struggles to unravels a conspiracy before he loses everything -- and quite possibly his own life. Don't be fooled by the romantic cover, this is straight up historical fiction and a real roller coaster ride. Very much recommended.
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.epinions.com/review/For_th...
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.epinions.com/review/For_th...
May 28, 2012
Liked it very much. Fun read.
May 30, 2023
On Christmas Eve in the year 1800, three men prepare to assassinate the First Consul Napoléon Bonaparte. Their plan is to place a bomb in an alley and wait for the First Consul to come by on his way to the opera. However, fortunately for Napoléon, the bomb is denoted late, and he escapes without a scratch.
Chief Inspector Roch Miquel is charged with finding out these would be killers before they strike again. The success of his hunt will not only determine his continued employment but also the fate of his father, who had been incarcerated as a Jacobite.
This book started out well, both the plot and characters were intriguing. I felt hooked right away, but unfortunately the story itself moved at a glacial speed. The historical aspect was thoroughly enjoyable, and I related well with the main character. I just wish it would’ve moved faster and kept my interest instead of making me almost nod off.
Chief Inspector Roch Miquel is charged with finding out these would be killers before they strike again. The success of his hunt will not only determine his continued employment but also the fate of his father, who had been incarcerated as a Jacobite.
This book started out well, both the plot and characters were intriguing. I felt hooked right away, but unfortunately the story itself moved at a glacial speed. The historical aspect was thoroughly enjoyable, and I related well with the main character. I just wish it would’ve moved faster and kept my interest instead of making me almost nod off.
March 7, 2021
Once I got into the meat of this novel I didn’t want to put it down. Miquel, Chief of Police so you could say, is tasked with solving the attempted assignation of Bonaparte Napoleon. There are two political parties against the First Consul so nothing goes smoothly. With the help of his not so trusted Pepin, Miquel discovers that he wildly misjudged everyone he’s ever known. In the process, Chief Inspector has to fight against all odds to free his father in time and also loses the woman he loves. We see murder, love, betrayal and little incest in this gripping political thriller.
February 17, 2019
I tried to like this book about the attempt to kill Napoleon and the police officer who was trying to find the ones who did it. I got it off my daughter's shelf of books she left behind when she moved into an apartment and it reads in some ways like one of her YA books but the sex scenes are definitely not YA. Maybe too much violence and depressing for me? Kind of gave up on it and just skimmed to the end.
March 8, 2018
Nicely done. Gave a vivid picture of life and the police force, and politics, in Napoleon's early days. I would have liked a map of Paris at that time, on the end pages, to help picture where places were.
September 27, 2017
Good book. Easy read. Felt the end was slightly rushed, but would recommend to historical fiction fans.
October 24, 2018
A fun little trash novel set in napolean time.
November 28, 2021
2.5 stars: The plot was intriguing, but difficult to remember all the characters. I did enjoy reading about the Napoleon time piece.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews