439 pages

4 stars

This is a dual timeline novel.

Any reader of this book will be left with some “truths.” They will have to respond to some philosophical questions. What is really important in a person’s life? Is it fame, riches or pride?

Mr. Sante says no. It is love.

Quentin de St. Clere and his valet Nicholas are embroiled in the “Sun King’s” war on his neighboring countries. King Louis XIV is set on conquering all adjacent lands. The death toll is great, the land turned to waste.

Quentin is devoted to honor and service to the King. Poor Nicholas must follow Quentin. He is a mere valet. In service as it were. He must follow his Baron. Nicholas does not see himself as brave. In fact he calls himself a coward in the book. But, he is committed.

When Quentin comes across a treasure in gold and diamonds, he means to take it to King Louis, for the honor and approbation it would bring him. But, the treasure is stolen on the way to the King. What follows is an adventure for Quentin and Nicholas as they follow the thief in an attempt to get the treasure back.

In present day Tim de St. Clare and his fiance Julia have become aware of a possible “hidden treasure.” It is supposedly the treasure that was found and lost by Tim’s ancestor. Quentin. Enter their nemesis, who wants to be president of France, Alain Lesczinsky. He has hired an evil woman to get the clues to the treasure by any means. Old friends Frank and Tamara are along for the adventure. Tim has the same issue his ancestor had. His honor is all encompassing to him. Above all else. The writing is very good. The plot is linear and action-filled. It is an easy and quick read. The characters are true to life from book to book. I feel like I am getting to know them very well. Interestingly enough, I have a problem with Tim’s “honor” issue. Perhaps he will outgrow it in the next book.

The denouement of this book is both heartwarming and so obviously sensible. I cannot say more without giving away too much. Suffice it to say it is very satisfying.

I want to thank NetGalley and Book Whisperer for forwarding this book to me. The opinions cited in this review are solely my own.