In the Shadow of the Sun King: the Winding Road to Versailles

The court of King Louis XIV was the envy of all Europe for its grandeur. Marc Esprit, a poor but clever and ambitious boy from Normandy, vows to be part of this exotic scene. He encounters Zoe DuBois, a free spirited girl of the court who will change his life and ambitions in ways this upstart could not predict. After serving as a soldier, young Marc travels to Venice, where one does not need a title to become successful. He acquires a fleet of ships. Trade in middle-eastern spices and luxury goods makes him a wealthy man. When he saves the Sultan's treasure ship from pirates, he receives an unexpected gift and some disastrous news. Marc again meets Zoe, now penniless after the death of her titled husband. They travel together to Sicily and Greece, but he deserts her on a remote island to pursue his ambition. He has gained an opportunity to serve the king of France. He reunites with Zoe and she again complicates his life. The novel portrays the seventeenth century, a period of war, poverty, power struggles and splendor. It's all here -- drama, betrayal, religious conflict and sex.