The novel was published in 2016. Set in Victorian England, it describes one of the most extraordinary rags-to-riches stories ever.
Presented in the form of a journal and letters, Sophie's story is told through the experiences of an archivist working at the royal residence of Osborne House during the months following the death of Queen Victoria's consort, Prince Albert, in 1861. We follow him and his work. And we share in his journal as he gradually unearths the details of a young woman who, from a background of utter poverty and obscurity, went on to become one of the most wealthy and powerful of people in all of France. In fact, in all of Europe. But, as stated on the back cover, it is knowledge that does not please everyone.
Additional topics include
• The French Revolution and its aftermath.
• The mysterious demise of the Prince de Condé in 1830.
• The rise to power of Louis Philippe, King of the French.
• And the possible fate of the boy king Louis XVII.