Storm Mage: Baron Balsamo

Author: (French) Alexandre Dumas
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: The author uses the historical backdrop of the court struggles during the later years of Louis XV to weave a complex and dramatic plot into a grand historical epic. It reflects the corruption of the French monarchy during Louis XV's reign, its impending downfall, and the impending storm of the French Revolution. Louis XV, despite opposition from his courtiers, holds an entrance ceremony for his mistress, Madame Dubarry, granting her a superior legal status to the Dauphine at the Palace of Versailles. Louis XV also sets his sights on the young girl Andre, who is close to the Dauphine, and sneaks into Andre's bedroom at night. Unbeknownst to him, Andre is unconscious due to the magic of Balsamo, and the former servant of Andre's family, Gilbert, who deeply loves Andre, is despised by her and harbors a desire for revenge. He takes advantage of the situation to rape Andre, who is still unconscious. As a result, Andre becomes pregnant, and after giving birth, Gilbert steals the infant and boards a ship to America. Unintentionally, he encounters Andre's brother, Philip, who is tracking him during the journey.