Tuesday, March 4, 2008

The story of a remarkable boy called Yann Margoza; Tetu the dwarf, his friend and mentor; Sido, unloved daughter of a foolish Marquis; and Count Kalliovski, Grand Master of a secret society, who has half the aristocracy in thrall to him, and wants Yann dead. Yann is spirited away to London but three years later, when Paris is gripped by the bloody horrors of the Revolution, he returns, charged with two missions: to find out Kalliovski's darkest deeds and to save Sido from the guillotine. With a tangle of secrets, a thread of magic and a touch of humour, the follies of the aristocracy and the sufferings of ordinary people are unfolded as their lives move relentlessly towards the tragic and horrific days of the Terror. The Red Necklace is a story magically woven with its very vivid descriptions that it feels as if the reader is at the scene witnessing the story unfold and feeling the very same emotions the characters feel. The book uncovers a range of emotions ranging from joy to dispair as sudden turns of events add a twist to the story. What is riveting about the story is the mystery of the red necklace which the author somehow links to many murders and to the evil Count Kalliovski and how it is vital to Sido's mission. The book also touches on self-discovery in the form of Sido learning of his parentage and trying to come to terms with what it means for him. There is also friendship, loyalty and love in the story.The Red Necklace is not only a tremendous adventure story but a vibrant and passionate picture of Paris in turmoil and of a large cast of memorable characters.