1661 is a year of destiny for France and its young king, Louis XIV. Cardinal Mazarin, the prime minister who has governed throughout the king's early years, lies dying. As a fierce power struggle develops to succeed him, a religious brotherhood, guardian of a centuries old secret, also sees its chance to influence events. Gabriel de Pontbriand, a young actor, becomes unwittingly involved when documents stolen from Mazarin's palace fall into his hands. The coded papers will alter Gabriel's life for ever, and their explosive contents have the power to change the course of history for France and Louis XIV. Fact and fiction combine in a fast-moving story of intrigue, conspiracy and love set in seventeenth century France. AUTHOR: Yves Jego is a member of the French Parliament and is spokesman for Nicolas Sarkozy's party, UMP. Denis Lepee is a local politician and environmental advisor, he is the author of essays on Ernest Hemingway and Winston Churchill. SELLING POINTS Best-selling French novel with sales in France of 20,000 in hardback and 60,000 in paperback. A suspense-filled mystery, a cross between the Three Musketeers and the Da Vinci Code. Vividly portrays Louis XIV 's court and his rise to power. Fictional characters mingle with Moliere, La Fontaine and Colbert.