The Châtelet Apprentice

Starred review from October 1, 2013

One dark night just outside Paris, two men dump body parts. An old woman observes. Thus opens an amazing story that leads all the way to Louis XV's court. Now, consider Nicolas Le Floch, the young Parisian police investigator assigned to find a missing police commissioner, Guillaume Lardin. While inexperienced, Nicolas is wise beyond his years. Trusting few--his carefully chosen sidekick, Insp. Pierre Bourdeau is key--Nicolas proceeds. By trial and error, through lies and reexaminations, he discovers that ruthless men and women could have easily conspired to dispose of Guillaume. More important, he learns that state secrets are at stake. Guillaume's fate may be moot, but Nicolas won't rest until he finds the missing documents. Embodying the new idea of evidence-based investigating. Nicolas also exudes heroic instincts. Despite great danger to body and reputation, he perseveres. VERDICT This adventure-laden French historical set in 1761 has long been a best seller in its original French and is finally available in the United States. With swashbuckling style, Parot's prerevolutionary French characters will captivate readers with their sly humor, dastardly deeds, and, yes, honorable intentions. Don't miss!

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.