Neal Stephenson continues his remarkable Baroque Cycle in this follow-up to the bestseller Quicksilver, bringing to life an array of unforgettable characters in an era of astonishing intelligence and discoveries. It is the late 1600s, on the open seas. A group of Barbary galley slaves are plotting as they toil for a pirate ship, devising a daring plan to find a vast stash of Spanish gold. Incredibly, they succeed - leaving behind some very disgruntled men who swear to hunt the rebels down and bring them to justice, whatever the cost. Meanwhile, back in France, the beautiful Eliza - the diva of Versailles and an exceptional spy - tries to return to London with her baby, whose paternity is shrouded in mystery. As she attempts to make her way home, her ship is stopped by a French pirate and returned to the court of the Sun King. Caught in a web of international intrigue, Eliza must contend with all sorts of characters, including pirates, poisoners, Jesuits, financial manipulators, and even a couple of wandering cryptographers...

Pages: 832, Dimensions: 13x13cm