This is an engrossing tale of love and obsession set during the final days of the French Revolution. Evariste Gamelin, the main protagonist harbours a deep desire to do the right thing for the good of France and its people. Accepting a post as magistrate enables him to dispense justice to those he believes do not share his ideals. But it is soon clear his passion has escalated out of control into obsession. No longer capable of judging right from wrong he becomes, in the words of his mother, "a monster". And his justice is no longer confined to those brought before him at Tribunal, but encompasses perceived wrongs committed by his family, fiancée, neighbours and friends. He saves no one and this ultimately includes himself.

Gamelin is one of a number of memorable, if not all likeable, characters in the book, including his fiancée Eloide. As his fanaticism escalates, so does her revulsion for both him and herself as his increasing cruelty ignites desire in her.

Give this little gem a go - you won't regret it.

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