Political and amorous intrigues, cold-blooded murders and financial crises...old-fashioned entertainment! -- San Francisco Chronicle. In 1866, tragedy strikes at the exclusive Windfield School. A young student drowns in a mysterious accident involving a small circle of boys. The drowning and its aftermath initiates a spiraling circle of treachery that will span three de Political and amorous intrigues, cold-blooded murders and financial crises...old-fashioned entertainment! -- San Francisco Chronicle. In 1866, tragedy strikes at the exclusive Windfield School. A young student drowns in a mysterious accident involving a small circle of boys. The drowning and its aftermath initiates a spiraling circle of treachery that will span three decades and entwine many loves. . . From the exclusive mens club and brothels that cater to every dark desire of Londons upper classes to the dazzling ballrooms and mahogany-paneled suites of the manipulators of the worlds wealth, Ken Follett conjures up a stunning array of contrasts. This breathtaking novel portrays a family splintered by lust, bound by a shared legacy. . . men and women swept toward a perilous climax where greed, fed by the shocking truth of a boys death, must be stopped, or not just one mans dreams, but those of a nation, will die. . . Breathlessly plotted. . . relentlessly suspensenseful. -- The New York Times. Gripping, complex plot . . sexual intrigue. . . fascinating characters. . . you wont be able to put down this exciting page-turner! -- Lexington Herald-Leader.