History of the Thirteen

In this trilogy, Auguste de Maulincour's secret love leads him into a web of intrigue, revealing the dark underbelly of Parisian society. The History of the Thirteen unfolds with suspense.

The History of the Thirteen is a captivating trilogy penned by Honoré de Balzac, comprising three interconnected stories: Ferragus, La Duchesse de Langeais, and The Girl with the Golden Eyes. Set in the early 1820s, the narrative unfolds in a Parisian district known for its dubious reputation, immersing readers in a world of intrigue and passion. The central character, Auguste de Maulincour, is a young cavalry officer whose life takes a dramatic turn as he becomes entangled in the lives of enigmatic and powerful figures.

As Auguste roams the streets of Paris, he is drawn to a young married woman named Clemence, who captures his heart from a distance. His infatuation leads him down a path of discovery, where he learns of the hidden secrets that govern the lives of the city's elite. The History of the Thirteen intricately weaves themes of love, ambition, and danger, as Auguste navigates a treacherous landscape filled with deception and peril.

Throughout the trilogy, Balzac masterfully explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal status. As Auguste faces numerous assassination attempts, the stakes rise, and the tension builds. The History of the Thirteen is not only a tale of romance but also a profound commentary on the nature of power and its consequences in a rapidly changing world.