Like all sons of the nobility in 17th-century France, Armand has been trained to defend himself with a rapier. But beyond that, he believes it is his duty to avenge the murder of his father. His quest takes him to Paris as an actor in a prominent group of players, friendship with the famous Cyrano de Bergerac, imprisonment in a castle tower, and ultimately a duel with his father's killer.

Illustrated with 17th-century portraits.

FROM THE REVIEWS:

"Romance, swashbuckling adventure, colorful background and mystery are just a few of the ingredients to round out this exciting historical novel for young readers. . . . The major ingredient that makes this book superior to most historical novels is the addition of French theater history. . . . Boys and girls (and even Moms and Dads) will find this a thrilling story, richly presented particularly with respect to the background of this era in French history." —Baton Rouge, LA Advocate

"Miss Butler sets a fast-paced story in the romantic 17th century. . . . The colorful background of the period and the boy's mastery of the gentleman's weapon of defense make this an enthralling story for the young." —Buffalo, NY Courier Express

"A tension-filled climax . . . in itself makes the novel worth reading. Fresh, unusual, exciting, this book is easily one of the best of the season." —Greensboro, NC News