City of Light, City of Poison: Murder, Magic, and the First Police Chief of Paris

Uncover the dark secrets lurking beneath the glittering surface of 17th-century Paris in Holly Tucker's captivating true-crime narrative, *City of Light, City of Poison: Murder, Magic, and the First Police Chief of Paris*. This meticulously researched book transports you to a time of unprecedented social upheaval, where the opulent court of Louis XIV masks a seething underworld of vice, witchcraft, and political intrigue. Enter Nicolas de La Reynie, a man handpicked by the Sun King himself to tame the "crime capital of the world." Paris, a city notorious for its squalor and lawlessness, is about to undergo a dramatic transformation. La Reynie, a pragmatic and principled figure, embarks on a mission to not only cleanse the streets of filth and install the iconic lanterns that would earn Paris its famous moniker "City of Light," but also to confront a rising tide of deadly crime. Tucker masterfully weaves a tale of conspiracy and retribution, drawing upon thousands of pages of original court transcripts, La Reynie's meticulous notes, personal letters, and diaries. These historical documents bring to life a cast of fascinating, real-life characters, from cunning poisoners and renegade priests to power-hungry nobles and the king's own mistresses. As La Reynie delves deeper into his investigations, he unearths a tightly knit cabal operating within the city's shadowy underbelly, where black magic and deadly potions are employed to settle scores and manipulate the levers of power. The line between the glittering world of Versailles and the criminal dens of Paris blurs as La Reynie discovers that even the most esteemed members of the court are not immune to the allure of the dark arts. As the investigation intensifies, La Reynie is faced with a series of moral dilemmas. How far will he go to protect his king? Can he expose the truth without jeopardizing the stability of the monarchy? And what role, if any, do the king's mistresses play in this dangerous game of poison and power? *City of Light, City of Poison* is more than just a true-crime story; it's a vivid portrait of a city on the cusp of modernity, a world where science and superstition collide, and where the pursuit of justice often comes at a steep price. Holly Tucker, a renowned historian and scholar, brings her expertise and passion to this gripping narrative, offering readers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in Parisian history. The book includes 8 pages of illustrations and a map to further immerse you in the world of 17th century Paris. Perfect for fans of true crime, historical mysteries, and anyone fascinated by the dark side of the City of Lights. Experience the chilling reality behind the glamour and intrigue of Louis XIV's court in this expertly crafted and utterly compelling historical thriller.