The moon & the sun - Vonda N McIntyre

In seventeenth-century France, Louis XIV rules with flamboyant ambition. From the Hall of Mirrors to the vermin-infested attics of the Chateau at Versailles, courtiers compete to please the king, sacrificing fortune,principles and sacred bonds.

Here, Marie-Josephe de la Croix looks forward to assisting herbrother, Yves, in the scientific study of the rare sea monster he has captured. But when Marie-Josephe makes a discovery about the sea creature that threatens all her brother, the courtiers and the King understand, it is left to her to defy the institutions that power her world.

But in the decadent court of King Louis, where morality is skewed and corruption reigns - will anyone listen to a single voice? Somehow, she must find the courage to follow her heart and her convictions - even at the cost of changing her life forever.

Vonda N. McIntyre was born 1948 and lived in the USA as well as the Netherlands. She worked as a research scientist and has both taught and studied Creative Writing. She holds a black belt in Aikido and is a founding member of Book View Cafe, an ebook website. She lives in Seattle.

The finest alternate history ever, lighthearted and wise - a luminous, radiant novel
Ursula K. Le Guin

A dazzling and spirited evocation of the passions, intrigues and preconceptions of the age: an enchanting slice of what-if historical speculation
Kirkus

Successfully melds fantasy and alternate history to create a charming, well-written and meticulously researched novel
Fantasy Book Review

'Lyman's account of their feat of endurance and of their comrades' sacrifice will make you feel proud to be British' Daily Express.
Daily Express

'a good read and contains some detail not in previous titles, in particular Hasler and Sparks' escape to Spain with the French resistance' Royal Canoe Club.
Royal Canoe Club