The Baroque Cycle

The first book in the Baroque Cycle, 'Quicksilver' introduces readers to the world of 17th-century Europe through the eyes of Daniel Waterhouse, a young man caught between the old world of alchemy and the new world of science. The narrative explores the scientific revolution, the rise of the Royal Society, and the socio-political upheaval of the time. It features a broad cast including Isaac Newton and other historical figures, blending fact with fiction.

In 'The Confusion', the second installment of the Baroque Cycle, the narrative expands to include the adventures of characters from the first book, while introducing new protagonists. The story traverses Europe, the Caribbean, and the emerging American colonies, interweaving the tales of piracy, trade, and the burgeoning financial systems of the time. The complexity of the narrative highlights the confusion of loyalties and identities during a time of tremendous change.

The concluding volume, 'The System of the World', brings resolution to the multifaceted plots and character arcs established in the previous books. As the characters confront the realities of their ambitions and the consequences of their actions, the story delves into the political intrigues of the time, including the establishment of the Bank of England and the conflicts between England and France. Themes of power, knowledge, and destiny culminate in a grand finale that ties together the fates of the characters.