Les Pardaillan — Tome 03: La Fausta

''Les Pardaillan — Tome 03 : La Fausta'' by Michel Zévaco is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a tumultuous period of French history, filled with intrigue, romance, and tragedy, centering on the life of the main character, Léonore, who becomes embroiled in dangerous political and personal conflicts due to her forbidden love for Jean, Duc de Kervilliers. The opening of the novel sets a dramatic tone, beginning with a prologue that introduces Léonore, the only child of Baron de Montaigues, as she grapples with the news of her pregnancy—an event that shrouds her in shame and despair. Just as she contemplates her future with her lover, Jean, a mysterious message reveals that he may never marry her, leaving Léonore in a state of panic and heartbreak. As the story progresses, we see her caught in a series of tragic events leading to her arrest and a public execution, where her lover is revealed to be a powerful figure within the church. The opening of the book deftly establishes the central conflicts and emotional stakes, hinting at themes of love, sacrifice, and the relentless grip of fate amidst the backdrop of historical upheaval.