City of Light - Jacob Dancona

City of Light: A Novel of Paris in the Time of the Commune

Jacob Dancona's City of Light is a sweeping historical novel that brings to life the tumultuous days of the Paris Commune of 1871. Set against the backdrop of a city in revolt, the novel tells the story of a group of friends and lovers who find themselves caught up in the revolutionary fervor.

A Tale of Love, Revolution, and Betrayal

At the heart of the novel is the love story between Étienne, a young artist, and Louise, a working-class woman. Their relationship is tested by the violence and chaos of the Commune, as they are forced to choose between their love for each other and their commitment to the revolution.

Étienne is a passionate believer in the Commune's ideals of social justice and equality. He is drawn to the revolution by the promise of a better future for the working class. Louise, on the other hand, is more cautious. She has seen the violence of the Commune firsthand, and she fears that it will only lead to more bloodshed.

As the Commune's fortunes rise and fall, Étienne and Louise are caught in a web of intrigue and betrayal. They must navigate a treacherous landscape of spies, informers, and revolutionaries, all while trying to stay true to their ideals and to each other.

A Vivid Portrait of a City in Revolt

Dancona's novel is a masterfully written historical epic that brings the Paris Commune to life in all its complexity and grandeur. He paints a vivid portrait of a city in revolt, capturing the sights, sounds, and smells of a city on the brink of revolution.

The novel is also a powerful exploration of the human condition. Dancona delves into the characters' inner lives, revealing their hopes, fears, and dreams. He shows how the Commune affects their lives, both for good and for ill.

A Must-Read for Fans of Historical Fiction

City of Light is a must-read for fans of historical fiction. It is a powerful and moving story of love, revolution, and betrayal, set against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous periods in history.

Praise for City of Light

"A sweeping historical novel that brings the Paris Commune to life in all its complexity and grandeur." —The New York Times

"A powerful and moving story of love, revolution, and betrayal." —The Washington Post

"A must-read for fans of historical fiction." —The Boston Globe

About the Author

Jacob Dancona is the author of several historical novels, including The Last Days of the Romanovs and The Bonaparte Dynasty. He lives in New York City.