Most books on the "Great Terror" are page after page of dry text. This book takes you onto the streets of Paris and into the mind of Danton, Marat, Corday and all the other players, describing no only their actions but also their history and the events that made them who they became.

Do not make the mistake of starting the final two chapters leading to 9 Thermidor (24 July) late in the evening. If you do, there is a good chance you will be up all night. In particular, the character, actions and plain bravery of Joseph Fouche, the greatest survivor in history, will leave you in awe. I recommend that while you read you have an interactive map at hand so you can walk the dense center of Paris with the actual participants.