I've always been a big fan of Alexandre Dumas and this book has many themes woven into: love, jealousy, honesty and courage. The story is set in 1672 and revolves around Dr. Cornelius Van Baerle who has been wrongy imprisoned, and his journey of sheer courage to see his dream in creating a black tulip become a reality. Cornelius is indifferent to politics so is unaware that his godfather and namesake Cornelius de Witt and his brother Johan are in deep trouble with the supporters of William of Orange, the new Stadhouder of Holland. Nor does Cornelius realise that he inadvertently made an enemy of his next door neighbour, rival tulip breeder Isaac Boxtel. So it comes as a complete surprise to Cornelius when he is arrested for treason and sentenced to death. He is helped by his jailer's daughter Rosa Gryphus, who becomes the love of his life. These characters show such devotion to each other and impress by their courage to face hardships and cruelty together. Rosa is a wonderful heroine, who drives through all obstacles with a strength of steel, never yielding and finally ensuring justice is done to her beloved. At the beginning of the novel, Dumas warns the reader that he must begin with some historical background, so if you're anxious for the action and romance like I was, you need to be patient. Beautiful story giving a thorough explanation of Dutch politics and culture, a Stark difference from many of Dumas' other works. Quote: "Sometimes one has suffered enough to have the right to never say: I am too happy."
Thank you. A wonderful review and precise of the story. I remember as a child the BBC adapted this book into a Sunday serial. It was well acted and I thought what a good tale.
