Rook

Cameron, Sharon. Rook. 2015. 464p. ISBN 9780545675994.

When solar flares destroyed the technology that humans relied on for life, work, and entertainment, the world was once again plunged in the Dark Ages. Over eight hundred years have passed since plastics and electronics were in common usage. Humans adapted to this pre-modern lifestyle. In the Sunken City once called Paris, a new government opposed to technology such as the printing press has taken over. The minister of security, Leblanc, is a devotee of Faith, and leaves many of his most important decisions to randomness. The government has arrested and imprisoned hundreds of people in the infamous Sunken City prison.

Sophia Bellamy is ready to go through an arranged marriage to save the fortunes of her family. Her father dilapidated their earnings, and her brother just suffered an accident that threatens his livelihood. It is up to Sophia to get a dowry that will cover the family's expenses and allow them to retain control of their estate. Her marriage to René Hasard, from the Sunken City, will provide enough funds, but he is conceited and, aside from being beautiful, doesn't really bring much to the table intellectually. Sophia also has a secret she needs to hide. She's the infamous Red Rook, the person who has infiltrated the prison of the Sunken City and rescued countless individuals who were condemned to death by the guillotine, leaving behind nothing but a red feather. And René is cousin to Leblanc. Could he be an agent sent to rout her out?

Engaged in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, Sophia must plan to rescue her brother from Leblanc's clutches while discovering what René's endgame is without falling completely in love with him. She's about to be real busy!

Inspired by the Scarlet Pimpernel and the French Revolution, Rook explores issues of social violence and moral dilemmas. Both characters have secrets they are trying to hide, and though it is rather long, the story is a good allegory of the times that followed the collapse of the French monarchy in the 1780s.