The Confusion. Volume II of the Baroque Cycle

About “The Confusion. Volume II of the Baroque Cycle”

In 1689, a group of Barbary galley slaves, including Jack Shaftoe—a former vagabond and now cured of the pox—plots to gain freedom and fortune. Their adventure involves battles, escapes, and a race for a legendary gold prize, placing them against powerful enemies across the globe. Meanwhile, Eliza, an intelligent and resourceful countess, loses her fortune and is caught in international intrigue as she searches for her child. She faces threats from those who want her or her head. At the same time, Newton and Leibniz clash over their scientific theories, alchemy battles science, and political and personal conflicts unfold. Daniel Waterhouse tries to escape the chaos by seeking passage to the Massachusetts colony. This 2004 novel by Neal Stephenson continues the story begun in Quicksilver.