Newton's Cannon by J. Gregory Keyes

Newton's Cannon, by J. Gregory Keyes, is the first book in the "Age of Unreason" series.  The series, published by Del Rey in the late 1990's and early 2000's is definitely one that you will want to read.

The first book introduces the reader to a cast of character that will at first seem very familiar, as it is filled with a host of characters from world history.  However, these characters are very different than their historical accounts, and Keyes blends historical accuracy with fantasy imagination to create some very unique story lines.

Familiar names such as Benjamin Franklin and Blackbeard are sure to catch the reader's eyes, but the way the characters are developed will keep those eyes riveted.  London and France are at way, and the depiction of events with the mix of alchemy, mythology, fantasy, and science leads the reader far from the original historical path.

The first book has murder, alchemy, and intrigue, as individuals from around the globe find their paths interwoven, with disaster potentially around every corner.

This book, and this series, is a must read.