This historical novel by Dumas is full of intrigue, love, jealousy and obsession. In 17th-century Holland, the best flower-growers are competing to grow a black tulip, and win a prize of 100,000 florins. Cornelius van Baerle is rich and successful. He grows beautiful tulips and is confident he will win. But unknown to him, his jealous neighbour spies on him constantly and is plotting his downfall. These are dangerious times and there is much political intrigue. Following the brutal murder of his uncles, Cornelius is suddenly thrown into prison and his life is in danger. What now?