Zarafa steals the heart, which is not surprising when you realize that she charmed all of France, including Charles X, the greatest scientists of her day, and the French people en masse. The book acts as a brief history of the Enlightenment, bringing to life such figures as the viceroy of Egypt, the first "Egyptologists" (otherwise known as grave-robbers and plunderers), Napoleon himself, and the preeminent French naturalist of his day, Saint-Hilaire. Zarafa's relationship to all of these figures, and the sweetness with which she conquers France, makes a fascinating and sometimes poignant read. Allin has done his homework, and his affection for Zarafa makes the book much more than a dry history text.