Christopher “Atlas” Novotny arrives at Harvard on a full scholarship, carrying nothing but his talent for painting and the weight of his Czech immigrant family’s hopes. Then he meets his freshman roommate, Lucien Orsini-Conti, a child of privilege, raised in the shadow of European diplomats, who radiates charm and danger.

Timid and solitary, Atlas is dazzled by Lucien’s world of exclusive clubs, late-night parties, and whispered connections. What begins as friendship soon becomes something more insidious. Struggling to keep pace with his roommate’s decadent lifestyle, Atlas agrees to a scheme: using his gift for art to forge masterpieces for profit.

While it's clear to the reader that Lucien is not who he seems, shy and naive Atlas does not recognize the signs of volatility and manipulation. At the culmination of the story, Atlas is faced with a life-defining choice.

Lucien will appeal to readers of The Secret History, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and The Incendiaries. I was utterly sucked in and submerged in the secret party habits of Harvard royalty. #HarperPerennial #lucien #jrthornton