Rafael Sabatini 
The Gamester 

Once again this is dependable romance and adventure by Sabatini in an historical novel of early 18th century France. The country is virtually bankrupt; John Law wins control of the finances. Here is all the scandal, intrigue, jealousy, rivalry, debauchery, corruption and splendour of the court. The scoundrel Count of Horn tries to make love to Law’s wife. Only after Law faces ruin does he realize that his presumably shrewish wife Catherine, really loves him…