The mysterious appearance of a priceless masterpiece by Raphael sets off a chain of events that travel all the way to the hallowed halls of Harvard University, where they entangle Professor Clara Brindini in a web of political intrigue and murder. After a series of gruesome murders, Clara finds herself holding the key to a seventy year old mystery. She also finds herself the target of a diabolical killer and a sinister F.B.I. agent. Forced to leave her career and all that matters to her behind, Clara embarks on a dangerous journey to learn who is behind the murders and why. She is joined in her quest by the enigmatic millionaire David Landon, and the two embark on a high stakes adventure that will take them to the city of Bogotá, Colombia, where Clara confronts a group of brutal conspirators who will stop at nothing to get their hands on the Raphael. Facing certain death, Clara must call upon all her courage and wits to survive. Packed with a diverse cast of characters and ingenious plot twists, The Machiavellian combines art, murder, and international intrigue in a work of entertaining fiction.