Bernard Werber lures the reader into his fantasy world with an intriguing murder mystery unlike any other. L'Ultime secret opens as the world-renowned chess player, Dr. Samuel Fincher, is sweating it out in a grueling match against the world champion computer mind, Deep Blue IV. When he finally defeats the computer, thousands of spectators in the auditorium go wild. In a mysterious speech, he alludes to the secret motivational force behind his victory. That very same night, mere hours after his match, Fincher is found dead—in his fiancée’s arms.
Werber’s outlandish and fantastical tale unravels as he introduces us to Isidore and Lucretia, two inquisitive journalists responsible for covering Fincher’s death. It is this clumsy duo who will ultimately solve the mystery.
As Isidore and Lucretia try to uncover clues, we travel back in time and discover Samuel Fincher’s incredible life. We learn that he was the founder of a one-of-a-kind psychiatric hospital in which the patients run the show. We meet Jean-Louis Martin, who was admitted to the hospital after being paralyzed in a car accident. Able to control only one eye, Martin can communicate minimally by blinking once to signify "yes," and twice for "no." Dr. Fincher begins his treatment of Martin by giving him the choice to live or die. If he chooses life, Fincher promises to do everything in his power to make that life as worthwhile as possible. After much reflection, Martin blinks once for yes.
Though paralyzed physically, Martin discovers he can still use the most valuable human tool: his mind. With the use of groundbreaking technology, he eventually gains the strength and knowledge to master not only his own mind, but that of all humans. Using this earth-shattering revelation, he ultimately turns the tables on his own mentor.
In L'Ultime secret, Bernard Werber leads the reader on an unforgettable journey that mixes historical fact, mythology, science-fiction and fantasy. He pushes the limits of human imagination by challenging us to open our minds and come along for this extraordinary ride.