In the early 20th century, C is for Carrefax, Serge's last name. C is also for carbon, copper, cysteine, and cocaine – all of which he hunts for after a childhood spent abused by his sister and ignored by his father. Haunted by his early years, he struggles with the outside world, which is as troubled as he is. "Brilliant... Each chapter of [his] tour de force is a cryptic, ornate puzzle box."—Publishers Weekly