A Start in Life

Set against the bustling streets of early nineteenth‑century Paris, the story opens with a vivid portrait of a world on the brink of transformation. As railways loom on the horizon, the venerable coach lines of the Touchard family clash with the nimble “coucous” that still criss‑cross the suburbs, each vying for the loyalty of travelers who cherish both speed and familiarity. The narrative sketches the lively rivalry between grand enterprises and the modest innkeepers who run their own modest stages, painting a lively picture of a society in flux.

Amid this bustling backdrop, a young man named Pierrotin finds his own aspirations thwarted by the very changes reshaping the city. Though surrounded by opportunity, he feels a crucial piece of his happiness missing, prompting him to navigate the tangled routes of ambition, love, and the shifting fortunes of the transport world. His journey promises both personal discovery and a glimpse into the everyday lives of those who built and rode the era’s fleeting carriages.