Newton and the Counterfeiter, By Thomas Levenson

Thomas Levenson's account of Isaac Newton's period of employment as master of the Royal Mint has Newton accepting the post in order to get out of Cambridge after his theory of gravity made him famous. A private, anti-social workaholic, he was nevertheless not immune to the flattery of fame, and wanted to mix in the throng just a little more. He may have taken on more than he bargained for, as the job required him not only to answer the problem of Britain's silver coin shortage but to chase criminals and forgers as well. But he proved a superb choice: ruthless and persistent.

The master forger William Chaloner, who was actually advising the Mint when Newton was appointed, became Newton's nemesis. Thomas Levenson wants this to be a tale of two brilliant men pitted against each other, but the extensive scientific exposition – necessary though it is – does hamper the drama of the story.