Black holes are perhaps the most fascinating objects that modern astronomy has discovered. They have already become legendary, surrounded by myths and fantasies. Are they truly the monsters in space that threaten stars and everything around them, or are they merely theoretical models arising from relativity that will never have a chance to be discovered? On the journey to answer these questions, the author takes us on a captivating trip through space and time. He explains how stars are born, shine, and ultimately die. He introduces us to the strange world of supernovae, X-ray stars, and quasars. We travel to the edge of the universe and the limits of modern physics. In addition to the two French editions, an English edition is already available.