February 11, 2023
Before Versailles by Karleen Koen
Louis XIV, later known as the Sun King, became king of France at the age of 21. He was surrounded by a court of dashing young men and beautiful young women. Louis married a Spanish infanta who spoke little French and preferred praying and embroidering to dancing and socializing, leaving Louis and his brother Philippe (known as Monsieur) to hunt, feast, party and engage in romantic intrigue. Louis is at first attracted to his brother's wife, Henriette, but realizes that it is taboo for him to take his brother's wife as his mistress. Louis' first mistress, Louise de la Valliere, came to court to be a lady in waiting to Henriette, and Louis was soon attracted to the lovely modest girl.
The story takes place over four months of Louis' reign. Very good historical fiction, well researched, recommended especially for readers who enjoy historical fiction about royalty.
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