Helpful Score: 4
This historical novel had a really promising subject in Daine de Poitiers, the elegant, highly sophisticated mistress of King Henri III of France. A tastemaker of her time, and a noted beauty and charmer, this lady caused one of the most beautiful chateaux in France to be built, Anet. The book appears well-researched, and it's very detailed in its recreation of the French court and the clothing and objects and rooms of its time. It's got some sexy moments. (Henri's wife drilled a peephole in the floor of her apartment so she could spy on him making love with Diane. Creepy!) However, I found it a bit of a heavy slog, perhaps because of all the beautiful period details. The All About Romance Web site rated this a Desert Island Keeper, their highest rating.
Helpful Score: 2
The story and historical information were interesting, but the writing style was weak (overblown prose) and got on my nerves after a while. Still, I finished it and enjoyed it
Helpful Score: 1
I own over 2000 books and this is one of my favorites...very detailed historical romance. I love a story that takes a bit of hisory and weaves romance into a wonderful tale of usual lovers. A great read.
Helpful Score: 1
Very good read. I enjoyed the entire book. Most stories told about Diane de Poitiers show her as something of a power seeking cougar. This book shows the great love she bears for Henri and the hard decisions she had to make between following her heart and doing what was expected of her by society. I especially enjoyed the way the book showed the relationship between Catherine de Medici and Henri and Diane. The author did a wonderful job of showing the intertwining of these three's lives. I loved the book and could hardly put it down.
