The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B.

While in France, I read this trilogy on the life of Josephine Bonaparte.  Born in Martinique, Rose Tascher was quickly whipped away to France as a teen because her looks and intelligence made her the perfect candidate for a marriage which would elevate her parents' lifestyle back in Martinique.

Marry she did, and she produced a boy and a girl for her first husband...

Using primary sources,  the author weaves the life of "Josephine" (renamed thus by Bonaparte), in the first person through her journal entries and letters.  This historically acurate novel teaches the French revolution and the rise of the napoleonic empire in a way that captivates and entertains the reader.  Through the eyes of Josephine, the horror of the revolution is brought to the forefront, and the story of Josephine is one of a strong-willed, kind and generous yet spoiled woman way ahead of her time.

For it's educational and entertainment value, I give Sandry Gulland's trilogy 4 stars out of 5. 

Bon dimanche,

Stella

Check out my Pinterest board on Bonaparte and Josephine  here.