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Numinous World #4
The General's Mistress
Liberté, Egalité, Sensualité.
As a spirit of change overturns Europe’s old order, strong-willed Elzelina Versfelt enters her own age of revolution. Married as a romantic young girl to a man who wanted only her money, but neither loves nor desires her, Elza refuses to be chained any longer. Leaving Amsterdam, her marriage, and her home, she flees to France—where the old rules no longer apply, debauchery is not a sin...and nothing is forbidden.
Yet Elza finds herself bound in a new way, to the ambitious General Moreau. And while they share pleasure, pain, and carnal adventures, she dreams of another man, an unruly red-haired soldier she first saw in the promise of a Tarot card. Drawn by this half-real, half-imagined hero, Elza defies her relationship with Moreau, and begins a perilous search across war-torn Europe. But will this woman with the instincts of a survivor, the passion of a courtesan, and the gift of second sight ever find the destiny for which she has risked it all?
This stunning novel blends history with the language of the heart to tell a sensual story of an era of upheaval...and of the clamoring, dangerous desires of a woman’s soul.
As a spirit of change overturns Europe’s old order, strong-willed Elzelina Versfelt enters her own age of revolution. Married as a romantic young girl to a man who wanted only her money, but neither loves nor desires her, Elza refuses to be chained any longer. Leaving Amsterdam, her marriage, and her home, she flees to France—where the old rules no longer apply, debauchery is not a sin...and nothing is forbidden.
Yet Elza finds herself bound in a new way, to the ambitious General Moreau. And while they share pleasure, pain, and carnal adventures, she dreams of another man, an unruly red-haired soldier she first saw in the promise of a Tarot card. Drawn by this half-real, half-imagined hero, Elza defies her relationship with Moreau, and begins a perilous search across war-torn Europe. But will this woman with the instincts of a survivor, the passion of a courtesan, and the gift of second sight ever find the destiny for which she has risked it all?
This stunning novel blends history with the language of the heart to tell a sensual story of an era of upheaval...and of the clamoring, dangerous desires of a woman’s soul.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2012
3 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 14, 2012
Just a quick note first, because I know that a lot of parents and kids read my reviews: this is definitely a book written for adults, not for kids. I usually don't review the adults-only books that I read here on Goodreads, because I don't want to offend any of those readers.
However, I was thrilled to win an ARC of this book, after loving Jo Graham's earlier adult historical fantasy novels, and part of the deal was that I agreed to review it publicly. So, with that warning out of the way...
*4.5 stars*
The tagline on the back says "Girl With a Pearl Earring meets Dangerous Liaisons", and that's a pretty accurate tagline in terms of genre. This is a very, very steamy historical novel, and an absolutely delicious one. It's based on the memoirs of a real woman in the Napoleonic era who left behind her unhappy marriage in the Netherlands to become the mistress of a high-ranking French general, and then embarked on a series of adventures across Europe as a courtesan, actress, medium, and footman, in various guises.
The erotic scenes are explicit and frequent, but her other adventures are just as compelling, and I loved the lushness of the historical setting. It's a fascinating historical era, and Jo Graham conveys it beautifully.
Elza is a fabulous heroine, whether she's calling herself Ida St. Elme, as an actress/courtesan, or whether she's calling herself Charles Van Aylde, in her crossdressing alternate identity, which starts as a mere tool and then becomes an important part of her life. There's also a compelling romance plot across the novel, with a man who understands and connects with both parts of her fluid identity.
Unlike Jo Graham's earlier novels, which were published in the sf/f section of the bookstore, this one is being published as a mainstream historical novel. However, there's still a strong subplot of the fantastic, in her Tarot readings and her sense of connection to earlier eras and past lives. It's all linked in to Graham's earlier novels (Graham's characters surface again and again across the centuries, reincarnated in different genders and circumstances), but I don't think you need to have read any of the earlier novels to follow Elza's wary half-recognition of the people she's met in her life before, in different eras.
Mostly, this is just a gorgeously written historical novel with an incredibly compelling heroine and a really strong voice. Because of the amount of explicit erotic content, I couldn't recommend it to everybody I know, but if you enjoy (or don't mind) that kind of content, I definitely would recommend it...and I'm really hoping that a sequel will be published, so that I can find out where Elza's adventures took her afterwards.
However, I was thrilled to win an ARC of this book, after loving Jo Graham's earlier adult historical fantasy novels, and part of the deal was that I agreed to review it publicly. So, with that warning out of the way...
*4.5 stars*
The tagline on the back says "Girl With a Pearl Earring meets Dangerous Liaisons", and that's a pretty accurate tagline in terms of genre. This is a very, very steamy historical novel, and an absolutely delicious one. It's based on the memoirs of a real woman in the Napoleonic era who left behind her unhappy marriage in the Netherlands to become the mistress of a high-ranking French general, and then embarked on a series of adventures across Europe as a courtesan, actress, medium, and footman, in various guises.
The erotic scenes are explicit and frequent, but her other adventures are just as compelling, and I loved the lushness of the historical setting. It's a fascinating historical era, and Jo Graham conveys it beautifully.
Elza is a fabulous heroine, whether she's calling herself Ida St. Elme, as an actress/courtesan, or whether she's calling herself Charles Van Aylde, in her crossdressing alternate identity, which starts as a mere tool and then becomes an important part of her life. There's also a compelling romance plot across the novel, with a man who understands and connects with both parts of her fluid identity.
Unlike Jo Graham's earlier novels, which were published in the sf/f section of the bookstore, this one is being published as a mainstream historical novel. However, there's still a strong subplot of the fantastic, in her Tarot readings and her sense of connection to earlier eras and past lives. It's all linked in to Graham's earlier novels (Graham's characters surface again and again across the centuries, reincarnated in different genders and circumstances), but I don't think you need to have read any of the earlier novels to follow Elza's wary half-recognition of the people she's met in her life before, in different eras.
Mostly, this is just a gorgeously written historical novel with an incredibly compelling heroine and a really strong voice. Because of the amount of explicit erotic content, I couldn't recommend it to everybody I know, but if you enjoy (or don't mind) that kind of content, I definitely would recommend it...and I'm really hoping that a sequel will be published, so that I can find out where Elza's adventures took her afterwards.
December 21, 2016
I've read (and loved) all of Jo Graham's previous books. Unlike Stealing Fire and The Black Ships, which I would call historical fantasy, The General's Mistress is more of a romance novel, although as I found out at the end, it's based on a real woman. The book is based on the memoirs of Ida St. Elme, a name that Elzalina takes over the course of her many adventures. Elza runs away from her husband, who had kidnapped and married her when she was 12. She runs off with General Moreau, and is his partner, mistress and companion for 3 years, until he wrongly believes that she has cuckolded him with a rival general, Michel Ney. Over the years Elza/Ida is an actress, prostitute, soldier, courtesan and has encounters with the likes of Napoleon and others.
Mixed into the story are some pretty steamy sex scenes (she is a courtesan after all!) and a few moments of otherworldly visions (has she known Michel Ney in another life? Is she really seeing the future). Some of her visions are from previous books, which I found to be a little silly, but if you haven't read the other books, you won't even notice.
I'm generally not a romance reader, but this book has enough history, and action as well as an interesting main character, who just wants to be free to do the things she wants to do, to own property and have her own funds rather than be dependent on a man for everything. Romance readers will love it!
Mixed into the story are some pretty steamy sex scenes (she is a courtesan after all!) and a few moments of otherworldly visions (has she known Michel Ney in another life? Is she really seeing the future). Some of her visions are from previous books, which I found to be a little silly, but if you haven't read the other books, you won't even notice.
I'm generally not a romance reader, but this book has enough history, and action as well as an interesting main character, who just wants to be free to do the things she wants to do, to own property and have her own funds rather than be dependent on a man for everything. Romance readers will love it!
November 17, 2012
First off, I really loved Jo Graham's books Black Ships, Hand of Isis, and Stealing Fire. The General's Mistress however, threw me for a loop. Her previous books were steeped in mysticism and the pantheon of the Greek, Roman and Egyptian gods. There was some level of sensuality in the story, but it didn't overpower anything. The General's Mistress read more like an 19th century Fifty Shades of Grey at first. Being thrown by the very overt sexuality of the main character, I had to think that this was done purposefully. Not to compete with E.L. James but because the character is actually based on a real person who left behind letters and her own diaries, and in serving as a courtesan for some of the most powerful men in Europe, her life would be one that revolved around sex.
After I got over my initial shock, I began to really like the main character. She was spunky, resourceful, and accepting of her sexuality. The freedom's she found in dressing as a man and becoming a courtesan reflect the freedoms that were personified by the French Revolution. As a woman she could own property, she could have her own bank account, and as a man she could move freely and belonged to no one. Part biography and part exploration of freedom this novel really explores what it means to be alive and in charge of your own fate. Graham's descriptions of clothes and society make it feel like you are actually experiencing everything Elza is.
Graham's writing is also quite steamy. If you enjoyed Fifty Shades of Grey, then this might be your next book if you like historical fiction. My problem with FSoG is that the writing was not very good and the book went on much too long. Graham keeps the interactions short and sweet, and knows just when to move the plot along without dragging the reader down in mindless details or inner monologues.
My only problem with the book was that it felt like something was missing. Her previous novels had all had mysticism play a big part in the character's life, but here the interactions Elza has with the Archangel Michel and other spiritual elements feel like they are unconnected and could have been left out. I know that this was probably done intentionally because of how her previous books had ended but I think the book would have read better without them. I also wish I knew more of what happened to her father and what is lurking in the walls at her mother's house. It felt like there could have been so much more said about Elza's life before she ran away, but maybe that means I should track down the actual diaries and letters of Ida St. Elme and learn more about the great lady from her own hand.
After I got over my initial shock, I began to really like the main character. She was spunky, resourceful, and accepting of her sexuality. The freedom's she found in dressing as a man and becoming a courtesan reflect the freedoms that were personified by the French Revolution. As a woman she could own property, she could have her own bank account, and as a man she could move freely and belonged to no one. Part biography and part exploration of freedom this novel really explores what it means to be alive and in charge of your own fate. Graham's descriptions of clothes and society make it feel like you are actually experiencing everything Elza is.
Graham's writing is also quite steamy. If you enjoyed Fifty Shades of Grey, then this might be your next book if you like historical fiction. My problem with FSoG is that the writing was not very good and the book went on much too long. Graham keeps the interactions short and sweet, and knows just when to move the plot along without dragging the reader down in mindless details or inner monologues.
My only problem with the book was that it felt like something was missing. Her previous novels had all had mysticism play a big part in the character's life, but here the interactions Elza has with the Archangel Michel and other spiritual elements feel like they are unconnected and could have been left out. I know that this was probably done intentionally because of how her previous books had ended but I think the book would have read better without them. I also wish I knew more of what happened to her father and what is lurking in the walls at her mother's house. It felt like there could have been so much more said about Elza's life before she ran away, but maybe that means I should track down the actual diaries and letters of Ida St. Elme and learn more about the great lady from her own hand.
October 30, 2012
Well, as much as I liked Jo Graham's other novels this one was just not for me. I asked for it immediately from the library without hesitation. I should have read more about it before reading it. If the description isn't enough to clue you in let me forewarn you that the book contains a rather large dose of sex that includes some elements of dominance without going to S&M types of things. It also includes some gender confusion and addresses ideas of homosexuality regarding that. This is not content that I seek out or particularly enjoy reading.
I felt a little better after reading that this is based on memoirs of the actual woman so it is probably fairly realistic and as a courtesan obviously Elza would have dealt with a lot of sexual encounters. The author claims that recounting all these encounters is necessary to tell the story of this woman because it shows her character development. I'm a little unclear about what exactly that is. The best I can come up with is that she becomes less constrained and even begins to be the dominant one sexually. She also comes to embrace her masculine nature of "Charles" and finds that her lover can, too. Elza is also mysteriously drawn to a general she meets only once and this occupies a lot of her time as she thinks about him and finally reconnects with him. The other main plot is that Elza has some sort of larger purpose which is communicated to her when she accesses her past lives and memories. Unfortunately I have no idea what that purpose is because it is never explained. Elza also feels glimpses of the past and the future (similar to past novels). Apparently, I should read the sequel to this book in order to find satisfaction because this novel does not really answer any questions. However, since the interview at the end of the novel already ruined the ending of one of the characters I'm thinking that I'm not going to bother. I will leave it with the ending being happy for this novel and probably forget the details of the book in a couple of months.
For someone who knows nothing about the historical woman, this just was not satisfying for me. I understand why it took 20 years to publish this because I think Shades of Grey has now made novels such as this more publishable given its content. It was largely a disappointment for me.
I felt a little better after reading that this is based on memoirs of the actual woman so it is probably fairly realistic and as a courtesan obviously Elza would have dealt with a lot of sexual encounters. The author claims that recounting all these encounters is necessary to tell the story of this woman because it shows her character development. I'm a little unclear about what exactly that is. The best I can come up with is that she becomes less constrained and even begins to be the dominant one sexually. She also comes to embrace her masculine nature of "Charles" and finds that her lover can, too. Elza is also mysteriously drawn to a general she meets only once and this occupies a lot of her time as she thinks about him and finally reconnects with him. The other main plot is that Elza has some sort of larger purpose which is communicated to her when she accesses her past lives and memories. Unfortunately I have no idea what that purpose is because it is never explained. Elza also feels glimpses of the past and the future (similar to past novels). Apparently, I should read the sequel to this book in order to find satisfaction because this novel does not really answer any questions. However, since the interview at the end of the novel already ruined the ending of one of the characters I'm thinking that I'm not going to bother. I will leave it with the ending being happy for this novel and probably forget the details of the book in a couple of months.
For someone who knows nothing about the historical woman, this just was not satisfying for me. I understand why it took 20 years to publish this because I think Shades of Grey has now made novels such as this more publishable given its content. It was largely a disappointment for me.
October 10, 2018
I enjoyed this book for so many reasons. First of all, loved the heroine. I read in the interview with author at the end of the book, that she had problem publishing the novel, because the publishers considered Ida unlikable. I thought she was cool: strong and unapologetic. I looks so long to read a book with main character who isn’t shy and inexperienced innocent. True, this is just a beginning of her story. The biggest part of the book Ida goes with the flow, letting the tide to shape her life. But I enjoyed following how she builds herself and takes control over her life. I can’t wait to read more about her exploits. All her alter ego are fun in their own way: Elsa, Ida and especially Charles.
I loved how Graham writes historical atmosphere. The book is so detailed, that it feels highly realistic. Most of the books written about early 19th century set in England with Napoleon as villain. It felt so fresh to read book from French Republican perspective. In addition, I loved feminist side of the story. The book shows quite well, what it meant to be a woman in this period. And what changes, as small as they are, revolution brought for women. Also, I liked how the author portraits non-binary bisexual character in times when those concepts didn’t exist. I enjoyed eroticism in the story. Sexual expression is part of Ida’s personality; this is how she experience the world. Hot scenes were very well written and pleasantly realistic. So many romance writers write those scenes as some female fantasy, which always feels “that not how people do it”. The romance part was awesome. I loved her love interest. He was both perfect and flawed. Just like her. The greatest part in this love story how receptive Michel of both Ida’s personalities. He loves and desires both Elsa and Charles . The weakest part of the story is the metaphysical one. However, there was little of that, and I didn’t feel I was missing anything because I didn’t read first 3 books.
I loved how Graham writes historical atmosphere. The book is so detailed, that it feels highly realistic. Most of the books written about early 19th century set in England with Napoleon as villain. It felt so fresh to read book from French Republican perspective. In addition, I loved feminist side of the story. The book shows quite well, what it meant to be a woman in this period. And what changes, as small as they are, revolution brought for women. Also, I liked how the author portraits non-binary bisexual character in times when those concepts didn’t exist. I enjoyed eroticism in the story. Sexual expression is part of Ida’s personality; this is how she experience the world. Hot scenes were very well written and pleasantly realistic. So many romance writers write those scenes as some female fantasy, which always feels “that not how people do it”. The romance part was awesome. I loved her love interest. He was both perfect and flawed. Just like her. The greatest part in this love story how receptive Michel of both Ida’s personalities. He loves and desires both Elsa and Charles . The weakest part of the story is the metaphysical one. However, there was little of that, and I didn’t feel I was missing anything because I didn’t read first 3 books.
January 4, 2014
In short - bad softcore porn. Contains none of the things that drew me to the series in the first place.
I realize any book about a... well, prostitute... is going to contain sex. I realize any book which has the tagline "Liberté, Egalité, Sensualité" is going to contain sex. But... seriously? Could we do with a little less sex in this one? I can't possibly take any more reading about women's "pearls". If I ever call any of my body parts anything like that, I would like each and every single one of you who reads this to hit me as hard as you can. Seriously, it read like a bad romance novel. (At least she stuck with terms like "phallus" instead of the creative things some people use, like "throbbing love rod".)
Each book in this series I have enjoyed less than the previous one. That trend got even worse with this one. There was almost none of the mysticism and spiritualism that made the first three novels enjoyable. Perhaps that comes from the more modern setting (Revolutionary France, rather than the ancient Mediterranean world), but I felt the novel suffered badly as a result. Sure, there are allusions to Elza/Ida's previous lives, but they aren't compelling on their own. Also, because Ida St. Elme is an actual historical figure who left behind her own writings, using her as the obvious (and acknowledged) inspiration for this one probably had an affect there too.
Even better? Apparently the fifth novel in this series is a continuation of this one. I don't think I'll be reading it.
I realize any book about a... well, prostitute... is going to contain sex. I realize any book which has the tagline "Liberté, Egalité, Sensualité" is going to contain sex. But... seriously? Could we do with a little less sex in this one? I can't possibly take any more reading about women's "pearls". If I ever call any of my body parts anything like that, I would like each and every single one of you who reads this to hit me as hard as you can. Seriously, it read like a bad romance novel. (At least she stuck with terms like "phallus" instead of the creative things some people use, like "throbbing love rod".)
Each book in this series I have enjoyed less than the previous one. That trend got even worse with this one. There was almost none of the mysticism and spiritualism that made the first three novels enjoyable. Perhaps that comes from the more modern setting (Revolutionary France, rather than the ancient Mediterranean world), but I felt the novel suffered badly as a result. Sure, there are allusions to Elza/Ida's previous lives, but they aren't compelling on their own. Also, because Ida St. Elme is an actual historical figure who left behind her own writings, using her as the obvious (and acknowledged) inspiration for this one probably had an affect there too.
Even better? Apparently the fifth novel in this series is a continuation of this one. I don't think I'll be reading it.
August 27, 2014
The General's Mistress invites the reader into a world of revolution, spiritual enlightenment and the trials of one old soul who is struggling to remember. First introduced in Stealing Fire, the book is narrated by Elza, also known as Ida St. Elme and various other names. She escapes a conventional life and finds herself thrust into a world of sex, violence, theatrics and an ancient vow made long ago. The thing about this book is it welcome readers of Graham's Numinous World books (Black Ships, Hand of Isis, Stealing Fire and the anthology The Ravens of Falkeneau) by following old friends in new bodies but transporting Gull, Xandros, Caesar, Emrys and Dion in new bodies. While, at first, a beautiful historical romance (the first of three books), it's only as you go deeper that it becomes clear there's more to this. In a Christian world, Elza summons angels and dreams of the river of Lethe where an old friend waits for her. In between sexual encounters which will leave you breathless, Elza follows a journey to rediscover her oracular gifts and use to to help shape a nation.
This is one of those rare books which calls out to you like a long-lost friend and soon become unput-downable. Yet it is cut short with the promise of two more books chronicling Elza's adventures. The beguiling cover invites you in and leaves you dying to find out what happens next.
Welcome back to the Numinous World, there really is no place like it.
This is one of those rare books which calls out to you like a long-lost friend and soon become unput-downable. Yet it is cut short with the promise of two more books chronicling Elza's adventures. The beguiling cover invites you in and leaves you dying to find out what happens next.
Welcome back to the Numinous World, there really is no place like it.
May 31, 2013
Fantastic Napoleonic novel. Don't go into this expecting a conventional romance, despite the cover. Elza Versfelt -- also known as Elzelina Ringeling, Ida St. Elme, and Charles van Aylde -- is far from your typical heroine. She abandons her unsatisfying marriage for one of Napoleon's generals, only to find far more than she had bargained for. Her search for freedom is also a search for purpose, and it takes her from the bedroom to the Parisian underworld of theater and seance to the battlefield. It's a grand adventure, erotic, evocative, pitch perfect for time and place, and includes some of the best battle scenes I have ever read.
November 5, 2012
I wanted to like this one so much more than I did, since I've quite enjoyed the two other books of Jo Graham's that I've read. But I feel like this one was trying to be too many types of books in one. Is it a romance? Elza/Ida/Charles was a courtesan. But then there were dips into the supernatural that never really went anywhere. The book could have easily done without them, since they weren't super explored outside of a plot device, really.
I'll still read other books of hers, but this one definitely wasn't a winner for me.
I'll still read other books of hers, but this one definitely wasn't a winner for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2013
After slogging through Freud's Sister, this book was a delight! There were some pretty racy sections in this book, which were a surprise, and the biggest surprise at the end was that the woman that this book is about actually existed and had affairs with 2 high-ranking military men, as well as a little fling with Napolean. And, she wrote a book herself, which I am definitely going to have to read!
July 22, 2021
Another brilliant work of historical fiction by Jo Graham! Elza/Charles is a fascinating and heart wrenchingly compelling character. I was particularly taken with the exploration of her/his relationships with family, friends, lovers, and ultimately her/himself. A mild warning: much of this exploration is told through the lens of sexual relations, which are explicit and sometimes kinky but never gratuitous or thoughtless.
March 3, 2017
Way too many things happened in this book. It was an interesting story but the plot was lost under random events. There was no real story progression although there was a happy ending. I never felt connected to any of the characters or that I understood their decisions or feelings.
September 30, 2013
This is the first book that I've read in the Numinous World series and the first of Jo Graham's novels as well. I had no expectations going into the read and was happy to have enjoyed the tale as much as I did.
The book revolves around Elzelina Versfelt during the mid to late 1700's, who finds herself in a string of situations that tests her character and her will. Elzelina is a strong-willed female who bends and shifts with the various fortunes and misfortunes that come her way. She is vastly flawed and unapologetically so, but that is what makes her a realistic and likable lead. I enjoyed the way this tale unfolded. It is passionate and dangerous as well as it is sensual and taboo. This is not a fluffy romance because the main character does explore her sexuality, sleeping with many men and a woman. Also there are a couple of strong situations that might offend some people. However Graham writes it in a way that you understand the severity of the situations, but you also don't feel like it's distasteful or excessive.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. There were some parts that could've used some tightening in the plot or the flow of the scene, but in it's entirety, the tale is beautiful and slightly tragic.
Narration
Narrator: Arika Rapson
Performance: 4/5
Speed: 1.25x
Rapson did a great job with the narration, her voice was appropriate for the main character whose POV is throughout the book. There were a lot of characters in this book and Rapson was great with distinction and consistency between the various characters. Her tone and pace were consistent as well allowing me a hands-off on the volume dial as well as a constant speed that I could play the recording at.
The book revolves around Elzelina Versfelt during the mid to late 1700's, who finds herself in a string of situations that tests her character and her will. Elzelina is a strong-willed female who bends and shifts with the various fortunes and misfortunes that come her way. She is vastly flawed and unapologetically so, but that is what makes her a realistic and likable lead. I enjoyed the way this tale unfolded. It is passionate and dangerous as well as it is sensual and taboo. This is not a fluffy romance because the main character does explore her sexuality, sleeping with many men and a woman. Also there are a couple of strong situations that might offend some people. However Graham writes it in a way that you understand the severity of the situations, but you also don't feel like it's distasteful or excessive.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. There were some parts that could've used some tightening in the plot or the flow of the scene, but in it's entirety, the tale is beautiful and slightly tragic.
Narration
Narrator: Arika Rapson
Performance: 4/5
Speed: 1.25x
Rapson did a great job with the narration, her voice was appropriate for the main character whose POV is throughout the book. There were a lot of characters in this book and Rapson was great with distinction and consistency between the various characters. Her tone and pace were consistent as well allowing me a hands-off on the volume dial as well as a constant speed that I could play the recording at.
January 6, 2013
Rating: 3 Cups
Married at twelve to a man who seduced her for her money and connections, Elzelina dreamed of love and passion. Unfortunately, her Dutch husband could care less about either. Unfulfilled by her life as a wife and unwilling to sacrifice everything for her husband’s political ambitions, Elza flees. When her husband threatens to have her declared mad and locked away, she seeks the protection of a French General.
General Moreau introduces Elza to a life of carnal enjoyment she never thought possible. He teaches her to experience pleasure in the bedroom and molds her into a skilled courtesan. Bound to the General, Elza secretly dreams of a young soldier she has met only once. When her powerful and jealous protector discovers her infatuation, she is discarded.
Elza has nothing but her wits to sustain her. Her freedom inspires a resurgence of the second sight that has always lain below the surface of the women in her family. The task of staying alive leads her on a chain of adventures all across war torn Europe. Using her gifts, she becomes many things to many men, all the time searching for the one her heart desires.
Ms. Graham subtly blends history, fiction, and romance into a novel that draws readers deep into a strange and unexpected world. Elza’s awakening is scintillating; her development from passionate girl to experienced woman startling. The story seems rather slow at certain points. However, readers will be rewarded as the heroine perseveres to a satisfying end.
Kaitlin
Reviewer for Coffeetime Romance & More
Married at twelve to a man who seduced her for her money and connections, Elzelina dreamed of love and passion. Unfortunately, her Dutch husband could care less about either. Unfulfilled by her life as a wife and unwilling to sacrifice everything for her husband’s political ambitions, Elza flees. When her husband threatens to have her declared mad and locked away, she seeks the protection of a French General.
General Moreau introduces Elza to a life of carnal enjoyment she never thought possible. He teaches her to experience pleasure in the bedroom and molds her into a skilled courtesan. Bound to the General, Elza secretly dreams of a young soldier she has met only once. When her powerful and jealous protector discovers her infatuation, she is discarded.
Elza has nothing but her wits to sustain her. Her freedom inspires a resurgence of the second sight that has always lain below the surface of the women in her family. The task of staying alive leads her on a chain of adventures all across war torn Europe. Using her gifts, she becomes many things to many men, all the time searching for the one her heart desires.
Ms. Graham subtly blends history, fiction, and romance into a novel that draws readers deep into a strange and unexpected world. Elza’s awakening is scintillating; her development from passionate girl to experienced woman startling. The story seems rather slow at certain points. However, readers will be rewarded as the heroine perseveres to a satisfying end.
Kaitlin
Reviewer for Coffeetime Romance & More
May 7, 2017
This book starts out a bit slow but if you give it 50 or so pages it picks up. The story never really grabbed me, at least not the actual written story. There were several passages dealing somewhat with the supernatural ----reincarnation perhaps. I cannot honestly say because I didn't understand what it had to do with the story. For me, all it served was to distract from what could have been a well researched historical novel. On the other hand what the book did for me was whet my appetite to learn more about the main character, Ida St. Elme/ Elza Versfelt. Also, It may be hard to believe that with 4 years of French language, literature and history classes under my belt I know very little about Napoleon and Josephine except for the stereotypes the British perpetrated. (I can tell you more than I care to remember about the Louis' though). I am intrigued and will seek more information both historical fiction and non fiction about Napoleon. So for the enlightening and well researched and written historical aspect of the book I am giving this book 3 stars instead of a lower rating. I also wanted to mention that this book is the fourth in the "Numinous World" series. I never read any of the previous books and do not plan to do so. I did not find in this case stepping in here hurt the readability of the book. It's my understanding that each book does not build in the same characters but rather a reoccurring theme. (However, there is a second book within the series that is the continuation of Ida St. Elme's story. I haven't decided whether I will read it or not)
March 3, 2014
This review is posted at Musings of a Book Junkie.
Elza Versfelt has always been good at disguises. When she is foretold she will meet her redheaded soul mate, Elza decides to leave her unstimulating marriage. She becomes the mistress of one of Napoleon's generals, Victor Moreau and travels to France as his companion. Taking the name Ida St. Elme, Elza becomes one of France's elite. But Moreau is not her redheaded soul mate. Fate deals Elza a harsh deck and brings the beautiful woman low. This is one woman's story, as she searches for everlasting love.
Elza's story caught my attention from the first scene, when she is disguised as her deceased brother. A risk taker, Elza's story catches fire and never quits burning. Her highs and lows are extreme, but believable. Her story really engages the reader. This book is also one of the Numinous World Books, so Elza does have the gift of second sight, but it doesn't feature as prominently into her story as it has in past books. The love portions of the book can be quite descriptive. This brave woman's story for her quest for love and freedom are amazing. I highly recommend it.
Elza Versfelt has always been good at disguises. When she is foretold she will meet her redheaded soul mate, Elza decides to leave her unstimulating marriage. She becomes the mistress of one of Napoleon's generals, Victor Moreau and travels to France as his companion. Taking the name Ida St. Elme, Elza becomes one of France's elite. But Moreau is not her redheaded soul mate. Fate deals Elza a harsh deck and brings the beautiful woman low. This is one woman's story, as she searches for everlasting love.
Elza's story caught my attention from the first scene, when she is disguised as her deceased brother. A risk taker, Elza's story catches fire and never quits burning. Her highs and lows are extreme, but believable. Her story really engages the reader. This book is also one of the Numinous World Books, so Elza does have the gift of second sight, but it doesn't feature as prominently into her story as it has in past books. The love portions of the book can be quite descriptive. This brave woman's story for her quest for love and freedom are amazing. I highly recommend it.
April 12, 2014
I love all Jo Graham's historical novels, and this one is no exception, with the added attraction that we know a great deal of this is accurate, as the real "Elza", Ida Saint Elme, left copious Memoirs of her rich and exciting life. This is a free woman who refuses to be pushed into a loveless marriage, becomes an actress, a courtesan, a spy, an agent of Napoleon's, a soldier (in man's dress), a writer, and much more. With her we follow the armies of the French Revolution, the intrigues of Napoleon's Court, and the great battles which reshaped Europe. I love Elza's common sense, her courage, even her mistakes - she's a flawed heroine but she knows it herself, and her self-awareness is possibly the most attractive quality she has. The whole book gallops like the Emperors' horses, and I can't wait to start on the next, "The Emperor's Agent".
November 5, 2012
I enjoyed this book, particularly the latter parts, as Elza became more an active participant in the events going on around her. She was still swept in the current, as everyone is, she just noticed more and engaged more with others. As part of an interview at the end the author notes that she had trouble selling the book because editors told her Elza wasn't likable - this most certainly isn't true, and even if it was isn't a reason to turn down a book! Books with unlikable lead men are published all the time, there's no reason to turn a book down because the lead character is an unlikable (to some) woman. Elza is written as a flawed human which makes her a complete and interesting character. I look forward to reading more of her story.
September 16, 2013
What can I say, I absolutely loved this book, I found the main character to be completely well written and likeable.
This takes place at the end of the period of what is referred to as "The Terror" in French History. Napoleon is just a general in the army. You get to see France change from the ways of being ruled to being a republic. It didn't happen like it did in the United States, because Europe had more to fear from the French revolution then the American one.
This takes place at the end of the period of what is referred to as "The Terror" in French History. Napoleon is just a general in the army. You get to see France change from the ways of being ruled to being a republic. It didn't happen like it did in the United States, because Europe had more to fear from the French revolution then the American one.
January 20, 2017
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this book as much as I loved the first three books of the Numinous World series.
The first three books were so amazing, full of myths, mysteries and strong characters - but this one, set in 18th Century France during Napoleon's era, was just not for me. It focuses a lot on sex and that is not particularly a problem but I was just disappointed by the relationship that Elza (Gull) had with Michel (Neas) and it all didn't seem to fit. It was just kind of an odd story and I wasn't really drawn to the characters at al...
The first three books were so amazing, full of myths, mysteries and strong characters - but this one, set in 18th Century France during Napoleon's era, was just not for me. It focuses a lot on sex and that is not particularly a problem but I was just disappointed by the relationship that Elza (Gull) had with Michel (Neas) and it all didn't seem to fit. It was just kind of an odd story and I wasn't really drawn to the characters at al...
December 16, 2012
It started out poor, too much to take all in the first few chapters. Almost gave up, but I have really enjoyed her writing. Skimmed a bit, then settled in. The rest of the story was not so very bad, I totally accept the character and how she functions and why. Very plausible. Don't care for all the reincarnation bits, that's just dumb. Graham writes very good battle scenes. Look forward to the next one, but after that hope she sticks with ancient history.
January 29, 2013
I love historical fiction, but when I read this book, I thought it was completely crazy. It felt like the plot was all over the place- I couldn't suspend my disbelief at times. Then, at the end, via the author's note, you find out that most of the things she wrote about actually happened. I have to say I had a difficult time identifying or relating to the main character, which made it hard at times to get through the novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2015
I had never heard of Ida St. Elme until I read this book and now I want to read her memoirs.
I do think though that Jo Graham captured the essence of her/her writing/memories very well. I also like the idea of every main character in her books is a reincarnation. So essentially, Ida/Elza is Gull, Lydias and Charmian.
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book about Elza/Ida now!
I do think though that Jo Graham captured the essence of her/her writing/memories very well. I also like the idea of every main character in her books is a reincarnation. So essentially, Ida/Elza is Gull, Lydias and Charmian.
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book about Elza/Ida now!
December 24, 2012
This is a bit less numinous than the previous Numinous World books. It's barely fantasy at all, and borders on historical fiction. A good Dutch hausfrau runs away to join the French Revolution. Stuff happens as she follows the drum.
May 26, 2013
Good story about a woman who became a courtesan and mistress because of a controlling husband and unhappy marriage. Based on the diaries of Ida St Elme, the story was full of her steamy encounters and her thoughts and desires.
July 8, 2013
This book was very different from the other books in Jo Graham's series. I wish there was more of a connection with the other books rather than just a paragraph or two in the book. Outside of that, I liked the story and look forward to any more books that Jo Graham has coming out.
August 19, 2016
read 12.5.14 thru 12.6.14. it's a great book. i didn't like it as much as black ships or hands of isis, but that wasn't because of the writing. i just like those historical periods better than this one.
October 7, 2014
I love Jo Graham's books, although this one seemed to drag a bit in the middle but it definitely had a strong finish.
December 31, 2012
Somewhat true memoir of a mistress during the time of Napoleon. Love this time period and it was very well written.
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