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Enchantress of Paris: A Novel of the Sun King’s Court
Fraught with conspiracy and passion, the Sun King's opulent court is brought to vivid life in this captivating tale about a woman whose love was more powerful than magic. The alignment of the stars at Marie Mancini's birth warned that although she would be gifted at divination, she was destined to disgrace her family. Ignoring the dark warnings of his sister and astrologers, Cardinal Mazarin brings his niece to the French court, where the forbidden occult arts thrive in secret. In France, Marie learns her uncle has become the power behind the throne by using her sister Olympia to hold the Sun King, Louis XIV, in thrall. Desperate to avoid her mother's dying wish that she spend her life in a convent, Marie burns her grimoire, trading Italian superstitions for polite sophistication. But as her star rises, King Louis becomes enchanted by Marie's charm. Sensing a chance to grasp even greater glory, Cardinal Mazarin pits the sisters against each other, showering Marie with diamonds and silks in exchange for bending King Louis to his will. Disgusted by Mazarin's ruthlessness, Marie rebels. She sacrifices everything, but exposing Mazarin's deepest secret threatens to tear France apart. When even King Louis's love fails to protect Marie, she must summon her forbidden powers of divination to shield her family, protect France, and help the Sun King fulfill his destiny.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 4, 2015
32 people are currently reading
3254 people want to read
About the author
Marci Jefferson
5 books150 followersYears after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University, immersing herself in a Quality Assurance nursing career, and then having children, Marci realized she’d neglected her passion for history and writing. She began traveling, writing along the way, delving into various bits of history that caught her fancy. The plot for GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN evolved slowly after a trip to London, where she first learned about the Stuart royals. Marci is a member of the Historical Novel Society. She resides in the Midwest with her husband, making hair-bows for their daughter, trying not to step on their son’s Legos, and teaching a tiny Pacific Parrotlet to talk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 22, 2020
The Mancini sisters, nieces to powerful Cardinal Mazarin, were brought from Italy to France to marry advantageously. They were known at the court of Sun King, Louis XIV, as the Mazarinettes. “Some historians believe she (Marie Mancini) was the one true love of his (Sun King) life.” This is their love story.
Marie Mancini inherits her passion for astrology from her father. She composes her own healing spells, records her father’s magical uses for herbs, studies how to summon angels. That’s the kind of knowledge she shouldn’t possess, especially when having a cardinal for an uncle.
Paris, 1656. With her father long-gone and now with her mother near-death, Marie is told she needs to go back to convent and become a nun due to her being headstrong and having gift for divination. That’s not the news she welcomes.
Meanwhile, she catches the king’s eye.
She becomes loyal and honest to one person only…
The story is propelled by Cardinal Mazarin’s manipulations of the young king by using his nieces to secure alliances that would bring France peace, new lands, and riches. And above all make him more powerful and rich. “The theory that Cardinal Mazarin was the Sun King’s biological father is debated by historians.” He conspired with the queen mother.
Cardinal’s portrayal is very vivid. He is clever and cunning. His skill at exploitation is boundless. He bestows “favors with self-seeking motives.”
Louis XIV became king at young age. His mother became Regent of France nominating Cardinal Mazarin as her chief minister. Louis needed help in ruling, thus he leaned heavily on cardinal’s recommendations, whose goal was to “prove to the French people that King Louis was strong in all ways. He must keep their admiration and faith.”
Marie represents a strong woman, who takes destiny into her own hands. When making her own, she had to consider between bringing peace to the French people or the turmoil of wars and suffering as a result. And in her relationship with the king, she didn’t want to degrade herself either.
All Mancini sisters became inspiration for other women throughout Europe, defending and liberating themselves.
A touching portrayal of a love story and what perhaps stood between them - the difference in bloodlines, him being of royal blood and her being of noble blood. Her being seen by some as too low-born for the king. But above all, probably the biggest problem was the king being so outmaneuvered that at the end he was not able to make his own decision.
This story is woven with beautiful prose, bringing historical figures who inspire us with their stories. Stories which are vividly presented in this novel. Novel of intrigue and love.
Marie Mancini inherits her passion for astrology from her father. She composes her own healing spells, records her father’s magical uses for herbs, studies how to summon angels. That’s the kind of knowledge she shouldn’t possess, especially when having a cardinal for an uncle.
Paris, 1656. With her father long-gone and now with her mother near-death, Marie is told she needs to go back to convent and become a nun due to her being headstrong and having gift for divination. That’s not the news she welcomes.
Meanwhile, she catches the king’s eye.
She becomes loyal and honest to one person only…
The story is propelled by Cardinal Mazarin’s manipulations of the young king by using his nieces to secure alliances that would bring France peace, new lands, and riches. And above all make him more powerful and rich. “The theory that Cardinal Mazarin was the Sun King’s biological father is debated by historians.” He conspired with the queen mother.
Cardinal’s portrayal is very vivid. He is clever and cunning. His skill at exploitation is boundless. He bestows “favors with self-seeking motives.”
Louis XIV became king at young age. His mother became Regent of France nominating Cardinal Mazarin as her chief minister. Louis needed help in ruling, thus he leaned heavily on cardinal’s recommendations, whose goal was to “prove to the French people that King Louis was strong in all ways. He must keep their admiration and faith.”
Marie represents a strong woman, who takes destiny into her own hands. When making her own, she had to consider between bringing peace to the French people or the turmoil of wars and suffering as a result. And in her relationship with the king, she didn’t want to degrade herself either.
All Mancini sisters became inspiration for other women throughout Europe, defending and liberating themselves.
A touching portrayal of a love story and what perhaps stood between them - the difference in bloodlines, him being of royal blood and her being of noble blood. Her being seen by some as too low-born for the king. But above all, probably the biggest problem was the king being so outmaneuvered that at the end he was not able to make his own decision.
This story is woven with beautiful prose, bringing historical figures who inspire us with their stories. Stories which are vividly presented in this novel. Novel of intrigue and love.
October 5, 2017
After thoroughly enjoying Marci Jefferson's debut, Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Enchantress of Paris. I've read a few novels about the Sun King's court, but they all took place a bit later in his life, after Marie Mancini was out of the picture, so I knew nothing about this trailblazing young woman who captured a king's heart and made such an impression that her name appears in many letters and remembrances of her contemporaries.
The story begins with the death of Marie's mother, when a teenage Marie fully falls under the control of her powerful uncle, Cardinal Mazarin, and we are introduced to all of his nieces--the Mazarinettes, as they are called--and discover how he has used each one who has come of age to strengthen his position of power as top adviser to Louis XIV. Marie is perhaps the most clever and headstrong of all and vows to retain what little control she has over her life. But that doesn't come easy. When she catches the young king's eye and begins to spend time with him, she sees how completely her uncle and the king's mother are controlling his reign, and she determines to help the king realize his full potential on his own. Her desire to do so is admirable, and the author paints a picture of a woman who truly loves the king and wants to see him succeed in his own right, and it's just an added bonus that she gets to see her uncle fall in the process. But this strategy puts her at direct odds with her uncle, especially when the king decides to take a strong stance on the subject of his marriage and vows to marry Marie rather than one of the foreign princesses the cardinal is negotiating for.
And that's when everything starts to go downhill. As smart and daring as Marie is, she is no match for the most powerful man in France. She and Louis make a valiant effort, but the cardinal is always one step ahead of them. Nothing and no one is safe from his machinations as he uses anything he can to achieve his goals and bring down his niece. I cried right along with Marie as she finally realized her dreams of sharing a future with Louis as his wife were not going to come true. I don't know if it went down in history exactly as it does in this novel, but here it was heartbreaking. I wanted to kill the cardinal myself and shake some sense (and a backbone) into the king.
Enchantress of Paris is interesting in that it subscribes to the controversial assertion that Cardinal Mazarin was actually Louis XIV's father. I'm no expert on the subject, but it certainly does create a plausible explanation for the partnership between the cardinal and the queen mother and their rigorous control over the young king. There is a lot of focus here on court politics and the art of dressing to do battle in such an environment. This has caused other reviewers to label the novel as "fluffy," but given that one can draw strong comparisons between the Mazarinettes and their family's struggle to hold sway over Louis XIV with the Boleyn/Howard family's quest to hold on to Henry VIII in England, I appreciated all of those dazzling details and the effort it took to hold one's own in such an environment. Parties, pageants, salons, and feasts are also depicted in sumptuous detail, making this novel a treat for the senses.
Everything was going along fine for me, aside from a little bit of a lag in pacing in the middle of the book, until I got to the epilogue. Many years have passed, and we learn through very brief mentions that Marie's adventures did not end when she left the Sun King. In fact, they were just beginning! I understand that the author chose to focus on Marie's life as it related to Louis XIV, but a true tribute to this remarkable woman should have allowed the reader to continue on with her as she became a star in the Italian court and truly took her destiny into her own hands. Coming in on the shorter side of historical fiction at 316 pages, there was certainly room for it. Chances are that if that epilogue had not teased me with juicy little details about that time in her life, I would not have felt the lack of them so keenly and lamented that I was missing out on a big part of Marie's story. But as Marie herself says in the epilogue, "That is a story for another day," so dare I hope for a sequel???
The story begins with the death of Marie's mother, when a teenage Marie fully falls under the control of her powerful uncle, Cardinal Mazarin, and we are introduced to all of his nieces--the Mazarinettes, as they are called--and discover how he has used each one who has come of age to strengthen his position of power as top adviser to Louis XIV. Marie is perhaps the most clever and headstrong of all and vows to retain what little control she has over her life. But that doesn't come easy. When she catches the young king's eye and begins to spend time with him, she sees how completely her uncle and the king's mother are controlling his reign, and she determines to help the king realize his full potential on his own. Her desire to do so is admirable, and the author paints a picture of a woman who truly loves the king and wants to see him succeed in his own right, and it's just an added bonus that she gets to see her uncle fall in the process. But this strategy puts her at direct odds with her uncle, especially when the king decides to take a strong stance on the subject of his marriage and vows to marry Marie rather than one of the foreign princesses the cardinal is negotiating for.
And that's when everything starts to go downhill. As smart and daring as Marie is, she is no match for the most powerful man in France. She and Louis make a valiant effort, but the cardinal is always one step ahead of them. Nothing and no one is safe from his machinations as he uses anything he can to achieve his goals and bring down his niece. I cried right along with Marie as she finally realized her dreams of sharing a future with Louis as his wife were not going to come true. I don't know if it went down in history exactly as it does in this novel, but here it was heartbreaking. I wanted to kill the cardinal myself and shake some sense (and a backbone) into the king.
Enchantress of Paris is interesting in that it subscribes to the controversial assertion that Cardinal Mazarin was actually Louis XIV's father. I'm no expert on the subject, but it certainly does create a plausible explanation for the partnership between the cardinal and the queen mother and their rigorous control over the young king. There is a lot of focus here on court politics and the art of dressing to do battle in such an environment. This has caused other reviewers to label the novel as "fluffy," but given that one can draw strong comparisons between the Mazarinettes and their family's struggle to hold sway over Louis XIV with the Boleyn/Howard family's quest to hold on to Henry VIII in England, I appreciated all of those dazzling details and the effort it took to hold one's own in such an environment. Parties, pageants, salons, and feasts are also depicted in sumptuous detail, making this novel a treat for the senses.
Everything was going along fine for me, aside from a little bit of a lag in pacing in the middle of the book, until I got to the epilogue. Many years have passed, and we learn through very brief mentions that Marie's adventures did not end when she left the Sun King. In fact, they were just beginning! I understand that the author chose to focus on Marie's life as it related to Louis XIV, but a true tribute to this remarkable woman should have allowed the reader to continue on with her as she became a star in the Italian court and truly took her destiny into her own hands. Coming in on the shorter side of historical fiction at 316 pages, there was certainly room for it. Chances are that if that epilogue had not teased me with juicy little details about that time in her life, I would not have felt the lack of them so keenly and lamented that I was missing out on a big part of Marie's story. But as Marie herself says in the epilogue, "That is a story for another day," so dare I hope for a sequel???
November 7, 2015
There's lots of historical fiction out there about women who sleep with kings. Marci Jefferson is more interested in women who turn kings down, and it makes for such a refreshing change. Her debut novel "Girl on the Golden Coin" (a book I was very happy to blurb) starred Frances Stuart, a woman who turned down not just one but several kings, and "Enchantress of Paris" continues the theme with Marie Mancini, a beauty of the French court who, it could be argued, turned a young Louis XIV into the powerhouse monarch he became later in life. Marie makes a refreshing heroine, unwilling as she is to sacrifice independence or self-respect even for the love of a king, and her little band of beautiful, occult-minded sisters are all interesting enough to star in books of their own. Recommended!
August 4, 2015
This novel was wonderful! I have read Marci Jefferson’s other novel and fell in love with her writing style! This book was full of romance, power struggles, and of course rich historic details. I felt like I was actually in the French court seeing all the beautiful dresses and dances.
I loved Marie….she started out a little naive but not annoyingly so, and grew into this smart, strong, intelligent, cunning woman. I thought she made the best choice that she could in the end and it was the perfect way to end their love story.
The King was charming and easily likable as the romantic interest. I thought he was appropriately idealistic and hopeful that he would actually get a choice in his life but when met with reality his character responded appropriately.
Their relationship was very real and believable. I know it’s based on their real life affair but with historical fiction there is always creative license, and in this instance, the author made well constructed characters that did believable things. Every thing they did had a purpose and it was completely logical and flowed wonderfully.
Jefferson’s story telling style is straight to the point with flourishes of romance that easily hook readers in. I had that with GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN and was quickly pulled into the story with this novel as well! One thing that I love about Jefferson is that she writes about really intriguing women who don’t get the same spotlight as other famous women in history like Anne Boleyn.
While I was reading this book, I was really interested in hearing more about Hortense Mancini and what her life and love affairs were like. I would gladly read anything by Jefferson, she is a strong voice in the historical fiction genre and mixes fact with fiction seamlessly!
See my full review here
I loved Marie….she started out a little naive but not annoyingly so, and grew into this smart, strong, intelligent, cunning woman. I thought she made the best choice that she could in the end and it was the perfect way to end their love story.
The King was charming and easily likable as the romantic interest. I thought he was appropriately idealistic and hopeful that he would actually get a choice in his life but when met with reality his character responded appropriately.
Their relationship was very real and believable. I know it’s based on their real life affair but with historical fiction there is always creative license, and in this instance, the author made well constructed characters that did believable things. Every thing they did had a purpose and it was completely logical and flowed wonderfully.
Jefferson’s story telling style is straight to the point with flourishes of romance that easily hook readers in. I had that with GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN and was quickly pulled into the story with this novel as well! One thing that I love about Jefferson is that she writes about really intriguing women who don’t get the same spotlight as other famous women in history like Anne Boleyn.
While I was reading this book, I was really interested in hearing more about Hortense Mancini and what her life and love affairs were like. I would gladly read anything by Jefferson, she is a strong voice in the historical fiction genre and mixes fact with fiction seamlessly!
See my full review here
August 17, 2015
Having read and loved Marci Jefferson's Girl on a Golden Coin, I eagerly awaited the tale of Marie Mancini in her latest novel, The Enchantress of Paris. The court of Louis XIV is rife with intriguing personalities like Cardinal Mazarin and the king's many mistresses, but I knew very little about Marie or her sisters. (And while none of the Manzini girls donned armor, they did remind me of GOT's Sand Snakes from Dorne!) What I loved most throughout the story was the Jefferson wasn't afraid to follow history and really break Marie's heart (and the reader's!) several times. For history buffs, this is a unique look at Louis XIV just as he's beginning to become the Sun King, moving out of the shadows of his mother and ministers, before Versailles, the red high heels, and towering wigs. (Although he does dance the ballet as Apollo, in true Louis fashion!)
P.S.- I also laughed aloud the reference to Frances Stuart (the heroine of Girl on the Golden Coin) toward the end! Definitely a fun "insider" joke!
P.S.- I also laughed aloud the reference to Frances Stuart (the heroine of Girl on the Golden Coin) toward the end! Definitely a fun "insider" joke!
March 3, 2016
Although I've certainly read about Louis XIV's other mistresses, I had no idea that the young king had once been so enamored of Marie Mancini that he was willing to risk his kingdom's safety to marry her. What makes this relationship even more intriguing is that Mancini was the niece of the wily Cardinal Mazarin, who was the power behind the throne at the beginning of the Sun King's reign, and the Cardinal had no intention of letting his niece ruin his plans for an important matrimonial alliance for the king. It was interesting to see that particular conflict play out in this novel, since I dealt with something similar in The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte (which portrays the result of Napoleon's opposition to his youngest brother's marriage to the American Elizabeth Patterson). I found the portrayal of Marie Mancini quite sympathetic and the book well written. As with many novels of this time period, the story explores the controversial use of magic to induce love or weaken enemies, but I did not think this element was overemphasized. Instead, Mancini's struggle to find happiness and avoid being her uncle's pawn is front and center.
August 11, 2015
Marci Jefferson's ENCHANTRESS OF PARIS, just released from Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press, addresses a glaring need in the panoply of historical fiction: novels set during the seventeenth century, and more specifically, in France. The French Revolution and two World Wars draw the lion's share of interest from authors and readers interested in France; huge swaths of fascinating history from earlier eras remain virtually untouched. Tapping into this treasure trove, Jefferson reanimates the personalities and intrigue of the court of Louis XIV, the Sun King. With an energetic, skillful flair, she examines the relationship between Marie Mancini, the defiant niece of the powerful Cardinal Mazarin, and young Louis, who wishes, despite all expectations, to marry her. Based on Marie's own memoirs, Jefferson's captivating novel sparkles like the diamonds that grace the beautiful Mazarinette's neck.
One of five daughters of Cardinal Mazarin's sister, Marie has spent most of her life secluded in convents in order to protect her family's political and social aspirations from the threat she embodies. Born under an evil star, she is predicted to disgrace her family in a way no woman had ever done before. Summoned to the palace bid farewell to her dying mother, Marie catches the eye of the serious young king, whose face mirrors her own loneliness. She wins Louis away from her sister Olympia, his current mistress, and by promising to bend the king to her uncle's will, gains her freedom from the convent. Marie's fierce love inspires Louis with a confidence he has never felt; she encourages him to escape his dependence on Mazarin and act as king in his own right. Disgusted by Mazarin's brazen abuse of power and threatened by his unrestrained hostility, Marie searches for ways to thwart her uncle's designs. Mazarin's political hopes center on a peace treaty with Spain that requires Louis to marry the Spanish princess. Desperate to save her future, Marie searches for proof of the long-ago affair between Mazarin and the queen mother that resulted in Louis's birth, and turns to the very black arts that prophesied her downfall. Will her efforts assure her marriage to the king or force her to forsake him? Dare Louis ignore the needs of his nation to satisfy the desires of his heart?
Although at times the focus on the royal romance threatens to overwhelm the novel's plot, the intriguingly unfamiliar history and strong characterizations counter this danger. By examining the early years of Louis's reign, Jefferson humanizes a king who later came to epitomize the absolute monarch, revealing a tender vulnerability that succumbs to both Mazarin's control and Marie's influence. By embracing the possibility that Louis is in fact Mazarin's son, a theory recently suggested by historians, Jefferson provides a motivation for Mazarin's scheming and the means for his undoing. Finally, by casting Marie as a "Mazarinette," one of the bevy of sisters and cousins the Cardinal exploits to further his own schemes, Jefferson cleverly justifies Marie's audacious behavior. Nieces of an exceptional man, the Mazarinettes all exhibit extraordinary tendencies and lead unconventional lives. Marie's boldness, unusual in a young woman of that era, rings true in the context of her family and her upbringing. Forced to rely on no one but herself if she hopes to change her destiny, Marie inspires Louis to look within for the courage he needs to transform from obedient son to authentic king--and make her his bride in the process.
In the vein of 2014's GIRL ON THE GOLD COIN (several of whose characters make cameo appearances here), ENCHANTRESS OF PARIS spotlights a strong, spirited woman who rebels against those who would sacrifice her for their own gain, a woman who, determined to direct the course of her own life, stands to alter the course of a nation. Shining light into the darkest corners of the Sun King's glittering court, ENCHANTRESS OF PARIS examines whether love, grit and will can indeed revise what is written in the stars.
One of five daughters of Cardinal Mazarin's sister, Marie has spent most of her life secluded in convents in order to protect her family's political and social aspirations from the threat she embodies. Born under an evil star, she is predicted to disgrace her family in a way no woman had ever done before. Summoned to the palace bid farewell to her dying mother, Marie catches the eye of the serious young king, whose face mirrors her own loneliness. She wins Louis away from her sister Olympia, his current mistress, and by promising to bend the king to her uncle's will, gains her freedom from the convent. Marie's fierce love inspires Louis with a confidence he has never felt; she encourages him to escape his dependence on Mazarin and act as king in his own right. Disgusted by Mazarin's brazen abuse of power and threatened by his unrestrained hostility, Marie searches for ways to thwart her uncle's designs. Mazarin's political hopes center on a peace treaty with Spain that requires Louis to marry the Spanish princess. Desperate to save her future, Marie searches for proof of the long-ago affair between Mazarin and the queen mother that resulted in Louis's birth, and turns to the very black arts that prophesied her downfall. Will her efforts assure her marriage to the king or force her to forsake him? Dare Louis ignore the needs of his nation to satisfy the desires of his heart?
Although at times the focus on the royal romance threatens to overwhelm the novel's plot, the intriguingly unfamiliar history and strong characterizations counter this danger. By examining the early years of Louis's reign, Jefferson humanizes a king who later came to epitomize the absolute monarch, revealing a tender vulnerability that succumbs to both Mazarin's control and Marie's influence. By embracing the possibility that Louis is in fact Mazarin's son, a theory recently suggested by historians, Jefferson provides a motivation for Mazarin's scheming and the means for his undoing. Finally, by casting Marie as a "Mazarinette," one of the bevy of sisters and cousins the Cardinal exploits to further his own schemes, Jefferson cleverly justifies Marie's audacious behavior. Nieces of an exceptional man, the Mazarinettes all exhibit extraordinary tendencies and lead unconventional lives. Marie's boldness, unusual in a young woman of that era, rings true in the context of her family and her upbringing. Forced to rely on no one but herself if she hopes to change her destiny, Marie inspires Louis to look within for the courage he needs to transform from obedient son to authentic king--and make her his bride in the process.
In the vein of 2014's GIRL ON THE GOLD COIN (several of whose characters make cameo appearances here), ENCHANTRESS OF PARIS spotlights a strong, spirited woman who rebels against those who would sacrifice her for their own gain, a woman who, determined to direct the course of her own life, stands to alter the course of a nation. Shining light into the darkest corners of the Sun King's glittering court, ENCHANTRESS OF PARIS examines whether love, grit and will can indeed revise what is written in the stars.
August 5, 2015
This review was written for The Review Diaries
You can read the full review here
Huge thanks to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press/Thomas Dunne Books for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review
I love a well written historical novel that allows me to immerse myself in another country or time, but sadly they can often be a little bit hit and miss with historical accuracy, language or detailing, so I’m always hesitant when starting a new historical novel as to what I might actually get. Luckily ‘Enchantress of Paris’ was one of those rare, stunningly written and researched novels that swept me up and away into the early days of the court of the Sun King – Louis XIV.
This novel was a sumptuous treat, offering a peep hole into France in the mid-1600s. The food, the balls, the clothes, the revelry and scandal – it’s all there, beautifully chronicled. It’s a rich and enthralling narrative led by a fantastic heroine. Marie was headstrong and wilful, determined and clever. I loved watching her transformation from the start, watching her learn the power plays and games and begin to play on her own terms. Her and her sisters were so refreshingly outrageous, so determined to be themselves in a time when that was frowned upon, and it was a delight to read. What made it even more fantastic was reading the author’s note at the end and realising just how much historical fact has been blended seamlessly in and how much of the novel is real. Nothing will ever be perfectly accurate, but this novel did an incredible job of pulling so many factual historical sources and turning them into a truly incredible story.
All of the characters were brilliantly constructed, but it is truly Marie who gives the story heart and soul. I tore through the novel and loved immersing myself in another period of French history that I was sorely ignorant of. It’s a wonderful novel to add to my collection of historical fiction that is slowly filling in my gaps of French history, and is definitely my favourite to date.
The writing is beautiful, the setting superb and as I’ve said, the characters wonderfully real and flawed. It was the kind of novel I dream of, one to sink into and enjoy. To be swept away by and to fall in in love with.
My only complaints would be the sheer volume of titles and names that you need to keep up with – who is related, who is married, who is so and so’s mistress. There’s a handy list to keep you up to date of who’s who right at the start of the novel which should alleviate the problem, but alas because I was reading it on my kindle, trying to shuffle back and forth between list and book became increasingly frustrating. Book readers won’t have such limitations though, and I’ looking forward to going back and reading this one again in book form and thoroughly enjoying it. And on a slightly more picky note the descriptions of some parts of Lyon felt a little off. Perhaps it was me simply being confused, but some of the mapping of the city felt a little off compared to the city I know. Something that were I not living here I wouldn’t have picked up on at all.
If you love historical novels, or fancy a well informed and sumptuous peek at a fascinating period in French history, this is a must read. It dances the line between factual and fictional perfectly giving the perfect blend of realism and compelling story that will sweep you away. Marci is definitely an author that I’m going to watch, and I’m looking forward to catching up on her first novel ‘Girl on the Golden Coin’
You can read the full review here
Huge thanks to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press/Thomas Dunne Books for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review
I love a well written historical novel that allows me to immerse myself in another country or time, but sadly they can often be a little bit hit and miss with historical accuracy, language or detailing, so I’m always hesitant when starting a new historical novel as to what I might actually get. Luckily ‘Enchantress of Paris’ was one of those rare, stunningly written and researched novels that swept me up and away into the early days of the court of the Sun King – Louis XIV.
This novel was a sumptuous treat, offering a peep hole into France in the mid-1600s. The food, the balls, the clothes, the revelry and scandal – it’s all there, beautifully chronicled. It’s a rich and enthralling narrative led by a fantastic heroine. Marie was headstrong and wilful, determined and clever. I loved watching her transformation from the start, watching her learn the power plays and games and begin to play on her own terms. Her and her sisters were so refreshingly outrageous, so determined to be themselves in a time when that was frowned upon, and it was a delight to read. What made it even more fantastic was reading the author’s note at the end and realising just how much historical fact has been blended seamlessly in and how much of the novel is real. Nothing will ever be perfectly accurate, but this novel did an incredible job of pulling so many factual historical sources and turning them into a truly incredible story.
All of the characters were brilliantly constructed, but it is truly Marie who gives the story heart and soul. I tore through the novel and loved immersing myself in another period of French history that I was sorely ignorant of. It’s a wonderful novel to add to my collection of historical fiction that is slowly filling in my gaps of French history, and is definitely my favourite to date.
The writing is beautiful, the setting superb and as I’ve said, the characters wonderfully real and flawed. It was the kind of novel I dream of, one to sink into and enjoy. To be swept away by and to fall in in love with.
My only complaints would be the sheer volume of titles and names that you need to keep up with – who is related, who is married, who is so and so’s mistress. There’s a handy list to keep you up to date of who’s who right at the start of the novel which should alleviate the problem, but alas because I was reading it on my kindle, trying to shuffle back and forth between list and book became increasingly frustrating. Book readers won’t have such limitations though, and I’ looking forward to going back and reading this one again in book form and thoroughly enjoying it. And on a slightly more picky note the descriptions of some parts of Lyon felt a little off. Perhaps it was me simply being confused, but some of the mapping of the city felt a little off compared to the city I know. Something that were I not living here I wouldn’t have picked up on at all.
If you love historical novels, or fancy a well informed and sumptuous peek at a fascinating period in French history, this is a must read. It dances the line between factual and fictional perfectly giving the perfect blend of realism and compelling story that will sweep you away. Marci is definitely an author that I’m going to watch, and I’m looking forward to catching up on her first novel ‘Girl on the Golden Coin’
August 23, 2015
4.5 stars. "Enchantress of Paris" is the latest historical fiction offering from Marci Jefferson. I really enjoyed her last book, "Girl on the Golden Coin," so I was excited to read this book. In this book, we see the court of King Louis XIV of France, also known as the Sun King, through the eyes of one of his most beloved mistresses, Marie Mancini. Louis and Marie truly loved each other but it was a forbidden love with the King's mother and Marie's uncle trying to keep the lovers apart because of their own wants and more importantly, their own secrets!
This story is told from the perspective of Marie in first-person point of view. I really loved this because it allowed me to have a front seat to what it must've been like to be in France at the time. Marie and Louis fall hard for each other and it is a true love. Marie really doesn't seem to care that Louis is the king and Louis is ready to give up the throne for her if it means that they can be together. I had never really known much about Marie Mancini so I liked getting to know her through this book.
As the title suggests, there is an element of magic added to this book that I also really enjoyed. The author is able to weave in some magical realism details that really made this book sparkle for me. Marie comes from a line of family members who have been able to weave some enchantment through their lives and Marie also has that power. The element is subtle but really works for this book!
I also have to mention how much I enjoyed this setting. I've read a lot of historical fiction set in France but I haven't read too too much about the Sun Kings Court. It was such an interesting time and Francis history and I really enjoyed getting to know it a little bit better through this book. Overall, the authors writing and the characters that she includes make this book a great pick for historical fiction lovers.
This story is told from the perspective of Marie in first-person point of view. I really loved this because it allowed me to have a front seat to what it must've been like to be in France at the time. Marie and Louis fall hard for each other and it is a true love. Marie really doesn't seem to care that Louis is the king and Louis is ready to give up the throne for her if it means that they can be together. I had never really known much about Marie Mancini so I liked getting to know her through this book.
As the title suggests, there is an element of magic added to this book that I also really enjoyed. The author is able to weave in some magical realism details that really made this book sparkle for me. Marie comes from a line of family members who have been able to weave some enchantment through their lives and Marie also has that power. The element is subtle but really works for this book!
I also have to mention how much I enjoyed this setting. I've read a lot of historical fiction set in France but I haven't read too too much about the Sun Kings Court. It was such an interesting time and Francis history and I really enjoyed getting to know it a little bit better through this book. Overall, the authors writing and the characters that she includes make this book a great pick for historical fiction lovers.
Read
September 22, 2020Marci Jefferson's novels set in the 17th century always include vast amounts of luscious details about food, makeup, clothes, games, dances, furnishings.
And gossip! She takes the events from the historical record and memoirs and letters--and uses them to imagine a complicated and clever narrative of motivations, plots, rivalries, and social and political ups and downs. In this story, the brilliant and educated Marie Mancini becomes not only Louis XIV's first and greatest love, but also the inspiration for his style of governing and a few other things . . . like the introduction of street lights in Paris. Wouldn't it be funny if that were true? It certainly makes for an entertaining novel.
Jefferson also wrote Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart. In this book, the love scenes are less graphic, but the politics just as intricate. It does help to know the a bit of the background.
And gossip! She takes the events from the historical record and memoirs and letters--and uses them to imagine a complicated and clever narrative of motivations, plots, rivalries, and social and political ups and downs. In this story, the brilliant and educated Marie Mancini becomes not only Louis XIV's first and greatest love, but also the inspiration for his style of governing and a few other things . . . like the introduction of street lights in Paris. Wouldn't it be funny if that were true? It certainly makes for an entertaining novel.
Jefferson also wrote Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart. In this book, the love scenes are less graphic, but the politics just as intricate. It does help to know the a bit of the background.
December 29, 2015
That was a great reading! I didn't expect to find the love story between King LouisXIV and Marie Mancini so sad! The Mazarinettes were puppets in the hands of their evil cousin, the Cardinal Mazarin. Besides control the King Louis for years, he did all the bad things he could, to make him richer and ruin his nieces and nephew's lives. It was thanks to Marie, that Louis learned to become a good king. But i still think, he wasn't brave! He took too long to bring a change during his reign. Seems the italian Queen Catherine de Medici, left her inheritance on France. I was surprised to learn how much, during King Louis XIV's reign, people were still so connected on occultism and poisons! Each Manzarinette had a "knowledge" about it, and it was thanks for this, that they could make their living! It was a very interesting reading!
November 10, 2023
After devouring it in two sittings, I highly recommend this well-crafted, nicely-researched, and detailed book about the 17th-century French court. You can find full review on my blog: https://poetryofreading.blogspot.com
March 31, 2025
Set in mid-17th century France, Enchantress of Paris, focuses on the young romance of King Louis XIV and Marie Mancini, the niece of Louis' prime minister, Cardinal Mazarin. Marie, along with her siblings and cousins, were sent to France from Italy to be used by their Uncle as marriage pawns to build alliances for both his benefit and France. To their benefit, the Mazarinettes, as they're called; would achieve higher rankings and have close contact with the Sun King, whom the Cardinal is hoping to use his nieces to control Louis to remain under his thumb. But Marie doesn't want to be a pawn, nor does she want to remain locked in the convent because of a supposed birth horoscope claiming she would bring great damage to her family. As the attraction between Marie and Louis grows, Marie hopes this love is what will bring her happiness in becoming her own woman and free from her Uncle's control. But as the young pair continue to bond closer, other court rivals and the fallout of political alliances threaten to destroy the bond they share.
When I found the premise to star Marie Mancini, I knew I wanted to read it. Whenever it comes to literature focusing on the women connected to Louis XIV, Marie is often overlooked or stamped as a footnote in the list. But this novel shows, from Marie's viewpoint, that she was the Sun King's first love, one that seems to be build on the young, idealistic romantic kind rather than the physical lust that later mistresses had with him. Both show genuine mutual attraction and Marie shows herself to be a fleshed character: one who is sympathetic, relatable, stubborn, and yet so vulnerable. Louis is also shown to be more of an indecisive monarch here, given that this was before his decision to rule France without a prime minister, it gives the impression of a young King learning the ropes of politics. Additional details I liked here are the inclusion of Marie's family members, each playing a role in the youth of Louis XIV; the political backdrop dealings that lead to the complicated reasons why Marie and Louis could never be together, and the small details of what the women used to dress themselves in the fashion of the era. All of this makes the novel feel more like a time capsule and very real to plow through. Of course, as this is historical fiction, there are some liberties taken with the real events, but luckily it doesn't ruin it too much. For a novel, it is admirable to have it star the first love of Louis XIV, for she and the rest of her female family members are now known for shaping their own destinies in a time when most women were to accept their fates in the roles they play.
When I found the premise to star Marie Mancini, I knew I wanted to read it. Whenever it comes to literature focusing on the women connected to Louis XIV, Marie is often overlooked or stamped as a footnote in the list. But this novel shows, from Marie's viewpoint, that she was the Sun King's first love, one that seems to be build on the young, idealistic romantic kind rather than the physical lust that later mistresses had with him. Both show genuine mutual attraction and Marie shows herself to be a fleshed character: one who is sympathetic, relatable, stubborn, and yet so vulnerable. Louis is also shown to be more of an indecisive monarch here, given that this was before his decision to rule France without a prime minister, it gives the impression of a young King learning the ropes of politics. Additional details I liked here are the inclusion of Marie's family members, each playing a role in the youth of Louis XIV; the political backdrop dealings that lead to the complicated reasons why Marie and Louis could never be together, and the small details of what the women used to dress themselves in the fashion of the era. All of this makes the novel feel more like a time capsule and very real to plow through. Of course, as this is historical fiction, there are some liberties taken with the real events, but luckily it doesn't ruin it too much. For a novel, it is admirable to have it star the first love of Louis XIV, for she and the rest of her female family members are now known for shaping their own destinies in a time when most women were to accept their fates in the roles they play.
October 12, 2015
I was a HUGE fan of Marci Jefferson’s first novel, Girl on the Golden Coin, and I could not wait to get my hands on Enchantress of Paris. I can tell you that I was not at all disappointed!
One of the aspects of Golden Coin that I loved was how Jefferson can create characters that pull at the heartstrings, and she doesn’t miss that beat in Enchantress either! There were two or three moments when I had tears in my eyes. I had become invested in the characters and their relationships with each other and to see those relationships bend and break was painful. I think this is because the author crafts characters who are people that I could see standing in front of me and their actions and emotions are entirely believable. Despite the fact that they live in the 17th century, some things just don’t change over time! I loved Marie Mancini – in Jefferson’s hands she is passionate, charming, smart, and strong willed – someone I would love to be friends with. The relationships between the Mancini sisters were sometimes contentious and stormy, while at other times they pulled together for solidarity; sounds just like real sisters to me! I can honestly say that Cardinal Mazarin had pretty much no redeeming qualities; I was all too happy to see him go. And then there is King Louis – I loved him, while at the same time was angry and disappointed with him too.
There are SO many novels set in the royal courts of Europe, and the court of the Sun King is a frequent stop. For me this was a refreshing iteration. Some court novels can drag because of the confines of the life in the court, but Enchantress never encounters that problem. Marie’s life takes her across France, Italy, and Spain and she is not always within the court – so she does have a little more freedom at times. There was always something exciting happening, whether it was court drama, Mancini family drama, or the elements of astrology and belief in magic. Even with all of this excitement, Jefferson balances that with excellent character building.
I could have read so much more about the Mancini’s; those sisters certainly had their share of adventures and excitement. I hope that the author chooses to write more about their stories! Honestly, I would read anything Marci Jefferson writes.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and the book was received from the publisher for a review.
One of the aspects of Golden Coin that I loved was how Jefferson can create characters that pull at the heartstrings, and she doesn’t miss that beat in Enchantress either! There were two or three moments when I had tears in my eyes. I had become invested in the characters and their relationships with each other and to see those relationships bend and break was painful. I think this is because the author crafts characters who are people that I could see standing in front of me and their actions and emotions are entirely believable. Despite the fact that they live in the 17th century, some things just don’t change over time! I loved Marie Mancini – in Jefferson’s hands she is passionate, charming, smart, and strong willed – someone I would love to be friends with. The relationships between the Mancini sisters were sometimes contentious and stormy, while at other times they pulled together for solidarity; sounds just like real sisters to me! I can honestly say that Cardinal Mazarin had pretty much no redeeming qualities; I was all too happy to see him go. And then there is King Louis – I loved him, while at the same time was angry and disappointed with him too.
There are SO many novels set in the royal courts of Europe, and the court of the Sun King is a frequent stop. For me this was a refreshing iteration. Some court novels can drag because of the confines of the life in the court, but Enchantress never encounters that problem. Marie’s life takes her across France, Italy, and Spain and she is not always within the court – so she does have a little more freedom at times. There was always something exciting happening, whether it was court drama, Mancini family drama, or the elements of astrology and belief in magic. Even with all of this excitement, Jefferson balances that with excellent character building.
I could have read so much more about the Mancini’s; those sisters certainly had their share of adventures and excitement. I hope that the author chooses to write more about their stories! Honestly, I would read anything Marci Jefferson writes.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and the book was received from the publisher for a review.
March 7, 2016
Marie had been in an Abbey and her uncle Cardinal Jules Mazarin took her out and took her to the french court. Marie was intelligent, passionate, romantic, stubborn but at the same time vulnerable. King Louis XIV was also known as the Sun King. Louis was young, idealistic, and growing into his duties and responsibilities to his country. Cardinal Mazarin is a close personal adviser to the young king. Actually Cardinal Mazarin and the king's’ mother pretty much have control of Louis. Marie’s older sister Olympia is the king’s current mistress but then he met Marie and there was an intense connection between the two. The connection between Louis and Marie does turn into true love so much so that Louis is ready to leave the throne to be with Marie. Marie is the one who helped Louis be the strong and good king he became. Marie wants to free Louis of her uncle the cardinal. Cardinal Mazarin did a lot of bad things to make himself richer and to ruin the lives of his nieces and nephews. Also the king's mother and cardinal Mazarin considers Marie's and Louis’s love forbidden and do whatever they can to keep the two apart. Marie’s life also takes her across France, Spain and Italy she isn’t always at court.
‘This story has it all : betrayal, a king coming into himself, secrets, drama, pregnancy, forbidden love, greed, manipulation betrayal, the french court and pain and a lot more what more could you ask for ?, The story was excellent and I believe close to the time frame and how it really was . It even brought tears to my eyes at times. Also those beautiful letters between Louis and Marie certainly pulled at my heartstrings. The characters were off the wall Cardinal Mazarin was so vile you hated him more and more as the story went on as well as the king’s own mother. But the two people that of course stood out were King Louis and Marie and the twists and turns they went through. Just an excellent read and I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
‘This story has it all : betrayal, a king coming into himself, secrets, drama, pregnancy, forbidden love, greed, manipulation betrayal, the french court and pain and a lot more what more could you ask for ?, The story was excellent and I believe close to the time frame and how it really was . It even brought tears to my eyes at times. Also those beautiful letters between Louis and Marie certainly pulled at my heartstrings. The characters were off the wall Cardinal Mazarin was so vile you hated him more and more as the story went on as well as the king’s own mother. But the two people that of course stood out were King Louis and Marie and the twists and turns they went through. Just an excellent read and I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
August 4, 2015
France is not one of my regular stomping grounds, it's when my reading of English HF overlaps that I get my taste of the french. I am trying to change that and what better place then with Marci Jefferson's Enchantress of Paris. Having heard of the Sun King before but not knowing much background I looked forward to this book. I'll admit it was the cover that initially caught my eye - look at it, gorgeous, then the author. I've heard so many good things about her debut Girl on the Golden Coin but haven't read it yet. Since reading Enchantress of Paris that book has been moved closer to the top of my tbr pile. I had the privilege of meeting the author in Denver recently where we talked about this book (why didn't I take a pic?!).
The Mazarin's are also unknowns to me and I love that aspect of 'first time'. There are no preconceived notions, no likes or dislikes just an open mind taking everything in. It wasn't hard to like Marie, to dislike her uncle and be totally captivated with this book. Marie is strong willed, independent and clashes so much with the Cardinal who is the opposite, ruthless and just as strong willed, a rather powerful man.
Anything I've read about French kings has always been how they lack control of their future, how then bend to the wishes of others (this is where I think of the English kings who married whomever they wanted to, so why can't the french do that too?) Why couldn't Marie and the King would just run off and marry? The author does a great job of explaining the why and why not. Her knowledge of the time period is evident and also the amount of research that went into writing this book.
This wasn't just an entertaining read but an educational one as well. Highly recommend to those that like character driven stories and the French court.
The Mazarin's are also unknowns to me and I love that aspect of 'first time'. There are no preconceived notions, no likes or dislikes just an open mind taking everything in. It wasn't hard to like Marie, to dislike her uncle and be totally captivated with this book. Marie is strong willed, independent and clashes so much with the Cardinal who is the opposite, ruthless and just as strong willed, a rather powerful man.
Anything I've read about French kings has always been how they lack control of their future, how then bend to the wishes of others (this is where I think of the English kings who married whomever they wanted to, so why can't the french do that too?) Why couldn't Marie and the King would just run off and marry? The author does a great job of explaining the why and why not. Her knowledge of the time period is evident and also the amount of research that went into writing this book.
This wasn't just an entertaining read but an educational one as well. Highly recommend to those that like character driven stories and the French court.
August 16, 2015
Historical fiction can go either way, and usually I tend to be disappointed with some part or the other of it. Either the dialogue is all wrong or the characters based on real people seem nothing like what we know of the actual person from historical documents.
This book not only managed to avoid those pitfalls, but also filled in the gaps in our knowledge of certain aspects and characters with a brilliantly crafted and quite plausible narrative. I was thrilled with this novel, and found it impossible to put down. The letters the author crafted between Marie and Louis are amazing, since those, in reality, did not survive. For her to create such eloquently worded and realistic correspondence nearly made me forget I wasn't reading the real thing. Loved it.
I loved the portrayal of Marie and her relationship with King Louis. She was not a helpless waif in this story that was just another of the king's mistresses, and he was very realistically drawn as a man struggling to learn the ropes of ruling a kingdom. He was intelligent, cocky, yet vulnerable to the powers of Marie. The love story was beautifully written and I was excited that the author did not change the true end result of their lives just to make her book work.
It takes a lot of research, time and effort to write an excellent historical novel, and this is one of the best that I have had the pleasure of reading. I definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in the period as well as for those just looking for a well-crafted read to keep them entertained.
I am anxious to see more from this author and encourage you to check out this book.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
This book not only managed to avoid those pitfalls, but also filled in the gaps in our knowledge of certain aspects and characters with a brilliantly crafted and quite plausible narrative. I was thrilled with this novel, and found it impossible to put down. The letters the author crafted between Marie and Louis are amazing, since those, in reality, did not survive. For her to create such eloquently worded and realistic correspondence nearly made me forget I wasn't reading the real thing. Loved it.
I loved the portrayal of Marie and her relationship with King Louis. She was not a helpless waif in this story that was just another of the king's mistresses, and he was very realistically drawn as a man struggling to learn the ropes of ruling a kingdom. He was intelligent, cocky, yet vulnerable to the powers of Marie. The love story was beautifully written and I was excited that the author did not change the true end result of their lives just to make her book work.
It takes a lot of research, time and effort to write an excellent historical novel, and this is one of the best that I have had the pleasure of reading. I definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in the period as well as for those just looking for a well-crafted read to keep them entertained.
I am anxious to see more from this author and encourage you to check out this book.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
August 9, 2015
This is the first book that I have read by Marci Jefferson. I was absolutely blown away. Every page makes you want to continue on to find out what antics the Mancini sisters are up to next. Once their parents die in Italy, their nasty uncle, Cardinal Mazarin finally lets Marie out of a convent to join her family in Paris, under the Cardinal's thumb.
Marie Mancini finds out that the true leader of France is not King Louis XIV, a somewhat niave, impressionable young man, but her uncle the Cardinal. She finds out that it is actually the corrupt Cardinal who is calling all the shots. That is when fireworks go off in Marie's head. It also gets her into some situations beyond her control.
This story has "No fictional characters", Ms. Jefferson says. Most things in the story are historically real and verified to the best of her abilities. It is when she fills in the blanks and make her characters so incredibly interesting that the magic happens. Her writing style keeps you hanging on to every page. This book has it all: jealousy, love, betrayal, action, emotion, and so much more. I am most definitely going to read it again!
Netgalley gave me a free copy of this book to read and give my honest review.
Marie Mancini finds out that the true leader of France is not King Louis XIV, a somewhat niave, impressionable young man, but her uncle the Cardinal. She finds out that it is actually the corrupt Cardinal who is calling all the shots. That is when fireworks go off in Marie's head. It also gets her into some situations beyond her control.
This story has "No fictional characters", Ms. Jefferson says. Most things in the story are historically real and verified to the best of her abilities. It is when she fills in the blanks and make her characters so incredibly interesting that the magic happens. Her writing style keeps you hanging on to every page. This book has it all: jealousy, love, betrayal, action, emotion, and so much more. I am most definitely going to read it again!
Netgalley gave me a free copy of this book to read and give my honest review.
September 3, 2015
This novel follows Marie Mancini, the niece of a powerful cardinal in the court of French King Louis XIV. As Marie and Louis fall in love, she becomes the target of her uncle's wrath because her relationship with the king threatens to unravel his carefully laid political plans. Marie also has to contend with the king's mother and competition from her own sister who was once the king's mistress. Marie must find a way to bring down her uncle for her own safety and for her future with Louis. She combines her occult talents with those of her slave Morena and uses witchcraft, astrology, and more to bring down her rivals and secure her place as Queen of France. Based on real people and real events, this novel is also interspersed with historical commentary about Marie Mancini and her relationship with Louis XIV. I loved the combination of history, romance, intrigue, and high politics in this book. It is also a must-read for lovers of French history.
Anna C. / Marathon County Public Library
Find this book in our library catalog.
September 24, 2015
Reviewing a free unpublished copy from NetGalley.
The only redeeming factor of this book is the last chapter. Besides the bittersweet ending and the cliché yet cute closing line this book is an absolute waste of paper and electricity for those reading on e-devices.
The book's main genre is YA, not historical fiction as it's marketed. Primarily, this is the story if an annoying girl in love with a spoilt POS King. That's it. That's the story, thank you for reading 350 pages of nothing. The End.
Despicable characters and repetitive chapters make for an extremely boring read. I couldn't care less about what happened to either the King or Marie because they're horrible people. The only reason I plowed through is to publish my review for NetGalley.
Republish this book as a Y.A., sell it to sappy teenagers and you'll have a winner. Historical Fiction? I don't think so.
The only redeeming factor of this book is the last chapter. Besides the bittersweet ending and the cliché yet cute closing line this book is an absolute waste of paper and electricity for those reading on e-devices.
The book's main genre is YA, not historical fiction as it's marketed. Primarily, this is the story if an annoying girl in love with a spoilt POS King. That's it. That's the story, thank you for reading 350 pages of nothing. The End.
Despicable characters and repetitive chapters make for an extremely boring read. I couldn't care less about what happened to either the King or Marie because they're horrible people. The only reason I plowed through is to publish my review for NetGalley.
Republish this book as a Y.A., sell it to sappy teenagers and you'll have a winner. Historical Fiction? I don't think so.
September 6, 2015
This fictional account of the life of Marie Mancini is a definite 5 star read! It kept me engaged from first page to last. I adored the love letters between Marie and King Louis that author Marci Jefferson recreated. Everything about this story was well done--from the historical details to the characters to the oppulence of the French Court! Utterly compelling. I love a good villain, and the Cardinal fit the bill. Duplicitous, sneaky, mean, and conniving, he never failed to keep me entertained.
Well crafted, nicely researched, and vibrant with detail of the 17th century French court, this was one book that I devoured in two sittings. Definitely highly recommended. One of my favourite books for 2015.
Well crafted, nicely researched, and vibrant with detail of the 17th century French court, this was one book that I devoured in two sittings. Definitely highly recommended. One of my favourite books for 2015.
October 11, 2016
If you enjoy a well informed and sumptuous peek at a fascinating period in French history, this is a must read. The court of Louis XIV is rife with intriguing personalities like Cardinal Mazarin and the king's many mistresses, but I knew very little about Marie or her sisters. I could read so much more about the Mancini’s. I hope that the author chooses to write more about their stories! Honestly, I would read anything Marci Jefferson writes.
August 25, 2015
Enchantress of Paris is an interesting read. The novel is set during King Louis XIV's reign in France. I enjoyed the character of Marie and how she was with the king. I thought this was a pretty good piece of historical fiction. 4 stars
May 24, 2016
Soap-opera histrionics and incessant name-dropping doth not a decent novel make. Well researched but about as stirring as a Bob Dole speech, and much longer to boot.
January 28, 2018
Star-crossed lovers - a weak king and hot-blooded niece of one of the most powerful men in the French history.
Marie Mancini was one of the Mazarinettes, as were the Mancini sisters - and what is more important, the nieces of the infamous Cardinal Mazarin - known at the court of King Louis XIV of France. Controlled by the powerful uncle always seeking just his own good, the sisters struggle - and Marie, the most educated and wildest amongst them, fights her uncle the most - backed by the love of the king himself. But Louis is not the strong ruler he could be...
This was an interesting read, well-researched and full of facts (and I love the nod to the Three Musketeers´ fame as Charles d´Artagnan is mentioned several times). I have not known about the infamous Mancini sisters before - but they are definitely interesting figures, worth to know more of (if wild and of questionable morals).
The environment is rich - the court, habits, powerful figures, dresses, power, times...you are there and I enjoyed the ride. The authoress had definitely did her homework, if I might say that!
But the troubles lies within the characters for me. Unfortunately the love between Marie and the king is not believable here. It is well-established historical fact and I am not denying that - but I do not believe in their love here in the novel.
Marie might be smart, the master of intrigues and wit, but I can not connect with her. King Louis is pitiful character, a pupil in the hands of the master and maybe more, as the novel is playing with the unproved paternity of Cardinal Mazarin - and his weakness I can definitely believe to, if not sympathize with.
The topic of witchcraft and occult and its power over the lives is questionable and I am taking the star out of my review just because of its sensational character.
Marie Mancini was one of the Mazarinettes, as were the Mancini sisters - and what is more important, the nieces of the infamous Cardinal Mazarin - known at the court of King Louis XIV of France. Controlled by the powerful uncle always seeking just his own good, the sisters struggle - and Marie, the most educated and wildest amongst them, fights her uncle the most - backed by the love of the king himself. But Louis is not the strong ruler he could be...
This was an interesting read, well-researched and full of facts (and I love the nod to the Three Musketeers´ fame as Charles d´Artagnan is mentioned several times). I have not known about the infamous Mancini sisters before - but they are definitely interesting figures, worth to know more of (if wild and of questionable morals).
The environment is rich - the court, habits, powerful figures, dresses, power, times...you are there and I enjoyed the ride. The authoress had definitely did her homework, if I might say that!
But the troubles lies within the characters for me. Unfortunately the love between Marie and the king is not believable here. It is well-established historical fact and I am not denying that - but I do not believe in their love here in the novel.
Marie might be smart, the master of intrigues and wit, but I can not connect with her. King Louis is pitiful character, a pupil in the hands of the master and maybe more, as the novel is playing with the unproved paternity of Cardinal Mazarin - and his weakness I can definitely believe to, if not sympathize with.
The topic of witchcraft and occult and its power over the lives is questionable and I am taking the star out of my review just because of its sensational character.
January 16, 2016
Initially posted at my blog
The Country Bookworm
Summary
The setting is Fontainebleu Palace, 1650's Paris, where the secret arts of the occult thrive. The King, Louis XIV, is a young man who is easily controlled by his head counselor, Cardinal Mazarin. The French royal court is full of intrigue and political scheming, as the royal's favor is easily won and lost, which the Cardinal is all too easily aware of.
Marie Mancini is one of five Italian nieces of Cardinal Mazarin. Her deceased father was an illustrious astrologer who predicted that Marie was born under an evil star and would bring dishonor to her husband, but also be gifted at divination. In an attempt to stop her from bringing disgrace to the family, Marie is sent to live in a convent. That is, until Cardinal Mazarin has use of her in the King's Court and brings her to Paris.
Marie becomes caught up in the Cardinal's political aspirations when he attempts to use her as a pawn to win the Kings favor. His plain is foiled when Marie and Louis fall in love. Now the fate of the kingdom lies in the balance as France is at war, and a sure fire way to peace is a marriage to a Spanish princess. Marie must decide whether to follow her heart, or put the needs of France and the King before her own.
The book starts with Marie and her older sister Olympe, reunited in Spain many years after their life at the French court have come to an end. The sisters recall their lives in France and how Marie stole the King's affections. "Because then his gaze fell on me, and France has never been the same."
Initial Thoughts
I love historical fiction, especially France and England during this time period. I have read about the Sun King previously, but it was always pertaining to his later years at Versailles. This was the first I have read about Marie Mancini, who many historians believe to be the love of his life. This book intrigued and enthralled me. I could not put it down, and read it during every free moment I had over the course of three days.
Marci Jefferson is known for her in depth research for her books. After finishing it, I did my own research online, and in other historical texts, and this novel was dead on. I really appreciated how Marci took quotes and events directly from Marie's own writings, or the from the letters of the people closest to her.
Favorite Quote
"A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it."
This quote starts off chapter 7 and it is so appropriate for the story of Marie's life. Her family shut her away in a Roman convent so that she would not fulfill the destiny of her evil star. However, despite their attempts to hide her, Marie still came to the forefront of the royal court and played a large role in French history. Many historians regard her as a central figure to the development of Louis from a easily controlled young man, into the strong king that he eventually became.
What I Liked
Marci Jefferson's portrayal of her characters was amazing. I actually started off not liking the book because of Marie. I was a few chapters in and thought oh god, Marie is really immature and obnoxious. But I kept going and later realized this was on purpose. Marci wrote Marie that way in order to show the arc of her development. Marie transforms from a shy, annoying young girl to a powerful woman who knows her own heart and mind. In the end I LOVED her. Women had no power or say in their destinies in the 1600's, especially women of noble descent. But somehow Marie was able to fight for what was important to her and take control of her life. Also, interestingly enough, Marie was too thin and dark to be considered beautiful by the day's beauty standards, but still caught the King's eye.
King Louis annoyed me and continued to annoy me. However, I disliked him, not the way the author wrote him. After reading more about him I decided that I just do not like him, but love the way that Marci Jefferson was able to portray him accurately. Louis was the most powerful man in his country, but was so easily controlled by his conniving Cardinal and his mother, the Queen. He claimed to be in love with Marie, but allowed her to be mistreated by her uncle and the Queen. He never stood up for their love and even allowed himself to be persuaded to marry someone else. Although, based on your view of history you may believe that this was a necessary step.
I also loved the way the author developed the romance between Marie and Louis. This was not, in either the book or in real life, a fairytale romance. These two were up against many challenges. The pressure of the royal court, politics, and what society deemed appropriate were constantly up against the two lovers. They never actually had a sexual relationship, but were fiercely in love. Marci Jefferson managed to write them in a genuine way. It never felt over the top or unrealistic, which I loved reading about.
What I Didn't Like
Honestly the only gripe I have with the book, is that partway through, Marie's divination/occult "powers" fell to the wayside. This was a very interesting theme in the beginning and the very end of the book. It is never outright said whether Marie is practicing "magic," but she does seem to have a certain power over people and even has premonitions. This was actually recorded throughout history and is a well known fact that the whole Mancini family was involved in the occult.
I wish Marci Jefferson had kept up with the divination power of Marie. The scenes she did write were so interesting. She definitely did her homework, because she even mentioned magical and alchemical texts of the day that Marie might actually have access to.
Who Should Read this Book?
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially 17th century France. If you are interested in Louis XIV before he became the illustrious Sun King, or don't know much about his love affair with Marie Mancini, then give this a read. Or, if you have not read much historical fiction, then you should start here. Marci Jefferson's writing is so immersive that you feel like you are just reading a great book, and not being taught anything about history :)
Rating
Overall, I give the book 4.5/5 stars. the 0.5 star to be knocked off is only due to the occult theme falling off part way, and a few pacing problems I disliked.
Further Reading
If you are interested in learning more about King Louis XIV and his life with Marie, then try Love and Louis the XIV by Antonia Fraser, who is a fantastic historical writer.
The Country Bookworm
Summary
The setting is Fontainebleu Palace, 1650's Paris, where the secret arts of the occult thrive. The King, Louis XIV, is a young man who is easily controlled by his head counselor, Cardinal Mazarin. The French royal court is full of intrigue and political scheming, as the royal's favor is easily won and lost, which the Cardinal is all too easily aware of.
Marie Mancini is one of five Italian nieces of Cardinal Mazarin. Her deceased father was an illustrious astrologer who predicted that Marie was born under an evil star and would bring dishonor to her husband, but also be gifted at divination. In an attempt to stop her from bringing disgrace to the family, Marie is sent to live in a convent. That is, until Cardinal Mazarin has use of her in the King's Court and brings her to Paris.
Marie becomes caught up in the Cardinal's political aspirations when he attempts to use her as a pawn to win the Kings favor. His plain is foiled when Marie and Louis fall in love. Now the fate of the kingdom lies in the balance as France is at war, and a sure fire way to peace is a marriage to a Spanish princess. Marie must decide whether to follow her heart, or put the needs of France and the King before her own.
The book starts with Marie and her older sister Olympe, reunited in Spain many years after their life at the French court have come to an end. The sisters recall their lives in France and how Marie stole the King's affections. "Because then his gaze fell on me, and France has never been the same."
Initial Thoughts
I love historical fiction, especially France and England during this time period. I have read about the Sun King previously, but it was always pertaining to his later years at Versailles. This was the first I have read about Marie Mancini, who many historians believe to be the love of his life. This book intrigued and enthralled me. I could not put it down, and read it during every free moment I had over the course of three days.
Marci Jefferson is known for her in depth research for her books. After finishing it, I did my own research online, and in other historical texts, and this novel was dead on. I really appreciated how Marci took quotes and events directly from Marie's own writings, or the from the letters of the people closest to her.
Favorite Quote
"A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it."
This quote starts off chapter 7 and it is so appropriate for the story of Marie's life. Her family shut her away in a Roman convent so that she would not fulfill the destiny of her evil star. However, despite their attempts to hide her, Marie still came to the forefront of the royal court and played a large role in French history. Many historians regard her as a central figure to the development of Louis from a easily controlled young man, into the strong king that he eventually became.
What I Liked
Marci Jefferson's portrayal of her characters was amazing. I actually started off not liking the book because of Marie. I was a few chapters in and thought oh god, Marie is really immature and obnoxious. But I kept going and later realized this was on purpose. Marci wrote Marie that way in order to show the arc of her development. Marie transforms from a shy, annoying young girl to a powerful woman who knows her own heart and mind. In the end I LOVED her. Women had no power or say in their destinies in the 1600's, especially women of noble descent. But somehow Marie was able to fight for what was important to her and take control of her life. Also, interestingly enough, Marie was too thin and dark to be considered beautiful by the day's beauty standards, but still caught the King's eye.
King Louis annoyed me and continued to annoy me. However, I disliked him, not the way the author wrote him. After reading more about him I decided that I just do not like him, but love the way that Marci Jefferson was able to portray him accurately. Louis was the most powerful man in his country, but was so easily controlled by his conniving Cardinal and his mother, the Queen. He claimed to be in love with Marie, but allowed her to be mistreated by her uncle and the Queen. He never stood up for their love and even allowed himself to be persuaded to marry someone else. Although, based on your view of history you may believe that this was a necessary step.
I also loved the way the author developed the romance between Marie and Louis. This was not, in either the book or in real life, a fairytale romance. These two were up against many challenges. The pressure of the royal court, politics, and what society deemed appropriate were constantly up against the two lovers. They never actually had a sexual relationship, but were fiercely in love. Marci Jefferson managed to write them in a genuine way. It never felt over the top or unrealistic, which I loved reading about.
What I Didn't Like
Honestly the only gripe I have with the book, is that partway through, Marie's divination/occult "powers" fell to the wayside. This was a very interesting theme in the beginning and the very end of the book. It is never outright said whether Marie is practicing "magic," but she does seem to have a certain power over people and even has premonitions. This was actually recorded throughout history and is a well known fact that the whole Mancini family was involved in the occult.
I wish Marci Jefferson had kept up with the divination power of Marie. The scenes she did write were so interesting. She definitely did her homework, because she even mentioned magical and alchemical texts of the day that Marie might actually have access to.
Who Should Read this Book?
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially 17th century France. If you are interested in Louis XIV before he became the illustrious Sun King, or don't know much about his love affair with Marie Mancini, then give this a read. Or, if you have not read much historical fiction, then you should start here. Marci Jefferson's writing is so immersive that you feel like you are just reading a great book, and not being taught anything about history :)
Rating
Overall, I give the book 4.5/5 stars. the 0.5 star to be knocked off is only due to the occult theme falling off part way, and a few pacing problems I disliked.
Further Reading
If you are interested in learning more about King Louis XIV and his life with Marie, then try Love and Louis the XIV by Antonia Fraser, who is a fantastic historical writer.
December 17, 2020
I love this book so much! It enchants you to 17th Century France and makes you feel as if all the ethereal grace and magnificent opulence of the era were surrounding you! The romance in this book is so heart-wrenching and the author really make you fall in love with wistful and handsome Louis, and all his chivalrous gestures of eternal adoration towards Marie. The author intertwined otherworldy magic and the heavily ceremonial processions of 17th century France so perfectly! I felt like I too was in the Sun King's resplendent court, sweeping as I dance across ballrooms in a chorus of glimmering silks, fluttering my gilded fan beneath the light of hundreds of luminous chandeliers, and weaving my serpentine fate through poisonous court intrigue. Coming back to the 21st century after finishing the book left me sighing, cause it was oh so romantic and all the la doleur exquise in the book really gets to me!
August 30, 2017
This was an interesting look at a lesser known historical figure. Marie Mancini, the niece of the infamous Cardinal Mazarin, was almost certainly the Sun King's first love, but she disappeared from the scene once he got married. This book explores her life and their relationship a little more, in terms of what could have been, and it does a great job. I had no idea that Mazarin had such interesting and scandalous nieces. I'm not super familiar with France during this time period, but everything appeared to be as historically accurate as possible. It was certainly plausible, at least.
April 7, 2020
Entertaining & Intriguing
The fictional account of the live affair between Marie Mancini and the Sun King was an easy read that i enjoyed but at points it left me asking for more details and deeper character development. I did enjoy reading a historical fiction book that centered on a strong female lead I had not previously heard of. Overall it was a quick easy read that I look forward to discussing with friends.
The fictional account of the live affair between Marie Mancini and the Sun King was an easy read that i enjoyed but at points it left me asking for more details and deeper character development. I did enjoy reading a historical fiction book that centered on a strong female lead I had not previously heard of. Overall it was a quick easy read that I look forward to discussing with friends.
December 10, 2017
I loved this book! Marie and her sisters were fascinating to read about. I rooted for her the whole time even though I already knew her historical story. The intrigue and plotting kept my on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the author wove astrology into the plot and all the little historical details she included.
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