Courtesan - by Diane Haeger (Paperback)

About the Book

A fact-based debut novel of passion, manipulation, greed, and jealousy--by a rising talent. After five years in exile, King's mistress Diane de Poitiers returns to the court of Henri II to find that she is still the object of his desire. But her destiny lies inevitably with Henri's hotblooded son.

Book Synopsis

Amid the disapproving gossip of the Court, a royal romance defies all obstacles.

The Court of François I is full of lust, intrigue, and bawdy bon temps--a different world from the quiet country life Diane de Poitiers led with her elderly husband. Now a widow, the elegant Diane is called back to Court, where the King's obvious interest marks her as an enemy to the King's favourite, Anne d'Heilly. The Court is soon electrified by rumors of their confrontations. As Anne calls on her most venomous tricks to drive Diane away, Diane finds an ally in the one member of Court with no allegiance to the King's mistress: his teenage second son, Henri.

Neglected by his father and disliked by his brothers, Prince Henri expects little from his life. But as his friendship with Diane deepens into infatuation and then a romance that scandalizes the Court, the Prince begins to discover hope for a future with Diane. But fate and his father have other plans for Henri--including a political marriage with Catherine de Medici. Despite daunting obstacles, Henri's devotion to Diane never wanes; their passion becomes one of the most legendary romances in the history of France.

Also available as an eBook

Review Quotes

"Riveting . . . I guarantee you'll stay awake nights not being able to put this book down." --Affaire de Coeur

"Spectacular . . . The story of a remarkable woman and her clash with society . . . Lush in characterization and rich in historical detail." --Romantic Times

About the Author

Diane Haeger is the author of four previous historical novels, including The Ruby Ring and My Dearest Cecilia. She lives in California with her husband and family.