Written in the form of diary entries, this is the first in a trilogy of the life of the woman who would become Josephine Bonaparte, wife to Emperor Napoleon. An engaging read/history lesson that I couldn't put down. ( )

I read all three books of this series during my vacation. It was a wonderful escape into the life of a person I was largely unfamiliar with. Her life was so varied and would have been unbelievable as fiction if we didn't know that it is based on fact. Sandra Gulland wove this tale beautifully, drawing me into this character's world until I was desperately needing to know what happened next, dreaming about these people and their relationships, and staying up way past my bedtime. For me, that is my measure of great books. ( )

Could not put it down. Absolutely great read. Josie B is my new hero.

For anyone who wants to read something historical and doesn't know where to being, this is the place to do it. This entire series is well written, passionate, brilliantly researched, and puts you right there with the characters from the very beginning, and they will stay with you once you're finished. Sandra Gulland is an indescribable talent, and one of my favourite writers.
(I cried like a baby at the end of the third book, which I won't mention why because of spoilers, and in the middle of the second when the terror was happening in France. Very powerful stuff

Best Historical Fiction. Period. ( )

Highly recommended. Imaginative, meticulously researched, and beautifully told, these books make Josephine come alive. Sandra Gulland is a fantastic writer and you won't be able to put these books down -- be prepared for late nights and missed meals. ( )