In 1664, Marquise Ath?na?s de Montespan returned to the Court of Versailles. At twenty-three, she was young, beautiful, and highly intelligent, but burdened with a young son, a mad husband, and big debts. The way to power and prosperity at Versailles led through Louis XIV, well known for his susceptibility to pretty ladies. Ath?na?s befriended his current favorite, dazzled everyone, and bided her time. Soon Ath?na?s was a power in the glittering, dangerous court, and the sinister La Voisin, abortionist, witch, and poisoner, appeared to whisper that with a little help, Ath?na?s could maintain her influence forever. With a cast of characters ranging from the royal family and their dissolute courtiers to defrocked priests and poisoners to the Police Lieutenant of Paris, All the Kings Ladies captures a turbulent and ruthless and glamorous society.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.