Description
1958 2nd printing edition. Hardcover has some normal shelf wear and fading at spine. The pages are clean and in good condition. The binding is secure.
This intriguing volume delves into the life of Simone Andre, the enigmatic mistress of Napoleon III, the last monarch to rule over France. Written by the renowned French biographer and historian André Maurois, this work offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent world of the Second Empire and the intricate web of power, passion, and politics that surrounded the imperial court. Maurois skillfully weaves together historical accounts and personal correspondence, painting a vivid portrait of Simone Andre, a woman who wielded considerable influence over the Emperor despite her humble origins. Beyond its biographical narrative, the book serves as a fascinating window into the social and cultural landscape of 19th-century France, exploring the complexities of class, gender, and the enduring allure of the Napoleonic legend. For collectors and readers alike, this edition holds particular significance as a well-preserved second printing from 1958, allowing one to immerse themselves in a meticulously researched and engaging account of a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on one of the most tumultuous periods in French history.
