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Courtesan

By: Diane Haeger
Narrated by: Corrie James
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Publisher's summary

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 favorite, 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.

Contains mature themes.

©1993 Diane Haeger (P)2022 Tantor
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What listeners say about Courtesan

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Fantastic

Character development was well done. The narrator was engaging. Diane was presented in a favorable way as is necessary. She was a powerful figure in French history.

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Enjoyable!

There are so few books centering around Diane d’ Poitiers so I was so happy to discover this book. And it didn’t disappoint.

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Details

This novel was so descriptive I felt like I was there. I could see the gowns and the countryside!! I could smell the perfume and hear the cheering crowds!!

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Great read

Really enjoyed the story and going back in History. I highly recommend this audio book 😊

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A beautiful love story

I loved everything about this book. Yes there was some poetic license but it pulled me in. The narrator was excellent and I was able to tell each character apart. Highly recommend

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Lovely

I enjoyed the historical nuances in this story somewhat unbelievable though but maybe could have been for some people. I am glad I chose, a long listen.

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Heart Breaking

Every book that Ive read and movie that I’ve seen depicting Diane had only served to make me dislike her deeply. Not being a fan of adultery, I e always felt sorry for the queens who are placed in an arranged marriage and find no hope for their husband’s affection due to the royal mistresses. This is the first book that caused me to consider the other side of the story. I appreciate the angle. It was enjoyable, insightful, and heart breaking.

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Fabulous!

Absolutely loved this one! What a rich, vivid story about an extraordinary once in a lifetime love affair. The writing was excellent and the narration was brilliant. I highly recommend this book.

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undying love

what great "history-fiction", brought this book alive. Many many facts were true, but it is blended and filled in with great fiction.

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Great story,very moving,I loved it

Loved it,I couldn't quit listening to I thought the voices were very good also so real

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