Mistress Anne By: Temple Bailey (-1953)
Mistress Anne by Temple Bailey is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to the colorful world of 17th century France. Set against the backdrop of Louis XIV's opulent court, this book paints a vivid picture of passion, power, and intrigue. At the heart of the story is Anne de Beaujeu, a young and determined woman who serves as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Marie-Thérèse. From the very beginning, Anne's unwavering spirit and intelligence captivate both the readers and the characters around her. The author skillfully portrays her as a strong and independent female protagonist, defying the societal norms of the time. Bailey's writing style is elegant and descriptive, effortlessly transporting readers to the extravagant halls of Versailles. The lavish descriptions of fashion, courtly rituals, and the dazzling parties make the setting come alive, immersing readers in the splendor and decadence of the era. The author's attention to detail is commendable, bringing authenticity to the narrative. As the story unfolds, Anne finds herself entangled in a web of courtly intrigue, where loyalty is a fragile commodity and deceit lurks behind every corner. The love triangle between Anne, Louis XIV, and a powerful courtier adds an element of romance and suspense to the plot. Bailey skillfully weaves together historical facts and fictional elements, creating a believable and compelling story. Furthermore, the secondary characters are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Whether it's the conniving courtiers, the enigmatic royal family members, or the steadfast friends, every character adds depth to the narrative, enriching the overall reading experience. One aspect that sets this novel apart is its exploration of the complexities of power and the sacrifices one has to make in order to attain and maintain it. Anne's journey from a humble lady-in-waiting to a woman of influence in court highlights the compromises she must make, testing her resilience and moral compass. While Mistress Anne is undoubtedly an enjoyable read, it does have a few minor flaws. At times, the pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain passages moving quickly while others linger in unnecessary detail. Additionally, the ending may leave some readers craving a more conclusive resolution. Overall, Mistress Anne is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that transports readers to an enchanting period in history. Temple Bailey's engaging storytelling, well-rounded characters, and richly detailed setting make this book a delightful escape. Perfect for fans of lavish court dramas and strong female protagonists, this novel is an enjoyable and immersive read. First Page: MISTRESS ANNE BY TEMPLE BAILEY AUTHOR OF CONTRARY MARY, ETC. FRONTISPIECE BY F. VAUX WILSON GROSSET & DUNLAP PUBLISHERS NEW YORK Made in the United States of America [Illustration: SHE SHOWED HIM HER SCHOOL] COPYRIGHT 1917 BY THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY Made in U. S. A. Mistress Anne To P. V. B. who sees the sunsets Contents I. IN WHICH THINGS ARE SAID OF DIOGENES AND OF A LADY WITH A LANTERN 11 II. IN WHICH A PRINCESS SERVING FINDS THAT THE MOTTO OF KINGS IS MEANINGLESS 21 III. IN WHICH THE CROWN PRINCE ENTERS UPON HIS OWN 36 IV. IN WHICH THREE KINGS COME TO CROSSROADS 51 V. IN WHICH PEGGY TAKES THE CENTER OF THE STAGE 62 VI. IN WHICH A GRAY PLUSH PUSSY CAT SUPPLIES A THEME 77 VII. IN WHICH GEOFFREY WRITES OF SOLDIERS AND THEIR SOULS 91 VIII. IN WHICH A GREEN EYED MONSTER GRIPS EVE 111 IX. IN WHICH ANNE, PASSING A SHOP, TURNS IN 136 X. IN WHICH A BLIND BEGGAR AND A BUTTERFLY GO TO A BALL 149 XI. IN WHICH BRINSLEY SPEAKS OF THE WAY TO WIN A WOMAN 160 XII... Continue reading book >>

Mistress Anne By: Temple Bailey (-1953)

Mistress Anne by Temple Bailey is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to the colorful world of 17th century France. Set against the backdrop of Louis XIV's opulent court, this book paints a vivid picture of passion, power, and intrigue.

At the heart of the story is Anne de Beaujeu, a young and determined woman who serves as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Marie-Thérèse. From the very beginning, Anne's unwavering spirit and intelligence captivate both the readers and the characters around her. The author skillfully portrays her as a strong and independent female protagonist, defying the societal norms of the time.

Bailey's writing style is elegant and descriptive, effortlessly transporting readers to the extravagant halls of Versailles. The lavish descriptions of fashion, courtly rituals, and the dazzling parties make the setting come alive, immersing readers in the splendor and decadence of the era. The author's attention to detail is commendable, bringing authenticity to the narrative.

As the story unfolds, Anne finds herself entangled in a web of courtly intrigue, where loyalty is a fragile commodity and deceit lurks behind every corner. The love triangle between Anne, Louis XIV, and a powerful courtier adds an element of romance and suspense to the plot. Bailey skillfully weaves together historical facts and fictional elements, creating a believable and compelling story.

Furthermore, the secondary characters are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Whether it's the conniving courtiers, the enigmatic royal family members, or the steadfast friends, every character adds depth to the narrative, enriching the overall reading experience.

One aspect that sets this novel apart is its exploration of the complexities of power and the sacrifices one has to make in order to attain and maintain it. Anne's journey from a humble lady-in-waiting to a woman of influence in court highlights the compromises she must make, testing her resilience and moral compass.

While Mistress Anne is undoubtedly an enjoyable read, it does have a few minor flaws. At times, the pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain passages moving quickly while others linger in unnecessary detail. Additionally, the ending may leave some readers craving a more conclusive resolution.

Overall, Mistress Anne is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that transports readers to an enchanting period in history. Temple Bailey's engaging storytelling, well-rounded characters, and richly detailed setting make this book a delightful escape. Perfect for fans of lavish court dramas and strong female protagonists, this novel is an enjoyable and immersive read.

First Page:

MISTRESS ANNE

BY TEMPLE BAILEY

AUTHOR OF CONTRARY MARY, ETC.

FRONTISPIECE BY F. VAUX WILSON

GROSSET & DUNLAP PUBLISHERS NEW YORK

Made in the United States of America

[Illustration: SHE SHOWED HIM HER SCHOOL]

Made in U. S. A.

Mistress Anne

P. V. B.

who sees the sunsets

Contents

I. IN WHICH THINGS ARE SAID OF DIOGENES AND OF A LADY WITH A LANTERN 11

II. IN WHICH A PRINCESS SERVING FINDS THAT THE MOTTO OF KINGS IS MEANINGLESS 21

III. IN WHICH THE CROWN PRINCE ENTERS UPON HIS OWN 36

IV. IN WHICH THREE KINGS COME TO CROSSROADS 51

V. IN WHICH PEGGY TAKES THE CENTER OF THE STAGE 62

VI. IN WHICH A GRAY PLUSH PUSSY CAT SUPPLIES A THEME 77

VII. IN WHICH GEOFFREY WRITES OF SOLDIERS AND THEIR SOULS 91

VIII. IN WHICH A GREEN EYED MONSTER GRIPS EVE 111

IX. IN WHICH ANNE, PASSING A SHOP, TURNS IN 136

X. IN WHICH A BLIND BEGGAR AND A BUTTERFLY GO TO A BALL 149

XI. IN WHICH BRINSLEY SPEAKS OF THE WAY TO WIN A WOMAN 160

XII... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

eBook links
Wikipedia – Temple Bailey
Wikipedia – Mistress Anne

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