Set in 1648, Angelique (Book 1) weaves a tale of adventure and romance amidst a backdrop of rebellion and revolution in divided France. At twelve years old, Angélique de Sance de Monteloup, the spirited daughter of an impoverished nobleman, finds herself thrust into the world beyond the walls of her manor. Her spirit remains unbroken, as she joins local peasant children in their games and wanders through the ancient forests and swamps of Poitou. When bandits ravage the village, Angélique’s leadership qualities emerge, marking a turning point in her life.
The narrative unfolds with pivotal encounters: Angélique meets King Louis XIV and Joffrey, whose presence intertwines with her own. One significant scene finds our heroine and Joffrey as spectators at the grand wedding of Louis XIV to Marie-Thérèse. As Angélique and Joffrey face formidable adversaries, their relationship evolves from a complex dynamic into something tender yet often unpredictable.
The climax of this engrossing story is set against the backdrop of French court politics, where a critical decision will irrevocably alter the course of events. This choice propels Angélique towards the perilous streets of Paris, setting the stage for an exhilarating continuation in the second book.
