Desiree is a most compelling book.
It spans the life of a ordinary woman destined to effect the lives of two of the most influential men of the 19th century.
The story begins in Marseilles, when Desiree is but a teenage provincial girl. She then meets both Napoleon and Jean-Baptist Bernadot.
Napoleon as we know is destined to become Emperor of the French and rule most of Europe; Bernadot an officer in the army and a veteran of the revolution rises to an unexpected level!
That both these powerful men should fall in love with the same woman makes the book appealing to those who seek a good romantic novel.
Annemarie Selinko paints a detailed portrait of the Napoleonic times, the politics and intrigue that beset them.
For those who love historical drama I feel sure they will not be disappointed and will feel drawn into this highly enjoyable classic.