Courtesan

I really liked this book even though the main character, Diane de Poitiers, is quite the Mary Sue. She is just sooo saintly and wonderful and doesn't do anything wrong at all. You can pretty much predict just what she's going to do at any given situation. I still like her, though.
Ignoring that, I really loved the portrayal of life at court. I liked all the other characters besides Diane and I wasn't bothered by the way the author tweaked some of the history around to fit the story (and I can really be outraged by that sometimes.

You didn’t mind this, but you struggled a LOT with the author’s choice to portray Diane as a complete innocent who has zero ulterior motives, and just happens to fall in love with a 14 year old boy who just happens to be a convenient meal ticket for her.
Like…come on!

I love Diane Haeger. Her books blend just enough history with romance. I enjoyed getting to know Diane, though I think the author idealized her a bit. Henri did get annoying at times with his "obsession." Anne d'Heilly was entertaining with her schemes against Diane, and I was sad to see her go. Like other reviewers, I too had the same minor problems with the novel. Aside from the numerous grammatical errors (which I can easily overlook), there were historical errors as well. I don't believe that Diane would let her own child be raised right under her nose without acknowledging the child. Also, would Diane really start sleeping with a boy who is her own children's age? I think the author was a bit indulgent with Diane. She was portrayed show more as a sweet, loving, gentle, unselfish woman in a debauched court. Probably not very accurate, but a great read nonetheless. show less

"Heartbreaking" is the word. The best book I have read in recent times.

Historical fiction I have been reading in the recent times are centered on mystery/crime. Courtesan is different - it is an epic saga of love.

Great job, Diane Haeger!

It was not great but I truly enjoyed it. And I liked how Diane was portrayed.

This historical fiction book was "pretty good." I agree with previous posters that the grammar was questionable at times, which irks me. Catherine's character was interesting, however, and led me to keep reading.