Author Sandra Gulland Reading and Book Signing June 11, 2008

Historical novelist Sandra Gulland, author of the internationally acclaimed "Josephine B" trilogy about Josephine Bonaparte, now returns with her long-awaited next novel "Mistress of the Sun" set in the magnificent decadence of the 17th century French court of the Sun King, King Louis XIV.

Legendary horsewoman Louise de la Valliere, “Petite,” is an eccentric woman of humble background, who, against all odds, became one of the most mysterious consorts of King Louis XIV. "Mistress of the Sun" begins when young Louise falls in love with a wild white stallion and uses ancient magic to tame him. This one desperate action of her youth shadows her throughout her life.

Unmarriageable and too poor to join a convent, Petite enters the royal court of King Louis XIV as a maid of honor. Although marred by a limp obtained in a childhood accident, Petite’s legendary beauty and intelligence overshadowed the limp until it was barely noticeable. The king is captivated by her horsemanship and striking grace, and as their love deepens, Louisa bears Louis four children. She is made a duchess and reigns unrivaled as his official mistress until dangerous intrigue threatens her position at court and in Louis’s heart. At the age of 29 and by her own volition, Petite enters a convent and lives the rest of her life in a cold, damp stone cell.

Enter to win a chance to meet with Sandra Gulland at a private reception before the event. Call the store for more details.

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