My Bloggiversary with Author Interview and Fantastic GIVEAWAY!!!

Enchanted by Josephine celebrates its 1st year Bloggiversary!!!  

What started out with the idea of writing about what I love most- my passion for history, reading and writing, blossomed into a world that expanded into so much more than that.  (If you’d like to view that very first post, see here:   ) My bookblog has led me to meeting some of the nicest like-minded people I would have otherwise never met.  I’ve shared books, ideas, creations and a passion for history that has done more for my spirit and knowledge than solitary reading enjoyment could ever have fulfilled.  I’m thankful to all my readers and good friends out there- You made this all possible!

Along the way, I’ve also met fantastic historical fiction writers that have completely mesmerized me with their tales of intrigue, passion, sorrow and regality.  And, one very special author in particular, Sandra Gulland, has been instrumental in my starting to blog about history…and my favourite historical figure, Josephine…

For this merry occasion, the incredibly talented, Sandra Gulland, author of the Josephine B. Trilogy and Mistress of the Sun, has kindly agreed to grace my blog with this terrific interview! 

Please welcome, Sandra Gulland!!!

 Previously, I mentioned how Josephine is my muse for inspiration.  Can you tell us who or what inspires you to create the exquisite books you write? Do you have a muse?

Thank you, Lucy! I love books, and always wanted to write one. My muse? Research, I think: I’m always inspired as soon as I begin.

I am always fascinated by the way you bring out the endearing qualities in your heroines that other historical writers often fail to see or underline; especially Josephine, and Louise as well.  How do you choose your heroines-what is it about them that makes you want to write their story?

I became fascinated with Josephine quite by accident. When I began to write, Josephine appeared only as a shadow — and then, by degrees, the work came to be about her.

It seems that a question, a simple curiosity, starts it off. For Josephine, I was curious about the prediction that was made in her youth, that she would become “more than a queen.” Could it be true? (It was.) For Louise, I was curious how a timid young woman could become such an incredible horsewoman...and then mistress to the married Sun King. She was devout: how did she reconcile this with her faith?

I don’t really choose my heroines — rather, I become interested in a person, and then one thing leads to another. At a certain point, I have to ask: Is there a story here? And so far the answer has always been yes. 

We are very curious to learn about your next project.  Can you please tell us a bit about that? Any similarities between the heroine of your next book and those of past?

Claude des Oeillets is very different from both Josephine and Louise. She was raised by her actor-parents on the road, and although she had a daughter by the Sun King, she was never more than a confidential maid to his mistress, Madame de Montespan. Both Josephine and Louise were of the lower nobility. Claude is not noble in the least.

What I love about her (in addition to her spunk) is her involvement in the fascinating world of the theater. It was the period of the French theatrical renaissance. Claude’s mother was a theatrical super-star, yet even so, it was a life of constant poverty, and a way of life considered to be profoundly sinful by the Church. Actors were shunned! No doubt Claude thought her problems were solved when she got a position as maid to a woman of the Court, Madame de Montespan — only to become embroiled in a world of witchcraft and poison.

It’s a big story!

Since today is a festive day here on EBJ- we’d also love to hear about any special anniversaries or festive times foreseen for 2010 that you may be part of or planning.

Every year, just before New Year’s Eve, my husband and I and our two adult children share our resolutions for the year ahead. Last year, my main resolution was to finish the first draft of Claude’s story: and I did! My resolution for the year 2010 will be to finish a second and third draft. When I send that last draft to my agent, I will be feeling quite festive! 

Lastly, can you tell us something memorable about your travels and what your favourite destination is?

Paris is my favorite destination: always. How lovely that my research takes me there so often! My husband and I will be returning in the spring, staying in the neighborhood where Claude des Oeillets lived.

One memorable trip was a private tour through the chateau of Fontainebleau, into the dark and cob-webbed servants’ quarters. Every trip is a revelation.

Thank you for inviting me onto your blog. Congratulations!

Thank You so much, Sandra !

And now...  for this very First Bloggiversary, I have a special GIVEAWAY to give homage to my Muse…someone you’ve no doubt come to learn about and love (not much choice on that if you stick around here awhile;)  the beloved namesake of my blog:  Josephine! This historical muse has inspired me to read, write and illustrate about that enchanting time which is the past. So, quite appropriately, to help celebrate this memorable year,  I will be selecting 3 winners for a fantabulous GIVEAWAY of:

The Many Lives and Secret  Sorrows of Josephine B., by Sandra Gulland 

Tales of Passion Tales of Woe, by Sandra Gulland 

The Last Great Dance on Earth, by Sandra Gulland 

 ALL 3 COURTESY OF Sandra Gulland and Diane Saarinen!!!  Can you think of a better mix than this amazing Author and fantastic Assistant!  These ladies are terrific- Thank you so much for making this possible!

 Open to US and Canada   Winners announced on Jan.3rd, 2010

To Enter:

1 Chance:  Leave a Comment

2 Chances every time you tweet or blog about this (send me the link)

3 Chances: Become a Follower of my blog (If you're already a follower, you get this automatically).

5 Chances: Post about this on your Sidebar

5 EXTRA Bonus Points for every new follower referred by you (mention this in your comments)

Good Luck to All! 

Once again, Thank you for celebrating this wonderful day with meJ  You guys are great and I appreciate all your kind support throughout.

What a great way to close up the year..and with this, I wish you all a Very Happy New Year!

Le Jeudi de Josephine: Sandra Gulland Guest Post + GIVEAWAY!

Today we have a double treat…

First: The brilliant author of the Josephine Trilogy and Mistress of The Sun, Sandra Gulland will be hosting le Jeudi de Josephine. I’m honored to have her guest post on my blog!





Second: Mistress of the Sun Giveaway! Please leave a comment AND your email address to let me know that you want to be entered in the draw.





Now…Without further ado, I present to you, Sandra Gulland:

Choosing between characters? Impossible!

Sandra Gulland

www.sandragulland.com


I've written four novels, but in my mind, there are only two: Josephine's . . . and Petite's. (For those who don't know, Petite is Louise de la Vallière, heroine of Mistress of the Sun.) It's like having two children, two loves, two passions. People ask: Which one do you love the most? Who would you rather be?


These are such hard questions to answer! Josephine was a part of my life for decades, and I still feel her presence: caring, steady, wise. Petite is more of a beloved, demanding, passionate angel — a wild, innocent, impulsive child.


If I were to choose a friend, someone to come to dinner, it would be Josephine — but if I had to choose who I would rather be, I would choose Petite. It's hard to explain why. I think it has to do with all the things Petite is that I am not: reckless, fearless on horseback, passionate in the extreme. (I am, I suspect, more like Josephine by nature, although without her instinctive social graces, which are such an important part of her character.)


And my next character? I'm thinking her through right now. She's the daughter of a theatrical star, confidential maid to an aristocrat (Athénaïs de Montespan), and a "fill-in" mistress to the Sun King. There's very little known about her personally; I have only scraps to go on. She is tall, I know, bold, and not that pretty — at least not in a conventional sense. She is practical; she looks after others. She is always the back-stage hand, the assistant — always in the shadows, second-best. I am watching people, collecting attributes. I begin with her eyes . . . .




Thank you so much Sandra!


To read my review of Mistress of The Sun, please go here:)

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A Giveaway-and Interview...Fit for an Empress- Perfect for Mother's Day!

It's not even my Giveaway and I'm still excited about this!

I love Sandra Gulland's books, and she's a wonderful author, person too!  

My friend Amy at Passages To The Past is interviewing Sandra Gulland and is having a Fantabulous GIVEAWAY:

The Josephine B. Trilogy, by Sandra Gulland

AND...

3 COPIES of

Mistress of The Sun, by Sandra Gulland

Get on Over There Right Now- These Books are Amazing!!

Book Review: Mistress of The Sun

Mistress of The Sun, by Sandra Gulland


A book on love, spirituality, mysticism, power and courage lived by Louise de Lavallière, known as, Petite, during an important chapter in Louis XIV’s life; A great Love...


Right from the beginning, I immediately felt tenderness for the six-year old Petite; this child whose heart and mind races as quickly as the stallions she already knows how to tame and ride. Her passion for horses leads her to push the ways of the dark side in order to tame her ‘beloved’ and wild, white stallion –Diablo. She truly believes this pact with the devil is what brings forth the inevitable course of her life.


It is purely by chance, that her fate leads her to meet the Sun King. In the fields that day, when she speaks to the tall, vibrant young man dressed in hunting gear… she doesn’t realize who he really is. Later, while on duty, attending a young Princess at court, Petite sees the King. She recognizes him! King Louis spots her as well; she looks familiar…


Then, during a disastrous rain storm, fate brings them together once more. From that fleeting moment of tenderness, follows a strong resistance. Due to her virtuous morals, unwavering faith, regard and respect for the Queen, Petite renounces every attempt to succumb to the King. Alas, they are young, filled with passion and an irresistible longing to be together. Couple this with their common love of horses, hunting and riding, as well as, great friendship and interest in eachother- there is no escaping this powerful force… Petite surrenders. They are meant to live this love.


However, loving Louis and loving the King are two different things. Can Petite accept one without the other? The ways of Royalty are not all that glitters. There is much pain and sorrow. Can their love endure in a world filled with lies, deception, betrayals, masks and sorcery? Petite is deeply in love and totally devoted to Louis; yet extremely committed to her faith. A pure soul at heart, Petite constantly struggles to fight the evil battle.


In this beautiful historical novel, author Sandra Gulland, captures the true feeling of the times, whether it’s in the fine points pertaining to the history, or the minute details of every day life at court for both royals and those who dared live alongside. History buffs will be amazed by the amount of interesting historical information that keeps you plugged to this book.


Birthing and illness remedies and methods, including love potions and magical concoctions believed to soothe (or destroy) both soul and body, are meticulously described. In addition, the dialog is extremely well-suited and completely realistic. For me, it’s of particular importance for a novel to be written using the language feel and best possible form reflective of the period. Even the French expressions are intact; mirroring the times perfectly. Gulland succeeds through and through.


In addition, character depictions are solid and skillfully developed to bring out the needed emotions in order to completely detest or adore the targeted figure. I was also surprised by the chameleon effect of certain characters, bringing about a whole different element and aspect to the story; particularly where Athénaïs is involved, for example.


The concept of living a life through intricacies, complications and deceptions of sorts helps depict the deterioration of spirit, youth, beauty, and life in the Court of Louis XIV. Inevitably, people resort to various methods to control the invariables by means that are contrary to the teachings of the Church at the time. Holding on to Louis proves to be an even greater challenge than taming her beloved Diablo. Will Petite need to make a different pact? She alone must decide her fate.


What an intense love story! For me, Petite came through as angelic in her ways; a gentle and free spirit entangled in wrath. As for Louis XIV, he was larger than life; the Sun. …an angel fighting for the sun- within so much darkness. Even the title reveals a deep and mystical meaning. Petite my have miraculously ‘survived’ a true fairytale after all…‘happily ever after’…


The story unravels magnificently. I was enraptured from beginning to end. Splendid!


Extra goodies: Glossary of terms, genealogy, Map at the time of the Sun King, *special epilogue, author notes (giving extra information, clarification and recommendations)

NOTE: Tomorrow Sandra Gulland will be hosting at Enchanted by Josephine! I will also be giving away one copy of Mistress of the Sun. Please drop by and visit!

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PAST GIVEAWAYS

JANUARY  2010

Her Mother's Daughter, Julianne Lee

Notorious Royal Marriages, Leslie Carroll

DECEMBER

The  many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B., Sandra Gulland

 Tales of Passion Tales of Woe, Sandra Gulland

The Last Great Dance On Earth, Sandra Gulland

Searching for Pemberley, Mary Lydon Simonsen

Northanger Abbey, Lady Susan and The Watsons, Jane Austen

NOVEMBER 

Cleopatra's Daughter, Michelle Moran

The Lover's Path, kris Waldherr

 OCTOBER:

Love Tarot iPhone App,by Kris Waldherr

Pendragon's Banner, by Helen Hollick

Lady Vernon and her Daughter

The Virgin's Daughters, by Jeane Westin

SEPTEMBER:

Melinda And The Wild West, by Linda Weaver Clarke

Royal Panoply, by Carolly Erickson

The Raucous Royals, by Carlyn Beccia

Cleopatra's Daughter, by Michelle Moran

The Last Great Dance on Earth

The Last Great Dance on Earth, by Sandra Gulland (Third book of the Jospehine B. Trilogy)

...Josephine and Bonaparte have just gotten married...


I'm often asked if it’s possible to read this book without having read the previous two. First of all, the three volumes in the trilogy are a continuation of eachother. So, in order to appreciate the story in full, you need to read all three. Josephine's life takes such dramatic turns that it almost seems as though she lived three lives in one. Almost like three powerful novels culminating in The Last Great Dance on Earth. This one, I felt, was truly a touching and emotional read.


As the first two, the third volume is also written in diary form. In this book however, Sandra Gulland, develops the memoirs even further, without ever altering them. For me, this brought Josephine to life, closer than imaginable. From the beginning of this book, Gulland lures the reader further and further in, until you become totally captivated by Josephine’s life.


It was impossible not to befriend Josephine. Her letters called out to me and I often thought myself to be her priveleged confidante. Gulland skilfully captures our emotions throughout these letters. This can be seen in: Josephine’s unsuccessful and painful ordeals to have Napoleon’s baby; Bonaparte’s family’s disdain for her as well as their scheming plans to rid themselves of her; Josephine’s loneliness; Her pain and humiliation while enduring Bonaparte’s affairs; Her resilience, sacrifice and surrender for the name of love and a greater purpose…and more.


I was able to feel Josephine’s emotions throughout the book. At certain points, I even became angry at her for accepting Napoleon’s affairs; but this didn’t last for long. Despite my views, somehow, I made exceptions for Josephine. I understood her reasons and also came to accept them. She understood Napoleon’s greater purpose and all that it entailed. She understood that he was a man like no other, “Je le veux”- and he conquered. Her voice, feelings and motives came through clearly throughout this historical novel. Very often, I become teary-eyed when reading about the lives of historical figures- but with Josephine, I caught myself sobbing…several times (as though I’d learned about this for the first time). Josephine’s love, tenderness, understanding and total devotion to Napoleon, her man, came first, above all else.


Besides her great love for Napoleon, Josephine’s tremendous love for her children is constant throughout the book. The detail in portraying Josephine as a caring and encouraging mother who stood by her children in their every decision, made her all the more endearing to me. The way Josephine cared for Hortense through her painful family tragedy and marital problems - Her willingness to take care of her grandchildren when Hortense needed her most- her children could always depend on her to be there.


Eugene and Hortense’s letters to her are filled with caring words that reveal love and concern. There is a clear sense of their close and loving relationship in the way they all interact with eachother. They are together and united in every decision, regardless of their own personal feelings; the Divorce being a perfect example of this, as well as, their unity in accepting and welcoming Bonaparte’s decision to marry Marie Louise.


These unbelievably difficult situations which must have required an enormous sense of loyalty, love and acceptance, continuously surface the story to emphasize the passionate life that Josephine lived. And in the end, Eugene’s touching letter announcing the death of his beloved mother to Bonaparte, addressed: Sire, Emperor (Papa), completely moved me to tears. I know it’s history, and I’ve read this all before; Even so, The Last Great Dance on Earth is now forever sealed within my heart.


Up until her death, Josephine only wanted what was best for her Bonaparte, the man who “had inspired her to believe once again in heroes, in destiny, but above all in the miracle of love”. p.4


Passionate times, beautiful details, sorrowful moments, love beyond boundaries- Bringing history to life, The Last Great Dance on Earth is an exceptional book.


…Not difficult to see why this is my favourite Josephine historical novel.

Letter M is for: Mistress of The Sun (ABC in History...)

Today, I have another review for The ABC in History Challenge hosted by Marg at Historical Tapestry. 

Have I mentioned how much I love this challenge?  Well the reason I like it so much is because first of all it's easy to play along; all I have to do is look up one of my past reviews or books I'm presently reading, and then just write a post about it.  But the next best thing is that I get to go back and relish these books.  By reading over my review and going back to browse the book, I get right bak into it flipping pages to my favourite parts...like going down memory lane if you will;)  I've been so busy lately that I've sort of passed on posting a couple of letters- but couldn't be kept away forever so I'm back today for:

LETTER:   M

And the book I chose today is one I really loved by favourite author Sandra Gulland.  

Mistress of The Sun, by Sandra Gulland

Gulland writes a splendid story about Louise de Lavallière and Louis XIV (my favourite French king!)- romance, superstition, intrigue, deception, loyalty and faith- plus so much more in this one.  Louise's tender love and total devotion to the Sun King wrenched my heart. The whole essence of this book is magical and their love too wonderful to be true...This is a book that always stands out for me when I think about any part of Louis's life and the books written about him.  Loved it. 

You can read my review of this sublime read here.

WINNERS of my French Historicals Oh-La-La! Challenge!!!

Happy Monday everyone:)

I'm beginning the week with the Announcement of my French Hisoricals Oh-La-La! Challenge WINNERS!

To begin with I'd like to say Thank You to everyone who joined:)   I loved reading all your reviews and thanks for bringing light to some fascinating new reads for me as well.

If you'd like to see the list of all the participants and the number of books they've read- please see here.
For the lovely reviews of my challenge participants, please see here

AND NOW...WITHOUT FURTHER ADO... Here are the names and results of the participants who have attained the levels required for my Challenge Giveaway!!

LA PRINCESSE: (3 books required)

Arleigh from Historical-fiction.com  = 5 Books
Lizzy from Historically Obsessed = 5 Books
Lady Quinlan from  Let Them Read Books = 5 Books

(Each of These Winners will receive a brand new copy of : Versailles, a novel, by Kathryn Davis)

           EMAIL Me your address please!! 

Next...

LA DAUPHINE: (6 books required)

Heather from The Maiden’s Court =6 Books

Marie from The Burton Review = 8 Books

Mel U from The Reading Life = 6 books

Cat from Tell Me A Story = 6 Books

Christina T from Reading Extensively = 6 Books

Please Choose 1 Book from the following Selection and EMAIL me your Choice (1st come first serve basis!)- and your address too:)

1)-Bluebird or The Invention of Happiness, Sheila Kohler Claimed by: Marie of The Burton Review

2)-Duchess of Aquitaine, Margaret Ball Claimed by: Heather of The Maiden's court

3)-Dark Angels, Karleen Koen (gently used) 

4)-To Dance With Kings, Rosalind Laker (Hard Cover-gently used) Claimed by: Cat of Tell Me a Story

5)-Tales of Passion, Tales of Woe, Sandra Gulland + The Last great Dance on Earth, Sandra Gulland Set of 2 Gently Used-  Claimed by: Mel U of The Reading Life

Next...

There were no Reine Levels attained...but 1 most Definite Winner of 

L'IMPERATRICE

This incredible lady has read way over the 9 Books required for this level.

Amber from Treasure for Your Pleasure; A Marie Antoinette Blog has read ...Are you ready for this????

22 BOOKS!!!!!

This is an incredible amount of books- and she's got all the reviews to prove it!!!  So, in this very particular case, you can surely understand my trouble at finding a book to suit this winner's voracious appetite for reading...

SO, Amber, I am awarding you a special book from  my precious antique historical collection:

Heloise and Abelard, by George Moore-----1925.  It is in mint condition (there's also an antique looking signature at the front) and I am offering it to you because I absolutely know it will go to a true lover of French history. I LOVE This book and I know it will be appreciated and treasured in its new home.  Email me with your contact info.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!!  Again, THANK YOU so much for participating!!!

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J-J de Josephine: How It All Began...

I’ve often written about how much I loved reading the Josephine Bonaparte Trilogy. The 3-book series is not only my personal favourite read; it’s also the closest (that I’ve ever read) to a real rendition of Josephine’s life through a historical fiction novel.




Just recently, on Dar’s blog: Peeking Between the Pages, Sandra Gulland wrote a most interesting guest post. For anyone interested on reading about how she developed her Josephine novels and what spurred her to write about the Empress to begin with, please see here.


It’s always fascinated me to learn about the story behind the story. I can imagine that writing about the life of a historical figure entails lots of research ups-and downs-for sure… But, the effective completion of bringing a character back to life for interested readers must certainly be gratifying, as well as, the most giving experience in a writer’s journey. And- for a reader, I believe there’s nothing better than the feeling of truly being immersed –as though you were really there.



Please note that next Thursday, May 7th, Sandra Gulland will be guest hosting le Jeudi de Josephine. I will also be doing a Giveaway of Mistress of the Sun. Please come!




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ALL JOSEPHINE AND NAPOLEON POSTS

• Interview + Josephine's Granddaughter...Josephine de Leuchtenberg
• Eugène de Beauharnais
• Napoleon Bonaparte and The Teenage Girl Who Won His Heart- Guest Post by Carlyn Beccia
• Different ...But, Alike (Salon de Josephine)
• Les Incroyables et Merveilleuses
• Le Salon de Josephine: Theresa Cabarrus
• J-J: Enchanting Winners!
• JoJo's Birthday Giveaway!
• J-J: A Lady's Sonnet
• J-J: Yeyette et la Marinique
• Remembering The Good Empress Josephine on this May 29th
• J-J: ...In the Little Suburb of Rueil...
• J-J: A Rose for The Empress
• Napoleon and Chick-lit?
• Napoleon and Mother's Day
• J-J Sandra Gulland Post + Giveaway!
• J-J: How it All Began - Sandra Gulland link
• J-J: Roses Are Red, Violets are Blue
• Jeudi de Josephine: Memoirs of Madame de Remusat
• Jeudi de Josephine: HORTENSE
• Jeudi de Josephine: HELOISE et ABELARD
• Jeudi de Josephine- Fans
• Napoleon's Love letter to Josephine
• Josephine- A Few Precious Belongings
• Napoleon Montreal Exhibition
• YouTube Napoleon -Josephine Movie Snip- Isabella Rossellini
• The Last Great Dance on Earth- Book Review on Josephine’s Life
• Dr. Markham Interview- Calling All Napoleon Lovers
• Josephine’s Pug- A Favourite Royal Companion
• Josephine’s Jewelry- All that Glitters Certainly Is…
• Glove Fashion