Louise de la Valliere by Alexandre Dumas, David Coward (Editor)

A continuing story, not standalone reading
Bill, an avid reader from Los Angeles, 12/13/2007

Musketeer fans will be disappointed if they are looking for the rollicking adventures of the quartet since their roles in this book are far more subtle--if not sinister in some cases. Still, the larger story is heavily influenced by the acts of these characters. True, the book does start slow but the story evolves into an enjoyable view on the intrigues of Louis XIV's court. The editors make the case that much of what some may view as 'boring' is really Dumas' attempt to highlight the changes taking place in France at the time chivalrous deeds and high adventure are replaced by intrigue and politics and the story reflects that.

Also recommended: The Three Musketeers, 20 Years After, The Vicomte de Bragelonne

One of My Favorite Books
A reviewer, A reviewer, 11/12/2007

This is a wonderful love story that tells us about the most famous French king Louis XIV and Louise de Lavalliere. I enjoyed reading about their love and court intrigues surrounding them. Dumas has an outstanding ablity to bring history to life. Nobody else was able to tell the story of the love affair that lead to the creation of the wonderful palace of Versailles. Also, we can follow our old friends here, who became older and wiser and still have their adventures. This book opens a different perspective on French history.

Also recommended: All Dumas books, Balzac, Hugo, Conan Doyle, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, most of the classics

Im afraid your going to have to read it
A reviewer, someone who reads way too much, 11/27/2004

if you have found yourself following the musketeer's adventures,then you would be best to read this. Though it is alittle boring and slow at some points, your going to need to read it if your intending to read the man in the iron mask because they start to form its plot in this novel(i admit i found it tempting to skip over the really boring parts)

Also recommended: 20 years after, the three musketeers, the man in the iron mask

Some books were not meant for the screen
A reviewer, a literature fanatic, 02/09/2004

I am happy to say that some books were never meant for the big screen. Dumas' trilogy has been a delight to read, though I admit his books are not meant for those who lack commitment to their literature or who would rather be dazzled for two hours by Hollywood. His books tell a wonderful story (though loosely tied to history)and should be read by those who have the patience to experience a well developed plot.

Skip It
A reviewer, A reviewer, 11/25/2002

After reading and enjoying Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo", "The Three Musketeers", and "Twenty Years After", this one was a big disappointment. The musketeers are hardly in it. The characters that are in it are flat and uninteresting. Also, there were too many long paragraphs in the book. There were a lot of paragraphs that went on for two or three pages and they were difficult for me to read. There were also a lot of pointless scenes thrown in for no reason. They were boring and distracting. This book was just a complete waste of my time and money.