This novel is called “Petticoat Rule” because during the 1740s in France there were notable females influencing their male contemporaries. Lydie d'Aumont, who is the main focus of this fiction based on fact, is daughter of the French prime minister. Therefore, whoever marries her will gain power, as the prime minister is easily persuaded by his daughter to do what she wants.

Meanwhile, in the background, we have the famous Madame de Pompadour, who has much more influence on King Louis XV than does the neglected queen.

As for the story, one main theme revolves around the “pretender” to the English throne, Charles Edward Stuart, and how he is originally welcomed to the French court, only to be betrayed by Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour, and their devotees; however, Lydie and her husband have other ideas and risk their favour with the king by trying to warn Bonnie Prince Charlie that the French plan to hand him over to the English if possible.

I found this tale good in parts but at times boring, owing to unnecessary waffle and detailed descriptions – such as a lengthy section on what one of the male characters wears – that do nothing to move the story along.

Worth a look but wouldn’t return for a second reading. ( )