The Affair of the Poisons: Murder, Infanticide, and Satanism at the Court of Louis XIV : Book Review

"The Affair of the Poisons" by Anne Somerset is an incredibly captivating historical account that delves into the scandalous underbelly of 17th-century Paris. With meticulous research and a talent for storytelling, Somerset unveils the dark world of poisoners, black magic, and court intrigue that unfolded during the reign of Louis XIV, known as the Sun King.

Somerset masterfully brings the chilling conspiracies and shocking revelations surrounding the poison scandal to life. She unravels the complex web of deceit and power struggles that ensued, involving high-ranking nobles, the infamous poisoner La Voisin, and even King Louis XIV's own mistress, Madame de Montespan.

One of the book's strengths lies in Somerset's ability to provide a rich historical context. She explores the social and cultural factors that contributed to the prevalence of poisonings and the belief in witchcraft during that time. By delving into the superstitions, fears, and political tensions of the era, she paints a vivid portrait of a society teetering on the edge of moral collapse.

Somerset's writing style is engaging and accessible, allowing readers to easily immerse themselves in the narrative. She presents a wealth of information in a clear and coherent manner, avoiding overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details. The book is thoughtfully structured, enabling readers to follow the progression of events and understand the significance of each individual involved in the affair.

"The Affair of the Poisons" is a captivating read for history enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by true crime stories. Somerset's meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and thorough examination of the scandalous events in 17th-century Paris make this book both enthralling and informative. It sheds light on a little-known chapter in history and serves as a reminder that even the most glamorous and powerful courts can be plagued by darkness and corruption.

What are readers saying?

"The Affair of the Poisons" by Anne Somerset has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from readers, who were captivated by the extensive research and attention to detail put into the book. Somerset skillfully combines historical facts, court intrigues, and scandalous tales from 17th century France, creating an engaging and informative narrative that some described as a page-turner. Somerset's writing style is highly regarded for its balance, avoiding dryness or exaggerated sensationalism.

Readers particularly admired Somerset's ability to bring to life the characters involved in the affair, finding her portrayals of prominent figures like King Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan to be nuanced and believable. The complexities of the era, including power dynamics and societal expectations, were also skillfully depicted. Many readers praised the book for shedding light on the lives of women in the 17th century, often overlooked in historical accounts. Somerset's exploration of the motivations of female poisoners was deemed fascinating and thought-provoking.

Some reviewers did express a desire for more analysis and contextualization throughout the book, feeling that a deeper exploration of the social, political, and cultural factors would have enhanced the overall reading experience. However, these concerns did not diminish the overall positive reception of the book.

Overall, "The Affair of the Poisons" by Anne Somerset is highly regarded for its captivating storytelling, well-researched content, and nuanced character portrayals. It provides a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of French history and comes recommended for fans of historical non-fiction and those interested in courtly scandals and intrigues. Somerset's attention to detail and ability to bring the era alive make this book an engaging and informative read.