Voltaire in Love : Book Review

"Voltaire in Love" by Nancy Mitford is a captivating journey into the scandalous love life of the renowned French philosopher, Voltaire. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Mitford brings to life the tumultuous affair between Voltaire and his long-time mistress, Émilie du Châtelet, against the backdrop of 18th-century France.

Mitford's portrayal of Voltaire's character is both witty and ambitious, painting him as a man driven by a hunger for knowledge and recognition. The dynamic between Voltaire and Émilie is masterfully portrayed, capturing both the intense passion that consumed them and the intellectual companionship they shared. The vivid portrayal of the salons and intellectual circles of the time offers readers a glimpse into the cultural and social milieu of 18th-century France.

One of the book's most captivating aspects is Mitford's attention to detail. Drawing from historical facts, letters, and excerpts from Voltaire's correspondence, she creates a rich and immersive narrative. The extensive research conducted by the author is evident, providing readers with an educational experience alongside their entertainment.

Mitford's writing style is elegant and engaging, effortlessly drawing readers into the story. Her witty and humorous prose reflects the spirit of the time and the personalities of the characters. The well-balanced pacing keeps readers engaged and eager to uncover the twists and turns in Voltaire and Émilie's tumultuous relationship.

Overall, "Voltaire in Love" is a captivating historical biography that will appeal to history enthusiasts and lovers of romance alike. Nancy Mitford expertly captures the essence of Voltaire and Émilie's love affair, providing an intimate glimpse into the personal lives and motivations of these influential figures. With impeccable research, engaging storytelling, and vibrant characters, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in 18th-century history and the profound impact of love and ideas.

What are readers saying?

The book "Voltaire in Love" by Nancy Mitford has received a range of reviews from readers. The novel delves into the romantic relationship between Voltaire and Émilie du Châtelet, both prominent figures in the 18th century. Many readers praised Mitford's ability to transport them back in time with her captivating storytelling and well-researched historical context. They particularly enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the characters and settings, which allowed them to immerse themselves in the story. Additionally, the intellectual connection between Voltaire and Émilie was considered engaging and well-developed.

However, some readers found the pacing of the book to be slow, making it hard for them to fully engage with the story. They desired a quicker progression of events and found the writing style to be too verbose. Furthermore, some felt that the characters lacked depth and struggled to form an emotional connection with them.

In terms of historical accuracy, a few reviewers pointed out discrepancies in the details presented in the novel. They felt that Mitford took too many liberties with the events and personalities of the real historical figures, which affected their enjoyment of the story. These readers were looking for a more faithful representation of the time period and the people involved.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers were appreciative of the insights provided into Voltaire and Émilie's relationship. They felt that Mitford successfully captured the complexities of their love affair and the obstacles they faced. Overall, "Voltaire in Love" was praised for its historical context and storytelling, but received criticism for its pacing and historical inaccuracies.