An alluring, exotic novel set in the late eighteenth century, based on the life of the famous and much-painted courtesan, La Belle Phanariote
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reviews
Nov 07, 2009
Kate
rated it: 
I found the style quite difficult at first as it jumps between the stories of the different characters and it took a bit of time to get them sorted out in my mind. It is an interesting story of how a woman could use her body to make a life for herself in Napoloenic times. It also shows the double standards for the men involved as opposed to the women. It is the first time I have read anything based in Poland.
Bookcrossing copy: http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/4746...
Bookcrossing copy: http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/4746...
Dec 28, 2011
Peggy
rated it: 
Countess Sophie Potocka was a real person who lived 1760-1822. She was born to a humble family, and was a Greek Christian in Turkey, who later married a Pole and ended up in Russia. These were turbulent times when Poland was partitioned out of existence and the French Revolution ended the monarchy in France. It was interesting to learn of the politics and also the mores of the time. The 18th century was much more open than the 19th, particularly for the aristocracy who could have dozens of affai
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Jan 16, 2009
Bex
rated it: 
ultimately unsatisfying - writing isn't that great. i think i would rather read the russian novelists on the subject.
Aug 03, 2011
Kelly
rated it:
love it...narrated in a few persons' point of view with flashbacks that gives the story 'life'
Dec 28, 2011
Patricia
rated it:
A wonderful read. The author conjures up images of Russia that will stay with me forever. Easy to read, informative...a must for anyone interested in historical novels, and most particularly, Russian history.
Dec 28, 2011
horribly, childishly written book about a facinating, brilliant woman. This book reduces her to a mere money-grabbing whore wiith no brains...so dissapointing!
Dec 28, 2011
Liana
rated it:
mmmm.....
pretty good book.
Fascinating life of Sofia, but a little bit too much the way it was said.
Good book anyway!
pretty good book.
Fascinating life of Sofia, but a little bit too much the way it was said.
Good book anyway!
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