Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love

3.87 of 5 stars 3.87 · rating details · 3,451 ratings · 295 reviews

First published in 1953, this riveting true-life tale comes to life in diary form, giving readers an inside glimpse at the young Napoleon and his family. Désirée is enchanted by the young officer, and he asks her to marry him. But he must leave for Paris, where he meets his eventual wife Josephine. A heartbroken Désirée is unsure she'll ever find anyone again. A love story

...more

Paperback, 594 pages

Published October 1st 2010 by Sourcebooks Landmark (first published 1951)

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

This book is not yet featured on Listopia. Add this book to your favorite list »

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jun 01, 2007 mahboob added it · review of another edition

az on ketab haye khondaniye doreye nojavoni ke to dast shoi ham ba khodet mibarish,va ta tamom nashe na hamam miri na ghaza mikhori.

4 likes · like · see review

Jul 27, 2007 Lynette rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Excellent older book by Annemarie Selinko about the life of Eugenie Desiree Clary, a silk merchant's daughter, who was the first love of Napoleon Bonaparte. She later married Jean Baptiste Bernadotte who became the King of Sweden. Their descendants rule Sweden today.

I read this book years ago and am rereading it again. The only criticism I have is that the book becomes bogged down at times with the information about Napoleon's campaigns and the political landscape of the time. Important informat...more

5 likes · like · see review

Apr 21, 2007 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Suzy

Shelves: memoirs-bios, historical-fiction

I'm not sure where you would even find this book in print anymore as I read my mom's old paperback copy from the 70s and I have never seen it in stores.

If you can find it though, it's definitely worth it, especially if you enjoy historical fiction. The book follows the life of Desiree, the woman who was engaged to Napoleon before he "hit the big time." Instead though, she eventually marries one of his rivals and complications ensue.

It's very readable and really interesting because it's all based...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 09, 2007 Susanne rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: historical fiction lovers

Shelves: historicalfiction

The bad first - it is fictional and it is basically chick-lit. But seriously...one of the best historical fiction/chick lit books.

The novel tells in diary style the life of Désirée Clary-Bernadotte. Napoleon Bonaparte's first fiancee, later Madame Marechale Bernadotte and finally Queen Desideria of Sweden (who is also sister-in-law to Napoleon's brother Joseph). All of these are true historical facts and make in themselves a compelling read. In her diary entries which run from about 1793 to 1830...more

5 likes · like · see review

Sep 15, 2009 Mashi rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: some-years-ago

دزیره کلاری ،دختر ظریف و زیبای یک تاجر فرانسوی در عنفوان جوانی به جوانی برخورد می کند که فقر و تهیدست است.ج.انی به نام ناپلئون بناپارت که قسمت عظیمی از تاریخ فرانسه را به نام خود رقم زد.ناپلئون با دزیره نرد عشق می بازد اما بعد از مدتی ناپدید شده و با ژوزفین یک بیوه جوان ودرباری ازدواج می کند.بعدها برای تاج گذاری ناپلئون بناپارت دزیره به عنوان همراهان تاج انتخاب می گردد و در مراسم تاج گذاری ناپلئون شرکت می کند که این خود تمام خاطرات شیرین و گذشته آن دو را زنده می کند.دزیره نه زرنگ است نه مکار و ح...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 13, 2009 John Conrad rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I read this book about 20 years ago, lost it and then just received another copy as a Christmas gift. After re-reading it from a more experienced or jaded point of view, I'm not as enchanted as I was the first time. I do love learning about the history of the Napoleonic era through a story, rather than from history books, but some of the things Selinko leads us to believe are too mutch of a stretch. If Desiree loves her husband so much, why does she leave him for a dozen years to live in Paris w...more

like · see review

Aug 02, 2012 Cordula rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Maybe this book is not a literary masterpiece, but its pages have become like old friends over time.

When I was a teenager this book was passed on to me by my mother, who had also read it when she was my age. The pages are now littered with the teenage dreams of two generations, I guess.

At the heart of this novel stands one of the lesser known love stories of the 18/19th Century, that of young Désirée Clary who falls desperately in love with dashing soldier Napoleone Buonaparte. But when Napoléon...more

3 likes · like · see review

Mar 28, 2012 Lucy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Annemarie Selinko's last novel: Desiree has become my top favourite 18th c HF read- without a doubt. The story of Eugenie Desiree Clary, Napoleon Bonaparte's first love is in my opinion one of the best novels ever written pertaining to the Revolution era- in terms of history, romance, historical characters, and impeccable writing style. This book kept me captivated from beginning to end. And- the funny thing is that I read this intermittently due to other priorities, so I naturally thought I'd f...more
Annemarie Selinko's last novel: Desiree has become my top favourite 18th c HF read- without a doubt. The story of Eugenie Desiree Clary, Napoleon Bonaparte's first love is in my opinion one of the best novels ever written pertaining to the Revolution era- in terms of history, romance, historical characters, and impeccable writing style. This book kept me captivated from beginning to end. And- the funny thing is that I read this intermittently due to other priorities, so I naturally thought I'd for sure lose momentum and interest. This never happened and when I finally finished the book, I almost felt the parting sadness when losing a dear friend.

The story begins with Desiree writing the story of her life through a journal given to her by her father, prior to his death. The daughter of a fabric merchant, Desiree, was unpretentious, straight forward and incredibly brave and loyal in love, honour, friendship and family. Her strength of character (even when she didn't feel quite up to it...) was incredible. From the very beginning we can see her determination when it came to saving the raggedy young Napoleon at the beginning of his career. I loved reading about their romance and meager beginnings...all the short way upto his unfaithfulness and hurtful betrayal to leave Desiree for Josephine. This though, would not be the end of their encounters.

Throughout their lives, Desiree would always play an important role in Napoleon's life-not amorously, but with extended family and politically. Her attachment to the Bonaparte family, by the marriage of Napoleon's brother to Desiree's sister- and politically through her husband's (Bernardotte) importance (he first fought along Bonaparte's side and then became the King of Sweden). The history is impeccable and the story told with the perfect blend of simplicity and grandiose royal style (yes, it's possible).

I loved that Desiree's life entertwined Josephine's and her family- along with all the Bonaparte's and other significant historical characters (Fouche, for one). The novel takes us through their lives as well, giving a different perspective- and not just passing glimpses. But, most definitely, what I loved the most was the way Desiree always stood up to Napoleon. We encounter moments of truthful courage where Desiree speaks her opinion frankly and keeps her head high- even though she is terrified inside...others would have surely perished at the hands of Bonaparte for this behaviour- but not Desiree. This too showed us a side of Napoleon that remained loyal and respectful of the bond and young love they once shared. The book is filled with precious moments.

And what more of this brave girl...Desiree becomes part of Royalty herself; so for those who don't really know that part of history, I won't spoil it for you. I could go on forever about this book: Desire's regular-girl-achieving-great-things personality, her love for her husband, the King of Sweden, Bonaparte's wins and defeats, Josephine's other side, the Bonaparte family, Desiree's business and Royal side, the losses, the pain, the trials and triumphs and some of the funniest moments as well...It's all just too good.

Desiree is a spectacular book, and I HIGHLY recommend it.
(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Jun 13, 2011 Jenisse rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 11th-grade-advisory

Desiree
The true story of an exceptional woman in History.

By AnneMarie Selinko
500 pp.New York
William Morrow & Company. $20.00

BY JENISSE BOURET

Desiree is the story of a young girl told in first person narration. It is her diary which reveals her life experiences and deepest thoughts. It all starts when she meets Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous dictator of France during the 1800's. Fourteen year old Desiree Clary falls in love with Napoleon's sweet, romantic charm. He truly impresses her with...more Desiree
The true story of an exceptional woman in History.

By AnneMarie Selinko
500 pp.New York
William Morrow & Company. $20.00

BY JENISSE BOURET

Desiree is the story of a young girl told in first person narration. It is her diary which reveals her life experiences and deepest thoughts. It all starts when she meets Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous dictator of France during the 1800's. Fourteen year old Desiree Clary falls in love with Napoleon's sweet, romantic charm. He truly impresses her with his pleasant ideals of "the rights of man". This enchanting love story all seems like a fairytale until Desiree desperately travels to France in hopes to reunite with her love only to find him engaged to someone else, the renowned Josephine. Josepine was the woman who had all the politcal connections to get Napoleon the position he long desired.

Selinko edits the actual diary but Desiree is the true talented writer. She is very descriptive and goes into details about everything: people, characterization/personalities, scenery, setting, places and the things people said. You almost feel like you are her friend; as if you were a part of her life. The only complain about the book is that because she is so detailed, she stretches moments a bit much therefore, the book gets extremely long and slow. Nevertheless, she captures feelings very well and It would be interesting to see if she has anymore works of literature.

Personally, I have never rated a novel five stars but i was so impressed by Desiree's experiences and the sympathy i felt towards her downfalls. Not only does her love story as a princess intrigue me, but the people she surrounded herself with; they were such amazing people in history such as Beethoven who she heard play live in person. She makes you wish you were there meeting all these great figures. Desiree represents a woman of virtue and high education. She is a morally dignified woman that any girl today and throughout history can look up to.

If you've ever read Little Women, you will see that it is about young ladies struggling to become women. Desiree is no different. Anyone that has enjoyed reading a Jane Austen book would appreciate this historical text as well. The best thing about this book is that it is not fiction; it actually happened in real life, in history! Any person interested in drama, love, romance and female empowerment would be swept off their feet by this true story.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 28, 2010 Alana rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

When it comes to Napoleon Bonaparte's love life, his tempestuous relationship with Josephine is almost always at the forefront. But did you know that before Napoleon met and fell in love with Josephine, he was engaged? Desiree Clary started out life as a silk merchant's daughter, but despite all of their differences, her life remained entertwined with Napoleon's - she was with him at his coronation and she was with him at his final abdication following Waterloo.

One of the aspects of this novel t...more When it comes to Napoleon Bonaparte's love life, his tempestuous relationship with Josephine is almost always at the forefront. But did you know that before Napoleon met and fell in love with Josephine, he was engaged? Desiree Clary started out life as a silk merchant's daughter, but despite all of their differences, her life remained entertwined with Napoleon's - she was with him at his coronation and she was with him at his final abdication following Waterloo.

One of the aspects of this novel that struck me the most is how the writing voice changes. At the beginning of the novel, Desiree sounds very young. She sees things remarkably clearly - not for her the imposed complications of society's strictures. She simply wants to get things done. Headstrong and emotional, it is easy to see how she falls utterly for the brilliant charismatic young general despite his almost stand-offish aloofness. But as Desiree grows beyond her heartache, the writing style subtly matures along with her. It was gradually done and not overtly noticeable as I was reading until I had put the book down for a bit and returned to it.

I learned a great deal about Napoleon as well as about the Swedish royal family from this novel. I had never heard much at all about Sweden in the conflict, and I was utterly fascinated by the revelation that a French citizen was called upon to succeed as the Swedish heir to the throne. And I certainly sympathized with Desiree and the conflicting loyalties and expectations that she faces. What a very full life she led! But however interesting her life was, I did find that the novel was slow in parts - sometimes it seemed the character's limitations got in the way of the story. Desiree was not terribly interested in politics for much of the novel, and especially towards the end when political intrigue and strategy drive the story forward, it can be frustrating not to be shown what is going on because of Desiree's limited focus.

I found the balance between the human elements of love, generosity and jealousy and the more political historical side a bit off at times, but nonetheless, I enjoyed Selinko's story about Napoleon's first love a great deal. It's certainly something very different from the usual historical fare.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 24, 2010 Gaby rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, historical-romance

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I expected Desiree to be another wonderful escape into historical fiction with a complicated plot, historical characters, much romance and drama and found it to be even better than I'd expected. Selinko does introduce Desiree to Bethoven, the leaders of the French Revolution, the Jacobines, Robispeare, Talleyrand. Desiree approaches them as ordinary people, regular citizens, albeit more powerful than most. Reading Desiree's impressions of them, we see these characters from the point of view of a...more I expected Desiree to be another wonderful escape into historical fiction with a complicated plot, historical characters, much romance and drama and found it to be even better than I'd expected. Selinko does introduce Desiree to Bethoven, the leaders of the French Revolution, the Jacobines, Robispeare, Talleyrand. Desiree approaches them as ordinary people, regular citizens, albeit more powerful than most. Reading Desiree's impressions of them, we see these characters from the point of view of an ordinary woman, one who isn't interested in power but is painfully aware of what effects that powerful people have on the lives of everyone around them.

The relationship between Desiree and Napoleon is based on far more than their early romance. Through Napoleon's special relationship with Desiree, we imagine how he might have been with a loyal friend that knew him when he had no money, few contacts, but great confidence and ambition. In the early years, Desiree and her prosperous middleclass family helped the Bonapartes. When Desiree's sister Julie married Napoleon's brother, her dowry and their business provided the Bonapartes with resources that helped Bonaparte rise in politics and the army. I particularly enjoyed the way that Selinko captured the unique and powerful link that we share with old friends and the way that she showed this in the relationship between Desiree and Napoleon.

Though Napoleon and Desiree were secretly engaged, this was an early love. Napoleon was subsequent married to Josephine and Desiree married Jean Baptiste Bernadotte, another general in the French army. Bernadotte was loyal to the Republic and faced considerable trials because of his refusal to bow to Napoleon's wishes. His independence, integrity and superb tactical skills result in unexpected recognition and responsibility for Bernadotte. But his professional successes take a toll Desiree. Desiree, Jean Baptiste and their son make sacrifices for the countries that they love and their very humanity makes this story even more remarkable and moving.

I thoroughly enjoyed Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love and would recommend it to anyone fond of historical fiction or the Napoleonic period or looking for an engaging and moving read.

ISBN-10: 1402244029 - Paperback $16.99
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; Reprint edition (October 1, 2010), 608 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.(less)

like · see review

Sep 15, 2010 Margaret rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, napoleon, favorites, authors-qrs

Désirée is one of those old family favorites which I've read many times and keep coming back to like an old friend.

It's the sweeping story of Désirée Clary, the daughter of a Marseilles silk merchant, from her early love for and engagement to Napoleon to her later marriage to French Marshal Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, who later became king of Sweden (and Désirée queen). Désirée herself is one of its chief charms; as the book is in the form of an ongoing journal, everything is filtered through her...more

4 likes · like · see review

Jan 31, 2009 Judith rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: childhood-memories

I was in love with this book when I first read it. I got it from my mum, who read it when she was little.
At first I didn't even know that Desirée actually existed. I was enthralled by the story and the characters, particularly by the vivid description of life in this time, the historical connections.
It was one of the first novels I read, before discovering Austen, and it's one of the few that I still re-read from time to time. It's a great book and always fun to read.

1 like · like · see review

Oct 08, 2010 Blodeuedd Finland rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

This book was just enchanting, I was a little worried at first since it was published in the 50's but this latest version does not differ from books today. It was just like a historical novel should be like.

I know quite a lot about Désirée's later years, thanks to my love of history, and Swedish tv once had this great miniseries about all the Bernadotte queens.

Desiree Clary was the daughter of a Silk Merchant from Marseille, and when she was 14 she met the poverished Napoleon Bonaparte. Her sist...more This book was just enchanting, I was a little worried at first since it was published in the 50's but this latest version does not differ from books today. It was just like a historical novel should be like.

I know quite a lot about Désirée's later years, thanks to my love of history, and Swedish tv once had this great miniseries about all the Bernadotte queens.

Desiree Clary was the daughter of a Silk Merchant from Marseille, and when she was 14 she met the poverished Napoleon Bonaparte. Her sister married his brother, and that was sure a catch since these two girls had a great dowry. Napoleon asked Desiree to marry him and that would take place when she turned 16. But sadly before that he went to Paris where he meet the enigmatic and beautiful, and older, Josephine. Desiree would later meet Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte whom she would marry. By then totally mixed up in the Bonaparte family and Napoleon's need for more. Later the Swedish asked Bernadotte to become crown prince of Sweden. And so this simple merchant daughter from France become a real queen.

I do not need to say that this book was filled with history. Napoleon's struggle to the top, him becoming emperor and making all his siblings kings and queens. The years of wars, with the German states, Russia, and so on. And in the middle of all this stood Desiree. First as a relative to the family and then as a wife to one of the most known Generals in France, all of Europe. It was fascinating to see history unfold around her as she wrote in her diary and telling how it all was. I always did wonder. Napoleon and her, did they really never have an affair? This book makes it as she was deeply in love with her husband, and never strayed on her, and him only taking a mistress later on cos it was expected. But then I googled and read there was one maybe, and another man whose mistress she seems to have been. I am glad that was left out, because doing that this whole book is one romantic fantasy.

Desiree herself, well, she never gave Sweden a chance. Sure it's colder, and she was not a princess, but I felt she should have stayed cos of her son. Instead she left for France.

Other than the romance, there is the history, wars and political intrigues. This book never has a dull moment. It was very hard to put down in the end, even if it was really long. The author has of course taken artistic freedom but she stays true to the big picture.

One other thing, I have sure not read a book in a long while that mentions Finland so much, of course I enjoy that. The Swedes really wanted us back and hoped Bernadotte could go to war and conquer Finland back, alas no.

Final thoughts: A story about a fascinating woman who lived in an interesting period of time.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 04, 2010 Staci rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Historical Fiction fans

Recommended to Staci by: Sourcebooks

Shelves: 2010-reads

Why I wanted to read this book:

* I knew absolutely NOTHING about this woman Desiree and found her story to be so intriguing that I just knew I had to read this book.

What worked for me:

* Desiree- I wish I could get in a time machine and meet her! She was truly fascinating and her story is quite unbelievable, but true. She came from humble beginnings, found herself a part of Napoleon's court, married for love, and ended up crowned Queen of Sweden. She was a loyal wife, a nurturing mother, a devo...more Why I wanted to read this book:

* I knew absolutely NOTHING about this woman Desiree and found her story to be so intriguing that I just knew I had to read this book.

What worked for me:

* Desiree- I wish I could get in a time machine and meet her! She was truly fascinating and her story is quite unbelievable, but true. She came from humble beginnings, found herself a part of Napoleon's court, married for love, and ended up crowned Queen of Sweden. She was a loyal wife, a nurturing mother, a devoted friend, and a trusted sister. She was a brave soul and was probably one of the only people who was able to get Napoleon to bend to her requests.

* All of the historical information was at times overwhelming and there are still a few things about Napoleon's reign that are a bit fuzzy to me, but I found myself stopping and getting on the computer to look up certain events and people. I like books that make me want to know more!
* The love story between Desiree and her husband Jean-Baptiste. Their feelings ran deep and true, and the way they protected each other was heartwarming.
* Napoleon was certainly a man who thought much of himself. At the beginning of the book I found myself actually liking the young Napoleon, especially when he expresses his love for Desiree and they become engaged. Then he goes to Paris for a year and behind Desiree's back he gets engaged to Josephine. That is where the manipulation of people really becomes evident. He was such a pompous fool strutting around in his weird little uniforms. When he crowns himself Emperor of France I was amazed that the French didn't get out the death machine (guillotine) and have the ladies bring their knitting while they removed his head from his body!!! The amount of money he spent on himself and all of his bumbling idiot family members is outrageous. Desiree's heart was broken when she found out about Napoleon's betrayal ,but in hindsight that was the best thing that happened to her.
* The writing and research that went into this book is quite impressive. I'm very grateful that Sourcebooks has given this book new life. Desiree is one woman that you'll be glad that you took the time to get to know!

What you should do before reading this book:

* Once again I've found that by doing a bit of research online has helped me get to know the people in this book a bit better. I found some great pictures of Desiree. It was a very cool feeling to see how beautiful she was and to put a face to her name.

Recommend? I would recommend this book without hesitation. I recently read and loved "The Secret History of the Pink Carnation." Reading Desiree brought situations from that book to life and has ignited my desire to delve into this period of history again. So, for those that enjoy historical fiction that take real people and expand on their lives, I am sure you will love this book.(less)

like · see review

Jun 24, 2011 Maia B. rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: love-it, historical, strong-heroine

I'll start by saying that I wish Desiree was my best friend, I'm intensely glad Napoleon is dead and buried long ago, and I would marry Jean-Baptiste in a heartbeat. Annemarie Selinko's characters are so well-formed and rounded that I really feel like I know them - Desiree especially. She's compelling, appealing, funny, clever, brave, and all-around wonderful.

I don't know how much of this book is accurate - there's a brief author's note at the end saying that Selinko changed around some of histo...more

like · see review

Dec 02, 2008 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Historical fiction about Desiree' Clary, who was Napoleon Bonaparte's fiance before he married Josephine. This book is out of print, but one of my all time favorites (I'm a bit of a Napoleon fanatic). I won't give anything away, but the small but significant role that Desiree' played during a defining time in world history is amazing to me. There is also a movie staring Marlon Brando - but it's a waste of time!

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 09, 2007 Maryam added it · review of another edition

ناپلئون بناپارت برایم همیشه خیلی جذاب بود شاید هم دلیلش مارلون براندو باشد.به همین دلیل منطقی به شدت دزیره را دوست داشتم و بعد از آن هم هرچه کتاب درباره ناپلئون بود خواندم.البته تاریخ فرانسه را خوب و شیرین روایت می کند این کتاب

1 like · like · see review

Aug 17, 2009 Edith rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I read this book in the late 1950s, just prior to leaving for a three-year tour in France. I learned a lot of French history (of the Napoleonic era), and truly enjoyed this book. Desiree Clary, the sister of Josephine Clary who was married to Joseph Bonaparte, was for a time engaged to Napoleon -- the engagement ended when she went to Paris unannounced and found he was involved with Josephine Beauharnais. When she left the site of this meeting, she bumped into one of Napoleon's generals, Jean-Ba...more

like · see review

Nov 10, 2007 fatemeh kashefi rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: novel

سال دوم دبيرستان اين كتاب رو به دست گرفتم و گمان كنم بيش از 10 مرتبه از ابتدا تا انتها خوندم. با تكتك وقايع زندگي شخصيت‌هاي كتاب زندگي كردم. صبوري و دريات دزيره و همسرش براي من هميشه يه الگو بود. هميشه از خوندن زندگي‌نامه لذت مي‌برم و اين يكي از قشنگ‌ترين زندگينامه‌هايي است كه تا الان خوندم.
كساني كه از دنبال يك رمان عاشقانه و قابل لمس مي گردند به نظر من دزيره گزينه لذتبخشي برايشان خواهد بود.

1 like · like · see review

Mar 08, 2012 Amalie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, translations, books-from-about-europe

I got this book from the library for my mother who enjoys these historical romance novels but I also ended up reading it. For those of you who can read German, it's better to check out the original version of the book, though I have no complains about this translation, I'm sure that is even better.

This is written in diary format from Désirée's (Bernardine Eugénie Désirée Clary, who later becomes the Queen of Sweden and Norway) POV.
Here's a picture of her:

She is one-time fiancée of Napoleon Bon...more

4 likes · like · see review

Mar 24, 2011 Annika rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical

I adore this book!
Désirée Clarys' real character was quite different (I was actually pretty dissapointed when I googled her to find out something about her real live) but this is a story about a strong woman during The French Revolution and the reign of Napoleon.
We find out about Eugénie Bernardine Désirée Clary live by her diary entries, from her live as the daugther of a wealthy tradesmen to her encounters with the young Napoleon, later with the emporer Napoleon until fate makes her queen of...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 15, 2010 Desiree rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

My mother was reading this book when she was pregnant with me. When I turned 15, she gave me the original copy she had saved. I've read this book 3 times already. It is my absolute favorite. Desiree was the daughter of a merchant in France before Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power. The book explores Desiree's life and trials and how she falls in love with Napoleon. Love is not enough to keep these two together. As Napoleon emerges into a powerful leader, he must follow his path in order to succeed...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 13, 2010 iubookgirl rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

Originally published in 1951, Annemarie Selinko's epic story of love, loss and war withstands the test of time. Through the eyes of Bernardine Eugénie Désirée Clary, the reader is transported through history from the French Revolution's Reign of Terror to the aftermath of Napoleon's rule. Désirée's fictitious diary is heartfelt and charts her course from a humble citizeness of the French Republic to the greatest heights.

I'm not sure my words can do this book justice. Désirée's story brought me t...more

like · see review

Dec 14, 2008 Mathilde Apelt rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I just wrote a long review and it somehow disappeared. what did I do wrong? I loved this book. It is old, copyright 1953. It was one of the first books I read when I came into this country from Germany. It's about a silk merchants daughter who becomes friends with Napoleon and later the wife of Bernadotte who becomes the King of Sweden. so, the simple daughter of a merchant in Paris walks in high places and ends up to be the queen of Sweden. My English was not very good when I came, so I asked m...more

3 likes · like · see review

Feb 12, 2013 Melissa rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: book-club-selections

Desiree follows the life of the daughter of a wealthy silk merchant, as she falls in love with a young man who would one day become the Emperor of the French, Napoleon Bonaparte. Written in the form of journal entries, we observe Desiree’s life starting as an adolescent up until she is crowned The Queen of Sweden.

I will start off my review by listing the things that I liked about this novel. First of all I liked that it was written in the form of journal entries. The book was well put together...more Desiree follows the life of the daughter of a wealthy silk merchant, as she falls in love with a young man who would one day become the Emperor of the French, Napoleon Bonaparte. Written in the form of journal entries, we observe Desiree’s life starting as an adolescent up until she is crowned The Queen of Sweden.

I will start off my review by listing the things that I liked about this novel. First of all I liked that it was written in the form of journal entries. The book was well put together in terms of the four different parts and the division of the entries. I did not know very much about French history prior to reading this, nor had I ever heard of Desiree before, therefore I did learn quite a bit. It was interesting to learn of the everyday life, etiquette and clothing of the time period.
Unfortunately my “con” list for this book far outweighs the “pro”. As a lover of historical fiction, I had somewhat high hopes for this book, however I was disappointed. At the beginning of this book, I liked the main character (then called Eugenie) and judging by the front cover I thought she would be quite a strong young woman. However the more I read, the less I began to like her. Unfortunately I did not find any of the other characters in this book to be very appealing either. During a time in history when politics and war was so widespread, I found that Desiree’s journal entries lacked the detail needed to truly understand what was going on. Although I don’t particularly find politics interesting, her point of view left me more confused and impatient for the book to end. Due to the revolution we learn that Desiree’s education had been cut short, however I don’t think that this is totally the blame for her ignorance. I realize that the life of a woman was very different in that time and that they were not given the same opportunities as men. However I believe that there were ways that Desiree could have educated herself to better understand what was going on around her. She did not seem to have any interest in this however and apart from her son Oscar it was hard to understand truly what she wanted in life. There seemed to always be a power struggle for Desiree, between Napoleon and her husband Jean-Babtiste, which I found to be very frustrating. After she became crowned Princess of Sweden and then cowardly retreated back to Paris, I began to dislike her character even more.

However closer to the end of the book, she shows that she does indeed have some strength, when she takes care of her family after the Bonaparte family are exiled. She also for the first time showed some knowledge by working in the silk shop to bring money into her household. Desiree would also eventually return to Sweden as Queen.Her loyalty to her family (her sister, brother and their families)was a redeeming quality. Although I didn’t understand how she could keep herself away from her husband and son for so long, I was pleased when she did return to Sweden. The last part of this book was what saved me from completely disliking this book.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction. Although I think it would be more enjoyable for the reader if they had some understanding or knowledge of the French Revolution.
(less)

like · see review

Sep 12, 2012 Saskia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Geweldig: heel lang geleden heb ik dit boek (een druk uit 1954) bij mijn oma gelezen. Nu vond ik het tijd om het te herlezen. Bij het openslaan van het boek trof ik een krantenartikel met een interview met de auteur (of "autrice" zoals dat toen werd genoemd) dat mijn oma begin jaren '50 heeft uitgeknipt en in het boek heeft gestopt.

Het boek leest tot nu toe als een trein en geeft in dagboekvorm het leven weer van de dochter van een Marseillaanse zijdekoopman, die de eerste geliefde van Napoléon...more

like · see review

Jul 18, 2012 Priyanka rated it 4 of 5 stars

The story of Citizeness Bernadine Eugenie Désirée Clary, daughter of the ordinary but greatly respected silk merchant François Clary, a commoner. This "uneducated" and "timid" girl/woman, who considered herself more timid particularly in front of Napoleon, her first love, held her own and, from the shadows, watched the shenanigans of all the royal elite and the many Bonapartes as they "picked up their crowns from the gutter" repeatedly.
'To the devil with etiquette,' she thought when, as the Crow...more

like · see review

Mar 25, 2012 danah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction

"Anyhow, lots of people are guillotined every day in the Town Hall square, and it's not safe to be related to aristocrats. Fortunately, we haven't any fine folk among our relatives."

"The Rights of Man can never be annulled, can they, Papa?
No, they can never be annulled. But they can be temporarily abrogated, openly or secretly, and trodden underfoot. But those who trample on them will incur the deepest blood-guilt in all history. And whenever and wherever in days to come men rob their brethren o...more

like · see review

Oct 09, 2010 Kathleen Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: finished

Desiree by AnneMarie Selinko is a re-released novel from Sourcebooks about Bernardine Eugénie Désirée Clary, a Frenchwoman who was engaged to Napoleon Bonaparte. Desiree was the daughter of a silk merchant who became Queen of Sweden and Norway. The story is told by Desiree and follows the lives of the Clary and Bonaparte familys. It depicts Napoleon's rise and ultimate fall as Emperor of France.
After Napoleon breaks off the engagement to marry Josephine de Beauharnais. Desiree marries Jean Bapti...more

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Should I read it?	4	13	Mar 02, 2013 01:57pm
Desiree by Annemarie Selinko	1	41	Feb 21, 2009 11:48am

combine
Other Editions (39)

More editions...

Genres

Historical Fiction

111 users

Novels

25 users

Classics

24 users

Romance

17 users

Cultural > France

14 users

Romance > Historical Romance

12 users

Roman

6 users

Media Tie In > Movies

6 users

Literature

3 users

Adult

3 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Annemarie Selinko

Annemarie Selinko (September 1, 1914 - July 28, 1986) was an Austrian novelist who wrote a number of best-selling books in German from the 1930s through the 1950s. Although she had been based in Germany, in 1939 at the start of World War II she took refuge in Denmark with her Danish husband, but then in 1943, they again became refugees, this time to Sweden.

Many of her novels have been adapted into...more

More about Annemarie Selinko...

Books by Annemarie Selinko

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About دزيره

12 trivia questions

More quizzes & trivia...

title link	preview: Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love
avg rating	preview: Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love Goodreads rating: 3.87 (3451 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7854269-d-sir-e?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1327885736l/7854269.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7854269-d-sir-e?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love by Annemarie Selinko[/url]

Désirée: The Bestselling Story of Napoleon's First Love

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website