The School of Mirrors

A Novel

By: Eva Stachniak

Narrated by: Ell Potter

“A riveting epic, keenly observed and shining with lush historical detail. You’ll never forget this journey.”--Cara Black, New York Times bestselling author of Three Hours in Paris

“A sweeping tale of tumult and tragedy— intricate, absorbing, and impeccably depicted, The School of Mirrors will linger in your imagination long after you turn the last page.”--Ann Mah, bestselling author of Jacqueline in Paris

A scintillating, gorgeously written historical novel about a mother and a daughter in eighteenth-century France, beginning with decadence and palace intrigue at Versailles and ending in an explosive new era of revolution.

During the reign of Louis XV, impoverished but lovely teenage girls from all over France are sent to a discreet villa in the town of Versailles. Overseen by the King’s favorite mistress, Madame de Pompadour, they will be trained as potential courtesans for the King. When the time is right, each girl is smuggled into the palace of Versailles, with its legendary Hall of Mirrors. There they meet a mysterious but splendidly dressed man who they’re told is merely a Polish count, a cousin of the Queen. Living an indulgent life of silk gowns, delicious meals, and soft beds, the students at this “school of mirrors” rarely ask questions, and when Louis tires of them, they are married off to minor aristocrats or allowed to retire to one of the more luxurious nunneries.

Beautiful and canny Veronique arrives at the school of mirrors and quickly becomes a favorite of the King. But when she discovers her lover’s true identity, she is whisked away, sent to give birth to a daughter in secret, and then to marry a wealthy Breton merchant. There is no return to the School of Mirrors.

This is also the story of the King’s daughter by Veronique—Marie-Louise. Well-provided for in a comfortable home, Marie-Louise has never known her mother, let alone her father. Capable and intelligent, she discovers a passion for healing and science, and becomes an accredited midwife, one of the few reputable careers for women like her. But eventually Veronique comes back into her daughter’s life, bringing with her the secret of Marie-Louise’s birth. But the new King—Louis XVI—is teetering on his throne and it’s a volatile time in France…and those with royal relatives must mind their step very carefully.

Started Strong, but Fizzled Out

The final third of the book wandered around with less focus than the rest of the book.

It was a good story but the tone of storytelling changed quite a bit.

Better editing was necessary perhaps?

Delicate thoughtful tempo

Beautifully written personal story of a girl of limited opportunity who was swept into the Parc Aux Cerfs and her legacy. Move over it is an empathetic revelation of the life of women in this gilded period of French history. Touching and often sad but definitely recommended especially if you liked Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell.

Fun story

This was a fun glimpse into life at Versailles and events during the French Revolution.

A well-researched novel with beautiful prose

Eva Stachniak’s School of Mirrors is another heart-breakingly beautiful account of the lives of “ordinary women” and their perseverance in a male-dominated world. With illuminating prose, and flawless narration, this audiobook is a must listen.

Fascinating

A comprehensive and richly detailed account of a French courtesan living in Versailles during the 1700’s. Wonderfully drawn characters and vivid imagery weaves an epic story seeped in history.