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Count Hannibal A Romance of the Court of France   By: (1855-1928)

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Count Hannibal A Romance of the Court of France by Stanley John Weyman is a captivating historical novel set in the vibrant and tumultuous court of France during the reign of King Louis XIII.

Weyman's storytelling prowess shines throughout the book, effortlessly transporting readers to a bygone era of lavish parties, political intrigues, and forbidden romances. The narrative revolves around the titular character, Count Hannibal, a dashing and enigmatic nobleman whose cunning wit and extraordinary intelligence make him an intriguing figure.

One of the book's strengths lies in its vivid and richly detailed descriptions that bring the courtly life of seventeenth-century France to life. From sumptuous palaces draped in opulent tapestries to the intricate dance of etiquette and power, Weyman masterfully immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and even smells of the era. The author's meticulous research is evident in his portrayal of the court's social dynamics, political tensions, and the overall atmosphere of the time.

What truly sets Count Hannibal apart is the skillful development of the complex characters that populate its pages. The eponymous Count Hannibal is a masterfully crafted character, a man of great intelligence and ambition but also burdened by a mysterious past. His interactions with other characters are consistently intriguing, often blending charm with an enigmatic quality that keeps readers guessing about his true intentions.

In masterfully weaving together elements of romance, history, and adventure, Weyman keeps the plot briskly moving forward. The suspense is maintained throughout, as Count Hannibal navigates dangerous courtly rivalries, quests for power, and heart-wrenching love affairs. The author's ability to effortlessly intertwine historical events with fictional elements adds an additional layer of depth and authenticity to the story.

While the novel is steeped in political intrigue and courtly scheming, it also explores universal themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth. Count Hannibal's internal struggles, as he tries to reconcile his desires and ambitions with the constraints of a rigid society, lends a relatability to his character that further captivates readers.

If there is one minor flaw, it is the occasional pacing issue that arises during certain sections of the book where the narrative seems to meander rather than progress. While these moments momentarily disrupt the otherwise engaging rhythm, they do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Count Hannibal A Romance of the Court of France is an exceptionally well-written historical novel that seamlessly blends fact and fiction. With an evocative setting, an intriguing protagonist, and a compelling narrative, Stanley John Weyman satisfies readers with a captivating tale that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, romance, and adventure alike.

First Page:

This eBook was prepared by Les Bowler from the 1922 John Murray edition.

COUNT HANNIBAL A ROMANCE OF THE COURT OF FRANCE. by Stanley J. Weyman.

SORORI SUA CAUSSA CARAE PRO ERGA MATREM AMORE ETIAM CARIORI HOC FRATER.

CONTENTS

I. CRIMSON FAVOURS II. HANNIBAL DE SAULX, COMTE DE TAVANNES III. THE HOUSE NEXT THE GOLDEN MAID IV. THE EVE OF THE FEAST V. A ROUGH WOOING VI. "WHO TOUCHES TAVANNES?" VII. IN THE AMPHITHEATRE VIII. TWO HENS AND AN EGG IX. UNSTABLE X. MADAME ST. LO XI. A BARGAIN XII. IN THE HALL OF THE LOUVRE XIII. DIPLOMACY XIV. TOO SHORT A SPOON XV. THE BROTHER OF ST. MAGLOIRE XVI. AT CLOSE QUARTERS XVII. THE DUEL XVIII. ANDROMEDA, PERSEUS BEING ABSENT XIX. IN THE ORLEANNAIS XX. ON THE CASTLE HILL XXI. SHE WOULD, AND WOULD NOT XXII. PLAYING WITH FIRE XXIII. A MIND, AND NOT A MIND XXIV. AT THE KING'S INN XXV. THE COMPANY OF THE BLEEDING HEART XXVI. TEMPER XXVII. THE BLACK TOWN XXVIII. IN THE LITTLE CHAPTER HOUSE XXIX. THE ESCAPE XXX. SACRILEGE! XXXI. THE FLIGHT FROM ANGERS XXXII. THE ORDEAL BY STEEL XXXIII. THE AMBUSH XXXIV. "WHICH WILL YOU, MADAME?" XXXV. AGAINST THE WALL XXXVI. HIS KINGDOM

CHAPTER I. CRIMSON FAVOURS.

M. de Tavannes smiled... Continue reading book >>




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