This book isn't a novel in the traditional sense. It's a collection of letters from one man, the Chevalier de Fagnes, to the woman he's desperately in love with, a lady he calls the 'Divine Countess.' Through these letters, we watch a whole relationship (or attempted relationship) unfold. He pours his heart out, writes beautiful poetry, makes grand promises, and then... often seems to sabotage himself with his next letter. It's a one-sided conversation full of hope, jealousy, dramatic flair, and the occasional spectacular misstep.

Why You Should Read It

The fun here is all in the character. The Chevalier is a wonderfully flawed creation. He's intelligent and eloquent, but also painfully transparent and a bit of a mess. Reading his letters is like watching a friend text their crush after one too many glasses of wine—you cringe, you laugh, but you also can't look away. Ginisty captures the voice of a 17th-century gentleman perfectly, making the historical setting feel alive and surprisingly relatable. It’s a sharp, funny look at how the game of love hasn't really changed all that much over the centuries, even if the rules of etiquette have.

Final Verdict

This is a gem for readers who enjoy character-driven stories and historical fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's perfect if you liked the witty letters in Les Liaisons Dangereuses but wished they were a bit more hapless and heartfelt. You don't need to be a history expert to enjoy it; you just need an appreciation for good dialogue, human folly, and the timeless, often ridiculous, pursuit of love.