Memoirs of Louis XIV and His Court and of the Regency — Volume 10

In the waning days of Louis XIV’s reign, a delicate power shift unfolds within the glittering halls of Versailles. The memoirist paints a vivid portrait of the young Duke of Orléans, a man of easy charm and sharp intellect, poised to assume the regency for the infant king. Through lively anecdotes and keen observation, listeners hear the duke’s graceful manners, his effortless eloquence, and the subtle tensions that surround his ascent.

Beyond the polished court rituals, the narrative delves into the personal quirks and ambitions that shape the new ruler’s decisions. The author recounts moments of private conversation, lingering doubts, and the influence of figures like Madame de Maintenon, all while the nation holds its breath for the next chapter in French history. Richly detailed and engaging, this account offers a window into the intrigues and human drama that defined the transition from the Sun King’s absolute rule to a fragile regency.