Madame Rose; Pierre de Villerglé   By: Amédée Achard (1814-1875)

Amédée Achard's Madame Rose; Pierre de Villerglé is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of two very different characters. The story follows Madame Rose, a wealthy and sophisticated woman, and Pierre de Villerglé, a struggling artist. Their paths cross, leading to a complex and tumultuous relationship that explores themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations.

Achard does an excellent job of bringing both characters to life, fleshing them out with their own unique quirks and motivations. Madame Rose is portrayed as a strong-willed and independent woman who is unafraid to pursue what she desires, while Pierre de Villerglé is a dreamer who struggles to make a name for himself in the competitive world of art.

The novel is beautifully written, with rich descriptions that transport the reader to the elegant salons of 19th-century Paris. Achard's prose is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the glamour and decadence of the time period.

Overall, Madame Rose; Pierre de Villerglé is a compelling read that offers an insightful look into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Achard's storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking, making this a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression on its readers.

First Page:

Parmi les villages que les jeux de la fantaisie et de la spéculation ont élevés aux environs de Paris, il n'en est peut être pas de plus joli et de plus frais que Maisons. La mode l'a un peu gâté en multipliant les jardins et les cottages; mais elle n'a pu détruire ni la beauté de la Seine qui le côtoie, ni la majesté royale des avenues qui l'entourent. De longues allées bordées de grands arbres percent le parc dans toutes les directions, et laissent voir, derrière un rideau tremblant de feuillage, des pavillons et des villas dans lesquels le luxe des propriétaires, gens de finance pour la plupart, a prodigué mille recherches coûteuses; mais aux premiers souffles de la bise, les hôtes frileux de ces habitations coquettes disparaissent: on ne voit plus personne à Maisons, si ce n'est dans le village, qu'un pli de terrain dérobe aux oisifs de l'été... Continue reading book >>