Courtesans Books: A Curated List

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The Courtesan’s Lover

by Gabrielle Kimm

The Courtesan’s Lover is a captivating historical novel set in 16th century Venice. Gabrielle Kimm’s book on courtesans invites readers into a world of opulence and intrigue as we follow the story of Veronica Franco, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who becomes a renowned cortigiana onesta, or honest courtesan. Through Veronica’s eyes, we are given a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of courtesans, their complex relationships with powerful men, and the political turmoil of the time.

As Veronica navigates her way through the dangerous and seductive world of Venice, she must use all her wit and charm to survive. The novel is rich in detail, bringing to life the vibrant streets of Venice and the sumptuous palazzos of the nobility. With its lush prose and compelling characters, this book about courtesans is a tale of love, betrayal, and ambition that will transport readers to a bygone era of beauty and danger.

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The Courtesan

by Alexandra Curry

The Courtesan by Alexandra Curry is a captivating historical novel that delves into the fascinating world of courtesans in ancient China. Set in the tumultuous Tang Dynasty, the story follows the life of a young girl named Sai Jinhua, who is sold into a courtesan house by her own father. As she navigates the intricate and often treacherous world of the courtesans, Sai Jinhua must use her wits and resilience to survive and ultimately thrive in a society that seeks to control and oppress her.

Curry’s vivid and evocative prose brings to life the opulent yet perilous world of the courtesans, immersing readers in a captivating tale of love, ambition, and the struggle for independence. The Courtesan is a gripping and poignant book about courtesans that sheds light on the often overlooked lives of these remarkable women, offering a compelling blend of historical fiction and timeless themes of resilience and empowerment.

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The Courtesan Duchess

by Joanna Shupe

The Courtesan Duchess by Joanna Shupe is a captivating historical romance novel that delves into the scandalous world of high society and the lives of courtesans. Set in 19th century London, the story follows Lady Minerva Lane, a widow who is determined to secure her independence and protect her family’s reputation. However, her plans are derailed when she crosses paths with the charming and enigmatic Duke of Ashebury, a notorious womanizer with a dangerous reputation. As their forbidden attraction grows, Lady Minerva must navigate the treacherous social norms of the time and confront the scandalous secrets of her own past. With its lush historical detail and sizzling romance, The Courtesan Duchess is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone intrigued by the captivating world of high society and the women who navigated its treacherous waters. This book about courtesans will sweep readers off their feet and keep them eagerly turning the pages until the very end.

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The Courtesan’s Daughter

by Priscilla Galloway

The Courtesan’s Daughter by Priscilla Galloway is a captivating book about courtesans that takes readers on a journey through 17th century Venice. The story follows the life of Fiammetta, the daughter of a renowned courtesan, as she navigates the world of love, betrayal, and secrets. When Fiammetta’s mother mysteriously disappears, she is thrust into a world of danger and intrigue, where she must use all her wit and cunning to survive.

Galloway’s vivid descriptions and rich historical detail bring the opulent and treacherous world of courtesans to life, immersing readers in a world of glamour and deception. As Fiammetta uncovers the truth about her mother’s disappearance, she must confront her own desires and ambitions, and decide what she is willing to sacrifice for love and freedom. The Courtesan’s Daughter is a spellbinding book on courtesans that will transport readers to a time of passion and danger, where love and betrayal go hand in hand.

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The Courtesan’s Secret

by Claudia Dain

The Courtesan’s Secret by Claudia Dain is a captivating book about the intriguing world of ‘courtesans’. Set in Regency England, the story follows the adventures of a young woman who finds herself drawn into the scandalous and seductive world of high society. As she navigates the complex social hierarchy and encounters the powerful and wealthy patrons of the ‘ton’, she must also grapple with her own desires and ambitions.

This engrossing novel weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and ambition, exploring the lives of women who were both admired and vilified for their beauty and wit. The author skillfully brings to life the lavish balls and clandestine affairs of the era, while also delving into the inner turmoil and resilience of her characters.

For readers who enjoy historical romance and are intrigued by the lives of women who defied convention, this book is a must-read. With its richly detailed setting and captivating characters, The Courtesan’s Secret is a compelling exploration of the world of ‘courtesans’ and the complexities of love and power.

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The Courtesan’s Book of Secrets

by Georgie Lee

The Courtesan’s Book of Secrets by Georgie Lee is a captivating historical romance novel that delves into the intriguing world of 18th-century courtesans. This captivating book uncovers the hidden secrets and scandals of the glamorous and mysterious lives of these women. The story follows the journey of a young courtesan as she navigates the treacherous waters of high society, love, and betrayal.

Readers will be drawn into a world filled with opulence, intrigue, and forbidden romance as they follow the protagonist’s quest for independence and true love. Georgie Lee’s vivid prose and meticulous attention to historical detail bring this captivating era to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction or romance.

The Courtesan’s Book of Secrets is a rich and compelling tale that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these women, exploring the power dynamics and complexities of their relationships with men and society. This book about courtesans is sure to enchant and captivate readers with its blend of romance, drama, and scandal.

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The Courtesan’s Daughter

by Claudia Dain

The Courtesan’s Daughter, written by Claudia Dain, is a captivating novel about a young woman navigating the treacherous world of 18th-century London. The story follows the life of a young lady, who is the daughter of a renowned courtesan, as she seeks to find her place in society while dealing with the stigma of her mother’s profession. Set against the backdrop of lavish balls, scandalous secrets, and the opulence of the aristocracy, this book on courtesans delves into the complexities of love, ambition, and the struggle for acceptance in a society ruled by rigid social norms.

Readers will be drawn into the intricate web of relationships, the allure of forbidden romance, and the fierce determination of the protagonist as she defies expectations and strives to make her mark in a world where courtesans hold both power and vulnerability. With its rich historical detail and compelling characters, The Courtesan’s Daughter is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intrigue and drama of 18th-century England.

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The Courtesan’s Wager

by Claudia Dain

The Courtesan’s Wager by Claudia Dain is a captivating book about courtesans set in Regency England. The story follows the daring and seductive Lady Montague as she makes a scandalous wager with a notorious rogue, Lord Devon. As the stakes are set, they embark on a thrilling game of passion and deception, where desire and danger collide in a world of high society and forbidden love. With its intricate plot and vivid characters, this courtesans book is a delightful blend of romance, intrigue, and scandal. Readers will be drawn into the alluring and complex world of courtesans and the aristocracy, where secrets and desires intertwine in a compelling dance of seduction and ambition. The Courtesan’s Wager is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a touch of mystery and a dash of scandal.

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Courtesans: Money, Sex and Fame in the Nineteenth Century

by Katie Hickman

Courtesans: Money, Sex and Fame in the Nineteenth Century by Katie Hickman is a captivating exploration of the lives of the women who occupied a unique and controversial position in society during the 1800s. This book delves into the world of the demimonde, offering a fascinating insight into the lives of these women who were both admired and scorned for their beauty, wit, and independence.

Hickman’s book about courtesans paints a vivid picture of the opulent and scandalous world of high-class prostitution, where these women held significant power and influence over the men who courted them. Through meticulous research and evocative storytelling, the author brings to life the glittering salons, lavish parties, and clandestine affairs that characterized the lives of these enigmatic figures.

Courtesans: Money, Sex and Fame in the Nineteenth Century is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of gender, sexuality, and power dynamics. Hickman’s rich and immersive narrative offers a fresh perspective on the lives of these complex women, shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacy.

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Sex with Kings: 500 Years of Adultery, Power, Rivalry, and Revenge

by Eleanor Herman

Sex with Kings: 500 Years of Adultery, Power, Rivalry, and Revenge by Eleanor Herman is a captivating journey through the scandalous and intriguing world of royal mistresses. This enthralling book delves into the lives of the women who wielded influence over kings, shaping history through their seductive power and cunning intellect. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Herman brings to life the captivating stories of these powerful women, offering a glimpse into the intrigues, rivalries, and betrayals that unfolded within royal courts.

This book on courtesans is a fascinating exploration of the complex relationships between kings and their mistresses, shedding light on the dynamics of power, love, and betrayal. Through vivid and compelling narratives, Herman offers a fresh perspective on the often overlooked role of these influential women in shaping the course of history. Sex with Kings is a must-read for anyone interested in the captivating world of royal mistresses and the power struggles that defined their lives.

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The Scarlet Sisters: Sex, Suffrage, and Scandal in the Gilded Age

by Myra MacPherson

The Scarlet Sisters: Sex, Suffrage, and Scandal in the Gilded Age by Myra MacPherson is a captivating book about courtesans that delves into the lives of two extraordinary women, Victoria Woodhull and Tennie Claflin, who were known as the “Scarlet Sisters” due to their scandalous reputation in the 19th century. This well-researched and engaging narrative explores the intertwining worlds of sex, politics, and women’s rights during the Gilded Age, shedding light on the sisters’ unconventional and controversial careers as advocates for free love and suffrage.

MacPherson skillfully brings to life the fascinating and often overlooked stories of these audacious women, who defied societal norms and challenged the status quo. The book offers a compelling portrayal of their struggles and triumphs, as well as the sensational scandals that surrounded them. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, MacPherson paints a vivid picture of a tumultuous era and the remarkable women who dared to defy conventions. This book on courtesans is a must-read for anyone interested in women’s history, the Gilded Age, or the intersection of sex and politics.

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Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky

by Chris Greenhalgh

Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky by Chris Greenhalgh is a captivating novel that delves into the passionate and scandalous affair between two iconic figures of the 20th century. Set against the backdrop of Paris in the 1920s, this book explores the intense relationship between the famous fashion designer, Coco Chanel, and the renowned composer, Igor Stravinsky.

Greenhalgh skillfully portrays the tempestuous love affair between these two creative geniuses, delving into their intense emotions and the impact their affair had on their art and personal lives. The novel offers readers a glimpse into the glamorous and tumultuous world of the Parisian elite, and the complexities of love, passion, and artistic expression.

With vivid prose and meticulous attention to historical detail, Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky is a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of these two influential figures. Whether you’re a fan of fashion, music, or simply enjoy a compelling love story, this book is sure to captivate and enthrall you.

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Mademoiselle: Coco Chanel and the Pulse of History

by Rhonda K. Garelick

Mademoiselle: Coco Chanel and the Pulse of History by Rhonda K. Garelick is a captivating biography that delves into the life of the iconic fashion designer, Coco Chanel. Garelick masterfully intertwines Chanel’s personal story with the larger historical and cultural context of the time, offering a rich and nuanced portrayal of this influential figure.

Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of Chanel’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in the world of fashion. In addition to exploring her groundbreaking designs and the evolution of her eponymous brand, Garelick also delves into Chanel’s relationships with artists, intellectuals, and politicians, providing a fascinating glimpse into the pulse of history during the early 20th century.

Mademoiselle is a book that will appeal to fashion enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the lives of remarkable women who have shaped the course of history. Garelick’s engaging prose and insightful analysis make this biography a must-read for those seeking to understand the complex and compelling legacy of Coco Chanel.

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Harlot Queen

by Hilda Lewis

Harlot Queen by Hilda Lewis is a captivating historical novel that delves into the scandalous world of 16th-century France. This gripping tale follows the life of Diane de Poitiers, a captivating and influential figure in the court of King Henri II. As a book expert, I can attest that Harlot Queen offers a fascinating insight into the power struggles, political intrigue, and romantic entanglements of the French royal court.

With rich historical detail and vivid storytelling, Lewis brings to life the complexities of Diane’s relationships with the king and his queen, Catherine de’ Medici. The novel provides a compelling exploration of the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating the treacherous waters of court politics and power.

Readers who are drawn to stories of strong, enigmatic women, and the allure of the French Renaissance will find themselves spellbound by this remarkable book about courtesans. Harlot Queen is a must-read for anyone with a fascination for the lives and intrigues of powerful women in history.

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Nana

by Émile Zola

Nana, written by Émile Zola, is a captivating novel that delves into the world of the demimonde, a society of high-class courtesans in 19th-century Paris. The story follows the rise and fall of the beautiful and seductive Nana, who uses her charm and allure to climb the social ladder and captivate the hearts of powerful men.

Zola’s vivid descriptions and powerful storytelling bring to life the opulent and scandalous world of the courtesans, as well as the dark underbelly of their extravagant lifestyle. Through Nana’s journey, the novel explores themes of ambition, desire, and the destructive power of vanity.

Readers are drawn into a world of glamour, passion, and betrayal as they follow Nana’s tumultuous relationships and her ultimate downfall. Nana is a mesmerizing and provocative book about courtesans, offering a rich and immersive glimpse into the decadent and alluring world of high society in 19th-century Paris.

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The Many Lives & Secret Sorrows of Josephine B.

by Sandra Gulland

The Many Lives & Secret Sorrows of Josephine B. by Sandra Gulland is a captivating historical novel that delves into the life of Josephine Bonaparte, the captivating and enigmatic wife of Napoleon. Set in 18th-century France, this book provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of courtesans and the intricate power dynamics of the time.

Gulland’s vivid storytelling brings Josephine’s journey to life, from her humble beginnings in Martinique to her rise as one of the most influential women in French history. Through Josephine’s eyes, readers are transported to the opulent salons and decadent society of Paris, where she navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and betrayal.

This richly detailed novel offers a compelling exploration of the life of a remarkable woman, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of her journey. With its lush prose and compelling characters, The Many Lives & Secret Sorrows of Josephine B. is a must-read for anyone fascinated by historical fiction, romance, and the captivating world of courtesans.

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Les Liaisons Dangereuses

by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

Les Liaisons Dangereuses, written by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, is a captivating and scandalous 18th-century French novel that delves into the intricate web of seduction, manipulation, and betrayal. Set in aristocratic Paris, the story revolves around the devious Marquise de Merteuil and the notorious Vicomte de Valmont, who engage in a game of sexual conquest and revenge. Through a series of letters, the cunning duo plot to corrupt the innocent and virtuous, all the while navigating the treacherous world of courtly politics and scandalous liaisons.

This book on courtesans and their manipulative tactics offers a riveting exploration of power, desire, and the consequences of playing with hearts and reputations. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plotting, Les Liaisons Dangereuses continues to captivate readers with its timeless examination of human nature and the dark allure of manipulation.

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The Hidden Blade

by Sherry Thomas

The Hidden Blade by Sherry Thomas is a captivating historical fiction novel set in 19th century China. The story follows the life of Ying-ying, a young woman raised in a traditional Chinese household, who is trained in the art of the courtesan. As she navigates the complex world of courtly intrigue and political machinations, Ying-ying must use all of her wit and intelligence to survive in a society that seeks to control and manipulate her. With its richly detailed setting and compelling characters, The Hidden Blade offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of courtesans in imperial China.

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The Last Courtesan

by Alexandra Joel

The Last Courtesan by Alexandra Joel is a captivating novel that delves into the intriguing world of high-class escorts in 19th century Paris. This book on courtesans follows the story of Violetta, a beautiful and enigmatic courtesan who navigates the complexities of love, power, and independence in a society that seeks to control her every move. Set against the backdrop of opulent salons and lavish parties, the novel offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of courtesans and the men who desire them.

As the last of her kind, Violetta’s journey is both poignant and empowering, as she seeks to break free from the constraints of her profession and find true love and fulfillment. With lush historical detail and rich character development, this book about courtesans is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the hidden lives of women in history. Alexandra Joel’s evocative storytelling brings the world of courtesans to vivid life, making this novel a compelling and unforgettable read for fans of historical fiction.

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The Courtesan’s Revenge

by Kate Furnivall

The Courtesan’s Revenge by Kate Furnivall is a captivating book about courtesans set in 1920s Shanghai. The story follows the journey of a young woman named Belle, who is forced into a life of servitude in a courtesan house after her father’s death. Determined to seek revenge against the powerful man responsible for her father’s death, Belle uses her wit and cunning to navigate the treacherous world of the courtesans. As she delves deeper into the dangerous underworld of Shanghai, Belle discovers the shocking truth about her own past and the dark secrets that have haunted her family for years.

With its rich historical detail and gripping plot, The Courtesan’s Revenge is a spellbinding book on courtesans that will transport readers to a world of glamour, deceit, and betrayal. This thrilling tale of love, betrayal, and redemption will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.