Sex With Kings by Eleanor Herman (2005, Paperback, Reprint)

This book was full of interesting details about the complexities, challenges and rewards (and dangers) of being a King's mistress.
Despite the title, it wasn't all about sex! A successful mistress who wished to last had to be aware of the political arena around her, who to trust and flatter and who was waiting for her to make a fatal mistake. For every reigning mistress, there were many younger, prettier hopefuls waiting to take her place.
I found myself completely wrapped up in this book, but I was also frustrated because the author flitted from century to century, often in the same paragraph or sentence. It made it hard for me to get a sense of perspective when we went from 12th century to 15th century in just a few words. Since I am just a lay person who enjoys learning about history, it was hard for me to remember which Louis or Henry (or Henri) was which! :)
But I wouldn't let this small factor keep anyone from reading such interesting and surprising material. I have gained a new respect for these women who risked almost everything for the chance to be the King's favorite with no way of knowing how long they would remain there, and who often lost everything after they lost him.

This book was very funny and was a quick and easy read. The format jumps around a bit between the ladies and thier respective kings, so it can be a little difficult to keep track of just which mistress your reading about. Otherwise, I found it to be a very interesting and insiteful look into the lives of those who lived so long ago, but as it turns out are very like us today.

It was not as terrific as the write-ups I had heard of it, but it was a good book. I love the history about old times with Kings and Queens and had read a few books on the subjects, so I thought this would be great. It was good, but not great.