1968 The Roses Of Malmaison Von Schonthan Vintage Fiction Book With Dustjacket

The narrative continues through Joséphine's introduction to the ambitious young General Napoleon Bonaparte, their passionate courtship and subsequent marriage, and her remarkable ascent to the glittering heights of imperial society. Despite Napoleon's devotion to her, their relationship was frequently troubled by jealousy, extravagant spending, conflicting personalities and his increasing preoccupation with military conquest and affairs of state. Von Schönthan portrays Joséphine as a charming yet complex woman, whose love of beautiful surroundings, fashionable society and the celebrated gardens and roses of her Château de Malmaison contrasted sharply with the political ambitions of her husband. The account culminates in their painful divorce, brought about largely by Joséphine's inability to provide Napoleon with an heir, and follows her final years until her death in 1814.