Divine Lola
- 448 pages
- 16 hours of reading
The extraordinary story of one of the most famous women of the 19th century unfolds through the life of a woman marked by scandal. Known as Lola Montes, her real name was Elisabeth Gilbert, and she captivated an era with her stunning beauty and fiery spirit. A dancer, adventurer, and courtesan, her life was filled with travel, controversies, and eccentricities. Posing as an Andalusian dancer, she performed at the world's most prestigious theaters, despite her questionable artistic talent. Yet, this Irish woman succeeded in every endeavor, mingling with renowned writers, politicians, musicians, and aristocrats, including Alexandre Dumas, Honoré de Balzac, and George Sand. Lola was married three times and had numerous lovers, most notably a passionate affair with composer Franz Liszt. Her most significant relationship was with King Ludwig I of Bavaria, who made her the countess of Landsfeld and ultimately abdicated in 1848 due to their love. After her European escapades, she journeyed to the United States, experiencing the gold rush and performing for miners. This tale transports us from her Irish roots to the allure of India, and through cities like Paris, London, and Munich, where she mesmerized audiences, ultimately leading her to the untamed lands of California and Australia as a bold pioneer.






