This historical saga transports you to the world of Saxon nobility and royal intrigues in the 18th century. Follow the destinies of powerful women whose beauty and ambition shaped the course of history as they navigated a turbulent era. These narratives, rich with passion, betrayal, and unexpected twists, explore the complex interplay of power, love, and societal expectations. Immerse yourself in a period of lavish splendor and hidden power struggles that defined one of Europe's most fascinating historical epochs.
The life of Anna Constantia von Brockdorff, a German noblewoman born in 1680, unfolds from her beginnings as a minor lady-in-waiting to her ascent as the mistress of the King of Poland. Her journey takes a dramatic turn as she ultimately becomes the most renowned prisoner in Saxony, highlighting themes of power, intrigue, and the complexities of noble life in 17th-century Europe.
Originally published in 1902, the story of the Countess has all the air of a dramatic romance carefully planned by an ingenious novelist; yet it is a faithful narrative of events, illumined by the light of Kraszewsk's genius. It will appeal greatly to any historian. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900's and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.
Count Henryk Bruhl was a statesman at the court of Poland and Saxony. With skill and ruthless cunning he dispatched his rivals and gain control of the King and Poland. His ambition and greed exceeded his political ability and left the country bankrupt and utterly unprepared to resist the attacks of the Prussian king.
Am Hofe Augusts des Starken Heinrich Graf von Brühl (1700-1763) war bereits mit 31 Jahren Geheimrat und Minister am Hof Augusts des Starken. Doch nach dem Tod des Kurfürsten scheint seine Laufbahn zu Ende: Der Thronfolger Friedrich August II. will Sachsen und Polen gemeinsam mit seinem vertrauten Jugendfreund Sulkowski regieren. Kraszewskis spannender Roman beschreibt die jahrelange Rivalität von Brühl und Sulkowski, die sich zunächst Freunde nennen, aber später zu erbitterten Feinden werden.