How to Ruin a Queen

In 1785, scandal is running amok in France. Michael Page narrates with precise enunciation. What scandal? Marie Antoinette's signature is used to purchase a 2,800-carat diamond necklace, which promptly disappears. Fingers point to Cardinal Louis de Rohan, the prince-bishop of Strasbourg and the grand almoner of France, and to Jeanne de Saint-Rémy, Comtesse de La Motte-Valois, illegitimate heir of King Henry Valois. Page's brusque narration of political and monetary schemes aids listeners as they follow the mystery, complex relationships, Court intrigue, and a failing French monarchy. Page fluently switches between French, German, and English while recounting this complex history of theft, scandal, and fiscal mismanagement. M.B.K. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine