Milady
“The voice of a woman in the time of men.”
A very modern reimagining of Milady—the unique and adventurous heroine of Alexandre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers.
For too long, Milady has been vilified as a ruthless power player, master manipulator, notorious liar, and dangerously beautiful femme fatale. But what if this infamous portrayal was merely the product of misogynistic fantasies from a bygone era?
In this unputdownable novel, Adélaïde de Clermont Tonnerre brings the true Milady to life. Set in early 17th-century France, the story follows Milady’s transformation from a vulnerable, orphaned girl—scarred by the brutal loss of her mother and governess—into a woman driven by an unyielding desire for freedom and vengeance. Raised by a priest and educated by nuns, her intelligence, boldness, and captivating beauty both mesmerize and provoke envy. Unable to bear the confines of her convent upbringing, she escapes to uncover the mystery behind her mother’s murder—and thus, her legend is born.
More than a coming-of-age tale, this epic narrative weaves themes of sacrifice, survival, and retribution into the tale of a young woman who dares to define her own destiny. Adélaïde de Clermont Tonnerre’s masterful, romantic, and feminist storytelling gives Milady not only a powerful voice but also the justice she deserves—a tribute to a multifaceted heroine whose idealism and courage defied the world she was born into.
Reviews
“A brilliant portrayal —and fierce defense— of a woman born decades ahead of her time, in a world ruled by men. Utterly captivating.” – Elle
“Masterful.” — Paris Match
“This autumn’s must-read… A rare gem in contemporary French literature.” – Le Point
“Gripping —bursting with the same raw energy and spirit as its unforgettable heroes.” – Avantages
“You will be swept away.” – RTL
“As captivating as it is delightful.” – Madame Figaro
“Magnificent.” – Le Parisien Week-End
“Adélaïde de Clermont-Tonnerre has painted a literary fresco as captivating as it is brilliant. . . Unforgettable.” – Version Femina