The Exchange of Princesses

Chantal Thomas’ historical fiction book ‘The Exchange of Princesses’ is set in the eighteenth-century French and Spanish courts. It is based on a true story and centers on the destiny of two young princesses enmeshed in the mysteries and intrigues of the present. The French regent Philippe d’Orléans suffers from gangrenous heart disease as a result of a life filled with drinking, partying, dominance, and flattery.

He sets up these princesses’ marriages at young ages to solidify his position of authority and create a partnership with Spain. History lovers will find the book to be engrossing as it explores the intricacies of court politics and the lives of these royal pawns.