If you are a fan of historical fiction, then you have likely heard of Anne Golon and her highly acclaimed Angelique series. This French author, who passed away in 2017, is still celebrated today for her captivating storytelling and vivid descriptions of a bygone era. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Golon’s works and share with you the best books to add to your reading list.
Before we dive into the books themselves, let’s first learn a little more about Anne Golon and her impressive legacy. Golon was actually a pen name for the collaborative writing efforts of Anne and her husband, Serge. Together, they brought us the Angelique series, a sprawling historical saga that follows the adventures of a young girl in 17th-century France.
The Angelique series has captured the hearts of readers worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. Anne Golon’s writing is both vivid and engaging, drawing readers into a world of intrigue, romance, and adventure. Her characters are complex and multifaceted, with motivations that are both relatable and deeply human.
Who is Anne Golon?
Anne Golon was born in Toulon, France in 1921. She was a woman ahead of her time, carving out a successful career as a writer in a male-dominated industry. In addition to the Angelique series, she wrote dozens of other works of fiction, ranging from historical novels to thrillers and mysteries.
Golon’s writing was characterized by a deep love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail. Her research was meticulous, and she took great pains to ensure that her books were historically accurate. This attention to detail is evident in the Angelique series, which is set against the backdrop of a turbulent period in French history.
The Angelique Series: A Literary Phenomenon
The Angelique series, which spans 14 volumes in total, made its debut in 1957. It tells the story of Angelique de Sancé, a headstrong young woman who rises from humble beginnings to become a respected member of the French court. Along the way, Angelique experiences love, loss, and betrayal, all against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period marked by war and political upheaval.
One of the things that set the Angelique series apart is its attention to historical detail. Golon’s research was exhaustive, and she worked hard to ensure that her portrayal of 17th-century France was as accurate as possible. This dedication to historical accuracy has won the series many fans among history buffs and literary enthusiasts alike.
Another factor that has contributed to the series’ success is its strong female protagonist. Angelique is a complex and multifaceted character, with a fierce intelligence and a determination to succeed in a world that is dominated by men. Her struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds.
In short, the Angelique series is a literary phenomenon that has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world. With its richly detailed setting, complex characters, and engrossing plotlines, it is easy to see why Anne Golon’s masterpiece has stood the test of time.
Top Anne Golon Books You Shouldn’t Miss
Angelique, the Marquise of the Angels
The first book in the Angelique series, Angelique, the Marquise of the Angels, is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for generations. This sweeping historical novel tells the story of Angelique de Sancé, a young girl living in the French countryside who dreams of a life at court. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Angelique is determined to make her mark on the world and to find love and happiness along the way.
Set against the backdrop of 17th century France, Angelique, the Marquise of the Angels immerses readers in a world of intrigue, romance, and adventure. From the glittering halls of Versailles to the dark alleys of Paris, this book takes readers on a journey that they will never forget.
Angelique and the King
The third book in the series, Angelique and the King, is widely regarded as one of the strongest volumes in the series. In this book, Angelique is married to the dashing Count Joffrey de Peyrac and finds herself embroiled in court intrigue and political machinations as they attempt to navigate the treacherous waters of Louis XIV’s court.
With its intricate plotting and detailed exploration of the royal court, Angelique and the King is a must-read for fans of historical fiction. This book is a masterclass in storytelling, with its richly drawn characters and its vivid descriptions of life in 17th century France.
Angelique in Love
In Angelique in Love, the sixth book in the series, Angelique finds herself torn between two men: her loyal husband, Joffrey de Peyrac, and the handsome Phillipe de Plessis-Bellieres. This installment in the series is notable for its exploration of Angelique’s personal growth, as she struggles to reconcile her desire for adventure and freedom with her responsibilities as a wife and mother.
Angelique in Love is a powerful and emotional book that explores themes of love, loyalty, and self-discovery. It is a testament to Anne Golon’s skill as a writer that she is able to create such a complex and compelling character in Angelique, who continues to resonate with readers today.
Angelique in Revolt
The eighth book in the Angelique series, Angelique in Revolt, finds our heroine caught up in the midst of the Fronde, a series of uprisings against the French king. Along with Joffrey and their children, Angelique must flee the city and make their way through the wilderness as they face danger at every turn.
This volume is lauded for its exciting action sequences and its portrayal of Angelique’s courage in the face of adversity. It is a thrilling and suspenseful book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Angelique in the New World
The final book in the Angelique series, Angelique in the New World, sees our heroine embarking on a new adventure in the colonies of North America. Along with Joffrey and a group of fellow exiles, Angelique sets out to establish a new life for herself and her family.
Angelique in the New World is a poignant and powerful book that explores the theme of starting over. It is a fitting end to the series, as it brings Angelique’s story full circle and shows how far she has come since the beginning of the series.
While the Angelique series is certainly the most well-known of Golon’s works, she also wrote several lesser-known books that are worth checking out.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction, then you’ll love The Countess Angelique. This stand-alone novel follows Angelique as she faces off against a modern-day gang of smugglers. Set in a more contemporary time period, this book is notable for its exploration of Angelique’s character outside of the confines of the historical period of the Angelique series. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you follow Angelique’s thrilling adventures!
The Countess Angelique
The Countess Angelique, also known as Angelique and the Ghosts, is a stand-alone novel that follows the adventures of an adult Angelique as she faces off against a modern-day gang of smugglers. This book is notable for its more contemporary setting and its exploration of Angelique’s character outside of the confines of the historical period of the Angelique series.
If you’re interested in learning more about Angelique’s early years, then The Temptation of Angelique is the book for you. In this stand-alone novel, we witness her struggle to find her place in the world and to assert her independence in the face of societal expectations and family pressure. You’ll be captivated by Angelique’s journey as she navigates the challenges of growing up in a world that is not always kind to women.
The Temptation of Angelique
The Temptation of Angelique is another stand-alone novel that explores the early years of Angelique’s life. In this book, we witness her struggle to find her place in the world and to assert her independence in the face of societal expectations and family pressure.
For those who love a good historical epic, Angelique and the Demon is a must-read. This novel delves into the life of the eponymous Chevalier de Saint-George, a prominent figure in 18th-century French history. While Angelique herself is only a minor character in this book, it is still worth reading for its detailed historical research and its engaging storytelling. You’ll be transported back in time as you follow the Chevalier’s rise to fame and fortune.
Angelique and the Demon
Angelique and the Demon, also known as the Chevalier de Saint-George, is a historical novel that delves into the life of the eponymous Chevalier de Saint-George, a prominent figure in 18th-century French history. While Angelique herself is only a minor character in this book, it is still worth reading for its detailed historical research and its engaging storytelling.
Overall, Anne Golon’s lesser-known works offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of Angelique and beyond. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or a newcomer to Golon’s writing, these books are sure to captivate and entertain you.
The Impact of Anne Golon’s Books on Popular Culture
Anne Golon’s Angelique series has had a profound impact on popular culture since its publication in the 1950s. The historical fiction novels, set in 17th-century France, have captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world. However, the influence of Golon’s works extends far beyond the pages of her books.
Film Adaptations of the Angelique Series
The popularity of the Angelique series has led to numerous adaptations for film and television. Some of the most notable adaptations include the 1964 film Angelique, Marquise des Anges, starring Michèle Mercier in the titular role, and the 2013 French-language film Angelique, directed by Ariel Zeitoun. These films have introduced new audiences to Golon’s unforgettable characters and brought the world of 17th-century France to life on the big screen.
However, the impact of Golon’s works on film extends beyond just adaptations of the Angelique series. The lush and detailed world-building that she employs in her writing has influenced countless filmmakers in the historical fiction genre. From the sumptuous costumes to the elaborate sets, the world of 17th-century France that Golon created has inspired filmmakers to recreate it on screen time and time again.
The Influence of Anne Golon’s Works on Historical Fiction
Golon’s impact on the world of historical fiction cannot be overstated. Her vivid, nuanced portrayal of 17th-century France has influenced countless other writers in the genre, and her enduring characters continue to captivate readers today. The Angelique series has been translated into more than 20 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide, making it one of the most successful historical fiction series of all time.
But Golon’s influence extends beyond just the Angelique series. Her meticulous research and attention to detail have set a standard for historical accuracy in the genre. Her ability to bring historical figures to life and to weave real events seamlessly into her narratives has inspired countless other writers to follow in her footsteps.
Whether you are a longtime fan of the Angelique series or a newcomer to Golon’s works, there is no denying the power and appeal of her storytelling. Her impact on popular culture and historical fiction is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of readers and writers alike.
FAQs
Who is Anne Golon?
Anne Golon, also known as Sergeanne Golon, was a well-known French author who wrote throughout the mid to late-1900s.
What did Anne Golon do?
Anne Golon is best known for her Angélique books, which she wrote with her husband, Serge Golon. In later installments of these novels, the two used the pseudonym, Sergeanne Golon, combining both of their names. These novels sold over 150 million copies and are still enjoyed worldwide today.
What is Anne Golon’s best book?
The Angélique series is certainly Anne Golon’s legacy. This series includes titles such as Angélique in Love, Angélique in Revolt, and Angélique and the King.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
