The Mirror Makers

Jul 8, 2025 8:31 AM

Author:Clare Colvin

The Mirror Makers

Louis XIV, at the height of his powers and grandiose ambitions, dreams of constructing a great Hall of Mirrors in the palace of Versailles. But the only craftsmen who know the secret are in Murano, prisoners of the Venetian Republic. The promise (via Louis XIV's controller of finances, Jean-Louis Colbert) of riches, adventure, a new life, prompts Andrea Allegri and a renegade group of mirror-makers, to risk not only his father's wrath but the severest punishment by the Venetian authorities. And, once in the Sun King's Court, Andrea finds himself caught up, not only with dangerous palace politics, but with one of the King's mistresses. Inventive, romantic and exciting, Clare Colvin's novel is a magical evocation of a glittering period of history.

Reviews

Plots, secret assignations and emotional turmoil give the book dramatic intensity; the period setting which has been beautifully researched adds the vibrancy and colour to a well-crafted historical novel

—— Eithne Farry , Daily Mail

This biographical romance does what every good historical novel should. It entertains with a full range of ribbons and lace debauchery, and serves as a refresher course in history

—— Independent

Clare Colvin uses great imaginative skill to recreate and illuminate a historical epoch

—— Michael Arditti , Daily Express

Clare Colvin weaves a dazzling tapestry of intrigue

—— Independent on Sunday

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