This is a very different look at the life and times of Louis XIV, seen through the creation and development of the gardens at Versailles. An incredible amount of research has gone into this book, in terms of the details of the realization of the garden itself, as well as the history and the politics of the day. There are many familiar characters and events, but also a lot of less well-known anecdotes and people, making for an educational as well as enjoyable read. Ian Thomson clearly knows his stuff, but he also knows how to spin a good story; I'd recommend it to anyone who's ever been enchanted by the Gardens of Versailles. ( )

Excellent history of the gardens of Versailles. Best read with a modern tour map - the book lacks a good plan and modern pictures, which would help enormously. ( )