Born on the Caribbean island of Martinique, Josephine had exotic Creole appeal, extraordinary charm, sensuality and the natural cunning to become mistress to some of the most powerful politicians in post-Revolutionary France. Among those was the much younger General Bonaparte, who was to crown himself and his wife Emperor and Empress of France. But Josephine's heart belonged to another man - the mysterious, compelling stranger who had won her as a girl in Martinique. Determined to set his heirs on the thrones of Europe, Bonaparte divorced Josephine and married an Austrian archduchess who gave him a son. Josephine, believing herself fated to bring about his downfall, followed Napoleon to Russia on his last great campaign and, through her enduring influence on him, helped to destroy his ambitions - and to create her own romantic fulfilment with the man she truly loved. A story that has long fascinated readers, theatregoers and movie fans The Secret Life of Josephine is an enchanting and fascinating novel about one of the most seductive women in history. Carolly Erickson holds a Ph.D. in medieval history from Colombia University and was a college professor before becoming a writer. She has written many historical biographies, including The First Elizabeth, Her Little Majesty, and Alexandra.